John Lewis Every Child Deserves a Family Act
Summary
The John Lewis Every Child Deserves a Family Act aims to prohibit discrimination based on religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), and marital status in child welfare services that receive federal funding. It seeks to improve the safety, well-being, and permanency of LGBTQ children and youth in the child welfare system. The bill mandates data collection on sexual orientation and gender identity within the child welfare system and establishes a National Resource Center to support LGBTQ youth.
Expected Effects
This act would lead to increased protections and support for LGBTQ children and youth in foster care. It would also expand the pool of eligible foster and adoptive parents by preventing discrimination. States and covered entities would need to update their laws, regulations, and practices to comply with the Act's provisions.
Potential Benefits
- Increased safety and well-being for LGBTQ children and youth in foster care.
- Expanded pool of potential foster and adoptive parents, leading to more stable homes for children.
- Reduction in discrimination within child welfare services.
- Improved data collection and research on LGBTQ youth in foster care.
- Enhanced cultural competency among child welfare professionals.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs associated with training, data collection, and compliance.
- Possible legal challenges based on religious freedom grounds, despite the bill's attempt to limit such claims.
- Concerns about government overreach into private organizations providing child welfare services.
- Potential for unintended consequences related to data privacy and security.
- Possible resistance from some states or organizations unwilling to comply with the non-discrimination mandates.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's alignment with the Constitution is complex. While it promotes equal protection under the law, potentially aligning with the 14th Amendment, it could face challenges under the First Amendment's guarantee of religious freedom if interpreted to force religious organizations to act against their beliefs. The Act attempts to address this by stating that the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 shall not provide a claim or defense against it.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).