The organization maintains it's "absolutely the best policy" for scouts and leaders alike. (Wikimedia Commons)

The Associated Press reported a committee made up of 11 members was formed in 2010 to reexamine the issue, but "came to the conclusion that this policy is absolutely the best policy for the Boy Scouts," according to spokesman Deron Smith.

Chief Executive Bob Mazzuca said most Scout families support the policy, but it's received harsh criticism from outside groups. That includes the Human Rights Campaign. President Chad Griffin called the decision a "missed opportunity of colossal proportions."

Change.org has taken up the battle, providing a petition to reinstate Ohio Cub Scout den mother Jennifer Tyrrell, who was booted out because she is a lesbian. The online forum reported more than 300,000 people had already signed, adding some pressure for the Scouts to abandon the policy.

Read the full story here, and check out more of Neon Tommy's coverage of gay rights issues here.

Reach Executive Producer Catherine Green here; follow her here.