Grand Canyon Times

The president of the Center for Arizona Policy (CAP) criticized Gov. Katie Hobbs (D-Ariz.) for two executive orders announced by Hobbs today.

The first executive order prohibits “conversion therapy” for cross-dressers, and the second lifts a prohibition on chemical castration for state employees.

“What she calls “conversion therapy” amounts to basic counseling for those struggling with their gender,” said CAP President Cathi Herrod in a press statement. “It is likely unconstitutional to tell therapists what they can say and citizens what therapy they can seek.”

“Hobbs also appears to be encouraging irreversible and experimental sex-change surgeries and drug therapies at a time when European countries are increasingly pulling back because of the damage done to so many,” said Herrod.  “We are closely reviewing the terms of the executive order and researching Arizona statutes and case law.”

AZ Family reported, “The first order lifted the ban on the health insurance offered to Arizona state employees that previously prohibited coverage of gender-affirming healthcare to state employees.” 

“The second executive order restricts conversion therapy,” said the report.

The executive orders come a week after Hobbs announced an executive order that takes away the power of county prosecutors to handle state abortion laws and gives that power to Attorney General Kris Mayes (D-Ariz.)

That executive order caused State Sen. Jake Hoffman, chairman of the State Senate Committee on Direct Nominations, to cancel hearings on Hobbs nominations “to determine Hobbs’ future intentions to further act beyond her authority,” according to a press release.