Hawaii lawmakers approve conversion therapy ban

HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii lawmakers on Tuesday passed a measure that would ban sunscreen containing oxybenzone in an effort to protect coral reefs. Senators and representatives also voted to prohibit licensed professional counselors from attempting to change the sexual orientation of minors.

The votes came two days before this year's session ends on Thursday.

Here are some of the bills approved by the Democratic-controlled state Legislature:

— SUNSCREEN BAN: Legislation that would ban the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. Scientists have found that the two substances commonly found in many sunscreen lotions can kill coral, which are a vital part of the ocean ecosystem in Hawaii. The law would go into effect starting in 2021. Consumers would only be allowed to buy sunscreen with the two chemicals if they have a prescription from a licensed health care provider.

— GAY CONVERSION BAN: This bill would prohibit licensed professional counselors from attempting to change the sexual orientation of minors. The legislation says anyone who attempts to conduct such "gay conversion therapy" on people under 18 years old will be subject to disciplinary action by a professional licensing authority. At least a dozen states have passed laws banning the practice. California was the first, in 2012.

Many professional medical and mental health organizations, including the American Medical Association, oppose the practice of sexual orientation change therapy because studies have not shown it to be effective and have shown it can cause psychological harm.

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The Gayly. May 2, 2018. 10:00 a.m. CST.