Measure To Ban 'Deprogramming' Of Gay Young People Goes To Governor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- The Illinois Senate has approved a ban on therapy designed to "convert" gay young people to heterosexuals.

The measure passed Friday with a 34-19 vote after receiving House approval this month. It heads to Gov. Bruce Rauner's desk. He didn't immediately respond for comment.

Sen. Daniel Biss sponsored the bill. The Evanston Democrat says mental health associations support the measure that addresses therapies that can cause "mental illness, trauma and can increase the risk of suicide."

The initiative would prevent mental health providers from using the treatment on anyone under 18 years old.

Sen. Tim Bivins says teens and their parents should be able to choose the therapy. The Dixon Republican pointed out women under 18 years can have abortions or take pregnancy-prevention pills.

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