Kentucky's ban on conversion therapy faces potential repeal

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear recently vetoed a bill that would reverse his ban on conversion therapy, which he refers to as "torture." The bill received significant support from the Republican majority in the state legislature. Beshear's executive order from 2024 prohibits any state or federal funding for conversion therapy. It also requires agencies to report providers who practice this therapy to licensing boards. However, the newly passed House Bill 495, backed by Republican Representative David Hale, seeks to change these rules by allowing Medicaid funds to be used and preventing discrimination against mental health professionals offering certain counseling services. Currently, 23 states and Washington D.C. have banned conversion therapy for minors. Five other states, including Kentucky, have partial bans. In a recent social media post, Beshear emphasized his stance against conversion therapy, highlighting its harmful effects on children. Opponents argue conversion therapy is dangerous and ineffective. The U.S. Supreme Court has previously refused to hear challenges against such laws. A new case in Colorado, featuring counselor Kaley Chiles, may have significant implications. Chiles is challenging a state law that restricts her from counseling gay minors. Experts note the divide between states, with red states often supporting conversion therapy as religious freedom, while blue states seek to ban it. Some lawmakers in Kentucky have vowed to override Beshear's veto. The situation remains tense as political debates continue over conversion therapy and its impact on LGBTQ+ youth.