A proposed bill in the U.S. state of California seeks to protect
gay patients from so-called conversion therapy.
Sponsored by LGBT organisation Equality California, Senate Bill
1172 would force psychotherapists to warn gay patients about the
potential damage of such practices - and that
they are not supported by medical research.
The proposed bill has been written by Sen. Ted Lieu, a
Democratic Party California State Senator.
Although it is likely to face opposition from certain groups, it
would prohibit anyone under the age of 18 from undergoing therapy
relating to their sexuality.
In addition, all therapists will also require a patient's
consent before proceeding with the therapy, the LA Weekly add.
"It's long past time to do everything in our power to put an end
to the use of therapy tactics that have no sound scientific basis
and that cause lifelong damage," says Clarissa Filgioun, Equality
California board president, in a press statement.
