In just under a month, House Bill 68 will become law in Ohio. However, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Ohio has filed a lawsuit against the state in partnership with Goodwin, a global law firm. The lawsuit seeks to block HB 68 from going into effect and was filed on behalf of two 12-year-old transgender girls and their families.
The ACLU has been vocal about their intention to seek legal action against HB 68 for months, stating that the ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth is cruel, scientifically unfounded, and unconstitutional. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit argue that HB 68 violates the Ohio Constitution by breaking the single-subject rule for legislation and discriminating against trans minors. They also claim that they would lose critical, medically necessary health care under the legislation.
The ACLU cites an amendment backed by GOP lawmakers from over a decade ago as further evidence of the unconstitutionality of HB 68. Major American medical associations support puberty blockers and other treatments for trans youth. Rep. Gary Click, who was instrumental in the passage of HB 68, acknowledged the likelihood of a lawsuit and expressed confidence that the legislation would withstand legal challenges.
Gov. Mike DeWine vetoed HB 68 last year, but GOP lawmakers in the Ohio House and Senate voted to override his veto in January. Click pointed to other states where similar laws have been upheld in court as a defense of HB 68. However, it remains uncertain if this legislation will be able to withstand legal challenges or if it will be blocked from going into effect.
In conclusion, less than a month before House Bill 68 becomes law in Ohio, the ACLU has filed a lawsuit against the state seeking to block its implementation on behalf of two transgender girls and their families. The plaintiffs argue that they would lose critical health care under the legislation while also violating the single-subject rule for legislation and discrimination against trans minors. The fate of this controversial bill remains uncertain as it awaits its hearing in court.
