Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) announced the introduction of the Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act (H.R. 10172), legislation that would ban the use of taxpayer dollars to fund so-called “conversion therapy” through Medicaid.
Currently, Medicaid funds can be allocated to practices that falsely claim to change a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. These practices, commonly referred to as “conversion therapy,” have been widely condemned by every mainstream medical and mental health organization for their harmful and scientifically debunked methods. However, the practice persists, fueled by societal discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
“Conversion therapy is a cruel and dangerous practice that has no place in modern medicine, let alone funded by our tax dollars,” said Congressman Thanedar. “We must protect LGBTQ+ individuals from harm and ensure that federal healthcare dollars are used responsibly and compassionately.”
The Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act would make it illegal for Medicaid funds to cover these harmful practices. Additionally, it would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to monitor and prevent the use of misleading or false billing codes that attempt to charge Medicaid for conversion therapy.
The legislation has earned the endorsement of both the Congressional Equality Caucus and The Trevor Project, two prominent organizations dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.
In his endorsement of the bill, Tony Hoang of Equality California said “So-called "conversion therapy" is a dangerous anti-LGBTQ+ practice that has been discredited by every legitimate medical and psychological association in the country. Furthermore, it has been outright banned by 22 states and the District of Columbia, with partial bans in five additional states. This fraudulent, harmful practice is entirely undeserving of government funding.”
Congressman Thanedar emphasized the need for this legislative action, saying, “No one should ever be subjected to these practices, and certainly not with the support of taxpayer funding. I’m committed to fighting for a world where all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are treated with dignity and respect.”
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