I oppose 22VAC40-131-170B, which is part of the proposed Minimum Standards for Licensed Child Placing Agencies. 

The proposed 22VAC40-131-170B states: “The licensee shall prohibit acts of discrimination based on race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, political beliefs, sexual orientation, disability, or family status to: (1) Delay or deny a child’s placement; or (2) Deny an individual the opportunity to apply to become a foster or adoptive parent.”

This draconian legislation would force some faith-based agencies to violate their own fundamental beliefs and conscience regarding the dignity of marriage, the family, and faith. This ill-conceived would not increase adoption options in the Commonwealth, but compel said faith-based adoption firms to shut down and no longer offer adoption services. This legislation thus does not respect the rights of these groups to make legitimate and well-researched decisions regarding adoption that they believe is in the best interest of the child's future. I oppose this proposed legislation