'Conversion therapy' for gay youth back on the agenda

Two of the most dramatic moments in the House last week came when Speaker Gene Chandler, R-Bartlett, had to cast tie-breaking votes to kill two bills that would ban gay conversion therapy, the practice of attempting to change a child's sexual orientation or gender identity through psychological or spiritual intervention.

The House bill (HB 587) failed by one vote, 166-165, after Chandler cast the tie-breaker. The Senate version (SB 224) was defeated 170-169, again requiring Chandler's vote to break a 169-169 tie.

But the issue is not laid to rest. House rules allow the matter to be reconsidered if a representative on the prevailing side asks for another vote. Eight-term Rep. Henry Parkhurst of Winchester, who voted with the winning side, filed such a request.

The House will vote on the motion for reconsideration at its next session, most likely Feb. 7. If it fails, the previous vote stands. If the motion to reconsider is successful, then the bill is back up for a vote again.

Read more: http://www.unionleader.com/article/20180114/NEWS0604/180119636/1010/news06