Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus Celebrates Victory in Termination of Kooth Contract

Harrisburg, PA — The Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus is proud to announce a significant victory, alongside the House Education committee and their staff, grassroots organizations, and concerned parents across our state, with the termination of the Kooth contract by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, effective November 16, 2024.

Kooth, a UK-based company, was brought in to provide youth digital mental well-being services in schools but faced scrutiny regarding the appropriateness and effectiveness for Pennsylvania's youth.

"The termination underscores the power of grassroots activism and the importance of parental involvement in the decision-making processes affecting our children," said Representative Barb Gleim, a member of the Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus. "We applaud the Department for listening to the voices of the community."

Ben Herring, President of Citizens Advisory of Pennsylvania, added, "We are extremely pleased that Kooth has been removed from Pennsylvania schools.  Thanks to the tireless efforts of our former President Jamie Walsh and the Citizens Advisory team, the battle that began in November 2022 is finally over.  We remain committed to protecting children and will hold any copycat programs accountable should they pursue the same harmful infiltration into our sons' and daughters' personal spaces."

Jessica T., Legislation Committee leader for the Pennsylvania Coalition for Informed Consent, remarked, "This decision is a victory for informed consent and parental rights in education.  We commend the Department for recognizing the importance of transparency and collaboration with parents regarding their children’s mental health resources. Our coalition will continue to advocate for policies that prioritize informed decision-making for families across Pennsylvania."

Originally negotiated by a Northeastern PA legislator in 2022 and extended through June 2025, the Kooth contract faced backlash from various stakeholders after it was learned that the program circumvented parental oversight. This decision marks a crucial step in ensuring that the mental health services provided to our children are both effective and respectful of parental guidance.

We are grateful to all those who rallied against this contract, showcasing the importance of the role that community voices play in shaping our educational and health policies. This victory is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together for our children's well-being.  The Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus remains committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and parental rights in all matters concerning our children.