Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a controversial bill that bans transgender students from using multi-person bathrooms that align with their gender identities. The law, labeled the “Protect All Students Act,” requires schools to designate separate facilities based on one’s gender assigned at or near birth. Advocates argue the measure prioritizes safety and common sense, while critics see it as a violation of privacy rights for LGBTQ+ individuals.
The bill, which takes effect in 90 days, has sparked backlash from civil rights groups and LGBTQ+ advocates who argue that it puts transgender youth at risk for abuse and harassment. Despite objections, DeWine signed the bill without issuing a statement.
This move aligns Ohio with the growing trend of states enacting laws that restrict gender-affirming care for transgender minors and dictate which sports transgender girls and women can participate in. The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on these issues in December, with potential nationwide implications.
While some Republican politicians, including President-elect Donald Trump, have expressed opposition to transgender rights, advocates continue to fight for a more inclusive and respectful society. The passage of this bill underscores the ongoing debate around LGBTQ+ rights and protections, with Ohio becoming the latest state to implement such restrictions.
Source
Photo credit www.pbs.org