An Ohio judge has issued a temporary injunction against a Republican-sponsored state law that prohibits gender-affirming care, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, for transgender minors.
The law, set to take effect on April 24, also bars transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports teams. Judge Michael Holbrook of the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas made the ruling, stating that the plaintiffs, two transgender children, and their families would suffer irreparable harm if the law were enacted.
The injunction will remain in place for two weeks or until a hearing on the families’ request for a longer-term injunction.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost expressed confidence in the law’s validity and pledged to vigorously defend it, emphasizing its intention to safeguard children from irreversible decisions.
Ohio is among 22 Republican-led states that have passed legislation restricting gender-affirming care. This decision follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing Idaho to enforce its similar ban while appealing a lower court’s decision.
The Ohio law was enacted by the Republican-controlled legislature in January, overriding Governor Mike DeWine’s veto.
DeWine cited concerns raised by parents of transgender youth, who viewed gender-affirming care as important for their children’s well-being.
Judge Holbrook’s ruling focused on the law’s constitutionality, suggesting that it improperly addressed multiple subjects rather than a single one, as required by Ohio’s constitution.
While not directly addressing the discrimination claim, the ruling brought temporary relief to transgender youth and their families.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio, representing the plaintiffs, welcomed the injunction, emphasizing its importance in ensuring continued access to necessary healthcare for transgender minors.
