Oregon becomes third US state to ban ‘gay cure’ therapy for minors
Oregon has become the third US state to ban the practice of “gay cure” therapy for minors.
Out bi Governor Kate Brown this week signed the bill into law, meaning Oregon joins California and New Jersey, as well as Washington DC in banning the practice.
The law explicitly bans the widely discredited practice of “gay conversion” therapy on those under 18 years of age.
The practice has been condemned by bodies such as the American Psychological Association.
While the ban applies to all mental health practitioners licensed by Oregon, it does not apply to non-registered religious groups or organisations.
Earlier this year President Barack Obama called for an end to “gay cure” therapies, citing the damage they can do to subjects.
A statement from the White House read: “The overwhelming scientific evidence demonstrates that conversion therapy, especially when it is practiced on young people, is neither medically nor ethically appropriate and can cause substantial harm… As part of our dedication to protecting America’s youth, this administration supports efforts to ban the use of conversion therapy for minors.”
Kate Brown is currently the only out bisexual Governor in the US.
