Paris Hilton Testifies on Child Welfare Reform

Paris Hilton testified before the House Ways and Means Committee, recounting the severe abuse she endured at youth residential treatment facilities. Hilton described being violently restrained, force-fed medication, sexually abused, and placed in solitary confinement during her time at these institutions. She criticized the for-profit 'troubled teen' industry for its lack of oversight and prioritizing profits over child safety, highlighting that many parents are deceived about the conditions. Hilton's testimony supports a bipartisan effort to reauthorize a lapsed program that provides states with resources to prevent child abuse and neglect. She called for greater federal regulation and oversight to protect vulnerable children from similar abuses. Lawmakers praised her courage and acknowledged the need for action to reform the system.