FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media contact, MD Sitzes: media@equalityohio.org, md@equalityohio.org

January 9th, 2024

COLUMBUS OHIO—After an initial review of the proposed rules drafted by the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Equality Ohio shares the concerns of TransOhio and other trans-led organizations, leading medical providers, and community members currently accessing healthcare who have expressed grave concerns about the harm these new rules would cause. As drafted, the proposed rules fundamentally change how Ohio medical systems operate and disrupt care for existing patients, including adults, making the immediate impact much more broadly felt than HB68. 

Governor DeWine has consistently emphasized the importance of respecting the right of Ohio families to make personal medical decisions with their medical providers, but these new proposed rules would not reflect these values, instead inserting big government into adults’ healthcare.  Equality Ohio will continue to fiercely advocate for transgender Ohioans and will be submitting public comments to highlight the potential harm. 

Stay tuned for more information on how to submit your own comments.

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Equality Ohio identifies and transforms systems and institutions so LGBTQ+ Ohioans can fully access legal and lived equality.