AFA of PA ACTION ALERT
November 18, 2019
Issue
Attend the Allegheny County Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 19
Details
Bill No. 11223-19 has been proposed and would protect minors from harmful therapy methods such as electroshock, needles in fingers, inducing vomiting, slapping, hitting, punching, kicking or causing other physical pain. It would also protect the rights of mental healthcare professionals as they work with the minor child to help him or her reach their goals.
According to the proposed ordinance, the following “shall not be banned, prohibited, or create cause to discipline:
- Mental healthcare professionals from providing mental healthcare services to aid patients or clients in their self-determined objectives related to their sexuality or identity, including attractions, behaviors, or other emotional issues;”
This proposed ordinance was to have been discussed during the November 13th meeting of the Health and Human Services Committee. However, that meeting was rescheduled for Wednesday November 20th at 4 p.m., at which time the ordinance will be discussed. A show of support to the County Council tomorrow night would go a long way in letting the Council members know that the Harmful Therapy Ban – Bill No. 11223-19 — has the support of citizens. Supporters are not permitted to speak during the Health and Human Services Committee, but some have signed up to speak at the regular County Council meeting Tuesday night.
This ordinance, unlike another ordinance that is being considered, would give counselors the freedom to help those minors with unwanted same-sex attraction or gender confusion. It is meant to protect both the minor and allow the mental health professional to what is best for the child.
Action Steps
County Council will be meeting at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19th in the Gold Room (Room 410) of the Allegheny County Courthouse. That address is 436 Grant Street, Pittsburgh.
If at all possible, attend the meeting and show support for Bill No. 11223-19. You could even get one of those self-adhesive name tags and write on it “I support Bill No. 11223-19” to let them know why you’re there!
