WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 3315

CONVERSION THERAPY PROHIBITION

104th Regular Session Introduced by Rita Mayfield

Illinois bill prohibits licensed and unlicensed practitioners from performing conversion therapy on minors, protecting LGBTQ+ youth from widely-rejected harmful practices.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3315

Legislative bill overview

HB 3315 would prohibit conversion therapy practices on minors in Illinois. The bill aims to prevent licensed mental health professionals and unlicensed practitioners from attempting to change a minor's sexual orientation or gender identity through therapeutic interventions. This represents an expansion or codification of existing protections, depending on Illinois's current statutory framework.

Why this is important

Conversion therapy has been rejected by major medical organizations (AMA, APA, AAP) as ineffective and harmful, with research linking it to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. The bill would provide legal recourse for minors subjected to these practices and could expose practitioners to professional sanctions and civil liability. This affects healthcare regulation, parental rights, and protections for vulnerable minors.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental authority vs. child protection: Opponents may argue the bill restricts parental decision-making regarding their children's medical and mental health care, while supporters contend minors need protection from harmful practices regardless of parental consent.
  • Definition and scope: Disputes may arise over what specifically constitutes "conversion therapy" versus legitimate therapeutic discussion of sexual orientation or gender identity, and whether religious counseling is included.
  • Professional freedom concerns: Some may claim the bill restricts practitioners' clinical judgment and free speech, while proponents argue it prevents documented harm to minors who cannot consent.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.