By Adam Ophus

Conversion Therapy

Conversion therapy ban in Rocky passes first reading

Sep 12, 2019 | 2:54 PM

Rocky Mountain House town council has passed first reading for a bylaw amendment to ban conversion therapy.

Conversion therapy is a described as a discredited practice that makes efforts to change an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

A report from administration says the bylaw amendment banning conversion therapy aligns with the Town’ strategic direction by, “Supporting the values of uniqueness, individuality, and respect, the Town of Rocky Mountain House is responsive to the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.

While taking steps toward banning conversion therapy, council reiterated during their regular meeting on Tuesday that they wanted to still allow people to feel comfortable to seek counselling, religious or otherwise and that they want only to ban, by written definition, “any practice, treatment or service designed to change an individual’s sexual orientation.”

There is currently no provincial or federal legislation that bans conversion therapy. In July, the city of St. Albert became the first Alberta community to pass its own ban. Lawyers representing The Town of Rocky Mountain House has contacted them for advice on the matter.

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The bylaw amendment banning conversion therapy in Rocky Mountain House is scheduled for second reading on Dec. 17.