FRANKFORT, Ky. (WDRB) -- Two days after Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order banning conversion therapy on minors, the Commonwealth Policy Center is speaking out against the order.Â
CPC Executive Director Richard Nelson responded to the new law during a media briefing Friday morning in Frankfort.
"When did it become OK for the governor to interfere with the rights of parents to seek counsel to help their children onto a better path in life that they believe leads to flourishing?" Nelson asked. "And for the minors struggling with their sexual identity and who desire to change, why would the governor shut the door on them?"
Conversion therapy is a practice intended to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Supporters say the order is disappointing, and will hurt children.
But several professional medical organizations refer to the practice as dangerous, saying it can cause anxiety, depression, and suicidal behaviors.
Louisville resident Zach Meiners, who underwent conversion therapy when he was in high school, had this to say: "I hope no matter who you are, no matter what you believe or who you love, that you have the right to be who you are, including those who disagree with us."
More than 20 states have prohibited conversion therapy.
Related Stories:
- Gov. Beshear signs executive order banning 'conversion therapy' in Kentucky
- Kentucky lawmaker introduces bill that would ban conversion therapy practices
- Kentucky lawmakers resume push to curb 'conversion therapy'
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