NJ Boy Scouts pay transgender boy they barred from joining

New Jersey 101.5 video

OAKLAND — A state branch of the Boy Scouts has agreed to pay $18,000 to a transgender boy who was barred from joining.

The Record reports the Northern New Jersey Council of the Boy Scouts made the agreement on Thursday after Joe Maldonado's mother, Kristie, filed a complaint with the state Civil Rights Division. Officials also gave the 9-year-old a formal apology.

Maldonado was originally refused membership to a Cub Scout pack in Secaucus because he was born a girl. The Boy Scouts then reversed their ban on transgender boys when Maldonado's story gained attention.

Maldonado has been accepted by a Maplewood Cub Scout pack.

The Northern New Jersey Council has agreed to change their policies in accordance with state laws against discrimination.

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