The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a challenge to Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy for minors, a move that could set a nationwide precedent on free speech and parental rights.
The case, Chiles v. Salazar, was brought by Christian therapist Kaley Chiles, who argues that the law violates her First Amendment rights by restricting what she can say to clients seeking counseling for unwanted same-sex attraction or gender dysphoria.
Colorado’s 2019 law prohibits licensed professionals from engaging in conversion therapy with minors, though it makes exceptions for religious institutions. Critics argue that this amounts to government overreach, preventing parents from choosing the counseling they believe is best for their children while selectively exempting certain viewpoints.
Lower courts have been split on the issue.
The 10th Circuit upheld Colorado’s ban, but the 11th Circuit struck down similar laws in Florida, ruling that restrictions on therapists’ speech violate the First Amendment.
The Supreme Court’s decision could resolve these conflicting rulings and determine whether states have the power to regulate conversations between therapists and their clients.
Many conservatives see this as a case about free speech and parental rights, not just LGBTQ issues.
A ruling in favor of Chiles could reinforce the rights of professionals to offer counseling without government interference, while a decision upholding the ban could embolden further restrictions on speech in other areas.
Arguments are expected in the Court’s next term, with a ruling likely in the summer of 2026.
