North Dakota Assembly prohibits conversion therapy for social workers ethics bill

The North Dakota State Legislature has introduced House Bill 1430, a significant piece of legislation aimed at regulating the practices of social workers concerning individuals questioning their sexuality or gender identity. The bill, introduced on February 21, 2025, seeks to address the controversial practice of conversion therapy, which aims to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity.

House Bill 1430 defines conversion therapy broadly, encompassing various methods such as medication, psychotherapy, electroshock therapy, and aversion therapy. Under the proposed legislation, it would be deemed an ethical violation for licensed social workers to conduct conversion therapy. However, the bill allows licensed clinical social workers to provide counseling to individuals who wish to align their sexuality or gender with their personal or spiritual beliefs, provided that the practices are in line with the individual's self-determination.

Key provisions of the bill require social workers to disclose the nature of the treatment to clients and obtain authorization from the individual or their guardian before proceeding with any practices. This stipulation aims to ensure that clients are fully informed and consenting to the treatment they receive.

The introduction of House Bill 1430 has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect vulnerable individuals from harmful practices associated with conversion therapy. Conversely, opponents express concerns about potential limitations on the counseling options available to individuals seeking to reconcile their identities with their beliefs.

The implications of this bill extend beyond the realm of social work, touching on broader social and political issues surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and mental health care. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, potentially influencing national conversations about the ethics of mental health treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the discussions and potential amendments to House Bill 1430, which could shape the future of mental health practices in North Dakota.