Local Reaction to Boy Scout Policy.
By: laurie monteforte
Updated: January 30, 2013
Marcel Cinquina was the only person connected with the Scouts willing to talk to us on camera.
He is the Scout Executive for the Boy Scouts of America Northeastern Pennsylvania council.
He didn't take a side on the issue.
He explained that under the proposal - each local troop could make its own rules.
"I think some units will set rules that will permit people irregardless of what their sexual orientation is to be leaders and others won't." Marcel I. Cinquina, Scout Executive Boy Scouts of America NEPA Council
The scouts have nearly 300 local councils across America. Some are sponsored by religious groups. Others by civic groups.
It's likely the sponsors will determine whether or not to ban homosexuals.
No local councils would talk to us on the record.
Some believe diversity should be welcomed.
Others disagree. One person told us they don't understand why gay people want to force their way into an organization that doesn't want them.
Others were concerned about safety. But Cinquina said that shouldn't be a problem.
"Any inappropriate behavior would still be a reason to review for dismissal."
The Boy Ccouts are aware some people will leave the organization if it makes changes. And others will leave if things stay the same.
"Our bottom line commitment is to provide the best quality program that we can that's value based for all boys and their families." said Cinquina.


