Colorado's Conversion Therapy Ban Challenged in Landmark Supreme Court Case
A legal battle is brewing in Colorado as Counselor Kaley Chiles challenges the state's ban on conversion therapy for minors. Chiles, represented by attorney Kaila Salazar, argues that the law infringes upon her free speech and religious freedoms. The case, Chiles v. Salazar, has garnered support from Kristi Burton Brown, who authored amicus briefs backing Chiles' stance, and Ethan Blevins of the Pacific Legal Foundation, who believes the outcome could have significant nationwide implications.
Colorado enacted the controversial law in 2016, prohibiting licensed counselors from conducting conversion therapy on individuals under 18. The practice, aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, has been widely criticized by organizations like the Gay and Lesbian Alliance against Defamation (GLAAD). They assert that conversion therapy can lead to increased rates of suicide attempts, anxiety, and depression.
The Supreme Court has taken notice of the growing number of states, now 25 including Colorado, that have implemented similar bans. In the upcoming session, the Court will weigh in on the first case involving conversion therapy. This follows their recent decision to uphold a Tennessee law prohibiting minors from accessing puberty blockers. Next year, the Court will also hear arguments in a case concerning transgender student athletes, indicating a broader interest in LGBTQ+ rights issues.
The Supreme Court's decision in Chiles v. Salazar is eagerly awaited, as it could set a precedent for other states with similar laws. The case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding conversion therapy, freedom of speech, and religious liberties in the context of LGBTQ+ rights.
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