Faith-based foster parents excluded under Biden-Harris administration rules

In April 2021, the Biden-Harris administration issued a new rule through the Department of Health and Human Services that mandates foster parents affirm a child's gender identity. This requirement has raised concerns among faith-based organizations and foster care leaders about its impact on participation in the system. Herbie Newell, president and executive director of Lifeline Children’s Services, criticized the rule for categorizing faith-based individuals as unfit foster parents if they do not align with the administration's stance on LGBTQ+ issues. He argues that this pushes people of faith out of the foster care and adoption process, limiting the options available for children in need. Newell highlighted that over 350,000 children are currently in the U.S. foster care system, with more than 100,000 waiting for adoption. He expressed hope that the incoming Trump administration will address these concerns and rollback such regulations, which he views as oppressive. Under Trump's first term, Newell noted a collaborative approach where no one was excluded from fostering, and he recalled being invited to the West Wing for discussions on fostering policies, suggesting that faith-based leaders had a voice and role in shaping the system. In stark contrast, Newell pointed out that during the Biden administration, he and fellow faith-based adoption leaders have had no opportunity for dialogue or involvement in policy discussions. He emphasizes that fostering is a huge responsibility and that excluding certain groups might have long-term detrimental effects on the foster care system. He also mentioned the broader implications of this exclusion on the children who require loving homes and the need for all potential foster parents to be included, regardless of their personal beliefs on gender and sexuality. In addition to domestic policies, Newell referenced international ramifications, particularly concerning China’s recent decision to halt adoptions of Chinese children by American families. This additional closure further complicates the landscape of adoption in the U.S., already strained by domestic policies limiting the available pool of foster and adoptive parents. The need for reform appears vital as advocates seek to ensure every child has a chance at finding a permanent home, reflecting on the increased challenges faced by families and children alike amidst changing policies.