N.Y. state Assembly approves ban on reparative therapy for minors

ALBANY, N.Y. — New York’s Assembly has passed a ban against health professionals trying to change a child’s sexual orientation through therapy.

On Monday the Democratic-led Assembly passed the ban 86 to 28. It would prohibit licensed psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, mental health practitioners and physicians from using conversion therapy on anyone under 18. Clergy would not be included.

The American Psychological Association says there is no evidence so-called gay conversion therapy can change someone’s sexual orientation.

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Opponents of the ban say that it may infringe on a person’s freedom of speech.

California and New Jersey have similar bans on reparative therapy, but legal challenges followed shortly after the bills were signed into law.

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California’s ban was upheld at the federal level, and by a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, but has since been put on hold pending an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Another federal judge has upheld the New Jersey law.

A proposed ban was voted down in Illinois in April.

The New York bill has been sent to the Republican-led Senate for consideration.