In a landmark move, Colorado has taken a firm stance against the discredited practice of conversion therapy. Governor Jared Polis signed a bill on Monday, the first day of Pride Month, enabling victims to pursue legal action for damages through the state’s medical malpractice law. This legislation, signed at The Center on Colfax in Denver, represents a crucial victory for the LGBTQ+ community.
The new law permits individuals who have undergone conversion therapy to file civil lawsuits against mental health professionals who attempted to alter their sexual orientation or gender identity. Conversion therapy, rooted in the outdated belief that being LGBTQ+ is a curable mental illness, has been widely discredited by major medical organizations, including the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association, and the American Medical Association. Experts warn that this practice can lead to severe mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and an increased risk of suicide.
The Path to Justice
The legislation removes the previous two-year time limit for filing claims and allows lawsuits to be brought on behalf of deceased individuals within five years. This provision ensures that justice can be sought regardless of when the harm occurred. The bill was sponsored by Rep. Alex Valdez, a Denver Democrat, who emphasized the importance of protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from harmful practices. “This law is for all of the LGBTQ Coloradans who were told something about them that was wrong because of who they were or who they loved,” Valdez stated.
A Response to the Supreme Court Ruling
The new law comes in response to a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned Colorado’s previous ban on conversion therapy. In a 8-1 decision in March, the Court sided with a Christian counselor from Colorado Springs, who argued that the ban infringed on her right to free speech. The new legislation ensures that victims of conversion therapy can still seek justice, despite the Supreme Court’s ruling. The bill passed along party lines in the Legislature, with Democrats unanimously supporting it. Additional sponsors include Rep. Karen McCormick and Sens. Lisa Cutter and Kyle Mullica, all Democrats.
Prohibiting State Funds for Conversion Therapy
In addition to signing the bill, Governor Polis issued an executive order prohibiting the use of state funds for conversion therapy. This order directs state agencies to take appropriate steps to ensure that no state funds are allocated or spent on sexual orientation and gender identity change efforts. “Governor Polis’s action today ensures that no state funding ever goes to the scam of conversion therapy,” said Eric Maruyama, a spokesperson for the governor. This move underscores the state’s commitment to protecting its residents from harmful practices.
The Impact on the LGBTQ+ Community
The signing of this bill is a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ community in Colorado. It sends a clear message that the state stands firmly against practices that seek to alter an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. By empowering victims to seek legal recourse, the law provides a pathway to justice and healing for those who have suffered harm. The legislation also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and the importance of continued advocacy and support.
As Colorado continues to champion inclusivity and equality, this new law represents a crucial step forward. It not only protects the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals but also reinforces the state’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all its residents. With this legislation in place, Colorado reaffirms its dedication to the principle that everyone deserves to live authentically and without fear of harm.
