Sacramento, California — A first-of-its-kind state law that would restrict parents from trying to “cure” their minor children’s same-sex attractions seems headed to the governor’s desk.
If both state houses can agree on the final language, the legislation, which would ban all sexual orientation change effort (SOCE) treatment for minors, will be sent to Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown for his signature sometime in September. But, so far, there has been no indication from his office on whether he will sign the bill into law.
Whatever the governor does, he’s sure to face criticism. Backers see it as a civil rights issue, while critics say lawmakers are infringing on not only parents’ rights but also on the mission of mental health professionals.