NC H516

Prohibits licensed mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed professional counselors, and fee-based pastoral counselors) from engaging in conversion therapy with individuals under 18 years old or adults with disabilities.

Defines conversion therapy as practices seeking to change sexual orientation or gender identity, including efforts to change behaviors, gender expressions, or eliminate same-sex attractions, but excludes counseling that supports gender transition or provides acceptance and identity exploration without seeking to change orientation or identity.

Establishes that violation of the conversion therapy prohibition constitutes unprofessional conduct subject to discipline by the respective licensing entity of the professional, with concurrent authority granted to the Department of Health and Human Services to initiate proceedings.

Prohibits state and local government funding for conversion therapy, referrals for conversion therapy, health benefits coverage for conversion therapy, or grants and contracts with entities that conduct or refer individuals for conversion therapy.

The act becomes effective upon passage and applies to all acts occurring on or after that date.