Without faith based agencies providing vital services to our communities people would suffer and the state's budget will swell.  However, to do this important work they must be allowed to work within the framework of their religious convictions and practices.  To force such agencies to go against their values is a violation of thire religious freedom, foundational to our state and country.  Faith-based agencies have a right, under both Virginia and US law to make decisions that are consistent with their religious beliefs, including those about marriage and family.  These rights must be honored.

On April 20 the State Board of Social Services correctly upheld the fundamental right of faith based agencies to work without governmental intrusion into their faith.  Please confirm that decision.