California Senate Approves Ban on “Conversion” Therapy

Ted Lieu, CA State Senator

Earlier today the California state senate approved bill 1172.  The bill bans the practice by licensed mental health professionals of “conversion” therapy – that is, curing the gay.  The bill, sponsored by Ted Lieuwas also cosponsored by a number of entities including Equality California, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Mental Health America of Northern California, Gaylesta, and Lambda Legal.  The bill still needs to be  passed by the Assembly and signed by Governor Brown.   Read the press release from Equality California here.

The bill would ban the practice for minors, even if their parents want “reparative” therapy – There are several studies that suggests that the practice is not only ineffective, but extremely harmful.  I hope more states come on board soon.

Good going, California!