In a historic step toward addressing child abuse in institutional youth treatment programs, Paris Hilton, Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17) and Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (GA-01), alongside Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), celebrated the passage of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The legislation, which passed the Senate last week by unanimous consent, will soon be signed into law by President Joe Biden.
Paris Hilton, a prominent advocate for child abuse survivors and a survivor of institutional abuse herself, joined lawmakers on Capitol Hill to highlight the importance of the legislation. Hilton, who has long fought for reforms in the “troubled teen” industry, played a key role in bringing attention to the widespread abuse faced by youth in residential treatment centers across the country.
The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act aims to increase oversight and transparency in youth treatment programs, which currently operate with minimal regulation. The law will establish clear guidelines to ensure accountability in these institutions, which serve over 100,000 children in America. By implementing stronger safeguards, the bill seeks to prevent abuse and ensure that young people receive the care and support they need.
For Hilton, the passage of the bill marks the culmination of years of advocacy. Hilton has used her platform to speak out about her own traumatic experiences in youth residential facilities, which she details in her 2020 documentary This Is Paris. In the film, Hilton opened up about being sent to a series of abusive “treatment” centers as a teenager, where she was subjected to physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. Since then, she has dedicated herself to speaking up for other survivors and pushing for legislative change.
“Since releasing my documentary four years ago and sharing my story about the abuse I endured in youth residential treatment facilities, the response has been overwhelming,” Hilton said. “I made a vow to do everything in my power to advocate for survivors and shine a light on the harsh reality that hundreds of thousands of children still face. After years of fighting for this bill and countless trips to the Capitol, I am so proud that the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act has officially passed Congress.”
Hilton’s personal commitment to this cause is rooted in a deep desire to prevent others from experiencing the same trauma she faced. “I never imagined my voice could create such change,” she continued. “I am committed to using my platform to protect children, amplify the voices of survivors, and ensure no child is ever harmed in the name of ‘treatment’ again.”
