Oregon officials back off gender ideology mandate for mom seeking to adopt

Oregon officials reached a legal settlement with Jessica Bates, a Christian woman seeking to adopt or foster children, ending a three-and-a-half-year legal dispute. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) agreed that it will not categorically disqualify applicants based on religious beliefs regarding gender and human sexuality.

Under the terms of the settlement, the ODHS will not consider Bates' religious views when evaluating her application for adoption certification. The department also agreed not to regulate her speech concerning gender and sexuality.

The dispute began in September 2022 when the ODHS denied Bates' application. The department required applicants to agree to respect, accept, and support the sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression of any child or young adult placed in their home. Bates was represented by Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) during the proceedings. Johannes Widmalm-Delphonse, a senior counsel for ADF, stated that the settlement protects constitutional rights and prioritizes the interests of children.