I am concerned with the following proposed language regarding private adoption agencies in VA:
B. 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.
Listing “sexual orientation” and “family status” as protected classifications could force faith-based adoption service providers to act contrary to their religious beliefs and/or drive them out of providing adoption services.
In addition, a protected classification of “sexual orientation” has no support in federal law or in any enactment of the General Assembly. Please do allow this to go forward.
