Va. Board Extends Time for Comment on Gay Adoption

Virginia's Board of Social Services has decided to allow more time for the public to weigh in on whether it should allow state-licensed groups to discriminate against prospective adoptive and foster parents based on their sexual orientation.

Advocacy groups had asked the board to extend public comment for 30 days. The board approved doing so Wednesday on a unanimous voice vote.

Under state law, the board must reopen comment if the proposed regulations include any changes of substantial impact.

Some conservative Christian groups support the changes, saying that allowing gay and lesbian prospective parents to adopt goes against their religious beliefs.

Equality Virginia, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups said children seeking homes would suffer if qualified people were barred from adopting or becoming foster parents.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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