This vague amendment intrudes into the heart of Family responsibility, trust and love.  It seeks to restrict constitutional freedoms.  It spurns experienced and knowledgeable counselors and healthcare providers.  Do Not approve this amendment.

Specifically: 

• Parents are closest to their children’s challenges; they are in the best position to make healthcare decisions involving the wellbeing of those children.
   
• Under Virginia law, parents have the fundamental right to make decisions regarding the upbringing, education and care of their children. 
   
• Some young people may experience confusion over attractions they have and wish to change or moderate. Others may simply desire guidance from a counselor to live a chaste life. In either instance,  parents must exercise the best options to make informed decisions for their children and families. 
   
• The proposed ban would deny families the freedom to seek counseling aligned with their faith.
   
• Licensed professionals with years of education and experience should not be removed from the process of helping children work through sensitive and deeply personal issues.