Conversion Therapy Ban
What This Bill Does
SB 71 would prohibit licensed mental health professionals in Ohio from subjecting minors to conversion therapy — the discredited practice of attempting to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. The ban applies only to state-licensed practitioners treating minors; it does not restrict religious counseling or adult decision-making. Violations would be treated as unprofessional conduct subject to licensing board discipline.
Why This Matters
Conversion therapy has been rejected by every major medical and mental health organization in the United States, including the American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Research consistently shows that conversion therapy is ineffective and causes serious harm — including depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidality — particularly among LGBTQ+ youth. Twenty-two states and the District of Columbia have already banned the practice for minors.
Medical Consensus
- The American Medical Association calls conversion therapy "a significant risk to patient health and welfare"
- The American Psychological Association concluded there is "insufficient evidence" that conversion therapy works and "substantial evidence of harm"
- The American Academy of Pediatrics opposes conversion therapy "based upon its lack of scientific credibility"
- HB 300 mirrors this bill as the House companion