Tennessee Passes Bill Allowing Adoption of LGBTQ+ Children by Non-affirming Parents

The controversial bill, awaiting Governor Bill Lee's signature, has sparked widespread criticism for potentially endangering LGBTQ+ children.

Tennessee's state House and Senate have passed a bill that would prevent the exclusion of prospective foster and adopting parents based on religious or moral beliefs related to sexual and gender identity.
Critics argue the bill could lead to LGBTQ+ children being placed in non-affirming homes, exposing them to potential harm, including conversion therapy and family rejection.
The legislation prohibits the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services from requiring parents to affirm, accept, or support policies regarding sexual orientation or gender identity that conflict with their beliefs.
Advocacy groups and Democratic legislators call for Governor Lee to veto the bill, citing conflicts with federal law and the risk to child welfare.
The bill's passage is part of a broader trend of legislation in Tennessee and other states aimed at limiting the rights of LGBTQ+ adults and youth.