LGBTQ Conversion Therapy Banned In Massachusetts

BOSTON — Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday signed a new law banning LGBTQ conversion therapy for children. The legislation prohibits health care providers from trying to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of a patient under the age of 18. The measure passed the Democrat-controlled House and Senate by large margins.

Massachusetts became the 16th state to pass a law banning conversion therapy, which typically involves a counselor trying to convince a child he/she should return to heterosexuality.

"Governor Baker today signed HR140 into law and is proud of the Commonwealth's history of support for equal rights and protecting all citizens against discrimination," Baker's press secretary Brendan Moss told Patch.

Critics of the practice, including the American Psychological Association and American Medical Association, consider it harmful.

"There is no credible evidence that conversion therapy can change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity or expression," the Human Rights Campaign said in a statement. "To the contrary, research has clearly shown that these practices pose devastating health risks for LGBTQ young people such as depression, decreased self-esteem, substance abuse, homelessness, and even suicidal behavior."

The Massachusetts Family Institute, a group opposing the bill, threatened to challenge the ban in court if it were to become law. According to the group, the ban violates free speech and interferes with efforts of religious leaders.

Last year, New Hampshire banned conversion therapy. Bans are also on the books in Rhode Island, Vermont and Connecticut. Maine is the only New England state without a ban, though lawmakers there are discussing it.