Gov. Mike DeWine Signs Transgender Bathroom Ban Bill
Gov. Mike DeWine Passes Transgender Bathroom Ban Bill
Source: TW Farlow / Getty
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a controversial bill into law Wednesday that bans students in all Ohio schools K-12 and beyond from using restrooms, locker rooms, or overnight accommodations that do not align with their sex assigned at birth.
The bill goes into effect within 90 days. It will require schools to designate facilities based on “biological sex,” as listed on a student’s birth certificate, and prohibits the construction of all-gender & neutral bathrooms in academic buildings. The bill allows exceptions for emergencies, custodial work, and caregiving situations.
RELATED: Ohio Senate Approves Transgender Bathroom Ban in Schools
The bill has faced strong opposition from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and Democratic lawmakers. Many argue that it discriminates against young transgender and nonbinary students.
Sen. Catherine D. Ingram (D-Cincinnati), who initially supported the bill when it focused solely on Ohio’s College Credit Plus program, withdrew her support after the restroom provisions were added.
“The Republican caucus has once again amended harmful legislation that ostracizes an entire group of individuals, making them feel less safe,” Ingram said.
Legislation co-sponsor Sen. Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) defends the bill, saying it protects the privacy and safety for women and girls.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio spokesperson, Celina Coming, said the organization is “closely considering next steps” on the bathroom law.
Gov. Mike DeWine Passes Transgender Bathroom Ban Bill was originally published on ronemycolumbusmagic.staging.go.ione.nyc