I strongly oppose the proposed regulation 22 VAC 40-131-170 (B) that would hinder the work of faith based adoption agencies by removing their right to screen adoptive parents by religious or moral beliefs. These agencies provide a huge portion of adoptive services, ensuring that every child has the right to a loving family. I fear that besides harming adoptive services and those they serve, the regulation would violate the right of free exercise of religion. That is a slippery slope that no one wants to go down. 

On a personal note, I am a Catholic college student. Someday, I would love to adopt at least one child into my family (perhaps more, God willing!). I hope that I am asked about my lifestyles, moral beliefs, and such when I adopt from a Catholic or Christian agency. I would not make the work of the agencies harder or non-existent, if I were you. The services they provide are extremely dear to family life. The family is the base for society. Please, do not restrict these services so that they can continue to build strong families, give joy to parents, and give children a loving home. I do not think that these agencies would continue to provide services with such regulations.