Prohibits certain mental health professionals from engaging in conversion therapy for minors
Impact
If enacted, SB285 is expected to significantly alter the landscape of mental health practices related to LGBTQ+ minors in Missouri. By banning conversion therapy, the bill aligns state laws with a growing national trend aimed at protecting vulnerable youth from potentially harmful therapies. Supporters of the bill argue that it is a critical step toward safeguarding the mental well-being of minors and eliminating harmful practices that are considered unscientific and detrimental. Healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and advocacy groups stand in solidarity behind the bill, believing it will ultimately lead to better outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth by promoting affirmation rather than rejection.
Summary
Senate Bill 285, introduced by Senator McCreery, seeks to prohibit certain mental health professionals from engaging in conversion therapy for minors. This legislative measure aims to address concerns regarding the ethical implications and mental health impacts of conversion therapy practices, which often target LGBTQ+ youth. The bill defines conversion therapy as any practices intended to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, thus placing strict limitations on the types of counseling that can legally occur in Missouri. Notably, the bill specifies that supportive counseling during gender transition, as well as interventions that do not seek to change sexual orientation or gender identity, are not classified as conversion therapy.
Contention
Despite the support for SB285, the bill has faced opposition from some groups who argue that it infringes upon parental rights and the freedom of practitioners to offer a range of therapeutic options. Opponents assert that parents should have the right to determine the types of treatment their children receive, including conversion therapy. However, proponents counter that prioritizing the safety and psychological health of minors far outweighs concerns over parental or practitioner freedoms. The debate surrounding the bill raises larger questions about parental authority, professional ethics, and the rights of LGBTQ+ youth in society.
Relating to the regulation of certain market conduct activities of certain life, accident, and health insurers and health benefit plan issuers; providing civil liability and administrative and criminal penalties.
Professions and occupations; real estate appraisers; educational requirements as specified by the Appraiser Qualifications Board of the Appraisal Foundation; effective date.