I am writing regarding the proposed change in Virginia adoption regulations.  I strongly urge that you NOT change the regulations to require that adoption agencies place children without regard to the sexual orientation of prospective parents.  There are many Christian agencies operating in Virginia that would be forced to close if this new regulation were to be put in place. Catholic Charities, for example, has served the people of the state of Virginia in the area of adoption for many years.  This regulation goes against Catholic faith and morals and would attempt to coerce groups such as Catholic Charities to act in direct conflict with their mission and beliefs. This is outrageous!  You would not be serving the children of Virginia by causing successful adoption agencies to close.  I urge that you do not make this change. Thank you.

Irene Starrs