Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation an Act of State-Sponsored Bullying and Bigotry During Pride Month

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Beth Liston (D-Columbus) calls today’s shameful passage of the Don’t Say Gay Bill (House Bill 8) and the Bully Trans Kids Act (HB 68), in the middle of Pride Month, an act of state-sponsored bullying and bigotry, as well as a direct attack on the freedoms of countless LGBTQ+ children, adults and families.  

“HB 68 makes it illegal for parents, doctors, and kids to work together and use international guidelines to treat those struggling with their gender identity. This bill will hurt children across the state, making mental health services more difficult to access and denying care to those suffering from gender dysphoria. It is driven by extremists in the statehouse forcing their ideology on Ohioans, preventing kids from getting needed health care,” said Rep. Liston.

According to a non-profit group which focuses on suicide prevention for LGTBQ+ youth, The Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ Ohioans face higher rates of violence, suicide and mental health issues simply because of who they are.

Republican-sponsored anti-LGBTQ+ legislation further stigmatizes a vulnerable group of children and destroys Ohioans’ civil rights. These bills jeopardize Ohio’s reputation as a welcoming and safe state for all and our ability to attract and retain workforce talent.

House Democrats continue to put people first and stand with the LGBTQ+ community this Pride Month, and every month. House Democrats will continue to fight for legislation such as the Ohio Fairness Act, the Anti-Bullying Act, and the Anti-Conversion Therapy Act which protects civil rights and recognizes LGBTQ+ individuals as vital members of our communities.