Toledo Reporter

State Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo) has expressed her strong condemnation of the recent anti-trans attacks in Ohio. This comes after the Ohio Senate voted to pass House Bill 68, which seeks to ban critical gender-affirming health care for minors and transgender student-athletes from participating in sports teams that align with their gender identity.

In a statement, Hicks-Hudson criticized the legislation, stating, "This legislation was passed with absolutely no consideration by the majority for the lives that it will adversely impact. H.B. 68 is another bill that ignores the will of the people with government overreach – invading the privacy of individuals and sanctity of parental decisions in conjunction with eliminating well-informed, life-saving healthcare. This is cruel politicization harming already vulnerable Ohioans who are only asking for personal safety and dignity to thrive in their state. I condemn it in the strongest terms."

The bill not only restricts gender-affirming care for minors but also infringes upon the rights of parents to make informed decisions regarding their children's healthcare. Hicks-Hudson emphasized that gender-affirming care is safe, effective, and supported by major medical and mental health associations.

Furthermore, House Bill 68 undermines the progress made in ensuring equitable access for transgender students in Ohio. By reversing policies established by the Ohio High School Athletic Association and the NCAA, the bill denies transgender students the opportunity to participate fully in school sports. Hicks-Hudson argues that this discrimination sends a message to Ohio's youngest citizens that not all people are treated equally.

The opposition to House Bill 68 is significant, with over 300 Ohioans testifying against the legislation in the House and more than 800 individuals pleading with the legislature not to pass the bill. Despite this opposition, the bill has now been sent back to the Ohio House of Representatives for concurrence.

The passing of House Bill 68 has sparked outrage and concern among advocates for transgender rights. Hicks-Hudson's condemnation of the legislation highlights the impact it will have on the lives of transgender individuals and the importance of protecting their rights and dignity.

The fight against anti-trans attacks in Ohio continues as supporters and activists work to ensure that transgender individuals have equal rights and access to healthcare and sports participation.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiosenate.gov/members/paula-hicks-hudson/news/hicks-hudson-condemns-anti-trans-attacks