Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) on Thursday signed an executive order restricting conversion therapy for minors, adding it to the growing number of states taking similar action.
The order says the state will not fund the practice, and it will investigate any discriminatory actions by health care providers regarding the therapy.
“Our kids deserve to grow up in a state that values them for who they are – not one that tries to change them,” Walz said in a statement. “This Executive Order aims to protect young and vulnerable Minnesotans from the cruel and discredited practice of conversion therapy and affirms that the LGBTQ+ community is an integral part of One Minnesota.”
“We will continue to fight for love over hate every day,” he tweeted.
Conversion therapy consists of attempting to change a person’s gender or sexual orientation. Many health associations have said there is no scientific evidence that the therapy works, including The American Medical Association, The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and The American Academy of Pediatrics.
In 2019, Minneapolis was the first city to enforce a ban on conversion therapy, a move that was followed by other Minnesota cities like St. Paul and Duluth, according to KARE 11, an NBC affiliate.
“Minnesota is a little more welcoming and a little more joyous today because of the work that everyone’s done,” Walz said at a conference before signing the order.
“Know that there’s more work to be done,” he added.
Twenty other states have taken action against conversion therapy.