Conversion therapy for Virginia minors prohibited in bill proposed by state senator

RICHMOND, Va. - Virginia legislators have submitted a bill that would ban conversion therapy for minors in the state, as well as limit allowing state funds for conversion therapy.

The bill, which was authored by Sen. Scott Surovell (D) from District 36 from Fairfax County would prohibit sexuality conversion therapy for people under 18 by "any health care provider or person who performs counseling by licensed professionals"

The bill defines "conversion therapy" as "any practice or treatment that seeks to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, including efforts to change behaviors or gender expressions or to eliminate or reduce sexual or romantic attractions or feelings toward individuals of the same gender."

The bill also says that no state funds should be spent for the purpose of conducting conversion therapy, referring a person for conversion therapy, extending health benefits coverage for conversion therapy, or awarding a grant or contract to any entity that conducts conversion therapy or refers individuals for conversion therapy.

The full bill can be read on Virginia's legislature website.