‘This should be a welcoming state:’ DeWine denies claim of ‘anti-LGBTQ+ climate’

[Jessica_Rose]

'This should be a welcoming state:' DeWine denies claim of 'anti-LGBTQ+ climate' in Ohio

https://www.nbc4i.com/news/politics/this-should-be-a-welcoming-state-dewine-denies-claim-of-anti-lgbtq-climate-in-ohio/

by: David Rees (31 March 2025)

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Gov. Mike DeWine said he disagrees with advocates who argue the state is unwelcoming to the LGBTQ+ community.

The governor was answering questions during a moderated Columbus Metropolitan Club forum on March 26 when he was asked whether Ohio is fostering an unfriendly climate for LGBTQ+ residents. The moderator said advocates claim DeWine has signed into law several bills that prompt bullying against transgender youth, like legislation regulating school restroom use.

"I'd disagree with that, I would totally disagree with that," said DeWine. "I don't think we have done that. Look, you go back and look at everything that I have said as governor, in 'State of the State' speeches and other times, this should be a welcoming state. We want everybody to come to Ohio and feel welcomed in the state."

DeWine's comments come as the Statehouse has advanced several bills that opponents deem "anti-LGBTQ+," instead of repealing Ohio's dormant same-sex marriage bans, removing antiquated HIV criminalization laws, passing a statewide conversion therapy ban or prohibiting LGBTQ+ discrimination.

Ohio's list of "anti-LGBTQ+ bills" includes a measure requiring academic institutions to set separate bathrooms based on students' "biological sex." After the bill was signed into law last November, Ohio's only statewide trans-led organization, TransOhio, said more than 10,000 people called, emailed and wrote to DeWine urging for a veto. "Our trans students and educators deserve so much better. Trans people have been a part of Ohio long before it was Ohio, and we always will be," the group said.