Opposition to 22VAC40-131-170B

I am writing to express my concern over the language in the current proposal 22VAC40-131-170B.

I strongly oppose this regulation change due to the fact that it will curtail the rights of faith based groups to offer adoptions according to their own unique values.  It is not acceptable for the government of any state to include verbage which disqualifies specific religious communities from practicing their business in harmony with those beliefs. 

Some kind of exception must be written into the law which preserves the rights of these religious groups so they can continue providing the compassionate placement of children while adhering to their own beliefs.  Or this language must be struck from the proposal.

The state agencies are available for those seeking to adopt who may not have the same beliefs.  As is their civil right, potential adoptive families with opposing beliefs will not be banned from choosing adoption through state run agencies. There is no need to attempt to force faith based sevices to conform to these regulations, which would more than likely cause them to cease offering such vital services in our communities.  This would be a loss for all the children and citizens of Virginia.

Sincerely,

Patrice Chadbourne