Rep. Panetta Members of the LGBT Equality Caucus introduce Protecting LGBTQ Youth Act

WASHINGTON—Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley), Congresswoman Donna Shalala (FL-27) and members of the LGBT Equality Caucus on Wednesday introduced the Protecting LGBTQ Youth Act. This bill prevents the maltreatment of LGBTQ youth and improves outcomes for those who enter the child welfare system.

Additionally, the Protecting LGBTQ Youth Act expands demographic information collected to include sexual orientation and gender identity when reporting on incidences and prevalence of child maltreatment; includes sexual orientation and gender identity as demographic characteristics in a report compiled by the Secretary; and provides open grant funding opportunities for the training of personnel in best practices to meet the unique needs of LGBTQ youth.