In a major win for trans rights, an Ohio appellate court just slammed the brakes on the state’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, ruling the law unconstitutional. The decision comes as a blow to conservative lawmakers who have been pushing to restrict healthcare access for trans youth under the guise of “protecting children.”
The ruling, issued by the 10th District Court of Appeals, dismantled the argument that banning hormone therapy and counseling was a “reasonable” restriction on parental rights. The court found that the law was explicitly discriminatory, as it allowed the same treatments for cisgender youth but not for those undergoing gender transition. It also ruled that the state had overstepped its authority by interfering with parents’ ability to make medical decisions for their children.
“This win restores the right of trans youth in Ohio to choose vitally important health care, with the support of their families and physicians,” said Freda Levenson, legal director of the ACLU of Ohio. LGBTQ advocates celebrated the decision, calling it a major pushback against a wave of anti-trans legislation sweeping the U.S.
Of course, Ohio Republicans are not taking this defeat lightly. Attorney General Dave Yost immediately vowed to appeal, calling the ruling a “no-brainer” and insisting that the fight to “protect children” will continue. Meanwhile, Governor Mike DeWine, who originally vetoed the law before lawmakers overrode him, has yet to weigh in on the latest legal setback.
This ruling isn’t just about Ohio—it’s part of a larger national battle over trans rights. With over 20 states passing similar bans, this decision could set a precedent for future legal challenges. For now, trans youth in Ohio can breathe a little easier, knowing their right to essential healthcare remains protected. But with an appeal looming, the fight is far from over.