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‘This is state funded discrimination’ — State House passes controversial adoption legislation

Posted at 4:24 PM, Mar 18, 2015
and last updated 2015-03-18 17:24:57-04

LANSING, Mich. -- Legislation that would allow faith-based adoption agencies to deny services to same-sex and unmarried couples was passed by the state House Wednesday afternoon.

Those in favor of the controversial legislation say it's in the best interest of children who need a forever home.  Opponents say it's taxpayer-funded discrimination.

"It's not just a license to discriminate, it's actually writing a check for the discrimination.  This isn't just state-sanctioned discrimination, this is state funded discrimination," Rep. Jeff Irwin said.

Supporters of the bills argue that faith-based agencies play a crucial role in Michigan's successful adoption rates, adding that the bills don't just apply to specific religious agencies.

The bills will now move on to the state Senate for consideration.