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Michigan bans use of conversion therapy on LGBTQ youth under measure signed by governor

LANSING, MI (AP)— Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation Wednesday that prohibits mental health professionals from using so-called conversion therapy on LGBTQ minors.

Michigan becomes the 22nd state to implement the ban on conversion therapy. That was defined by lawmakers as any practice or treatment by a mental health professional that seeks to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. But it does not include counseling to assist people undergoing a gender transition.

The Democratic governor said banning what she called the “horrific practice,” of conversion therapy was necessary to making Michigan a place “where you can be who you are.”

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