Please enact the previously suggested language into policy so that state licensed child placing agencies cannot discriminate based upon gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, political affiliation, religion, sexual orientation, disability or family status.  We are currently one of the worst states in our nation with regards to youth who "age out" of foster care without permanent families to support them.  It is paramount that we make our decisions based upon the best interest of children and the growing research that demonstrates that children do well in a variety of family configurations.  This change does not change the homestudy process which assesses parent and ends with the possible approval for child placement.  This language simply prevents agencies from being able to discriminate at the time of APPLICATION, meaning, you cannot refuse application for a homestudy because of any of the above groups/classes.  Please do not encourage discrimination that reduces the number of foster and adoptive families in Virginia, and ultimately prevents positive outcomes for our children.