COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Franklin County judge granted an extension to the temporary restraining order that blocks a ban on gender-affirming care for minors in Ohio.
Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Michael Holbrook initially blocked House Bill 68 from taking effect two weeks ago, saying in a written opinion that it likely violates a requirement that state legislation deal with a single subject.
The restraining order was set to expire Tuesday. Holbrook told 10TV that the temporary restraining order is now extended through May 20.
The ACLU of Ohio, which is suing on behalf of two families, requested the extension.
The law bans gender-affirming surgeries and hormone therapies, and restricts mental health care for transgender individuals under 18. The measure also bans transgender girls and women from girls and women’s sports teams at both the K-12 and collegiate level.
The law was set to take effect on April 24.
On April 22, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost filed an emergency motion in the Supreme Court of Ohio on House Bill 68.
In the court filing, Yost argues that Holbrook overstepped his judicial authority. Yost is also asking the state supreme court to narrow the injunction.
“One judge from one county does not have more power than the governor’s veto pen,” Yost said about the injunction in the case.
The temporary block by the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas will be in effect until after the hearing of plaintiffs’ motion for a permanent injunction. Both sides will present arguments during the hearing on May 16-17.
House Bill 68 was initially vetoed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine in December. That veto was overridden by the Republican-dominated House and Senate earlier this year.
Holbrook said he expects a decision on the permanent injunction by May 20.
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