Bill > SB604

This bill prohibits child placement agencies from denying adoption applications based on factors like marital status, divorce, having other children, not owning a home, or inability to pay adoption fees, and also forbids discrimination based on race, color, culture, national origin, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or gender identity. However, agencies must deny applications if the applicant has significant child support arrears, insufficient funds, health issues preventing parenting, is under 18, has a history of child abuse or neglect, has an active application elsewhere, had a previous application denied for a valid reason, is a board member or employee of the agency, has inadequate living space, or provided false information. The bill also prevents the Social Services Administration (the state agency overseeing social services) and other entities involved in foster care from discriminating against foster parents or children in foster care based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status. Furthermore, it prohibits the Department of Human Services, local social services departments, and entities receiving state funds from discriminating in service provision or employment based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, political or religious affiliation, or marital status, with specific exceptions for legally authorized distinctions related to sex, age, religion to protect a minor's heritage, or disability accommodations.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0604?ys=2026RS