The Boys Scouts of America may soon end its ban on gay scouts and leaders.

The new policy would remove the ban from the national rules - leaving it up to local chapters.

"The chartered organizations that oversee and deliver scouting would accept membership and select leaders consistent with their organization's mission, principles or religious beliefs," BSA spokesman Deron Smith said.

"The Boy Scouts would not, under any circumstances, dictate a position to units, members, or parents," Smith added.

Monday's announcement comes after years of protests over the policy.

The Scouts, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2010, have had a long-standing policy promoting traditional, value-based leadership.

A final decision by the group's national leaders could come as soon as next week.