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Should Gov. Sununu sign HB 587, a ban on gay conversion therapy for minors?

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On Thursday, May 10 the New Hampshire House and Senate agreed on a final version of HB 587, a bill to ban conversion therapy for anyone under age eighteen.

Conversion therapy seeks to change a person's sexual orientation.

Click here to learn more about gay and transgender legal protections in New Hampshire.

Opponents are concerned that a ban will limit the ability of therapists to help children and teens struggling with sexual identity.

"[HB 587] denies First Amendment protections to therapists while forcing them to ignore the needs and wishes of clients, including children, who are experiencing unwanted attractions and dysphoria."

- Testimony from Shannon McGinley, Executive Director, Cornerstone Action

Supporters of HB 587 point to evidence that conversion therapy leads to greater depression and anxiety in LGBTQ youth.

"We should be providing youth across the Granite State with all the support they need to be happy and healthy, and with this vote the legislature is recognizing that forcing youth to change who they are is not only ineffective, but can have devastating consequences."

- Janson Wu, Executive Director, GLAD

Do you believe Gov. Sununu should sign HB 587? Share your opinion in the comments below.

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