H.R.3856 - Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3856, the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act of 2025, aims to reauthorize and amend the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act. The bill focuses on providing shelter, services, and prevention programs for runaway, homeless, and street youth, with a particular emphasis on addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, including LGBTQ youth, youth involved in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems, and victims of trafficking. It also seeks to improve coordination among federal agencies and enhance data collection and reporting on youth homelessness.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to increase funding and improve the quality and accessibility of services for runaway and homeless youth. It will also lead to better data collection and reporting, which could inform more effective policies and programs. The emphasis on trauma-informed care and prevention services may also lead to better outcomes for youth at risk of homelessness or trafficking.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to safe shelter and services for runaway and homeless youth.
- Improved coordination among federal agencies and service providers.
- Enhanced data collection and reporting on youth homelessness and trafficking.
- Greater emphasis on trauma-informed care and prevention services.
- Specific attention to the needs of vulnerable populations, such as LGBTQ youth and victims of trafficking.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill's increased funding may lead to higher government spending and potential budget deficits.
- Some provisions, such as those related to data sharing, could raise privacy concerns if not implemented carefully.
- The bill's focus on specific populations may unintentionally exclude other deserving youth from receiving services.
- The effectiveness of the bill will depend on the quality of implementation and oversight by the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
- The bill's reliance on grants to public and nonprofit entities may create administrative burdens and potential for inefficiencies.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the nation's citizens. The bill's focus on protecting vulnerable youth and preventing trafficking also aligns with the Thirteenth Amendment's prohibition of slavery and involuntary servitude. However, the bill's potential impact on individual privacy rights through data collection and sharing may raise concerns under the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The bill also includes nondiscrimination provisions which align with the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
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).