Beshear executive order bans conversion therapy on minors

Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order Wednesday banning the practice of conversion therapy on minors in the state of Kentucky.

The executive order makes it illegal to use state or federal funds to provide conversion therapy on minors. It also gives licensing boards the authority to take disciplinary action against licensees found to have practiced conversion therapy on minors.

"Kentucky cannot possibly reach its full potential unless it is free from discrimination by or against any citizen – unless all our people feel welcome in our spaces, free from unjust barriers and supported to be themselves," said Gov. Beshear.

At least 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit the use of conversion therapy with minors in some way.