Ohio’s controversial Senate Bill 104 that bans transgender students from using bathrooms corresponding to their gender identity in public schools is now heading to Governor Mike DeWine for approval.
At a Glance
- Ohio Senate passed a bill mandating bathroom use based on birth gender in schools.
- Bill awaits approval or veto by Governor Mike DeWine.
- LGBTQ+ and advocacy groups oppose the bill citing discrimination.
- Proponents argue it enhances safety and security in schools.
Legislation Details and Supporters
The legislation requires students in public K-12 schools and publicly funded colleges to use facilities corresponding to their birth gender. It makes exceptions for single-use and family bathrooms and for individuals with disabilities or young children requiring assistance.
Republican Senator Jerry Cirino contends the bill “is about safety and security” within schools, arguing for the need to preserve these environments for all students. The Center for Christian Virtue also supports the bill and is urging Governor DeWine to sign it into law.
'Anti-trans' bathroom bill passes Ohio Senate, heads to DeWine's desk https://t.co/uWIGipwO5i
— WKBN 27 First News (@WKBN) November 13, 2024
Opposition Voices
LGBTQ+ advocates and organizations, including the ACLU of Ohio, have voiced strong opposition, stating the bill targets transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. They argue it violates privacy rights and worsens challenges faced by already vulnerable populations.
“If allowed to go into effect, SB 104 will create unsafe environments for trans and gender non-conforming individuals of all ages. This bill ignores the material reality that transgender people endure higher rates of sexual violence and assaults, particularly while using public restrooms, than people who are not transgender.” stated Jocelyn Rosnick.
Senate Democrats have also criticized the measure, describing it as promoting discrimination and unnecessary fear while calling on Governor DeWine to veto the legislation. Senate Democratic Leader Nickie Antonio labeled the bill discriminatory and accused it of fearmongering among communities.
Awaiting Governor DeWine’s Decision
Governor Mike DeWine, who has previously dealt with similar bills—most notably vetoing a ban on gender-affirming care overridden by the legislature—now has ten days to decide on Senate Bill 104. He has expressed inclination towards signing the bill but intends to conduct a legal review before making a final decision.
As the nation watches, the outcome could further influence public discourse on transgender rights and safety regulations—a matter intensely debated across the United States, with similar laws existing in several states, some of which have faced legal challenges.
Sources:
Ohio transgender bathroom ban bill heads to Gov. Mike DeWine’s desk
Bill on school bathroom use by transgender students clears Ohio Legislature and heads to governor
Ohio Senate Passes Bill Banning Transgender People from Women’s Bathrooms
