Summary of proposed guidelines:

The Virginia Department of Social Services is currently trying to pass minimum standards for licensed child placing agencies in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Late last week it was discovered by our office here at Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington, Inc, Center for Adoption and Pregnancy Services that included in these standards is the following standards: 22VAC40-131-170 Part B states The licensee shall prohibit acts of discrimination based on race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, political beliefs,sexual orientation, disbaility or family status...

What this essentially means is that anyone of any sexual orientation or family status cannot be denied an adoptive or foster care placement of a child. As you can see the implications are rather far reaching and significant.  If these standards are approved, our office here at Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington, Inc., Center for Adoption and Pregnancy Services will no longer be able to serve the Catholic community and women who come to us for pregnancy counseling, many of whom are contemplating abortion.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington, Inc., Center for Adoption and Pregnancy Services has a long and successful history of providing superior adoption and Pregancy Services.  Clearly, 22VAC40-131-170 Part B would negatively impact the situation