Alabama lawmakers pass protection for faith-based adoption groups

Alabama lawmakers have given final approval to a bill protecting faith-based adoption organizations that refuse to place children with gay parents or other households because of their religious beliefs.

The Alabama House of Representatives voted 87-6 to go along with a Senate change to the bill. The legislation goes to Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature.

The legislation prohibits the state from refusing to license faith-based adoption groups that refuse placements because of their religious beliefs.

The bill would only apply to agencies that do not accept state or federal funds.

Rep. Rich Wingo, the sponsor of the bill, said it guarantees that faith-based agencies can operate without violating their religious beliefs. State Rep. Patricia Todd, the state's only openly gay lawmaker, called it blatant discrimination.