© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Nessel Settles Same Sex Adoption Lawsuit

State Attorney General Dana Nessel
Cheyna Roth

The state of Michigan has promised to make sure adoption and foster agencies that receive state money do not discriminate against same sex couples. Michigan Public Radio’s Cheyna Roth has more.

Attorney General Dana Nessel announced a settlement in an ongoing federal lawsuit between the state and same sex couples. The couples tried to adopt through an agency that contracts with the state. But they were denied services because of their sexual orientation. The agency cited religious beliefs.

Nessel said in a video statement, once agencies accept a contract with the state, they cannot turn someone away because of their sexual orientation.

“This settlement helps place children in loving homes and helps Michiganders complete their families.” Said Nessel.

Becket Law represented St. Vincent Catholic Charities – a faith-based adoption agency involved in the lawsuit. It says Nessel is going against state law that protects these types of agencies.

Before becoming the newest Capitol reporter for Michigan Public Radio Network, Cheyna Roth was an attorney. She spent her days fighting it out in court as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Ionia County.
Related Content
With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.