Bill 118 hr 10172, also known as the "Conversion Therapy Prohibition Act," aims to make changes to title XIX of the Social Security Act in order to prevent Medicaid payments from being used to cover the costs of conversion therapy. Conversion therapy, also known as "reparative therapy," is a controversial practice that seeks to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity.
The bill seeks to prohibit Medicaid payments for any services related to conversion therapy, as well as any treatments or therapies that are intended to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. This includes counseling, medication, or any other form of treatment that is aimed at changing a person's LGBTQ+ identity.
The purpose of this bill is to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from harmful and discriminatory practices that have been widely discredited by medical and mental health professionals. Conversion therapy has been shown to have negative effects on individuals' mental health and well-being, and has been condemned by major medical organizations such as the American Psychological Association.
By prohibiting Medicaid payments for conversion therapy, this bill aims to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals have access to safe and affirming healthcare services that support their identities and well-being. This legislation is an important step towards promoting equality and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States.