Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer Approves Controversial Legislation To "Protect" LGBTQ Youth

The legislation, House Bill 4616, was introduced by Democratic state Representative Felicia Brabec and prohibits mental health professionals from attempting to change a minor's sexual orientation or gender identity. 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 behavior, gender expression, or reduce same-gender attractions.

To address concerns that the definition might implicate efforts to change a child's biological sex or encourage non-heterosexual lifestyles, a clarification was added. The clarification states that conversion therapy does not include counseling that provides assistance to individuals undergoing a gender transition or counseling that provides acceptance, support, or understanding of an individual's identity exploration and development, as long as it does not seek to change their sexual orientation or gender identity.

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July 27, 2023

Critics argue that the law will prevent healthcare professionals from treating gender dysphoria in children or encouraging them to embrace their biological sex. State Representative Neil Friske, a Republican, expressed concern that the definition of conversion therapy was too broad and could criminalize providers who uphold natural law and refuse to buy into what he called "left-wing gender schemes."

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Republican State Representative Donni Steele also voiced opposition to the legislation, stating that children should not be expected to make such difficult decisions and that parents, in consultation with qualified medical professionals, are better qualified to make decisions regarding a child's development.

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Brabec, the co-sponsor of the bill, defended its passage, stating that it would protect LGBTQ youth from damaging pseudo-psychology and ensure that therapists continue to do no harm in their practices.

The bills passed in the state House on June 14 with a 56-53 vote and in the state Senate on June 27 with a 21-15 vote. They will take effect in October, making Michigan the 27th state to enact a partial or total ban on conversion therapies.

Governor Whitmer, in a tweet, expressed her support for the legislation, stating that it is part of a broader effort to make Michigan a more welcoming and inclusive place.