The State Board of Social Services upheld the fundamental right of faith-based agencies work without governmental intrusion into the practice of their faith on 20 April 2011.

Faith-based 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. Forcing agencies and individuals to choose between following their own values or following the law would be an unprecedented violation of religious freedom in Virginia. Religious liberty is foundational to our Commonwealth and our country.

Many birthparents and prospective adoptive parents hold these beliefs as well, and they have every right to work with agencies that share their values.

This issue was fully debated and rightly decided on April 20, after extensive commentary that day and well before that. I urge you to keep the language of 20 April in place.

Thank you

Gregory McKinney