The bill prohibits the secretary for children and families from adopting or enforcing any policies related to the placement, custody, or appointment of custodians that may conflict with an individual's sincerely held religious or moral beliefs regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Specifically, it prevents the secretary from requiring individuals to affirm or support governmental policies on these matters and ensures that individuals are not disqualified from selection or licensure based on their beliefs.
Additionally, the bill establishes a right of action for individuals who believe they have been wronged by such violations, allowing them to seek actual and punitive damages, injunctive relief, and recovery of costs and attorney fees. The bill clarifies that it does not prohibit the secretary from considering the beliefs of a child or their biological family when making placement decisions, nor does it relieve the secretary from the obligation to act in the best interests of the child as required by law.