A group of Catholic therapists has filed a federal lawsuit challenging Michigan’s new law banning conversion therapy. The therapists argue that the law infringes on their rights to free speech and religious exercise, and deprives vulnerable children of necessary counseling.
Key Takeaways
- Catholic therapists have filed a lawsuit against Michigan’s conversion therapy ban.
- The lawsuit claims the ban violates constitutional rights to free speech and religious exercise.
- The law, signed in July 2023, prohibits conversion therapy for minors.
- The plaintiffs argue the law restricts their ability to provide counseling aligned with their religious beliefs.
Background
The lawsuit was filed in Michigan’s U.S. Western District Court by a Lansing therapist and Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale counties. The plaintiffs are represented by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a conservative legal group known for defending religious rights.
The new law, House Bill 4616, was signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in July 2023. It makes Michigan the 22nd state to ban conversion therapy for minors. The law defines conversion therapy as any practice or treatment that seeks to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
Arguments from the Plaintiffs
The plaintiffs argue that the law unfairly targets their counseling practices. They claim that the law:
- Violates Free Speech: By regulating the content and viewpoint of counselors’ speech.
- Violates Due Process: Due to its vague terms, which could lead to arbitrary enforcement.
- Violates Free Exercise: By restricting religious speech and parents’ rights.
The lawsuit states that the plaintiffs use talk therapy to help clients explore their gender identity or sexual orientation, often advising them to delay major life changes to address underlying issues.
Defendants and Legal Proceedings
The lawsuit names several state officials as defendants, including Governor Whitmer, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and leaders from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering, an appointee of President Joe Biden.
Reactions and Implications
State Rep. Felicia Brabec, who sponsored the bill, emphasized the dangers of conversion therapy, calling it misleading and treacherous. Supporters of the ban argue that conversion therapy preys on vulnerable LGBTQ youth, while some opponents claim the law goes too far in controlling speech between a physician and patient.
The Michigan Catholic Conference expressed that it would have supported more narrowly defined legislation but found the current law too broad. Under the new law, mental health professionals found guilty of practicing conversion therapy face disciplinary actions and licensing sanctions.
The lawsuit highlights the ongoing debate over the balance between protecting LGBTQ youth and preserving religious and free speech rights. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for similar laws across the country.
Sources
- Catholic therapists challenge Michigan’s conversion therapy ban in lawsuit, The Detroit News.
