To Whom it may concern at the Virginia Board of Social Services:

Please reject any regulation that discriminates against faith-based child placement agencies.

Faith-based child placement agencies have a right, under federal and state law, to make decisions that are consistent with their religious beliefs, including their beliefs about marriage and family life. This right must be respected and preserved.

Many birthparents and prospective adoptive parents hold these beliefs as well, and they have every right to work with agencies that share their values.

Forcing agencies and individuals to choose between following their own values or following the proposed discriminatory regulation would be an unprecedented violation of religious freedom in Virginia. 

Faith-based agencies provide vital services to our communities. They must be allowed to continue the great work they are doing.