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Moore, Pocan Seek Special Protection for LGBT Youth

Milwaukee Congresswoman Gwen Moore and Madison Congressman Mark Pocan want language protecting LGBT runaway and homeless youth  added to a bill up for reauthorization in Congress.The Runaway and Homeless Youth Act which was passed about five years is up for a vote again in Washington. Congressional Representatives Moore and Pocan want to assure that LGBT youth are not discriminated against. They are calling for organizations that receive grant money under the legislation to have the capability to specifically target LGBT with programming.  In a release, Gwen Moore's office points out LGBT are disproportionately represented in youth homelessness statistics. Rep. Pocan says, "We have a moral responsibility to ensure that all youth,  regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, have access to life-saving services and safe, welcoming places to stay."