Governor Mills Signs Bill To Ban Conversion Therapy For Minors

Governor Mills signed legislation this week that will ban all forms of conversion therapy for minors in the state.

Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy, is a widely discredited process of trying to change the sexual orientation of gay and lesbian people. LD1025, sponsored by Assistant House Majority Leader Ryan Fecteau, prohibits licensed professionals from advertising and administering so-called conversion therapy methodology to minors. The bill passed the Legislature with bipartisan support.

"By signing this bill into law today," Governor Mills said on Thursday, "we send an unequivocal message to young LGBTQ people in Maine and across the country: we stand with you, we support you, and we will always defend your right to be who you are."

Maine joins 16 other states, plus the District of Columbia in passing legislation protecting youths from conversion therapy, which research shows can cause devastating physical and emotional harm, especially in the young. Fecteau called the practice irresponsible and harmful, and says he's proud that Maine is affirming that no young person needs to 'fix what is not broken'

LD1025 will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.