Buckeye Reporter

Attorney General Dave Yost has taken emergency action by filing a motion with the Ohio Supreme Court, asserting that Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Michael Holbrook exceeded his judicial authority by halting the implementation of House Bill 68. Yost's filing contends that Judge Holbrook's decision on April 16 to issue a broad injunction on the entire law was an overreach.

"One judge from one county does not have more power than the governor’s veto pen," Yost stated in response to the injunction placed on HB 68 by Judge Holbrook. The Attorney General argued that the injunction, which put the entire law on hold, goes against the interests of Ohio families and the state as a whole.

The law in question contains provisions that safeguard minors from experimental medical treatments, protect parental rights, and ensure fair competition for female student-athletes. Despite the fact that the lawsuit challenging the law was brought forth by only two families regarding specific medical provisions, Judge Holbrook's injunction impacted all Ohioans statewide.

In his motion to the Ohio Supreme Court, Yost emphasized that the injunction was unlawful as it extended beyond the scope of the plaintiffs involved in the case. He highlighted that preliminary injunctions should only be broad enough to protect the parties directly involved. Yost further pointed out that the broad injunction not only violates legal principles but also hinders the implementation of the protective measures outlined in HB 68.

The Attorney General's request to the Ohio Supreme Court aims to narrow the injunction imposed by Judge Holbrook and ensure that judicial actions align with the limits of his authority. For further details on the case, court filings can be accessed on the Attorney General's website.

For media inquiries, please contact Dominic Binkley at 614-728-4127.