There is a stir in Columbus as Republican Governor Mike DeWine diverges from his own party. The governor vetoed a bill on Friday that would have prohibited transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports and gender-affirming care for minors.
Organizations are voicing their support for his decision.
During a news conference on Friday, DeWine stated, “I cannot sign this bill as it is currently written, and I vetoed the bill just moments ago.”
Not everyone is pleased with DeWine’s decision.
“We truly thought that Gov. DeWine was a betrayal to children, women, and families across Ohio,” said Matt Sharp, a top official with Alliance Defending Freedom. “There are better solutions. There are better ways to help children with gender dysphoria than to push them down this one-way path toward risky treatments.”
Alliance Defending Freedom is a nonprofit legal organization working to defend parental rights, free speech, and religious freedom. Sharp expressed surprise at the governor’s decision.
“If we care about Ohio’s children, which we do, psychology should be the priority. We should prioritize counseling and other interventions because they can truly help kids navigate these difficult issues and ultimately have better long-term outcomes,” Sharp said.
Earlier this month, Dr. Steve Davis, CEO of Cincinnati Children’s, voiced his concerns to legislators about the potential legal change.
According to Davis, House Bill 68 in its current form would prevent doctors and families from collaborating to determine the best course of action for their children, leading to untreated mental health issues and preventable tragedies.
“We are thankful for Governor DeWine’s thorough approach in researching the issue of gender-affirming care and vetoing Sub HB 68,” a representative for Cincinnati Children’s said. “We look forward to working with the governor, the Ohio General Assembly, and relevant state agencies to ensure that Ohio’s children have access to the critical care they need, while also addressing the concerns raised by the Governor.”
Although GOP lawmakers with a majority could override DeWine’s veto, it is uncertain when or if this will happen.
