Independence bans LGBTQ conversion therapy

KBIA | By Associated Press

Published November 16, 2021 at 5:53 PM CST

The Kansas City suburb of Independence is the latest in the metropolitan area to ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ youth.

The City Council voted unanimously Monday night to prohibit mental health professionals from using conversion therapy. Those who violate the ordinance could see fines of up to $500.

The goal of conversion therapy is to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

Several other area cities have banned the practice, including Columbia, Kansas City, North Kansas City, St. Louis and St. Joseph in Missouri and Prairie Village and Roeland Park in Kansas.

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