Ohio Judge Upholds Law Banning Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

An Ohio judge has upheld a state law banning gender-affirming care for transgender minors. The ruling followed a challenge by affected families and was previously blocked during deliberations. The decision sparked reactions from both supporters, including Ohio's Attorney General, and opponents, such as the ACLU, who plan to appeal.

An Ohio judge has upheld a Republican-backed state law banning gender-affirming care for transgender minors, including puberty blockers and hormones. The ruling rebuffed a challenge from families of transgender adolescents.

Judge Michael Holbrook of the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas made the decision after a non-jury trial. He had previously blocked the law while hearing the case. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost welcomed the ruling, with spokesperson Bethany McCorkle stating the case was about the legislature's authority to protect children from irreversible medical decisions.

The ACLU, representing the plaintiffs, plans to appeal. ACLU of Ohio Legal Director Freda Levenson described the decision as devastating for transgender youth relying on this critical healthcare. The law, passed by a Republican-dominated legislature in January, overrode Governor Mike DeWine's veto, emphasizing ongoing debates over gender-affirming care policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)