Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Social Work
 
chapter
Regulations Governing the Practice of Social Work [18 VAC 140 ‑ 20]
Action Unprofessional conduct/practice of conversion therapy
Stage NOIRA
Comment Period Ended on 8/7/2019
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7/31/19  9:57 am
Commenter: Nancy S Pendergrass, MPH, RDN

Do not infringe parental rights
 

This proposal would infringe the fundamental right of parents to care for their children and violate their freedom of speech and free exercise of religion.  Parents are in the best position to make healthcare decisions involving the wellbeing of their child.  Under Virginia law, parents have the fundamental right to make decisions regarding the upbringing, education and care of their children.  The proposed ban would deny families the freedom to seek counseling aligned with their faith.  You must protect the freedom of Virginia families to acquire the counseling they choose.

CommentID: 74647