Supreme Court to Weigh Colorado's Conversion Therapy Ban
The Supreme Court is set to hear a case on Tuesday, challenging a Colorado law that bans licensed counselors from practicing conversion therapy on minors. Kaley Chiles, a Colorado counselor, argues the law infringes on her First Amendment rights, while Matt Salmon, a former victim of conversion therapy, urges the court to uphold the ban.
The Colorado law, in place for six years, defines conversion therapy as any attempt to change a minor's sexual orientation or gender identity. Chiles, represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom, contends that the law restricts her professional speech. The Supreme Court has previously broadened First Amendment protections for professionals, including therapists.
Salmon, now a psychiatrist, underwent conversion therapy as a teenager. He finds the experience still traumatic nearly two decades later. He believes licensed professionals should not have unfettered free speech to psychologically harm children. Salmon's former therapist lost his license due to the therapy's harmful effects. The Colorado Senate Judiciary Committee will discuss the law's legality on May 11, 2022.
Chiles could face fines up to $5,000 and license revocation if she violates the law, leading her to avoid certain conversations with clients. The Supreme Court's decision will impact not only Colorado but also similar cases involving gay and transgender youth across the nation.
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