Youth Protection Updates

In February, the National BSA updated the Youth Protection and Barriers to Abuse FAQs page to be clear on certain topics. Please become acquainted with those updates with a diamond symbol near them at this link.

Additionally, there are youth protection changes that will be effective on September 1, 2023 related to the current policy of all adults accompanying a Scouting unit who are present at the activity for 72 total hours or more must be registered as leaders. The 72 hours need not be consecutive.

This current “72-Hour Rule” will be eliminated on September 1, 2023.

• All adults staying overnight in connection with a Scouting activity must be currently registered in an adult fee required position as listed or as an adult program participant. (limited exception for Cub Scout overnight programs)

• All 18+ adults attending a Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scout or Exploring OVERNIGHT event/activity must be currently registered. 18+ adults attending a Cub Scout OVERNIGHT event/activity who are not the parent or legal guardian of a Scout in attendance must be registered in an adult fee required position.

The details for this policy change can be found HERE. Although early adoption of this new policy is recommended for all Scout units. It does not go into effect until September 1, 2023. The changes do not impact 2023 Akela’s World summer camp.