播播影院

(COLUMBIA, S.C.)鈥�鈥� 播播影院 General Alan Wilson has formally demanded that the City of Columbia repeal City Ordinance 2021-021, citing clear conflicts with state law and violations of constitutional rights. In a letter sent to the Columbia City Council today, Wilson urged immediate action to bring the city into compliance with state statutes and the South Carolina Constitution.听

The ordinance in question bans licensed counselors from offering any form of so-called 鈥渃onversion therapy鈥� to minors, a term Wilson notes has been mischaracterized and weaponized by activist groups to restrict religious freedom and professional judgment in counseling.听

鈥淥ur Office has reviewed the ordinance and determined it directly conflicts with state law, particularly the Medical Ethics and Diversity Act passed by the General Assembly in 2022,鈥� said Wilson. 鈥淢unicipalities do not have the authority to regulate professions that require statewide uniformity, such as counseling and psychological therapy. This ordinance crosses the line, violates the law, and must be repealed.鈥澛�

The 2022 Medical Ethics and Diversity Act explicitly prohibits local governments from interfering with a healthcare provider鈥檚 professional judgment, including in the realm of psychological counseling. It affirms the rights of patients and families to choose counseling that aligns with their values, including religious beliefs.听

Attorney General Wilson further emphasized the legal precedent supporting his Office鈥檚 position, citing federal rulings such as鈥�Otto v. City of Boca Raton鈥痑苍诲鈥�King v. Governor of New Jersey, which found similar bans on counseling practices unconstitutional under free speech and religious liberty protections.听

鈥淭he ordinance prioritizes ideology over individuals, silencing faith-based counselors and denying families the freedom to choose the care that reflects their deeply held beliefs,鈥� Wilson stated. 鈥淲e are committed to defending South Carolinians鈥� right to religious liberty and protecting counselors from unconstitutional mandates.鈥澛�

The Attorney General has requested a formal response from the City by鈥�May 5, 2025,鈥痑nd expressed willingness to meet with city officials to resolve the matter.听

You can read the letter here.听