Gov. DeWine Signs “Bathroom Bill” into Law

On November 27, Governor DeWine signed Senate Bill 104 into law after the Ohio Senate earlier in November passed the bill along party lines in a vote of 24-7. Originally focused on the College Credit Plus Program, the bill now includes a controversial provision banning transgender students from using school restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity.

The bill requires schools and colleges to designate multi-occupancy facilities exclusively for the same biological sex, while allowing single-occupancy and family restrooms as accommodations. Critics argue the measure discriminates against transgender students and anticipate legal challenges, while supporters cite safety concerns and voter sentiment. The bill applies to public, charter, private, and for-profit schools and colleges, with exceptions for young children, individuals with disabilities requiring assistance, and employees accessing facilities for work.