Modesto Conversion Therapy Ban & LGBTQ Rights

Civil Rights and Equity California 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of California

Modesto, California residents should understand how local and state laws protect LGBTQ people and how the state ban on conversion therapy for minors applies in practice. This article explains where Modesto city code stands, how California law governs licensed providers, how to report violations, and what enforcement and appeal pathways exist. It also lists practical steps for individuals and families seeking help, the responsible state licensing board, and official resources for complaints and support within Modesto.

If you are or care for a minor who experienced conversion therapy, document dates and provider details promptly.

Scope and Legal Sources

Modesto does not appear to have a separate municipal ordinance explicitly banning conversion therapy; the primary legal prohibition for minors is at the California state level. For municipal rules and the text of local ordinances, consult the City of Modesto municipal code. City of Modesto municipal code - Municode[1]

California law prohibits licensed mental health providers from practicing conversion therapy on minors and provides the state licensing boards authority to investigate and discipline licensees. See the enacted state bill text for the statutory language that controls practice by licensed providers. California SB 1172 (statutory text)[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

Primary enforcement for conversion therapy against minors is through state licensing and professional discipline rather than a city fine schedule. Specific monetary fines for conversion therapy are not specified on the cited state pages; disciplinary remedies are handled by the relevant licensing board.

Key enforcement details:

  • Enforcer: California licensing boards that regulate mental health professionals, including the Board of Behavioral Sciences for therapists and counselors. Board of Behavioral Sciences complaint information[3]
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page for conversion therapy; enforcement focuses on professional discipline rather than a set fine amount.[2]
  • Escalation: first complaints typically lead to investigation; repeat or severe violations may lead to suspension, revocation, or other disciplinary action as described by the licensing board (specific ranges not specified).[3]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: potential orders, license restrictions, probation, suspension, or revocation.
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: consumers file complaints with the state board listed above; the city’s role is limited unless a separate municipal ordinance exists.[1]
  • Appeal/review: disciplinary actions are subject to administrative hearing procedures; specific statutory time limits for appeals are governed by administrative rules and are not specified on the cited pages.
Formal monetary penalties for conversion therapy are not detailed on the cited state licensing pages; discipline is generally administrative.

Applications & Forms

The Board of Behavioral Sciences provides a consumer complaint form and guidance for submitting allegations against licensed providers; use the board’s official complaint submission process for the fastest review.[3] No Modesto-specific complaint form for conversion therapy was identified on the municipal code site.[1]

Practical Steps for Individuals

  • Document the incident: dates, provider name, location, witnesses, and any communications or records.
  • Contact the provider to request records and clarify treatment if safe to do so.
  • File a complaint with the state licensing board for the provider’s profession (use the board’s complaint form).[3]
  • Consider seeking immediate support from local health or legal services for minors who may need counseling or protective measures.

FAQ

Does Modesto have its own conversion therapy ban?
No separate Modesto municipal ordinance explicitly banning conversion therapy was located in the City of Modesto municipal code; the statewide prohibition for minors applies. [1]
Who enforces the ban on conversion therapy for minors?
Enforcement for licensed providers is handled by California licensing boards such as the Board of Behavioral Sciences; complaints are submitted to the board for investigation. [3]
Can I file a criminal complaint locally?
Criminal prosecution is not described on the cited state licensing pages for conversion therapy; enforcement is primarily administrative through licensing boards. For local public-safety concerns, contact Modesto Police or local child protective services as appropriate.

How-To

  1. Gather evidence: collect dates, provider details, records, and witness statements.
  2. Request records from the provider and save any written communications.
  3. Submit a formal complaint to the Board of Behavioral Sciences using their consumer complaint process. [3]
  4. Seek local support services for minors and contact Modesto-based health or legal aid organizations for immediate assistance.

Key Takeaways

  • Modesto relies on California law for prohibiting conversion therapy for minors.
  • Complaints against licensed providers are handled by state licensing boards, not by a separate city fine schedule.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Modesto municipal code - Municode
  2. [2] California SB 1172 (statutory text)
  3. [3] California Board of Behavioral Sciences - Consumer complaints

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