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COLUMBUS, Ohio - In a significant move towards promoting equality and civil rights, Ohio Governor Sarah Johnson signed a bill into law on Friday that bans discrimination based on gender identity across the state.The Ohio Fairness Act, which was passed by the state legislature earlier this month, prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on both sexual orientation and gender identity. This groundbreaking legislation makes Ohio the 24th state in the nation to provide comprehensive protections for LGBTQ individuals.Governor Johnson, a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights, praised the bill as a major step forward for the state. "Everyone in Ohio deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of who they are or who they love," she said at the bill signing ceremony. "This law sends a clear message that discrimination has no place in our state."The Ohio Fairness Act had been a top priority for LGBTQ advocacy groups in the state, who have been pushing for its passage for several years. The bill faced opposition from some conservative lawmakers, who argued that it could infringe on the rights of religious organizations. However, supporters of the bill maintained that protecting LGBTQ individuals from discrimination is a matter of basic human rights."We are thrilled to see the Ohio Fairness Act become law," said James Smith, a spokesperson for Equality Ohio. "This legislation will ensure that LGBTQ individuals can live and work in Ohio without fear of discrimination. It's a historic moment for our state."The passage of the Ohio Fairness Act comes at a time when LGBTQ rights are facing increased scrutiny at the national level. Several states have recently passed laws restricting transgender rights, leading to backlash from civil rights organizations and the LGBTQ community.With the signing of the Ohio Fairness Act, Ohio joins a growing number of states that are taking proactive steps to protect LGBTQ individuals from discrimination. Governor Johnson's signature on the bill marks a significant victory for civil rights in the state and sets a positive example for others to follow.