RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia's Board of Social Services is to decide whether to reconsider its decision to adopt new regulations that would allow state-licensed groups to discriminate against prospective adoptive and foster parents based on their sexual orientation.

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Advocacy groups sought to suspend the rules and are asking the board to extend public comment for 30 days. The board was to vote on the issue Wednesday. Under state law, the board must reopen comment if the proposed regulations include any changes of substantial impact.

Some conservative Christian groups support the changes, saying that allowing same-sex couples to adopt goes against their religious beliefs.

Equality Virginia, the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups say children seeking homes would suffer if qualified people were barred from adopting or becoming foster parents.