Antonio Statement on Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation

Today, state Senator Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) applauded the many individuals and advocates that testified in opposition to House Bill 151, especially Ember Zelch, the sole transgender girl playing sports in Ohio, whose testimony Antonio shared during session. As amended and passed by the Senate, H.B. 151 would have prohibited transgender girls from playing on girls’ school sports teams. The measure failed to advance in the Ohio House. “While I count this as a success in the moment for members of the LGBTQ+ community in Ohio, I believe we would be better served focusing our efforts on attracting young families to our state by making Ohio an inclusive place for all. As we move forward to address the issues of diversity in the future, I hope we can provide everyone in Ohio the opportunity to be their authentic selves, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity.” The Senate and House do not currently have any session dates scheduled through the end of the year.