The proposed HHS rule affects all department programs. HHS is a sprawling agency that sponsors more than 100 programs, dealing with issues such as homelessness, senior care, refugee resettlement and emergency housing. Potentially millions of Americans could be harmed if they are denied critical services because of this reckless rule.

“This proposed rule marks a new low in the Trump administration’s efforts to license discrimination against religious minorities and LGBTQ people. The rule would directly and gravely harm some of our nation’s most vulnerable people – children in foster care, senior citizens, and youth experiencing homelessness,” said Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United. “When it comes to discrimination based on religion, the Trump administration is saying it’s OK to ignore the Constitution. It’s never OK and we will continue to fight to uphold our core American value of religious freedom.”

A federal judge in Michigan ruled in favor of a taxpayer-funded foster care agency that refuses to evaluate same-sex couples as candidates. The ruling raises concerns about the use of “religious freedom” claims to stymie anti-discrimination efforts.