Senate hears testimony supporting Bill 184 to ban conversion therapy in Puerto Rico

The meeting of La Comisión de Iniciativas Comunitarias on May 26, 2021, focused on the discussion of Senate Bill 184, which aims to prohibit conversion therapy in Puerto Rico. The session began with acknowledgments of past efforts to pass similar legislation, highlighting the challenges faced in the previous attempt with Senate Bill 2000.

Eduardo Batia, one of the speakers, expressed gratitude to the authors of the current bill and emphasized the importance of the legislative process in addressing community needs. He shared his personal experiences related to conversion therapy, urging senators to listen with an open mind to the testimonies that would follow. Batia stated his strong support for Senate Bill 184, indicating that he would vote in favor if he were a senator.

The meeting proceeded with structured presentations, allowing each speaker a designated time to share their insights and experiences regarding the impact of conversion therapy. The discussions aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of such practices and to advocate for the protection of individuals from these therapies.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were encouraged to consider the testimonies and the importance of passing the bill to safeguard the mental health and well-being of the community. The session underscored a collective commitment to advancing legislation that promotes inclusivity and protects vulnerable populations in Puerto Rico.