The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act has officially passed Congress
This monumental moment marks an unprecedented milestone in the fight to protect children and end systemic abuse in youth residential programs. This landmark legislation—championed by survivors, advocates, and bipartisan lawmakers—represents the culmination of decades of tireless work by those who have refused to let their voices be silenced. Now, the bill awaits President Joe Biden’s signature to become law, and with it, the promise of a safer future for generations of children.
What SICAA Means for Our Cause
For too long, youth residential programs operating under the guise of treatment and care have perpetuated cycles of harm. Survivors of the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI) have shared harrowing stories of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, exposing the lack of accountability and oversight in these facilities. SICAA addresses these issues head-on by establishing:
- A Federal Work Group on Youth Residential Programs: This group will create and implement best practices rooted in survivor experiences, ensuring care is provided with dignity and safety.
- A National Database and Reporting Mechanism: This vital resource will track program outcomes and safety records, bringing transparency to an industry that has operated in the shadows for far too long.
- A Comprehensive Study: Mandated by the bill, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine will evaluate federal and state oversight of youth residential programs, laying the groundwork for further legislative reforms.
This legislation is the first federal effort of its kind to address the systemic abuse within these programs, signaling a shift in how we prioritize the well-being of our nation’s youth.
The Significance for Survivors
The passage of SICAA is not just a legislative achievement; it is a monumental victory for the survivor community. For decades, survivors have fought against disbelief, stigmatization, and systemic inaction. Grassroots movements and high-profile advocates, like Paris Hilton, have amplified these voices, creating a collective demand for justice and change.
SICAA honors the bravery of every survivor who has come forward to share their story, often reliving traumatic experiences to shed light on the need for reform. It affirms that their voices matter and that their lived experiences are instrumental in shaping a safer, more accountable system.
A Moment of Momentum
The passage of SICAA demonstrates the power of persistence and collaboration. It shows what is possible when survivors, advocates, and lawmakers unite for a common cause. But this is just the beginning. The momentum generated by this historic victory positions us to push for additional reforms at both the state and federal levels. Together, we can build upon SICAA’s foundation to ensure no child suffers what so many survivors endured.
Thank You to Our Champions
We extend our deepest gratitude to SICAA’s sponsors and champions, including Representative Ro Khanna, Senator Jeff Merkley, and so many others who recognized the urgency of this issue and fought to make this legislation a reality. We also thank the countless advocates, organizations, and allies who have supported this effort every step of the way. This victory belongs to all of us.
What Comes Next
As we await President Biden’s signature, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting children and preventing institutional abuse. The passage of SICAA is a historic moment, but it is not the end of our work. We will continue to advocate for survivors, hold institutions accountable, and fight for policies that prioritize the well-being of every child.
This moment proves that change is possible, and together, we will ride this wave of momentum to create a future where every child is safe, valued, and supported. As part of this effort, we have also sent an open letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to sign SICAA into law. With this historic legislation already passed by Congress, his signature is the final step to making these protections official. We called on him to honor the bravery of survivors and the urgent need to safeguard future generations of children. Let us continue to amplify our voices and advocate for this critical cause.
