KGMI News
OLYMPIA, Wash. – A bill in Olympia would crack down on what is known as “conversion” therapy for LGBTQ teens and consider it an act of unprofessional conduct.
KING-5 reports Democratic Senator Marko Liias, who says most doctors have condemned this practice, has sponsored similar bills in the past.
“They include things as monstrous as inducing nausea, vomiting, and paralysis while showing children erotic images. This is torture,” Liias said.
Joseph Backhold, the executive director of the Family Policy Institute of Washington, tells KING coercion is already misconduct, and this bill would take away options for families.
Teens struggling with gender dysphoria or same-sex attraction that is inconsistent with their values will be told “there’s only one direction you’re allowed to go with your therapist,” Backhold said.
The bill is expected to pass with a Democratic majority in both the Senate and House.