The bill introduced in the 136th General Assembly aims to enact several new sections of the Revised Code that prohibit licensed health care professionals from engaging in conversion therapy for minor patients. Specifically, it establishes sections 4723.95, 4731.45, 4732.34, 4743.12, 4757.46, and 4758.73, which outline the responsibilities of various state licensing boards, including the board of nursing, the state medical board, and the state board of psychology, to comply with the new regulations. The bill defines conversion therapy as practices aimed at changing a person's sexual orientation or gender identity and specifies that such practices are not permitted when providing mental health treatment to minors.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that certain supportive practices, such as assisting a patient in transitioning or providing acceptance and understanding, are not considered conversion therapy. It also mandates that state licensing boards impose sanctions, such as suspension or revocation of licenses, on health care professionals who fail to comply with these provisions. Overall, the legislation seeks to protect minors from harmful practices while ensuring that health care professionals adhere to ethical standards in their treatment approaches.