Number
171760
Version
SUBSTITUTE 1
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. JOHNSON, PEREZ, ZIELINSKI, BAUMAN AND KOVAC
Title
A substitute ordinance prohibiting the practice of conversion therapy.
Section
75-19 cr
Analysis
This ordinance prohibits the practice of conversion therapy in the city of Milwaukee.
Body
Whereas, Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy, is the practice of trying to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity; and
Whereas, Science recognizes that being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender is part of the natural spectrum of human identity and is not a disease, disorder, or illness; and
Whereas, The practice of conversion therapy is based on scientifically unfounded approaches not subject to peer review and is often conducted in a violent and damaging manner; and
Whereas, The American Psychological Association issued a report in 2009 that concluded that conversion therapy can pose critical health risks to lesbian, gay, and bisexual people including depression, suicidality, substance abuse, stress, and disconnection with family and friends; and
Whereas, Several states and municipalities have banned the practice; and
Whereas, A bill to ban conversion therapy was introduced at the federal level, which stalled in U.S. Congress in 2016; and
Whereas, The Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act, which is based in consumer fraud and focuses on illegalizing any conversion therapy that charges money, was filed in the U.S. Senate in April 2017; now, therefore
The Mayor and Common Council of the City of Milwaukee do ordain as follows:
Part 1. Section 75-19 of the code is created to read:
75-19. Conversion Therapy Prohibited.
1. DEFINITIONS. In this section:
a. “Person” means any natural person, individual, corporation, unincorporated association, proprietorship, firm, partnership, joint venture, joint stock association, or other entity or business organization.
b. “Conversion therapy” means any practices or treatments o...
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