Following Michigan’s recent passage of a bill allowing religious-based adoption agencies to deny adoption to those who do not fit their criteria, Florida has begun the process of doing the same.
If the bill is passed, religion-based private agencies may refuse adoption to individuals and couples who are not in compliance with those policies, as long as these agencies have their policies in writing. Those not complying could include gay couples and individuals, those of mixed-faith, and even mixed-race couples and individuals. The bill has stirred up controversy because some private religious agencies actually receive state funding. Many feel that the passage of this law is equal to discrimination against LGBT individuals and couples. Others believe that the bill would uphold the first amendment in allowing religious freedom.
At least 80 private adoption agencies in Florida could be affected by this bill. The full story may be read here.
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