New Jersey Couple Sues Gov. Chris Christie Over Gay Therapy Ban
NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A southern New Jersey couple has sued Gov. Chris Christie over his signing of a bill banning so-called "gay conversion therapy,'' claiming it violates their constitutional rights.
The couple, who isn't identified in court papers filed on Friday, claims the law violates their rights to free speech and free exercise of religion because it prevents them from seeking treatment for their 15-year-old son.
According to the lawsuit, the teen suffers from "unwanted gender identity disorder and unwanted same-sex attractions'' and has contemplated suicide.
Christie signed the bill in August. It bans licensed therapists from trying to turn gay teenagers straight.
He said the health risks of trying to change a child's sexual orientation, as identified by the American Psychological Association, trump concerns over setting limits on parental choice.
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