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"...

Continue reading here.

To receive daily emails from Breaking Christian News to your inbox CLICK HERE

A Prophetic Biblical Assembly to Take Place at the National Mall

Pray: Sally Turns Deadly with Record Rainfall Turning Roads to Rivers as It Bears Down on Deep South

'Flabbergasted': Minneapolis City Council Complains to Police Chief About Crime Spike after Vowing to Defund Police

'Stop the Car! Your Car is on Fire!': Connecticut Teen Pulls a Mom and 3 Kids from Their Burning Vehicle

Voters Brought Their Questions to Trump on COVID, Police Reform, Racial Justice: Here's What He Said

Kroger Fires Christian Employees Who Refused to Wear LGBT Rainbow, US Suit Says

Salvation Army Starts Red Kettle Program Early amid 'Tsunami of Human Need'

Girl Responds In Worship over Her 12-Year-Old Brother's Lifeless Body

'The Dawn of a New Middle East': Israel Signs Historic 'Abraham Accord' With UAE, Bahrain at White House

Boldly Defending Life': Trump Admin Expands Ban on International Funding of Abortion

CA or Sodom? Gov. Signs Law to Reduce Penalties for Sexual Relations with Minors

Is the Fear of GOD Driving Wheels of Justice in Northern Ohio?

Charles Stanley Stepping Down as Senior Pastor of First Baptist Atlanta

CA Church That Faced Fines Moves to Outdoor Services: 'I Do Not Want to See People Lost on My Watch'

Chick-fil-A Says Thanks, But No Thanks, after FAA Steps in to OK San Antonio Airport Location

Police Officer Receives Heartwarming Note in Tough Times: 'Praying God's Protection Over You'

'No Other Way to Put It, They're Amazing': Ambushed LA County Deputy's Heroic Actions Saving Her Partner after Being Shot, Caught on Video

'They're Basically a Collection of Liars': AG Barr Calls Out Mainstream Media over Riot Coverage

Federal Judge Rules Pennsylvania's Pandemic Restrictions Unconstitutional

Miraculous: Amid Wildfires that Consumed Talent, Oregon, This Church Building is 'Still Standing'; 'Pray for the Northwest!'