Tampa Conversion Therapy Ban Invalidated On Preemption Grounds

In Vazzo v. City of Tampa, (MD FL, Oct. 4, 2019), a Florida federal district court invalidated a Tampa city ordinance barring licensed psychotherapists and counselors from practicing sexual orientation change efforts on minors. The court avoided the significant constitutional issues posed by the conversion therapy ban, and instead held:

The City Ordinance is preempted by the comprehensive Florida regulatory scheme for healthcare regulation and discipline. Accordingly, the Court strikes the Ordinance under the implied preemption doctrine and grants the Plaintiffs’ motion for summary judgment.

(See prior related posting.) CBS12 reports on the decision.