An Arizona House panel approved SB 1269, which would effectively preclude local governments from banning conversion therapy and overturn a Pima County ordinance that prohibits such therapies. 

The bill’s sponsor, Republican Sen. Vince Leach, says his bill is about regulating health professionals. He added that individual communities shouldn’t be allowed to enact their own rules. 

Republican Rep. Walt Blackman, who chairs the panel, says the bill is only about allowing health professions to operate their businesses without worrying about local controls.

"This bill does not mention conversation therapy,'' Blackman said.

That did not convince Democratic Rep. Alma Hernandez, who said this measure is a narrower version of a failed bill Leach had introduced.

"Let's not play games here. We know that this bill is specifically because a previous bill has failed. And I keep hearing that it's not included or stated in this bill. But I'm not stupid. I am not. And neither is the community. And neither are the members of the LGBTQ community who have been waiting to be heard," Hernandez said.

That failed measure would have protected those practicing any form of therapy "that is consistent with conscience or religious beliefs.'' But it did not pass the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. This new bill passed after being debated in a committee that is supposed to deal with criminal justice.