Introduced by Rep. Maureen Walsh (Walla Walla) (R) on January 17, 2014
Establishes the performance of sexual orientation change efforts by a health care
provider on a patient under 18 years old as an act of unprofessional conduct. Official Text and Analysis.
Referred to the House Health Care & Wellness Committee on January 17, 2014
Substitute offered in the House on February 5, 2014
Removes the legislative findings related to studies, reports, and statements
by professional associations regarding sexual orientation change efforts. Legislative intent is
added to regulate professional conduct but not to regulate speech or religious practices or
counseling that is not sexual orientation change efforts practiced by a licensed health care
provider on those under 18 years old.
Referred to the House Rules Committee on February 5, 2014
Amendment offered by Rep. Matt Shea (Spokane Valley) (R) on February 13, 2014
Removes language specifying that the minors to be
protected include those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and
transgender. Places the construction in a separate section, rather
than the intent section and adds that the act is not to be construed
as applying to non-licensed counselors acting under the auspices of
a religious church or denomination. Removes references to
"reparative therapy" and "conversion therapy" in the definition of
"sexual orientation change efforts." Clarifies that the Legislature
finds that it has a compelling interest in maintaining a patientdriven
process.
The amendment passed by voice vote in the House on February 13, 2014