Rhode Island Approves Ban On Conversion Therapy

By John Riley

On the final day of their legislative session, Rhode Island lawmakers approved a bill banning the practice of conversion therapy by licensed counselors on residents under the age of 18.

The Senate voted to approve the House version of the bill, which allows the Department of Health to discipline those licensed counselors who engage in the therapy with minors. The bill also prohibits public funds from being used to facilitate the practice of conversion therapy.

The prohibition on the therapy does not apply to therapy or counseling sought by an individual who is struggling with accepting or navigating issues related to their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The bill now heads to the desk of Gov. Gina Raimondo (D), who is expected to sign it into law.

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