Skip to main content

You make this possible. Support our independent, nonprofit newsroom today.

Give Now

Again, court refuses to hear case challenging WA's ban on conversion therapy for minors

gavel court law generic
Enlarge Icon


A federal appeals court has denied the latest swipe at Washington state's ban on conversion therapy.

Tacoma-area therapist Brian Tingley asked the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to hear his complaint against the ban, but the court has refused to take up the case. A small panel of the Ninth Circuit ruled against Tingley last year.

"This is the absolute last word on this issue from the Ninth Circuit, and the court denying review is appropriate," said Attorney Shannon Minter with the National Center for Lesbian Rights. "I mean, that's what the court does when the majority of the judges believe that there's no important issue to be resolved here."

Minter worked to represent Washington state in the case.

About 20 states, including Washington, prohibit gender and sexuality conversion therapy for minors.

Tingley has argued the state's ban on conversion therapy for minors violates free speech. His attorneys with the Alliance Defending Freedom say they will assess their next steps.

Why you can trust KUOW