Ban On ‘Gay Conversion Therapy’ Could Make Progress In Olympia This Year
Listen
A bill to ban the controversial practice of trying to change the sexual orientation of LGBTQ people is making its way through the Washington Senate.
The bill considers so-called ‘conversion therapy’ for people under 18 “unprofessional conduct” for health care providers.
Carey Morris from Equal Rights Washington testified in favor of the bill Thursday. She said its passage would send a strong message to LGBTQ youth.
“Our educated, knowledgeable, experienced professionals have told us, this is a step in protecting kids in Washington,” Morris said. “And I think it’s a really important step, they’re listening. And we can say we hear you, we see you, we think you’re worthy. And more importantly we shouldn’t have regrets because we know this is the right thing to do.”
But some therapists testified the ban is unnecessary, hard to enforce, and could interfere with their practices.
Past efforts to ban conversion therapy have died in the Republican-controlled Senate. But this year Democrats are in control of both houses.
Seattle passed a ban on gay conversion therapy last year through a unanimous vote in the city council.
Related Stories:
Yakima Libraries celebrate Día, a children and books day
Libraries in the Yakima Valley will celebrate Día, a children and books day, on Saturday. The event fosters multiculturalism, languages and reading, while promoting childhood importance and well-being. Continue Reading Yakima Libraries celebrate Día, a children and books day
‘Higher Ground’ exhibit explores queer life on the Palouse
A new exhibit of queer art and ephemera at Washington State University is showcasing LGBTQ+ lives and experiences in the rural Palouse region.
Continue Reading ‘Higher Ground’ exhibit explores queer life on the Palouse
ACLU to challenge Sunnyside School District Board elections
The Sunnyside School District Board could be the next jurisdiction to face a lawsuit for violating the Washington State Voting Rights Act. A group has notified the District that the election system dilutes the Latino vote, and if it’s not fixed, the District could end up in court. Continue Reading ACLU to challenge Sunnyside School District Board elections