HB1051: Child-placing agencies; conscience clause, discrimination.

HOUSE BILL NO. 1051

Offered January 8, 2020
Prefiled January 7, 2020
A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 63.2-1709.4 and to repeal § 63.2-1709.3 of the Code of Virginia, relating to child-placing agencies; conscience clause; discrimination.
Patron-- Levine

Committee Referral Pending

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 63.2-1709.4 as follows:

§ 63.2-1709.4. Child-placing agencies; contracts with the Department; discrimination.

The Department shall not contract with or provide funds, directly or indirectly, to any child-placing agency that, in making decisions regarding the placement of a child, discriminates against the child or otherwise eligible prospective foster or adoptive parents on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or status as a veteran.

2. That § 63.2-1709.3 of the Code of Virginia is repealed.