- Christian therapist seeks right to counsel gay teens to change attraction The Washington Post
- Christian group ‘deceived’ supreme court about LGBTQ+ research, cited scholars say The Guardian
- Can Conversion Therapy Be Banned? Supreme Court Will Decide on Colorado Law. The New York Times
- Supreme Court to decide if states may ban attempts to ‘convert’ gay and transgender youth CNN
- The future of LGBTQ+ conversion therapy may depend on this Supreme Court case. What to know USA Today
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Supreme Court to Hear Challenge to State Bans on Conversion Therapy
The Supreme Court agreed on Monday, February 26, 2024, to hear a case concerning the constitutionality of state laws prohibiting “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ youth.
The case originates from a challenge to Colorado’s law, enacted in 2019, which bans licensed therapists from attempting to change a minor’s sexual orientation or gender identity. A Christian therapist argues the law violates free speech rights. Supporters of the ban say the practice is harmful and ineffective. This case could have broad implications for similar laws in other states.
The therapist, represented by Alliance Defending Freedom, contends the law infringes on both the therapist’s and the client’s First Amendment rights. Opponents argue conversion therapy lacks scientific support and can cause significant psychological harm, according to the [Associated Press](https://apnews.com/). Several major medical and mental health organizations oppose the practice.
The Supreme Court’s decision comes after similar cases were dismissed or narrowly decided in lower courts. The court will consider whether the state has a compelling interest in protecting youth from harm that justifies restricting therapeutic practices. Oral arguments are expected in the fall, with a ruling anticipated by June 2025.
The court will hear arguments regarding whether states can regulate practices that aim to alter a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
