http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,314128,00.htmlLONDON, Ky. — A southeastern Kentucky couple who say they refused to agree not to attend snake-handling religious services have sued a foster-care agency after their license was revoked.
Melissa Dixon, a lawyer for Jason and Tammy Barrett of Laurel County, wouldn't say whether the Barretts have handled snakes before but said they have never taken their foster children to the services. They also promised not to take the children to such services, she said.
Dixon said the Barretts hope the public will focus on the religious freedom issues in the lawsuit rather than on snake-handling.
The Barretts allege that Lifeway for Youth Kentucky, a foster-care agency that contracts with the state, violated their constitutional rights. They say the agency revoked their license and took custody of the foster children in their care in November 2006 because they had formerly attended services where snakes were handled. snip
The Barretts are still licensed foster parents through another agency, Dixon said. They've been licensed since October 2005, and they are licensed to care for kids with special needs.