Ohio Rep slams ‘cold, callous, and calculated’ anti-trans bill passed
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An Ohio Representative has strongly criticized a new anti-trans bill that was passed after the Senate voted to override the governor’s veto. Democratic Rep. Shontel Brown expressed her support for the individuals, families, and medical professionals who will be impacted by the discriminatory bill, which is set to take effect in 90 days.
House Bill 68, which was passed by the Senate, will prevent trans and non-binary minors from accessing gender-affirming treatments and prohibit trans athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports. This makes Ohio the 22nd state to introduce a law restricting trans minors from accessing vital healthcare and the 24th state to ban trans girls and women from participating in school sports teams.
Republican Governor Mike DeWine had initially vetoed the bill in December, citing concerns that it would harm transgender youth and limit parents’ decision-making abilities. He emphasized that many parents have credited gender-affirming treatments with saving their child’s life. However, the Ohio House of Representatives and Senate have now voted to override the veto, leaving LGBTQ+ Ohioans and their families with limited options.
Rep. Brown condemned the decision to override the governor’s veto as a “cold, callous, and calculated” attack on children, parents, and families. She emphasized that accessing gender-affirming care is a deeply personal decision that should be made in consultation with family, loved ones, and medical professionals, rather than politicians. Rep. Brown highlighted the need for elected officials who prioritize personal dignity over political agendas and called for federal legislation to further protect LGBTQ+ rights.
Contrary to claims made by supporters of the bill, gender-affirming care is a legitimate and often life-saving treatment approved by major medical associations. Rep. Brown’s statement echoes similar warnings issued by other representatives, such as Rep. Jessica R. Miranda, who stated that overriding the governor’s veto would be “killing children.” Rep. Miranda urged citizens to pay close attention to the actions of their elected officials and criticized the Republican party for voting against personal and parental rights and privacy, as well as their own governor’s stance.
The passage of this anti-trans bill in Ohio reflects a concerning trend seen in other states across the country. Transgender youth and athletes are facing increasing discrimination and barriers to accessing necessary healthcare and participating in sports. The impact of these laws extends beyond Ohio, with LGBTQ+ individuals and families having to consider relocating to states with more inclusive policies.
It is crucial to recognize that gender-affirming care is not a political issue but a matter of personal well-being and medical necessity. By restricting access to these treatments and excluding trans athletes from sports teams, lawmakers are not only infringing on the rights of trans individuals but also perpetuating harmful stereotypes and stigmatization.
As the fight for LGBTQ+ rights continues, it is essential for lawmakers, activists, and allies to come together and advocate for comprehensive protections at both the state and federal levels. The passing of discriminatory bills like House Bill 68 only underscores the urgent need for greater inclusivity, understanding, and acceptance in our society.
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