Assembly Bill 359 aims to prohibit mental health providers from engaging in conversion therapy with minors, defined as any intervention intended to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill clarifies that certain types of counseling, such as support for gender transition or identity exploration, are not considered conversion therapy. It establishes that mental health providers, including physicians, psychologists, and licensed counselors, are prohibited from performing conversion therapy on individuals under 18 years of age.

To enforce this prohibition, the bill mandates that the Medical Examining Board, Psychology Examining Board, and Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Counseling, and Social Work Examining Board investigate allegations of violations. If a violation is confirmed, the boards are required to take disciplinary actions, which may include limiting, suspending, or revoking the provider's license or certification. Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to include provisions for judicial review related to these disciplinary actions.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 448.02(9)(intro.), 448.02