BILOXI, Miss.--A decision about whether or not to allow openly gay scout masters in the Boy Scouts of America has been delayed for now. U.S. Congressman Steven Palazzo, who represents south Miss. and the coast is reacting.

He sent this statement out Thursday afternoon:

“As a former scout myself, I am pleased that the organization has not turned its back onits long standing heritage founded on principles of leadership, moral uprightness, and service to God and country. I only hope that the national leaders of the Boy Scouts of America continue to stand up for what is right and resist pressure from outside groups dedicated to forcing their personal views upon private organizations.”

Palazzo recently sent a letter supporting the Boy Scouts of America’s current stance on sexual orientation within the organization. In the letter he stated:

“The Boy Scouts also have a rich history of faith and values. One of the key tenets for the Boy Scouts recognizes a “Duty to God.” As a former boy scout myself, I strongly believe that this tenet should not be compromised because faith and religious beliefs play a significant role in a child’s development. Unfortunately, this tradition and these values are under attack.”

The Supreme Court ruled in 2000 that excluding homosexuals within the Boy Scouts of Americais protected under the First Amendment.