Representative Gwen Moore (D-WI) introduced H.R. 2955, the Runaway and Homeless Youth Inclusion Act of 2013, on August 1. Representative Mark Pocan (D-WI) is an original cosponsor.
The measure would amend the current Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) to ensure that RHYA grantees provide culturally competent services for “sexual and gender minority youth” seeking assistance under the program. If enacted, the bill would also require grantees to report on the demographics of youth served under the program including whether youth served are a sexual or gender minority.
“Young people in the LGBT community are disproportionately at-risk for homelessness, often as a result of the rejection, discrimination, or violence they face simply for being themselves,” said Mr. Pocan in a press release issued by Ms. Moore’s office. “We have a moral responsibility to ensure that all of our youth, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, have access to life-saving services and safe, welcoming places to stay.”
In the same press release, Ms. Moore said, “LGBT homelessness is an issue that negatively impacts our children, our families and our communities. Omitting these young people from the RHYA sends a powerful message to this population: that addressing their trauma and fear is not a priority. The LGBT youth homelessness experience cannot be ignored.”
The measure has been referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce and is currently cosponsored by Representatives David Cicilline (D-RI) and Mark Takano (D-CA).
The full text of H.R. 2955 is available at: http://1.usa.gov/19hiKTc
Representative Moore’s press release is available at: http://1.usa.gov/1cjfyqq