Minnesota governor restricts 'conversion therapy' for minors

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has signed an executive order aimed at banning so-called conversion therapy

ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order aimed at banning so-called conversion therapy on Thursday but said it's just a start and called on the Legislature to make the ban permanent. Walz said conversion therapy — the scientifically discredited practice of using therapy to “convert” LGBTQ people to heterosexuality or traditional gender expectations — is a “byzantine, tortuous practice" that's not supported by any legitimate mental health organization. He said his order empowers state agencies to ensure that no Minnesotans under age 18 are subjected to it, and that insurance companies and state health plans don't cover it. “There's no place for hate in this state, there's no room for division,” Walz said at a signing ceremony just ahead of Pride Weekend. “Our LGBTQ+ community is part, and a huge part, of what it means to be one Minnesota. When they are hurt or put through this, we all hurt. And when they succeed, we all succeed.” Minnesota became one of 24 states that, to varying degrees, ban mental health professionals from seeking to change anyone's sexual orientation. Eleven Minnesota cities already have local bans, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester and Duluth.