Court to Hear Colo. 'Conversion Therapy' Challenge
The Supreme Court agreed on Monday to hear a Christian therapist's challenge on free speech grounds to a Democrat-backed Colorado law banning "conversion therapy" intended to change a minor's sexual orientation or gender identity.
The justices took up an appeal by licensed counselor Kaley Chiles of a lower court's decision rejecting her claim that the 2019 statute unlawfully censors her communications with clients in violation of the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment protections against government abridgment of speech. The state has said it is regulating professional conduct, not speech.
The justices are expected to hear the matter during their next term, which begins in October.
Colorado is among more than two dozen states and the District of Columbia that restrict or prohibit conversion therapy for minors.