Ohio Court Blocks Gender-Affirming Care Ban for Minors

An Ohio court has blocked a law banning gender-affirming care for minors, calling it unconstitutional. The ruling, celebrated by the ACLU, argues the law discriminates against transgender youth by denying them essential healthcare. Ohio's Attorney General plans to appeal the decision to reinstate the ban.

An Ohio court has ruled that the state's ban on gender-affirming care for minors is unconstitutional, marking a significant victory for transgender rights advocates. The decision, delivered by a three-judge appellate panel, permanently blocks a law that restricted counseling, surgeries, and hormone therapies for minors.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other advocates successfully argued that the law was discriminatory and infringed on young individuals' healthcare rights. The ruling highlights the need for parental involvement in such decisions and criticizes the lower court's reasoning that supported the ban.

Ohio's Attorney General, Dave Yost, has declared an intention to appeal the ruling, insisting on the protection of minors. Despite the legal battle continuing, advocates, including the ACLU, are committed to keeping the ban from taking effect. The decision comes as a blow to legislation that Republican lawmakers had hoped to enforce.

(With inputs from agencies.)