State ends Catholic Charities adoption contracts

CHICAGO — Illinois officials say they won't renew foster care and adoption contracts with Catholic Charities.

The move follows legal battles over the state's new civil unions law, which some Catholic groups have said threatens religious beliefs.

For decades, Catholic Charities has received state funds for placing children. But the remaining agencies that provide services say they'll only place children with married couples. The agencies are in dioceses of Peoria, Joliet, Springfield and Belleville.

Gov. Pat Quinn sent letters last week to the four Catholic Charities agencies saying Illinois couldn't accept contracts because they'd made it clear they wouldn't be complying with Illinois religious freedom and civil union acts.

Three have sued state officials for threatening to enforce new policies that accommodate civil unions.

Agency lawyers say they'll seek a court injunction.