As a transgender youth living in Ohio, I can attest to the already existing difficulties we face when seeking health care. Our options are limited and often, we are forced to travel out of state or wait for years until we reach legal age to access gender-affirming care. Now, with the introduction of HB-68, our already scarce resources are at risk of becoming even more limited.

HB-68 is a bill that threatens our right to healthcare by potentially banning further options for us to find gender-affirming care. This is not just an issue affecting me personally; it's an issue affecting all transgender youth across Ohio who deserve equal access to health services.

According to a 2017 survey by the National Center for Transgender Equality, 33% of respondents who saw a healthcare provider had at least one negative experience related to being transgender. This includes being refused treatment, verbally harassed or physically assaulted (National Transgender Discrimination Survey Report on Health and Health Care). The passage of HB-68 would only exacerbate these issues.

We urge you not only as individuals but as advocates for human rights and equality - stop the passage of HB-68 in Ohio. Stand with us in ensuring that all people have fair and equal access to necessary healthcare services regardless their gender identity. Please sign this petition today! Thank you! :)