THE LAW: The state’s anti-discrimination law allows gay couples to adopt children in Massachusetts.

THE ISSUE: Catholic Charities, the social service arm of the Boston Catholic Archdiocese, says the law is at odds with the Church’s moral opposition to homosexuality.

THE RESULT: Catholic Charities says it won’t renew its contract with the state to place special needs children in adoptive homes.

THE REACTION: Gov. Mitt Romney says he will file a bill creating a religious exemption to the law, but it’s unclear if there is enough support in the Legislature.