GOP Governor Breaks Ranks with Party on Controversial Legislation
Republican Governor Mike DeWine of Ohio has vetoed a measure that aimed to ban gender-affirming care for minors and transgender athletes’ participation in girls and women’s sports. This decision sets him apart from fellow party members who supported the legislation. While Republican lawmakers have the power to override DeWine’s veto, it remains uncertain if or when they will do so.
Protecting Children and Upholding Medical Judgement
During a news conference, Governor DeWine expressed that he carefully considered input from both sides of the legislation. He acknowledged that some individuals genuinely believe the bill would safeguard children’s well-being. However, he emphasized the profound consequences it could have on those children who face gender dysphoria and their families. DeWine stated that his ultimate priority is protecting human life.
DeWine asserted that the proposed bill goes against the medical decisions of parents, treating physicians, and medical experts. He highlighted the rarity of cases where the state overrides parental and medical judgement. Consequently, he decided to veto the legislation in its current form.
A Three-Pronged Approach
While Governor DeWine vetoed the bill, he acknowledged the need to address concerns raised by its supporters. He outlined a three-pronged approach to tackle the main issues surrounding gender-affirming care.
First, DeWine is directing agencies to ban surgery for individuals under 18 as part of gender-affirming care. He clarified that the misconception that this care automatically leads to surgery is unfounded.
Second, DeWine concurred with the Legislature’s assertion that comprehensive data on individuals receiving gender-affirming care is lacking. He pledged to direct relevant agencies to report their findings to the Legislature and the public regarding minors and adults seeking such care.
Lastly, Governor DeWine’s administration will develop rules and restrictions to prevent unauthorized clinics from operating and ensuring that families receive adequate counseling regarding gender-affirming care.
Opposition and Nationwide Trends
Numerous opponents testified against Ohio’s multifaceted measure while it was in the legislative process. They included medical and mental health providers, education professionals, faith leaders, parents of transgender children, and transgender individuals themselves. Critics condemned the legislation as cruel, posing life-threatening risks to transgender youth, and lacking a scientific basis.
Although DeWine’s veto goes against the nationwide trend of passing similar laws, over 20 states have enacted legislation restricting or banning gender-affirming treatments since 2021. These treatments have been available in the United States for over a decade and have long been endorsed by major medical associations. Many of these states are currently facing legal challenges, and court rulings have been varied.
The Ohio bill would have required public K-12 schools and universities to establish separate teams for male and female students. Additionally, it explicitly prohibited transgender girls and women from participating in sports that align with their gender identity. Supporters of the bill argued that this measure preserves the integrity of women’s sports and ensures fairness.
At least 20 states have passed similar bans on transgender athletes competing in K-12 and collegiate sports teams. However, these bans may be overturned by a regulation proposed by President Joe Biden’s administration, which is expected to be finalized in early 2023.
