The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act (SICAA), spearheaded by U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), has passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate, advancing to the President’s desk for final approval.
The bipartisan legislation aims to increase oversight and transparency in youth residential care facilities, addressing systemic abuse issues.
Senator Tuberville, the Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Children and Families, expressed gratitude for the bill’s passage and emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable youth.
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“I’ve dedicated my life to mentoring young people because they are the most precious resource we have. If we get everything else right but neglect our young people, our country has no future,” Tuberville stated. “This legislation will shed light on the waste, fraud, and abuse in the system. I’m proud to support the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act and stand with our kids.”
SICAA received unanimous consent in the Senate last week, with Tuberville joined by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) in leading the effort. In the House, the legislation was championed by Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA-01) and Ro Khanna (D-CA-17).
Advocacy from survivors and public figures like Paris Hilton also played a pivotal role.
Hilton, a survivor of abuse in residential care facilities, has been a vocal advocate for the legislation. Tuberville personally thanked Hilton during a Senate floor speech for her commitment to the cause.
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The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act addresses longstanding issues in youth treatment programs, which have faced allegations of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Among its provisions, the bill:
- Implements greater oversight and transparency for institutional youth care facilities.
- Enhances information-sharing systems between states to monitor program efficacy and safety.
- Promotes the dissemination of best practices for preventing institutional child abuse.
The legislation comes amid growing scrutiny of residential care facilities, which have faced allegations of severe abuse and neglect. Advocates have highlighted cases of trauma, hospitalizations, and even deaths linked to these programs. SICAA seeks to establish safeguards to prevent such incidents and protect the rights of vulnerable youth.
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“Sunlight is the best disinfectant,” Tuberville remarked. “This bill ensures that the children in these facilities receive the care and protection they deserve.”
With bipartisan support and a strong advocacy push, SICAA is poised to be signed into law by the President. The bill represents a significant step forward in combating institutional abuse and improving care for youth in residential programs.
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