Supreme Court rules against Colorado conversion therapy ban for LGBTQ kids

Published: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 2:12 pm

Supreme Court Sides with Counselor in Colorado Conversion Therapy Case

The Supreme Court has issued a ruling regarding Colorado's ban on conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ minors. In an 8-1 decision, the court sided with a Christian counselor who argued that the law infringes upon First Amendment rights. The justices acknowledged free speech concerns and remanded the case to a lower court for further review, specifically to determine if the law meets a stringent legal standard.

The case centers on a 2019 Colorado law that prohibits the use of therapy to change a minor's sexual orientation or gender identity. The counselor, Kaley Chiles, supported by the Trump administration, claimed the law prevents her from offering voluntary, faith-based therapy to children. Chiles' legal team argued that the ban hinders parents' ability to find therapists willing to discuss gender identity without affirming a transition.

Colorado, however, maintained that the law allows for open discussions about gender identity and sexual orientation, while exempting religious ministries. The state argued the law only prohibits the use of therapy to convert LGBTQ+ individuals to heterosexuality or traditional gender roles, a practice widely discredited and linked to potential harm. Colorado contended that therapy is a form of healthcare, which the state has a responsibility to regulate, and therefore does not violate the First Amendment. The law includes potential fines and license suspension, though no sanctions have been issued.

The counselor was represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative legal organization. The ruling is anticipated to impact similar laws in other states, potentially making them unenforceable.

BNN's Perspective:

This ruling highlights the ongoing tension between religious freedom and LGBTQ+ rights. While the court's decision emphasizes free speech, it also underscores the need for careful consideration of the potential harms associated with discredited practices like conversion therapy. Finding a balance that protects both individual liberties and the well-being of vulnerable individuals remains a complex challenge.

Keywords: Supreme Court, conversion therapy, LGBTQ+, Colorado, First Amendment, free speech, religious freedom, counselor, Kaley Chiles, Alliance Defending Freedom, therapy, gender identity, sexual orientation, legal, ruling

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