Denver’s Safety, Housing, Education and Homeless Committee voted Wednesday to send the proposal to the full council.
Psychology’s governing bodies have denounced conversion therapy, which treats being gay or transgender as a mental illness. Research shows it can increase the risk of suicide, drug abuse and depression among teens.
Committee members say they would need to create a reporting and enforcement system for a ban. State-licensed practitioners found in violation would face fines.
KUSA-TV has reported that Mayor Michael Hancock’s office is unaware of anyone practicing conversion therapy in the city or county of Denver.