Kentucky GOP Bill Would Overturn Ex-Gay Torture Ban

The Kentucky Lantern reports:

Kentucky lawmakers would endanger vulnerable minors by approving a bill to protect conversion therapy, warned a coalition representing psychologists, social workers and the LGBTQ community during a committee hearing. Rep. David Hale, R-Wellington, House Bill 495’s primary sponsor, dismissed opponents’ arguments, including personal testimony from speakers who told stories of experiencing abuse and harm from conversion therapy themselves.

Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear restricted the controversial practice last year through an executive order. Hale told lawmakers on the House State Government Committee he wanted to protect counselors, therapists and pastors providing therapy to minors from discriminatory actions by the government, empowering parents to make choices on what kind of therapist a minor sees.

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Gov. Beshear’s “conversation therapy” ban is unlawful, attacks religious freedom, and attacks the very heart of the Christian message. The Christian message on sexuality and human dignity is not harmful, it is life-bringing. https://t.co/c2AE3RIGCv

— TheFamilyFoundation (@KentuckyFamily) February 27, 2025

Gov. Andy Beshear signs an executive order to ban conversion therapy for minors in Kentucky. pic.twitter.com/AMfnY3dGJK

— The Recount (@therecount) September 18, 2024