Ohio Lawmakers Limit Transgender Students' Bathroom Access

The Ohio Senate recently passed a bill that restricts transgender students from using bathrooms that align with their gender identity. This measure applies to both public K-12 schools and higher education institutions. The bill mandates that these facilities provide separate bathrooms, locker rooms, and overnight accommodations based on the gender assigned at birth, not the student's gender identity. The legislation has exceptions for emergencies, employees, and those assisting young children or individuals with disabilities. It also allows for single-use and family bathroom facilities. State Sen. Jerry Cirino, a Republican, claims the bill is about safety and security. However, the ACLU of Ohio has urged Governor Mike DeWine not to sign the bill. They argue that it violates the privacy rights of LGBTQ+ Ohioans and could make them less safe. Research supports this view, with a 2019 study in Pediatrics showing that transgender teens restricted from appropriate facilities experienced higher rates of sexual assault. Supporters, such as the Center for Christian Virtue, see the bill as a victory for children and families, ensuring that only females use young ladies' private spaces. At least 11 other states have similar laws in place. The bill's journey was contentious. Ohio House Republicans attached it to a college credit proposal, causing upset among some Democrats who had initially supported it. Sen. Catherine Ingram from Cincinnati removed her name from the bill, and Senate Democratic Leader Nickie Antonio criticized the bill's priority, stating it targets those who are different.