I strongly oppose this change in regulation that would open the door for homosexual adoption and require all agencies to permit it.  Children should have a mother and father.  Studies confirm that this is best for children.  Adopting this change would be an infringement on religious freedom since many adoption agencies are related to churches whose religious beliefs are opposed to homosexual practices, or indeed any sexual practices outside of marriage between a man and a woman.  Do not try to force a policy that would require Virginians to violate their deeply held religious beliefs.

I further request that the comment period for this regulation change be extended considerably and that much greater publicity be given to it.  Until today, the deadline, I was unaware of the possibility of such a radical change in policy in our Commonwealth.  I dare say most Virginians are not aware of it either.  Please publicize these intentions widely and give more citizens a chance to comment.