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TN Bill to Let Counselors Deny Services on the Way to Governor Haslam

Wasin Pummarin
/
123rf Stock Photo

Tennessee bill that would allow mental health therapists to turn patients away based on the counselors' religious beliefs and personal principles has passed and is on its way to the governor.

The American Counseling Association says Tennessee would be the only state to allow counselors to refuse to treat patients if the bill is signed into law.

The measure is part of a wave of legislation across the country that opponents say legalizes discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Supporters say it takes into account the rights of everyone.

Tennessee Republican Gov. Bill Haslam told reporters last week that he can "understand the reasoning" behind the bill but wanted to see the final version before he decides whether to sign it into law.

Rob Canning is a native of Murray, KY, a 2015 TV Production grad of Murray State. At MSU, he served as team captain of the Murray State Rowing Club. Rob's goal is to become a screenwriter, film director or producer and looks to the likes of Quentin Tarantino and Guy Ritchie for inspiration. He appreciates good music, mainly favoring British rock n' roll, and approves of anything with Jack White's name on it. When not studying, rowing or writing, Rob enjoys spending his free time with a book or guitar.
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