We would like to request that the State Board of social Services restore to the final rules the protections against discrimination.

Discrimination based on race, national origin,ethnicity, gender, age, religion,political beliefs, sexual orientation, disability and family status should not be permitted  in deciding whether a a child should be placed with foster or adoptive parents.

There are far too many children in Virginia who need a loving and  supportive environment and are not receiving it.

Virginians have the resources to assure that no child ages out of foster care. Please give the ste -licensed agencies the ability to do this.

Thank you for your  consideration,

Dr and Mrs E.B. Hodge