Oppose the revision of adoption agency regulations
I strongly oppose 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. I object to the specific additions of "sexual orientation" and "family status".
Faith based Adoption agencies have the interest of the child as their first consideration. It is not in the interest of any child to be placed in a home where they will be deprived of a mother and father. It is not in the interest of the child, to place them in a home where the parent may be violating Natural Law. If Adoption Agencies are forced to choose between violating their conscience and placing a child in an unhealthy environment, there will be fewer placements of children, such agencies will close. If you allow this language to go forward, you will be responsible for children being left to the mercy of those who care more for political correctness than the children.
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.
