A resolution was passed to ban paid conversion therapies for minors in Arizona by Pima country board of supervisors on Tuesday.

The decision made on Tuesday parallels the decision in nine other states that had made conversion therapies illegal. This act of the board proves that sexual identity is not a disorder or mental illness.

The ordinance will not restrict the minors from taking consultations from licensed therapists, religious practitioners or free counsel. Only paid conversion therapies are charged.

Conversion therapy is an attempt to prevent or change the sexual orientation of a person. This therapy intent to change LGBT people “straight”.

The ordinance will restrict “sexual orientation change efforts to change behaviors, sexual or gender identities or gender expressions, or to eliminate or reduce sexual or romantic attractions or feelings towards person of same sex.” says the resolution.

The person who violates this resolution is subject to a penalty up to $2500 for each offense.

“It did not work for me and caused many problems than it solved” said a resident.

Superior Richard Elias proposed the ordinance. The voting continued for 3-hour board meeting with nearly 50 people who argued against or in favor for the ordinance.

The supporters argued that there is no scientific evidence that a person can change their sexual identity. Where as the opponents argued that it was parental rights being able to make decisions about their children.

“I understand the rights of parents, and you should be able to parent your children the way you want, but I think being LGBT is not a question of something that somebody wants. It’s a matter of who you are” said Richard Elias.

Superior Ally Miller, Supervisor Steve Christy voted no. While some of the supervisors came in support of the ban.

Pima country joins in 10 states and the 20 cities that have banned the therapy for minors.

By A.s