A majority of all states had some protections from discrimination in place for youth in foster care on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and religion as of February 2021, based on state survey responses that GAO corroborated. The sources of these protections ranged from state laws to child welfare agency policies or practices. Officials in several states indicated that their protections on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity for youth and parents continue to evolve. While some states are expanding protections, other states are debating the appropriateness of certain services for LGBTQ+ youth.
Literature GAO reviewed and interviews with officials from five selected states and stakeholder groups highlighted several promising practices for supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) youth in foster care (see figure). Promising practices for supporting youth of various religious beliefs are generally limited to enabling youth to practice their beliefs.
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