In Richmond, Virginia, the Democratic-controlled state legislature has advanced several constitutional amendments aimed at expanding protections for reproductive rights, repealing a ban on same-sex marriage, and revising the process for restoring voting rights for individuals convicted of felonies.
These amendments were discussed during a House Privileges and Elections Committee meeting, where lawmakers emphasized the urgency of the measures, citing threats to freedoms.
Del. Cia Price, the committee chair, framed the amendments as vital to safeguarding rights. One key amendment seeks to protect abortion access, positioning Virginia as potentially the first Southern state to enshrine reproductive rights in its constitution.
Another would restore the voting rights of individuals who have served felony sentences, bypassing the governor’s discretion in a state where felons are permanently barred from voting unless a governor acts.
The proposed amendments are part of the broader legislative agenda but must pass the General Assembly in two consecutive sessions and be approved by voters. Although the abortion amendment passed the Senate in 2023, it failed in the Republican-controlled House, but now has support from Democrats.
A related resolution, which passed along party lines on Wednesday, also includes a measure to protect same-sex marriage, with bipartisan support.
While proponents of these changes emphasize progress on civil rights, opponents, including Republican leaders, argue that these issues need more debate and vetting before moving forward.
Nonetheless, Virginia’s legislative process allows Democrats to push forward without requiring the governor’s signature, relying instead on public referendum for final approval.