John Lewis Every Child Deserves a Family Act

This bill would bar child welfare agencies that receive certain federal funds from excluding or discriminating against children, youth, families, or individuals because of religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), or marital status. People harmed by a violation could sue in federal court, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services could withhold certain federal child welfare funds from states when a covered agency does not comply. The Secretary would issue guidance, provide training, collect data on the sexual orientation and gender identity of foster youth and parents, and set up a national resource center for LGBTQ youth in child welfare. The Religious Freedom Restoration Act could not be used as a claim or defense under this law, and the Government Accountability Office would study state compliance within 3 years.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Kirsten E. Gillibrand Democrat sponsor
• 29 cosponsors