The Boy Scouts Of America (BSA) has voted to lift a longstanding ban on gay adults serving as scout leaders.

The organisation has finally lifted it’s ban on out gay men serving as leaders, citing recent developments in the US regarding LGBT rights.

“As a result of the rapid changes in society and increasing legal challenges at the federal, state, and local levels, on Friday, July 10, the Boy Scouts of America Executive Committee adopted a resolution amending the adult leadership standards policy. The resolution was unanimously adopted by those present and voting,” read the official statement released to media by the BSA.

In 2013, the BSA voted to overturn a longstanding ban on gay scouts which was met with appraisal from various LGBT rights groups. However, openly gay scout leaders were not welcome.

“This resolution will allow chartered organisations to select adult leaders without regard to sexual orientation, continuing Scouting’s longstanding policy of chartered organisations selecting their leaders. The National Executive Board will meet to ratify this resolution on Monday, July 27.

“Scouting will continue to focus on reaching and serving youth to help them grow into good, strong citizens. By focusing on the goals that unite us, we are able to accomplish incredible things for young people and the communities we serve.”