The bill seeks to prohibit licensed professionals from administering conversion therapy to minors, defined as individuals under 18 years of age. Conversion therapy is characterized as any practice aimed at altering an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, with exceptions for supportive practices that aid in gender transition or foster acceptance of one's identity. The legislation mandates that licensed professionals, including those from the state board of healing arts, the board of nursing, and the behavioral sciences regulatory board, are barred from engaging in such practices with minors. Violations will be deemed unprofessional conduct, leading to disciplinary actions by the relevant regulatory boards.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to clarify that the Kansas telemedicine act does not permit the delivery of conversion therapy to minors and updates the definition of "unprofessional conduct" to include this practice. It also introduces new definitions for various terms related to professional services in the behavioral sciences, including a change from "health care" to "healthcare." The bill outlines the powers and duties of the behavioral sciences regulatory board, reinforcing its authority to enforce professional conduct regulations and recommend prosecutions. Additionally, it repeals inconsistent existing statutes to create a streamlined regulatory framework for behavioral health professionals in Kansas, with the act taking effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 40-2, 65-1120, 65-2837, 74-7507