Homeless Youth Support: Preventing Trafficking and Enhancing Services
This act aims to improve support for runaway and homeless youth by increasing access to safe shelters and services. It introduces new funding rules for programs, emphasizing the prevention of human trafficking and providing comprehensive care, including educational and health support. The changes are designed to help young people transition safely into adulthood and independence.
Key points
Increased funding and longer, 5-year grants for shelters and programs supporting runaway and homeless youth.
Prioritization of services to prevent human trafficking and sexual exploitation, with an emphasis on victim support.
Expansion of the definition of family in support programs to include individuals identified by youth as family, facilitating reintegration.
Mandatory informing of youth about independent student status and assistance with federal student aid applications.
Introduction of waivers for certain program requirements in extraordinary circumstances like natural disasters or public health emergencies.
Prohibition of discrimination in support programs based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability.
Introduced
Citizen Poll