House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020 Regular Session

Posted:	January 31, 2020 12:31 PM
From:	Representative Mark Rozzi
To:	All House members
Subject:	HOMELESS MINORS ABILITY TO CONTRACT FOR SERVICES

The plight of homeless youth is a double edge sword. Upwards of 70% are escaping violent and abusive situations and have gone “underground” as to not be discovered. They are unable or unwilling to access safe shelter and housing services due to the requirement for parental consent and/or their involvement in the child welfare system. These homeless minors are extremely vulnerable to sexual trafficking and labor exploitation. The attached legislation would allow a minor to contract for a variety of services, including applying to high school or post-secondary schools, contracting for shelter and housing, employment, loans, bank accounts at the like. Further, the legislation providers immunity to providers who have reason to believe the minor would incur harm and threats if returned immediately to the home of the parent, legal guardian or custodian, the provider is unable to locate a parent or guardian or the youth refuses to disclose contact information. For purposes of clarification, the definition of “Homeless minor” shall have the same meaning as “unaccompanied youth” under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (Public Law 100-77, 101 Stat. 482). Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to allow homeless minors to gain some level of self-sufficiency.
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Introduced as HB2306