In another note to the culture of certain states and community changing, the Mormon Church will allow the state of Utah to consider banning gay conversion therapy.  The move by one of the nation's most conservative churches, along with the state of Utah, has caught the attention of conservative lawmakers across the country.   After getting approval from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a bill that seeks to abolish gay conversion therapy is on its way to becoming Utah law.

The influential church's support marks a complete reversal from its stance on previous legislation, which Mormon leaders feared would shut out LDS officials from helping those wanting to be "converted" from gay to heterosexual lifestyles. The new version specifically cites an option of replacing controversial therapy with spiritual counseling by the church. Still, the LDS church's support has raised eyebrows, as the Mormon religion opposes gay marriage and teaches followers that LGBT relationships are a sin.

The proposed law seeks to ban Utah therapists from subjecting minors to the controversial therapy, which the American Psychological Association has condemned as being harmful to the mental health of patients. The legislation will next go to a 30-day public comment period starting December 15th, Governor Gary Herbert says.

It could take effect as early as January 22nd, making Utah the 19th state to ban the practice. What could have changed the church's view on gay conversion therapy? What are your thoughts on the controversial practice?

 

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