Statement on Recent Litigation and Foster Care Licensing

Today the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) moved to settle two federal lawsuits concerning foster care licensing requirements and care for LGBTQ+ youth: Wuoti v. Winters and Antonucci v. Winters.

After careful consultation with organizations that represent and advocate for LGBTQ+ youth, settling these cases is in the best long-term interest of the children and youth we serve and will allow DCF to focus our attention on supporting children and youth by thoughtfully matching them with the caregivers best able to meet their individual needs.

As we move forward, DCF will continue to place every young person, including LGBTQ+ youth, in homes where they are physically safe, emotionally supported, and treated with respect. Their safety and well-being remain central to every placement decision. DCF will also work to strengthen clear accessible ways for young people to contact the department directly if they have concerns about their placement - and to feel safe doing so.