A bill that would allow private adoption agencies to refuse placing children in gay families passed through the Florida House Judiciary Committee on Thursday.

HB 7111, sponsored by Rep. Jason Brodeur, R-Sanford, would prohibit certain entities from withholding grants, contracts, or participation in government programs from a private child-placing agency based on the agency's refusal to place a child or be involved in the placement of a child which violates the agency's religious or moral convictions or policies.

Brodeur says the bill would ensure private agencies wouldn't go out of business just because they refuse to allow gays to adopt from their organization. Supporters of the legislation cited instances in Massachusetts, California and Illinois whereCatholic Charities were forced to close their doors because they refused to let up on their practices against gay adoption.

Those opposed to the bill, however, say it's not only discriminatory, but unconstitutional as well.

"The damage, the legal principle here is that somebodys claimed religious or moral beliefs will be more important under this law than what will be in the best interests of children," said American Civil Liberties Union of Florida director Robert Simon.