LANSING — A bill submitted this week would ban “conversion therapy” in Michigan if passed.
The Detroit Free Press reported that the bill was submitted by State Rep. Adam Zemke, D-Ann Arbor. It would “prohibit mental health professionals from engaging in efforts to change the sexual orientation and gender identity of a minor.”
If passed, Michigan would be the tenth state to ban conversion therapy and the second in the Midwest.
From the Detroit Free Press:
This marks the third attempt by Zemke to get legislation on the books. He was behind two other proposals for a ban on conversion therapy: House Bill 5703 in 2014 and House Bill 5669 in 2016, both were not passed.
Zemke and Rep. Darrin Camilleri, D-Brownstown Twp., issued a release Thursday condemning the $200 “Unashamed Identity Workshop” hosted by Metro City Church and provided by FORGE Ministries for girls “by birth” ages 12-16 who are questioning their sexual orientation and gender identity.
“Luckily, LGBTQ kids in Michigan have the support of honest and accredited mental health professionals along with the love and acceptance of faith leaders from every corner of our state, including strong Christian pastors. We are thankful for these political leaders who stand up for their constituents and our community as well,” Equality Michigan, the statewide LGBTQ rights group told the newspaper in a statement.
