Federal Judge Blocks Colorado From Enforcing Counseling Ban Against Springs Therapist

By Michael Karlik | Colorado Politics

A federal judge last week blocked Colorado from enforcing its restriction on conversion therapy for LGBTQ children against a Colorado Springs counselor, after both sides agreed that the state will not pursue professional disciplinary action while the case proceeds.

The formalization of a preliminary injunction came days after one appellate judge argued that the Denver-based federal appeals court should decide the issue without delay, likely in plaintiff Kaley Chiles’ favor.

In 2019, Colorado prohibited certain state-licensed professionals from attempting to change a minor patient’s gender identity, sexual orientation or to otherwise eliminate feelings of same-sex attraction. Chiles alleged the law violated her First Amendment rights and she sought a preliminary injunction blocking its enforcement against her. U.S. District Court Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney, a Joe Biden appointee, denied that request in 2022, determining the law permissibly regulated professional conduct.

Nearly two years later, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit affirmed that order by 2-1. Two Democratic appointees were in the majority, while Judge Harris L Hartz, an appointee of George W. Bush, dissented.

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