Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee signed SB 5722 into law Wednesday, the Spokesman-Review reports. It declares the state has a "compelling interest" in "protecting" the physical and mental health of anyone under 18 from the "serious harms caused by conversion therapy."

Under the law, "conversion therapy" is defined as any counseling or treatment by a licensed medical professional intended to "change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity," or "eliminate or reduce sexual or romantic attractions or feelings toward individuals of the same sex."

Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy, is controversial in large part because it challenges the notion that sexual attraction is biologically rooted and unchangeable. Prominent medical organizations such as the World Psychiatric Association have condemned the practice, but many former homosexuals attest to the treatment's effectiveness.

Supporters of therapists helping people overcome unwanted attractions point out that therapy is about helping clients achieve their goals—and some seeking therapy want to cease or not act on same-sex attractions.

Now classified as "unprofessional conduct" in Washington, conversion therapy is grounds for suspending or revoking a medical license regardless of whether a minor seeks it out, and the law contains no exception for parental request or approval of the treatment.

SB 5722 does include language stating the ban does not apply to speech from non-licensed private citizens, or non-licensed religious practices or counseling performed "under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or organization."

"We are today prohibiting the abuse of our children," Inslee declared at the signing. "We have always believed in civil rights in our state."

When asked why parents should not have the right to choose such treatment for their children, Inslee equated it with letting "parents or doctors make decisions to let broken legs be treated in something that ends up losing both your limbs"...

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