Bill 118 hr 4340, also known as the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of preventing fraudulent practices in the field of therapy and counseling. The bill specifically targets so-called "conversion therapy," which is a widely discredited practice that claims to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity through therapy.
The Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act of 2023 seeks to prohibit any person or entity from offering or providing conversion therapy in exchange for monetary compensation. It also prohibits the advertising or promotion of conversion therapy services. The bill aims to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly LGBTQ+ youth, from being subjected to harmful and ineffective practices that can have serious negative consequences on their mental health and well-being.
Additionally, the bill requires the Federal Trade Commission to enforce these provisions and investigate any complaints of violations. It also allows individuals who have been harmed by conversion therapy to seek civil remedies in court.
Overall, the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act of 2023 is a crucial piece of legislation that aims to protect individuals from fraudulent and harmful practices in the field of therapy and counseling, particularly targeting conversion therapy. By prohibiting the offering and advertising of conversion therapy services, the bill seeks to safeguard the mental health and well-being of vulnerable individuals, particularly LGBTQ+ youth.