Tri County News

State Representative Tim Barhorst (R-Fort Loramie) has expressed his opposition to Governor DeWine's decision to veto House Bill 68, also known as the Save Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act and the Save Women's Sports Act. Barhorst, who supported the legislation from the beginning, stated, "To protect our children, uphold the integrity of women's sports, and preserve the rights of parents, I was glad to support this crucial legislation throughout the entire process."

Barhorst voted for HB 68 on the House floor and in concurrence with the Senate. He now looks forward to voting on overriding the Governor's veto. In order to override the veto, the Ohio House and Senate will need the support of three-fifths of its members, 60 in the House and 20 in the Senate.

The SAFE Act aims to protect children by prohibiting medical professionals from providing gender-affirming care, such as hormone therapy and puberty blockers, to minors. Supporters of the bill argue that these treatments can have long-term physical and psychological effects on adolescents and should only be considered after careful review.

The Save Women's Sports Act, on the other hand, seeks to ensure fair competition in women's sports by preventing transgender girls and women from participating in female athletic events. Proponents of the act believe that biological differences between males and females give transgender athletes an unfair advantage, jeopardizing the opportunities and achievements of cisgender female athletes.

Governor DeWine's decision to veto HB 68 has sparked a heated debate between supporters and opponents of the legislation. Those against the veto argue that it undermines the protection of children and the integrity of women's sports. Representative Barhorst is among those who firmly believe that overriding the veto is necessary.

The Ohio House and Senate will now have to gather the necessary support to override the Governor's veto. The outcome of the vote will determine the fate of the SAFE Act and the Save Women's Sports Act in Ohio.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/tim-barhorst/news/barhorst-opposes-governor-dewines-safe-act-veto-117907