Gov. Mike DeWine recently signed a bill into law that requires students in Ohio’s primary and secondary schools to use bathrooms that align with the gender on their birth certificates. This bill also designates public and private school bathrooms and facilities as exclusively single-sex. The bill was originally sponsored by Sen. Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland) and was added to an uncontroversial proposal on the College Credit Plus program.
The bill has sparked controversy, with LGBTQ advocates arguing that it is discriminatory. However, Republican lawmakers who support the bill argue that it is necessary to protect children. More than a dozen conservative-leaning states already have similar bathroom bans in place.
Lt. Gov. Jon Husted expressed support for the bill, stating that it is necessary to ensure the safety of young women in school restrooms. Despite the controversy, DeWine signed the bill into law without comment.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio has indicated that they are considering legal challenges to the bill, and urged DeWine to veto it. They remain committed to standing with transgender Ohioans and fighting against discriminatory legislation.
The bill’s passage reflects a growing national debate over transgender rights and protections. While some states have embraced policies to protect transgender individuals, others have moved to implement restrictions like the one signed into law in Ohio.
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