The governor used his executive powers after Republicans who control the state legislature repeatedly blocked efforts to enact a state law banning the practice.
“My faith teaches me that all children are children of God,” Beshear said during the signing ceremony at the Kentucky Capitol.
It was the latest action in a national debate over conversion therapy and the rights of LGBTQ+ children and their families.
“I can speak firsthand to how devastating it can be to someone’s mental health,” Meiners said in an interview.
The Family Foundation, a socially conservative group in Kentucky, said Beshear’s order tramples on the rights of parents and suppresses religious expression.
Four years ago, Beshear became the first Kentucky governor to participate in the annual gay-rights rally at the statehouse when the legislature is in session.
Hartman said the governor sent a clear message to Kentucky’s LGBTQ+ youth and their families: “You are perfect as you are. »
