Washington DC bans gay conversion therapy for minors
By Josh Haggis
Washington DC has banned gay conversion therapy for minors.
The law, which was passed by the DC Council in December, officially came into effect last week (March 11) following the completion of its Congress review.
The Conversion Therapy for Minors Prohibition Amendment Act of 2014 imposes strict fines on any medical practitioner or psychologist that attempts to change the sexual orientation of someone under 18 years old.
“These actions will protect young people from a practice that studies conducted by major mental health organizations and personal testimony from youth have shown can create dangerous and even life-threatening effects, including depression, decreased self-esteem, substance abuse, and suicidal behavior,” said GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard
Despite conversion therapy being denounced by the American Medical Association, critics of the new law have argued that it discriminates against gay youths who want to willingly try and change their sexual orientation.
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