Washington D.C., Jun 1, 2021 / 15:01 pm
Ahead of an anticipated ruling by the Supreme Court in a landmark foster care case, a Christian foster care agency in Kentucky says the state is forcing it to violate its religious mission.
Sunrise Children’s Services, a Kentucky-based nonprofit ministry affiliated with Kentucky Baptists, says a clause in a new state contract would force it to match children with same-sex couples, against its religious beliefs. The organization provides foster care and other services, and is licensed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky as a Behavioral Health Services Organization.
The Associated Press reported last week that the group won’t sign a new contract with Kentucky due to a new contract clause prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Dale Suttles, president of Sunrise Children’s Services, told CNA on Tuesday that he said the group directs couples “that aren’t the best fit” to other organizations, so they can still foster children. Their policy has existed during Republican and Democratic governors in the state, but the current administration is seeking to require changes as part of its continued contract.