Kansas, Oklahoma lawmakers OK religious veto of LGBT adoptions

Kansas and Oklahoma state lawmakers have both approved legislation allowing private adoption agencies to veto placements of children into homes with LGBT parents. 

The Kansas state Senate on Friday approved a bill by a 24-15 vote that ensured faith-based agencies can turn away parents, including LGBT couples, based on “sincerely held” religious beliefs, according to The Associated Press. 

The bill, which was previously approved by the House, says the government cannot block any agency from providing services for the state because it refuses to place children in such homes. 

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Its passage followed that of a similar bill approved by the Oklahoma Senate on Thursday, which also prevents state-funded private agencies from consenting to placements “that violate the agency’s written religious or moral convictions or policies.”

Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer (R) has reportedly signaled support for the legislation, though Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin (R) has not said if she will sign her state’s bill. 

But the Kansas bill did not pass seamlessly through the chamber, as lawmakers clashed in early morning debates over whether the need for the legislation proved there is a “homosexual agenda.” Supporters said a turnover of representatives could sway the tide of support away from religious adoption agencies. 

Critics of both bills have said the actions give state funds to discriminatory practices, calling them an attack on LGBT rights to raise children. 

Georgia’s Senate also approved legislation earlier this year ensuring that faith-based adoption groups can receive state funding while maintaining their policies on LGBT adoption.