On Friday morning, Ohio Governor Mike Dewine announced his veto of House Bill 68, also known as the SAFE act. In a statement released by his office, the Governor describes his fact-finding process and reasons for his ultimate decision. The Governor stated, “Ultimately, I believe this is about protecting human life.”
Decision Based on Effort to Understand
Governor Dewine spent 10 days speaking with the bill’s proponents and detractors. He spoke with medical professionals, counselors, parents, and members of the transgender community. Ultimately, he came to the conclusion that he announced in a press conference,
“Were I to sign House Bill 68, or were House Bill 68 to become law, Ohio would be saying that the state, that the government knows better what is medically best for a child than the two people who love that child the most: their parents.”
Ohio Capital Journal reports that “Trans youth, LGBTQ+ rights advocates and doctors are rejoicing at the decision.”
Longstanding Medical Practices and Advice
The American Medical Association and American Academy of Pediatrics have consistently and repeated affirmed their gender affirming care policy and disapproval of laws interfering with medical decisions for transgender youth. They have warned of dire consequences of, “dangerous intrusion into the practice of medicine,” that risk both the physical and mental health of children.
Dewine stated that he listened to both parents and patients who believed access to care was life-saving.
“These are gut-wrenching decisions that should be made my parents and should be informed by teams of doctors who are advising them. These are parents who have watched their children suffer for years, and have real concerns their children would not survive without it… Families are basing their decisions on the best medical advice they can get,” Dewine told reporters.
Next Steps
Proponents of HB 68 were disappointed in the Governor’s decision, but had varying opinions on the next steps.
The Ohio Capital Journal reports that Republican lawmakers are exploring the possibility of a veto override, but may not have the three-fifths vote count necessary.
Cleveland.com reports that other lawmakers are interested in finding a compromise with Governor Dewine. State Rep. Gary Click, a Sandusky County Republican who sponsored HB68, issued a statement that focused on working with DeWine.
A part of this compromise could include a ban of gender-affirming surgeries for minors, which are not routine or currently performed in the state.
“Despite our initial differences on some of these issues, I am happy that the Governor wants to work together to find a common solution. I am hopeful that increased communication can bring the best solution to our great state.”
Advocates Hope for a Continued Message of Parents’ and Patients’ Rights
Democratic lawmakers, advocates for transgender youth, families, and medical professionals hope that whatever the resolution, it will be in the best interest of children and their families.
“I appreciate that Governor DeWine took his time to listen to the individuals most impacted by this discriminatory legislation and to understand the fact-based science on this issue,” said House Minority Leader Allison Russo.
She is happy about the message of inclusivity and support the Governor’s veto sent, ““It sends a much needed message of support to Ohio’s LGBTQ+ youth that they and their families are seen and heard and deserve the fundamental freedom like everyone else to feel safe in their own communities and to maintain their rights as parents to make medical decisions that are best for their children.”