I respectfully request that you reject the proposed changes to 22 VAC 40-131-170 (B).  If these changes are enacted, there are religious organizations that will no longer be able to assist in adoptions because of these changes.  The proposed changes do not recognize these religious organizations' rights to oppose same sex couples from adopting children in Virginia. 

As a result, these religious organizations will need to make a "decision of conscience" and be forced to either A) no longer assist in the placement of needy children with loving mothers and fathers, or B) violate their consciences, principles, and beliefs in order to continue participating in adoptions in Virginia.

Before adopting these propsed changes, please carefully consider the impact that religious organizations play in adoptions in Virginia.