COLUMBUS, Ohio – Today, Ohio Senate Minority Leader Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) issued the following statement after Gov. Mike DeWine vetoed House Bill 68, which would have banned critical gender-affirming health care for minors and banned transgender student-athletes from playing on sports teams that align with their gender identity.

"Ohioans have spoken loud and clear – they don't want the government involved in their personal, private health care decisions," said Sen. Antonio, a Lakewood Democrat who's 23rd district includes 14 of Cleveland's 17 wards. "Parents should have the right to make important physical and mental health care decisions for their children. I applaud the governor for exercising due diligence and discernment in making the decision to veto House Bill 68, which would have taken away the rights of parents. I want to thank the thousands of advocates, kids, parents, religious and business leaders who spoke out against this dangerous bill – this veto belongs to you. The fight for LGBTQ+ equal rights will continue until all may enjoy the freedom to live their authentic lives without government interference."

Clevelandurbannews.com and Kathywraycolemanonlinenewsblog.com, the most read Black digital newspaper in Ohio and in the Midwest. Tel: (216) 659-0473. Email: editor@clevelandurbannews.com. We interviewed former president Barack Obama one-on-one when he was campaigning for president. As to the Obama interview. CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE AT CLEVELAND URBAN NEWS.COM, OHIO'S LEADER IN BLACK DIGITAL NEWS.