Conversion therapy ban up for debate

On Tuesday, January 9 the New Hampshire House of Representatives voted down two bills that would ban gay conversion therapy for minors.

However, the bills may have a second chance. Rep. Henry Parkhurst filed a motion for reconsideration. That means the House of Representatives will vote on whether to reconsider the bills. If a majority votes in favor, the bills get a whole new vote.

Both bills failed by just one vote the first time, so there’s a good chance the bills could succeed on reconsideration.

The next House session is not yet scheduled, but will probably be February 7.

About gay conversion therapy ban

Both bills, HB 587 and SB 224, ban therapy that attempts to change a minor’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

The American Psychological Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and many other health care providers believe conversion therapy is far more likely to cause psychological harm than change a person’s sexual orientation.

“Young people subjected to this practice have experienced severe and lasting trauma, have suffered long-term damage to their family relationships, and are at an increased risk for suicide.”

- Rep. Lucy Weber

Bill opponents, however, argued that the language in HB 587 and SB 224 was too broad, and would make it difficult for therapists to discuss any issues around sexuality and gender identity with their patients.

“New Hampshire licensing boards already have the authority to regulate and discipline practitioners. There is also a duty to report child abuse. There is no evidence that the practice is occurring in New Hampshire, therefore there is time to get the statutory language right.”

- Rep. Jess Edwards

When we asked our community about a ban on gay conversion therapy last year, most commenters supported a ban. Click here to see a summary of the discussion.

Do you support a ban on gay conversion therapy? Share your opinion in the comments below.