Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell issued a statement on Mar. 31 following the Supreme Court of the United States’ decision in favor of a challenge to Colorado’s law banning licensed health professionals from practicing conversion therapy on minors.
The topic is significant because conversion therapy, which attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, has been widely criticized by medical experts as harmful and ineffective, particularly for young people.
“Today’s decision not only undermines efforts to protect LGBTQ+ youth, but also disregards years of scientific research showing that conversion therapy can have a devastating impact on the mental, emotional, and physical health of young people,” said AG Campbell. “We are reviewing the Court’s decision, and I will continue using every tool available to stand firmly against any attempt to legitimize practices that put our young people at risk.”
Campbell noted her participation in August 2025 with a coalition of 21 attorneys general who filed an amicus brief at the U.S. Supreme Court in Chiles v. Salazar supporting Colorado’s ban. The brief argued that conversion therapy is not safe or effective for any condition and increases risks such as suicide among youth.
Massachusetts is among more than 25 states that ban or restrict conversion therapy for minors. The effect of the Supreme Court’s decision is to return the case to a lower court for further determination regarding Colorado’s law; it does not alter laws in other states including Massachusetts.
Campbell concluded her statement by reaffirming her commitment to oppose practices she believes endanger young people.
