LANSING — A coalition of Democratic legislators introduced a package of bills yesterday to end discrimination in Michigan’s adoption laws by repealing Public Acts 53-55 of 2015, and allowing second-parent adoption in Michigan. The legislation would ensure that same-sex couples have the same rights as any other couple in the adoption process.

“Anyone who is willing and able to provide a loving, supportive, and stable home to a child should be able to do so,” said state Rep. Tim Sneller (D-Burton). “It is a shame that in 2019 we are still fighting to correct such discriminatory laws, but I am proud to stand with my colleagues as we work to promote equality for all here in Michigan.”

“We need to empower our state and local governments to hold these agencies accountable for their actions,” said state Rep. Jon Hoadley (D-Kalamazoo). “Discrimination on the basis of who you are or who you love has no business in our society, especially when there are thousands of children waiting to be loved and placed in good, stable homes across Michigan. It’s time for us to reaffirm our commitment to making our state a safe, welcoming place for everyone seeking to raise a family.”

The four bill package would:

  • Ensure child placement agencies cannot discriminate against same-sex couples based on religious beliefs. (Sneller-HB 4469)
  • Allow state and local governments to take action against placement agencies if they engage in discriminatory practices based on their religious beliefs. (Hoadley-HB 4471)
  • Allow the state Department of Health and Human Services to take action against a child placing agency if they engage in discriminatory practices based on religious beliefs. (Pagan-HB 4470)
  • Authorize second-parent adoption in Michigan, allowing a same-sex parent to adopt his or her partner’s biological or adoptive child, regardless of whether their relationship is legally recognized. (Brixie-HB 4472)

“This serves as a vital step toward ensuring the rights of Michigan parents, regardless of their sexual orientation, are protected,” said state Rep. Kristy Pagan (D-Canton). “For too long, we’ve allowed child placement agencies to unjustly discriminate and our children are hurt in the process. Today, we renew our dedication to all Michigan families and the devoted couples waiting for the opportunity to raise a child with love and stability.”

“Nobody should be discriminated against because of who they love and no child should be denied a loving home,” said state Rep. Julie Brixie (D-Meridian Township). “Marriage equality was a landmark moment in our nation’s history, yet our state is allowing adoption agencies to discriminate against these families. This legislation is vital to ensuring every child has a loving home and we continue working toward equality in Michigan.”

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