Gay conversion therapy debate hits Colorado’s GOP Senate

A Democrat-sponsored proposal to forbid therapists from trying to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of children faces its toughest test Wednesday.

The bill has passed in the House but is up for a vote Wednesday in a Senate committee where many proposals are sent to be rejected.

The measure would forbid therapists from trying to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of a person under 18. Therapists who do not follow the rule would face disciplinary action from their licensing board.

Republicans have said they worry that therapists could be punished for merely being perceived as trying to change someone’s sexual orientation.