California LGBT
youth prisoners may get bill of rights

A bill is headed to the desk of California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger that would secure personal rights for incarcerated LGBT youths. The bill, sponsored by state senator Carole Migden, establishes a Youth Bill of Rights within the state division of juvenile justice system and county probation departments or facilities.

The provision creates a statewide antidiscrimination policy and procedure for state and county detention facilities and a toll-free hotline for youths to call if they encounter discrimination or violence.

"There are serious personal rights violations occurring in detention facilities all over California, including attacks by other kids and excessive force by staff," the San Francisco senator said. "We must protect LGBT kids from abuse while incarcerated so that when they come out they're not damaged but healthy and ready to return to society." (The Advocate)