Proposed Denver conversion therapy ban for minors advances

DENVER (AP) | Denver’s City Council will soon consider a ban on psychotherapy that seeks to change the sexual orientation of minors.

Denver’s Safety, Housing, Education and Homeless Committee voted Dec. 19 to send the proposal to the full council.

Psychology’s governing bodies have denounced conversion therapy, which treats being gay or transgender as a mental illness. Research shows it can increase the risk of suicide, drug abuse and depression among teens.

Committee members say they would need to create a reporting and enforcement system for a ban. State-licensed practitioners found in violation would face fines.

KUSA-TV has reported that Mayor Michael Hancock’s office is unaware of anyone practicing conversion therapy in the city or county of Denver.

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