The Ohio State Senate approved a bill on Wednesday that could prevent transgender individuals from using women’s restrooms. The bill, backed by Republicans, is now headed to Governor Mike DeWine for his signature.
If signed into law, the legislation would mandate that public schools and universities separate bathroom, locker room, and overnight accommodations based on the gender assigned at birth. This applies to both school facilities and those used for school-sponsored events, according to CBS News.
Senator Jerry Cirino, a Republican, defended the bill, calling it necessary for safety and security. However, the Ohio ACLU strongly opposes it, claiming it targets transgender individuals. The ACLU has vowed to explore further actions, with policy director Jocelyn Rosnick stating that the bill would create unsafe conditions for transgender and gender non-conforming people, who are already more vulnerable to violence in public restrooms.
Democratic Senate Leader Nickie Antonio slammed the bill as an attack on transgender rights. She argued that the legislation is not about bathrooms but about marginalizing those who are different, adding that it sends a harmful message to children about equality and justice.
