IN HB1389

Prohibits governmental entities from discriminating against adoption/foster care service providers, adoptive parents, or foster parents who act according to sincerely held religious beliefs, effective July 1, 2026

Defines "discriminate" broadly to include denying funding, terminating contracts, revoking licenses, refusing child placements, altering tax treatment, imposing fines or penalties, and taking adverse employment actions based on religious beliefs

Allows governmental entities to consider whether a prospective parent shares the same religion or faith tradition as the child or the child's biological parents when making placement decisions

Creates a private right of action allowing individuals to sue governmental entities for violations, with available remedies including declaratory relief, injunctive relief, compensatory damages, and attorney's fees, subject to a 2-year statute of limitations

Preserves the state's authority to prevent child abuse or neglect and enforce licensing requirements consistent with the new chapter