Crucial Legislation to Protect Homeless and Vulnerable Youth Failed to Pass the Senate Yesterday

We are extremely disappointed that the US Senate failed to pass The Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act (RHTPYA) by four votes yesterday despite the majority of the Senate voting in favor of this legislation in a 56 to 43 vote.  

ACT NOW AND MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!
It is critical that the Senate hear from you at this time.  Visit bit.ly/RHTPYA and take a few moments to send a simple email. We all need to stand by America's homeless youth, starting in Washington, D.C.

BACKGROUND
The Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act (RHTPYA) would have supported vital homeless youth services, combated trafficking and discrimination, and increased the maximum length of stay in emergency shelters from 21 days to 30 days.  This bi-partisan legislation was shot down after Senator Cornyn (R-TX) offered a side-by-side amendment as an alternative to reauthorize the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act and included a provision to repeal a portion of the Affordable Care Act.  Neither legislation passed.  “Political games stood in the way of improving access to services for all youth who are vulnerable,"  said Darla Bardine, Executive Director of National Network for Youth, who also praised the leadership from both political parties who have tirelessly championed the bill.  Visit nn4youth.org/policy-advocacy/rhya-2015-reauthorization/ for more information about RHYTPA and how YOU can take action for homeless youth.

"There is no excuse for leaving children in the cold, hungry and at risk of heinous forms of exploitation including human trafficking" - Melysa Sperber, Director of the Alliance to End Slavery and Trafficking (ATEST).  We agree!