Ohio Governor Signs Law Requiring Students to Use Bathrooms Based on Biological Sex

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed a bill into law on Tuesday requiring students in K-12 schools, colleges, and universities to use bathrooms, locker rooms, and overnight accommodations that align with their biological sex. The legislation, passed by Ohio’s Republican-controlled Senate earlier this month, will take effect in 90 days.

The law also bans multi-occupancy “all-gender” facilities but allows schools to maintain non-gendered single-occupancy bathrooms. The measure applies to public and private institutions across the state, marking Ohio as one of over a dozen states taking action to uphold biological distinctions in schools.

Republican lawmakers hailed the law as a win for safety and common sense. State Representative Adam Bird, a sponsor of the bill, thanked DeWine for his support, saying on X, “Individuals will not have to worry about the opposite sex coming into the restrooms, locker rooms, and changing rooms.” Co-sponsor Beth Lear echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the protection of all students.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost also applauded the governor’s decision. “Thank you for siding with biology, history, safety, and common sense,” Yost said.

The legislation represents another milestone for conservatives in Ohio, who have pushed back against progressive gender policies in schools. Earlier this year, the Republican-controlled legislature overrode DeWine’s veto to enact bans on minors undergoing gender procedures and boys competing in girls’ sports.

As expected, Democrats and activist groups have condemned the law. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Ohio criticized DeWine, claiming the measure marginalizes transgender individuals. “Transgender people are part of the fabric of Ohio,” the organization said in a statement, pledging to continue advocating for the LGBTQ+ community and hinting at potential legal challenges.

Ohio joins a national movement of states pushing back against the infiltration of radical gender ideology into schools. Proponents of the legislation argue it prioritizes student safety and fairness by ensuring that spaces like bathrooms and locker rooms remain segregated based on biological sex. Critics, however, accuse lawmakers of targeting vulnerable populations.

As battles over gender policies intensify across the country, Ohio’s decision reflects a broader conservative effort to restore traditional values and safeguard children from the consequences of progressive agendas.

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