Dear [Your Elected Official],

<p>Please, vote NO on HB2169, HB1995, and HB1386 in the  House Children & Family Affairs Subcommittee on March 5.</p> <p><strong>HB2169</strong>: Adoption and foster care policy should be based on the best interest of the child. This bill focuses on the wishes of a few adults. It increases the likelihood that children will be mismatched with homes where they are not accepted as they are. Please, consider the research and listen to the experts. The placement of children should not be politicized, but pursued thoughtfully.</p> <p><strong>HB1995 and HB1386</strong>: These bills are not necessary because society already gives significant approval and support of couples made up of a man and a woman. But by trying to provide separate options for some couples, the state is making unequal policy that will subject Tennessee to expensive lawsuits.  In addition, the full ramifications of HB1386 need to be thought through in terms of property, inheritance, benefits, and the responsibilities that come with a standrard marriage license. Couples who select to record their marriage may actually put themselves in danger financially or in other ways by picking this "marriage lite" option envisioned in the bill.</p> <p>Thank you for considering my views.</p>