It is absolutely critical that faith-based agencies be allowed to continue the great work that they are doing without governmental intervention into the practice of their faith. The State Board of Social Services correctly ruled on April 20th to uphold this right of religious freedom for these agencies which under both federal and state laws have a right to make decisions consistent with their moral strictures on marriage and family life. Indeed many birthparents and prospective adoptive parents hold these same beliefs and have a right to work with agencies which share their moral outlook. Forcing agencies and individuals to do otherwise would be an unprecedented violation of their religious freedom, a freedom foundational to our nation and state. Please continue to uphold this freedom so that these faith-based agencies which provide vital services to our communities can continue to do the great charitable work that they do!