Growing up, I faced unimaginable hardships due to my parents' addictions. My father's struggle with substance abuse eventually led him to take his own life on September 11, 2019, leaving a void in my life that can never be filled. Meanwhile, my mother is still caught in the grip of addiction.

From the age of 16, I've had to navigate the world without parental support, enduring abuse, molestation, and exposure to drugs. Heartbreakingly, these situations stemmed from my own parents, who, rather than being my protectors, became my biggest challenges.

Despite these obstacles, I've forged a different path as a wife and stay-at-home mom, striving to provide a loving and stable environment for my family. However, my experiences have opened my eyes to the broader issue plaguing vulnerable youths: the troubled teen industry.

Every year, thousands of teens are sent to residential treatment centers and programs, intended to offer help and guidance. Sadly, without stringent regulations and oversight, these places can become breeding grounds for abuse, neglect, and unsafe practices. Reports and testimonies from former residents reveal physical and emotional mistreatment, inadequate medical care, and even fatalities as a result of these unsupervised programs.

The troubled teen industry operates largely unchecked, leaving young individuals at the mercy of unsanctioned treatment methods. According to the Government Accountability Office, these programs often lack sufficient oversight, putting the safety and well-being of teenagers at risk.

Stronger regulation is crucial to ensure that these institutions serve as safe havens rather than perpetuating cycles of trauma and abuse. By implementing standardized procedures, mandatory inspections, transparent reporting, and accountability measures, we can protect children from becoming further victimized when they seek help.

I urge the government to take immediate action to regulate and oversee this industry to safeguard our teens. Only then can we give them the chance to heal and thrive without the shadow of further abuse.

Please sign this petition and join me in calling for change. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for vulnerable teens in need of our support.