State lawmakers on Friday approved a ban on so-called 'gay conversion therapy' treatments conducted on minors.
Gay rights advocates say the practice, which is largely discredited by healthcare professionals, does more harm than good to those who are subjected to it.
"This has been a priority of the caucus for years," said Michael Golojuch, chair of the LGBT Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawaii. "(The measure) ensures that LGQTB youth will not be tortured by mental health professionals."
Several states, including California, Oregon and New Jersey, have already passed similar laws. Maryland passed legislation banning the practice earlier this month.
The bill was opposed by religious groups who consider sexual orientation a choice.
Copyright 2018 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.
TooShiftyForYou on April 28th, 2018 at 19:04 UTC »
The other US States with bans on conversion therapy for minors on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity:
New Jersey
California
Oregon
Illinois
Vermont
New Mexico
Connecticut
Rhode Island
Nevada
Washington
Maryland
Ramoncin on April 28th, 2018 at 18:34 UTC »
Can't believe such a thing is not banned on a national level.
chasebrendon on April 28th, 2018 at 18:18 UTC »
Only the twelfth?