Foster Youth Rights

Foster Youth Bill of Rights

Foster Youth Bill of Rights are laws outlined within the Foster Youth Bill of Rights is Welfare and Institutions Code 16001.9. As part of these rights, foster youth mental health rights. Foster youth have the right to:

  • Keep your mental health records private
  • Get gender affirming mental health treatment
  • Work with your doctor to safely stop taking psychotropic medication
  • Refuse to take psychotropic medication, and no one can punish you for it
  • Know about your diagnosis and understand treatment options
  • Get help with an alcohol or drug problem without permission
  • Get mental health services in a place that meets your needs
  • If you are 12 years or older, choose your own doctor or counselor and make decisions about your mental health treatment

Learn more about Foster Youth Resources here.