An appeals court has halted Ohio’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, overturning a previous decision by a Franklin County judge. The ban, known as House Bill 68, prohibited transgender-affirming care for minors and boys participating in girls’ sports. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has vowed to appeal the ruling, emphasizing his commitment to protecting children from irreversible medical procedures related to gender identity. The 10th District Court of Appeals intervened to block the law, prompting celebrations from LGBTQ+ advocates. The ACLU, which represented two families in Franklin County in the lawsuit against the ban, praised the court’s decision and reaffirmed their dedication to upholding the rights of trans youth in Ohio. The legal battle is ongoing, with the ACLU arguing that the ban violates constitutional provisions and impedes access to essential healthcare for transgender minors. The legislation, which includes a ban on surgeries, puberty blockers, and hormone therapy for minors, has faced significant opposition from medical associations supporting gender-affirming care as crucial for the well-being of transgender individuals.
