Supreme Court to Hear Challenge Against Colorado's Conversion Therapy Ban

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a challenge by Christian therapist Kaley Chiles to Colorado's law banning conversion therapy for minors. The law, signed by Governor Jared Polis, is labeled as a regulation of professional conduct. Chiles argues it infringes on free speech.

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a challenge by Christian therapist Kaley Chiles against a Colorado law that bans conversion therapy for minors on free speech grounds. The justices will review whether the 2019 statute unlawfully censors communications, in violation of the First Amendment.

Chiles, who believes in aligning with biological sex for flourishing, is represented by the conservative legal group Alliance Defending Freedom. Colorado's law prohibits licensed therapists from practicing conversion therapy on minors, with violations leading to disciplinary actions.

The case reflects ongoing tensions between LGBT rights and religious freedoms. In recent years, the conservative-leaning Supreme Court has favored religious interests. Meanwhile, Colorado maintains that its law regulates professional conduct, not speech, emphasizing the discredited nature of conversion therapy.