Moments ago, legislation to protect LGBT youth by prohibiting so-called “conversion therapy” became law after being signed by Gov. Bruce Rauner.  Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth in Illinois will now be protected from discredited and dangerous efforts to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. Known as “conversion therapy,” these efforts are extremely harmful to the physical and mental well-being of young people. 

The governor also signed a bill allowing Illinoisans to specify their gender identity in binding funeral and burial instructions. Legislation to address burial instructions is necessary because of past situations where a person’s gender identity was disrespected by family members or funeral directors.     

These victories would not have been possible without the support of Equality Illinois members. Thanks to ongoing support, calls and notes to lawmakers and the governor, and thousands of petition signatures, our members helped us push these bills through the Illinois legislature with bipartisan support and ensure that they became law.   

Despite the approval of these bills, we remain focused on ensuring a fully-funded, fair, and responsible state budget to protect vital services for the most vulnerable Illinoisans, including homeless youth and individuals living with HIV/AIDS.  

Let’s keep moving forward, 

Mike Ziri
Director of Public Policy
Equality Illinois