Michigan Governor Signs Ban , on ‘Conversion Therapy’.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed two bills outlawing the practice of attempting to change a minor's sexual orientation on July 26, CNN reports. .
As a mom of a member of the community and a proud, lifelong ally, I’m grateful that today we’re banning the horrific practice of conversion therapy in Michigan, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, via Twitter.
In doing so, we are taking
action to make Michigan a more welcoming, inclusive place, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, via Twitter.
21 other states have also banned
"conversion therapy," according to
LGBTQ nonprofit The Trevor Project. .
The first bill that Whitmer signed outlaws the practice of conversion therapy with minors.
The second bill updates the state's mental health code with the definition of conversion therapy.
It is defined as , "any practice or treatment by a mental health professional that seeks to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity, including, but not limited to, efforts to change behavior or gender expression or to reduce or eliminate sexual or romantic attractions or feelings toward an individual of the same gender.".
The Human Rights Campaign
praised Whitmer for her efforts.
So called ‘conversion therapy’ is a dangerous and discredited practice that will hopefully never see the light of day again here in Michigan, Sarah Warbelow, vice president of legal for
the Human Rights Campaign, via statement.
The conversion therapy ban
will take effect in October