AGENCY TESTIMONY
ACS policies and guidance for supporting LGBTQAI+ youth
0:15:57
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66 sec
Commissioner Dannhauser outlines the key policies and guidance implemented by ACS to support LGBTQAI+ youth in the child welfare system. He highlights the progressive nature of these policies and their comprehensive approach.
- Mentions the 2012 policy promoting safe and respectful environments for LGBTQAI+ youth
- Describes the 2013 best practice guidance for serving transgender and non-conforming children and youth
- Details specific policy requirements, including access to appropriate facilities and healthcare
Jess Dannhauser
0:15:57
In 2012, ACS was one of the first if not the 1st job offer agency in the country to develop and implement the policy specifically aimed at promoting safe and respectful environments for LGBTQ AI plus youth and their families.
0:16:11
In 2013, ACS released the best practice guidance for serving transgender and nonconforming children and youth, which was updated in 2017.
0:16:21
The policy and guidance laid out ACS's commitment to providing all youth and family served by ACS and are providing agencies with the safe, healthy, inclusive, affirming, and discrimination free environment.
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Our policy requires LGBTQ AI plus youth have access to gender appropriate bedrooms, bathrooms, grooming, and hygiene products.
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Additionally, contracted foster providers must recruit and support foster homes that are LGBTQ AI plus affirming.
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Youth are also entitled to healthcare, including hormone, replacement therapy, and gender affirming surgeries, which ACS will pay for if Medicaid will not.
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ACS also provides staff and contracted provider staff with LGBTQI plus specific trainings.
