AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) A bill aimed at aimed banning so-called “conversion therapy” for minors has passed Maine’s House and Senate in initial votes.

The Maine Senate on Thursday moved to pass the bill, which received a 91-46 vote in the House Wednesday.

Democratic Assistant House Majority Leader Ryan Fecteau says Maine could join 16 states that have banned the practice, which critics say aims to force a person to give up their sexual orientation or gender identity. Massachusetts recently signed such a law.

Counselor Joy Emmons of Belgrade opposed the bill and said it wouldn’t allow equal time for “the traditions of parents and the church.”

The bill faces more votes in both chambers before heading to Democratic Gov. Janet Mills’ desk.

Maine’s former Republican governor vetoed such a measure last year.