Virginia Regulatory Town Hall View Comments

10/5/11 10:21 am

Commenter: Michael Wilson

Preserve religious freedom

Earlier, the State Board of Social Services correctly upheld the fundamental right of faith-based agencies to continue their great work without governmental intrusion into the practice of their faith.
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.
Many birthparents and prospective adoptive parents hold these beliefs as well, and they have every right to work with agencies that share their values.
Forcing agencies and individuals to choose between following their own values or following the proposed law 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 use common sense and do not deny faith-based agencies participation in providing services. This issue was fully debated and rightly decided on April 20, after extensive commentary that day and well before that. The Conference is grateful for the State Board of Social Services' decisive 7-2 vote on April 20 to uphold the religious freedom of faith-based agencies, and is confident that the Board will continue to uphold religious liberty in the weeks and months to come.

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