Please do not attempt to establish by regulation what the Virginia Legislature has refused to legislate. Note the following items:
parent are closest to their child's life challenges; they are more deeply aware and are in the best position to make appropriate healthcare decisions for their child.
Under Virginia law, parents have the most fundamental right to make decisions regarding the upbringing, education, and health care of their children.
Some young people may have attractions that they may not understand. Under the guidance of good parents, trusted clergy, and trusted counselors, they can be guided through these temporary phases of their lives.
The proposed ban would deny families the freedom to seek counseling aligned with their faiths.
Licensed professionals with years of education and experience, especially, should not be removed from the process of helping and healing children through these sensitive and deeply emotional and personal issues.
