A state Senate panel has OK’d bills that would allow faith-based private adoption agencies that take public funds to turn away same-sex couples.
The bills come as the US Supreme Court is about to hear arguments on whether Michigan’s ban on same-sex marriage violates the Constitution. A decision is expected this summer.
Faith-based agencies say they shouldn’t be forced to violate their religious beliefs if the court strikes down the marriage ban. And, they say, some faith-based services may simply close their doors.
Tom Hickson of the Michigan Catholic Conference testified in a hearing that the bills would ensure faith-based agencies will continue to do their work without violating their beliefs
“This legislation is about promoting and protecting diversity and ensuring stability for our children,” he said.
Hickson noted the legislation requires agencies that refuse prospective parents to refer them to an agency that is willing to work with them. The committee rejected amendments that would require agencies to state upfront who they won’t work with.
Opponents say the legislation puts the interests of adoption agencies ahead of what’s best for children who need homes.
Susan Grettenberger directs the social work program at Central Michigan University, and is a gay adoptive parent. She told the committee it’s unethical for a social worker to refuse to work with a family because of a religious belief. She says it also makes it more difficult to place children.
“This is about the children that need a forever home, and who do not have the option of going to another agency to find a new family. Already removed from the family they know, now their options for adoption are limited, as well.”
“At any given time, there are 3,000 kids awaiting placement in Michigan,” said Jay Kaplan of the American Civil Liberties Union. “There is no room for discrimination.”
The Senate Children, Seniors and Human Services Committee approved the bills on a 4-1 party-line vote.
There’s no word on when the full state Senate might vote on the bills.
