The proposed bill, known as the Youth Mental Health Protection Act, aims to safeguard children under the age of 18 from conversion therapy, which includes practices intended to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill introduces new legal language defining conversion therapy and outlines the roles of mental health providers, which include licensed psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors. It explicitly prohibits these providers from engaging in conversion therapy or referring clients to others for such services, thereby establishing a clear legal framework to protect youth from these practices.

Additionally, the bill stipulates disciplinary actions for mental health providers who violate these prohibitions. Engaging in conversion therapy or making referrals for conversion therapy will be classified as unprofessional conduct, with first-time offenders receiving a written warning and being referred to educational programs. Repeat offenders will face further disciplinary measures from their licensing entities. This legislation reflects a commitment to promoting the mental health and well-being of youth by eliminating harmful practices associated with conversion therapy.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-67-1, 16-67-2, 16-67-3, 16-67-4, 16-67-5