Gay adoption bill introduced
National News Notes, q-notes.com
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Pete Stark (D-CA) has introduced the Every Child Deserves a Family Act (HR 3827) which would codify sexual orientation non-discrimination in foster care placements and adoptions nationwide. According to reports, there are approximately 65,500 adopted children being raised by lesbian or gay parents. LGBT singles and couples are also raising an estimated three percent of children in the foster care system.
While Florida is the only state with an express ban on adoption by LGBT individuals, as of 2008, seven states either expressly restrict adoption by LGBT couples or had laws and policies that may have the effect of restricting LGBT parents from adopting. In addition, four states restrict LGBT individuals from becoming foster parents. These restrictions fly in the face of 30 years of scientific research which shows overwhelmingly that children raised in same-sex headed households do just as well emotionally and psychologically as children raised in heterosexual households.
“All decisions concerning the health and welfare of the country’s most vulnerable children should be made solely with their best interest in mind,” said Jennifer Chrisler, executive director of the Family Equality Council, a national organization devoted to securing equality for LGBT families. “We look forward to working with Congressman Stark to educate members of Congress and the public about why non-discrimination in adoption is a national child welfare issue that needs to be addressed.”