Ohio court rules against transgender healthcare restrictions for minors

An Ohio appeals court has ruled against a law that banned the use of puberty blockers and hormones for transgender minors. The court found that the law violated parents' rights to make decisions about their children's medical care. This decision comes from a panel of three judges at the 10th Appellate District Court of Appeals. The law had previously been allowed to take effect by a lower court. The families of two transgender girls challenged the law, arguing it went against the state's constitutional rights. The court's ruling comes as the U.S. Supreme Court is also reviewing similar laws, but the Ohio case is based specifically on the Ohio constitution. Harper Seldin, a lawyer for the families, praised the decision as a significant win for transgender youth. He described the state's ban as unfair and harmful. In contrast, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost expressed discontent with the ruling and stated the state would appeal. Ohio’s law, passed by a Republican-controlled legislature, aimed to restrict gender-affirming care for minors. It banned treatments such as puberty blockers, hormones, and surgery, though the lawsuit did not challenge the surgery ban. The families argued this law violated a 2011 amendment that protects Ohioans' rights to access healthcare. Ultimately, the appeals court agreed that parents should have the right to make medical decisions for their children, especially when treatments are deemed standard care by medical professionals.