Ohio Court Allows Trans Care Ban During Legal Fight

The Ohio Supreme Court has ruled that House Bill 68, which bans gender-affirming care such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries for minors under 18, can remain in effect while ongoing legal challenges proceed. The law also prohibits transgender girls and women from joining female school sports teams, though current lawsuits focus on the healthcare restrictions. Governor Mike DeWine initially vetoed the bill, citing concerns for children's well-being, but the GOP-led legislature overrode his veto. The ACLU, representing affected families, argues the law violates multiple provisions of the Ohio Constitution and causes tangible harm to transgender youth. Attorney General Dave Yost and supporters claim the law protects children from irreversible medical interventions. The legal battle is expected to continue as the case moves forward.