Court Rules on Free Speech Grounds
The US Supreme Court ruled 8–1 against a Colorado law that banned conversion therapy for minors. The court said the restriction violated free speech protections under the First Amendment.
The case centered on a therapist from Colorado Springs, Kaley Chiles, who challenged the law. She argued that the ban limited her ability to provide talk therapy to clients who want to change their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote the majority opinion. He stated that the law restricted speech based on viewpoint and did not apply strict enough scrutiny. The court emphasized that free speech protections extend to licensed professionals.
What Conversion Therapy Means
Conversion therapy refers to practices that aim to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Most medical and psychological associations strongly oppose it. Some religious groups, however, still support it.
In this case, the court noted that Chiles only used talk therapy and did not use physical treatments or medication.
Arguments From Both Sides
Colorado officials argued that the law regulated professional conduct, not speech. They also said it did not stop general discussions about gender identity or sexuality.
The court rejected this argument and ruled that speech in a professional setting is still protected under the First Amendment.
