I urge the Board to reject any regulation that would discriminate against faith-based child placement agencies. Faith-based child placement agencies have a right, under federal and state law, to make decisions that are consistent with their religious beliefs, including their beliefs about marriage and family life. This right must be respected and preserved.

        Many birthparents and prospective adoptive parents hold these beliefs as well, and they have every right to work with agencies that share their values. It would be discriminatory to force agencies and individuals to choose between following their own values or following the proposed discriminatory regulation. This would be an unprecedented violation of religious freedom in Virginia.

        Religious liberty is foundational to our Commonwealth and our country. Faith-based agencies provide vital services to our communities. They must be allowed to continue the great work they are doing. Please perserve religious freedom in our State.