Governor of Ohio Mike DeWine overruled a bill that would have prohibited gender-affirming treatment for minors, differing from other Republican governors. This decision maintains treatment availability for residents of Ohio and for families of transgender students from states with bans traveling to Ohio for care.
Republicans, who hold a majority in the legislature, may override DeWine’s veto.
DeWine stated, “A very small number of Ohio’s children may be impacted by this act. However, the effects could be severe for those struggling with gender distress.” He emphasized the importance of preserving human life, recounting parents who said their child might be dead without the care received from Ohio’s children’s hospitals.
DeWine argued that decisions should be made by parents, informed by medical specialists, rather than the state.
The Saving Adolescents From Experimentation Act (SAFE Act) and the Save Women’s Sports Act, would have barred hormone treatment, puberty blockers, and gender reassignment surgery for minors under 18 and would have prevented transgender women from competing in women’s sports in high school and college. State Representative Gary Click (R) stated the bill was about “medical ethics.”
The Washington Post was informed by Click’s office that they might ask the senate to override the veto if granted.
DeWine announced plans to develop administrative rules to demonstrate protections for Ohio children and adults regarding gender-affirming care. He aims to prevent “pop-up clinics” from providing subpar treatment and to gather relevant data.
The bill, which faced heated discussions, was opposed by many who claimed it was not scientifically supported and could do harm. Proponents argued for child welfare.
Rick Colby, an Ohio resident and Republican, spoke against the bill, expressing concerns about Ohio’s capacity to care for transgender children. He suggested a commission to investigate the matter, emphasizing its importance beyond politics.
DeWine wants to prohibit gender-affirming surgeries for minors and restrict “fly-by-night operations” providing subpar treatment through new rules.
Families from states like Missouri, which target gender-affirming care, have relocated to Ohio for treatment. Nick Zingarelli, who moved his family from Missouri to Ohio for his transgender child’s care, hopes DeWine’s veto will influence Republican votes to prevent an override.
Legal disputes over such laws are ongoing nationwide. The Supreme Court might decide on a Tennessee law forbidding gender-affirming treatment for adolescents, marking its first comment on such regulations.
