Prohibition repeal on conversion therapy with minors and vulnerable adults

Minnesota Senate Bill SF5017, introduced in April 2026, aimed to repeal existing laws that prohibited conversion therapy for minors and vulnerable adults. Conversion therapy refers to practices intended to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill sought to remove these prohibitions, effectively allowing such therapies to be conducted legally in the state. However, the bill did not progress beyond the committee stage and was not enacted into law.

Supporters of SF5017 argued that the bill would restore parental rights and personal freedoms, allowing families and individuals to seek counseling and therapies of their choice without government interference. They contended that repealing the ban on conversion therapy would provide more options for those questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Opponents of SF5017 expressed concern that repealing the ban on conversion therapy would expose minors and vulnerable adults to harmful and discredited practices. They highlighted that major medical and psychological organizations have denounced conversion therapy as ineffective and potentially damaging, emphasizing the need to protect individuals from such interventions.