NEWS RELEASE

For Release: December 18, 2024

Contact: Maddy Schoap, 301-986-8770, maddy@natsap.org

NATSAP Celebrates US House of Representatives Passage of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act (SICAA)

Washington, DC — The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) celebrates the passage of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act (SICAA), H.R.2955 introduced by Representative Ro Khanna [D-CA-17] and Representative, Earl L. "Buddy" Carter [R-GA-1], through the U.S. House of Representatives, marking a transformative milestone for youth residential treatment programs nationwide. The bill now sits on the President's desk awaiting signature to be enacted into federal law. 

“This is an historic moment for the safety and well-being of children in residential treatment,” said John Singleton, EdD, NATSAP Board President. “We are proud to have played a part in this achievement within a broader coalition. This law represents a coordinated effort to ensure stronger protections and higher standards for the field. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and persistence in advocacy.”

Since 2015, NATSAP has championed increased oversight, ethical practices, and the adoption of best standards in youth residential treatment. SICAA has been a focal point of NATSAP’s Advocacy Day agenda since its introduction in 2021, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to meaningful reform.

As this landmark legislation awaits to officially become law, NATSAP reaffirms its dedication to advancing safe and effective treatment for vulnerable youth. This milestone underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards across the residential treatment field.

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About the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP)

Founded in January 1999, NATSAP, a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit membership organization, is a national resource for programs and professionals assisting young people with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Located throughout the U.S., NATSAP members include therapeutic schools, residential treatment programs, wilderness therapy programs, young adult programs, and home-based residential programs. The Association is governed by an elected, volunteer Board of Directors comprised of representatives from its membership. NATSAP members are independently operated and owned; therefore, NATSAP does not provide placement services. All NATSAP member programs that treat children under 18 are overseen by state therapeutic licensure or accredited by major mental health bodies, and in some cases, both.