TACOMA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A recent settlement has changed some rules around foster children placement in the state.

Degross v. Senn’s settlement agreement prevents the Dept. of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) from denying or restricting a foster parent’s license based solely on their religious beliefs.

Court documents state the settlement comes after two foster parents sued Washington state officials for violating their First Amendment rights.

The DeGrosses had refused to comply with a policy that requires foster parents to use chosen names and pronouns.

In response to the settlement, DCYF is changing their policies for foster placement, including a case-by-case system for youth that fall on the queer spectrum. The department is still prioritizing the child’s ability to respect their gender and sexual orientation.