June 17, 2014
NY Assembly Bans Gay Conversion Therapy for Kids
Bobby McGuire READ TIME: 1 MIN.
ALBANY, N.Y. -- New York's Assembly has passed a ban against health professionals trying to change a child's sexual orientation through therapy.
On Monday the Democratic-led Assembly passed the ban 86 to 28. It would prohibit licensed psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, mental health practitioners and physicians from using conversion therapy on anyone under 18. Clergy would not be included.
The American Psychological Association says there is no evidence so-called gay conversion therapy can change someone's sexual orientation.
Bans against gay conversion therapy have already gone into law in New Jersey and California. A proposed ban was voted down in Illinois in April.
Opponents of the ban say that it may infringe on a person's freedom of speech.
The bill has been sent to the Republican-led Senate for consideration.
