Columbia Delays Vote on Conversion Therapy Ban Repeal

The Columbia City Council has once again postponed a vote on repealing its 2021 ban on conversion therapy for minors, following heightened public input and advocacy from groups including the ACLU and the Harriet Hancock Center. The renewed debate was prompted by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, who has called the ordinance unconstitutional and threatened legal action, citing infringements on religious liberty and free speech. State lawmakers have applied additional pressure by threatening to withhold approximately $3.7 million in funding through a budget proviso. Mayor Daniel Rickenmann publicly refuted claims that city leaders supported the funding threat and questioned the timing, suggesting political motives. Despite mounting external pressure, most council members and public commenters have expressed support for keeping the ban. The council has deferred its decision as it awaits further clarity on the state budget and legal implications.