HB 68 Guidelines

Ohio House Bill 68 (HB68), which went into effect on August 6, 2024, marks an unprecedented change to BH practice in Ohio. Since the start of licensure for BH providers in Ohio there has never been a law restricting standard practice so explicitly and discriminately without any basis in research or best practice standards. HB 68 bans gender-affirming medical care and hinders access to mental healthcare for transgender and gender-diverse youth in Ohio. It also infringes upon ethical social work practice. The bill is in effect now, putting both BH providers and their transgender and gender-diverse minor clients at risk. In response, NASW Ohio has developed written practice guidance and trainings to supply behavioral health providers with the necessary understanding of the law to equip them with the knowledge and tools needed to provide the highest quality care possible while protecting themselves from excessive liability risks and disciplinary action. -- NASW Ohio Chapter