California Senate Votes To Ban Gay 'Conversion' Therapy
SACRAMENTO (CBS/AP) - The state Senate has approved what supporters say would be the nation's first ban on a form of psychotherapy aimed at making gay people straight.
The bill would prohibit what is known as reparative therapy for minors.
Democratic Sen. Ted Lieu of Torrance said he is seeking the ban because he believes so-called conversion therapy is dangerous. He says it has led some people to attempt suicide.
Psychiatric, family therapy and mental health associations are split on the bill.
There was no spoken opposition Wednesday, but some religious groups say it would interfere with parents' rights to seek psychological care for their children.
SB1172 passed on a 23-13 vote Wednesday and goes to the Assembly.
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