On Saturday, September 29, 2012 California Governor Jerry Brown decided to stand up for thousands of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender children by signing a historical bill that will protect minors from undergoing any sort of reparative therapy.

Reparative therapy has been implemented by religious groups and mental health facilities for decades in misguided attempts to change the sexual preference of minors who have been brave enough to declare their sexual preference at a young age. Some of the techniques attempted during reparative therapy to alter sexual preference are painful as well as barbaric in nature. Some include the use of electric shock and attempted exorcisms.

In addition, this type of “therapy” has been found to be ineffective and can be lead to serious psychological effects on the minors who have been compelled to undergo such treatment. In some cases, those minors who have endured reparative therapy have suffered severe depression that has led to numerous suicide attempts.

Through this bill, Governor Brown has banned any “non-scientific” practice that may disturb the health and psychological well-being of thousands of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender minors. Thus, we must acknowledge his courage to take a stand and to be the first Governor in the United States to say “no more” to these brutal, inhumane practices that affect the lives of many innocent young individuals world-wide.

Thank you Governor Brown for leading by example and showing our youth that you care for their well-being.

Wallin & Klarich has been a leading supporter of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community for over 30 years. We have helped thousands of such individuals when they find themselves involved in legal matters. If you or a loved one is going through any legal matter, calls us for a free consultation, 888-280-6839. We will be there when you call.