2 weeks Ago By Peyton Haug
BISMARCK — The North Dakota Senate rejected a bill Thursday, March 25, that would have regulated the ethical code used by social workers with respect to conversion therapy.Sponsored by Rep. Lori VanWinkle, R-Minot, House Bill 1430 originally sought to make the practice an acceptable way to counsel people who are "questioning" their gender or sexual identity.
VanWinkle previously said she brought the bill in response to recent updates to the social worker code of ethics deeming conversion therapy a violation.After seeing amendments in both chambers, the intent of the legislation reversed, ultimately barring social workers from using conversion therapy — the same standard already employed by the North Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners.Many senators said during the Thursday floor debate that they favor the amendments but not the bill itself because it legislates one profession more than others.
"This would be the only section of code for an occupation where we're putting their ethical standards into the Century Code," Sen. Kristin Roers, R-Fargo, said.Roers mentioned the social work board and the state chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, both entities in favor of the changes but not the bill itself.
Providing treatment to clients, whether or not it's conversion therapy, isn't the role of social workers to begin with, Sen. Judy Lee, R- West Fargo, pointed out.“You have to recognize that this is intruding into a profession," Lee said.
Lawmakers who favored the original bill said it "fills a gap" in services provided by clinical social workers."Social workers and their clients should have the right to pursue a counseling plan that aligns with their core beliefs," Sen. Desiree Van Oosting, R-Judson, said.
Sen. Janne Myrdal, R-Edinburg, said it gives social workers the "freedom of their beliefs and convictions to actually serve the client the best they can." "I think this bill does that and clarifies that and doesn't discriminate against anyone," she said.
Sen. Tim Mathern, D-Fargo, who has experience working as social worker, said passing the bill could jeopardize the Social Work Licensure Compact outlined in House Bill 1035. That bill makes it easier for social workers to practice in multiple states and was recently signed into law the governor.
The Senate voted down HB 1430 with a 22-25 vote. Have something to say? Readers with thoughts about this issue can contact their local legislators, testify in person, submit written testimony online, write a letter to the editor, leave a comment below or email Forum News Service reporter Peyton Haug at [email protected].
To track this bill, readers can download North Dakota Legislative Daily — a free app available on Google Play and the Apple App Store. ]]>.
