SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed legislation to ban the discredited practice of so-called “conversion therapy,” HF 16, on a vote of 81-47.
Rep. Liz Olson (DFL – Duluth) is a co-author of the bill and voted “yes.”
“In Minnesota, we care about one another, and everyone should be celebrated, loved, and valued for who they are. Unfortunately, conversion therapy is contrary to this value, dehumanizing and traumatizing for those victimized by the practice,” Rep. Olson said. “House DFLers stand with the 2SLGBTQIA+ Minnesotans who have bravely shared their stories, and are committed to making Minnesota a more welcoming place for everyone in our state.”
The legislation would ban conversion therapy on children or vulnerable adults, prohibit conversion therapy from being offered under medical assistance coverage and eliminate the misrepresentation of services or products associated with conversion therapy.
Every major professional health organization opposes the use of conversion therapy, including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Psychiatry Association.
The bill now awaits action by the Minnesota Senate.