RICHMOND, VA — Today, the Virginia House Democratic Caucus completed the second required passage of a package of constitutional amendments to protect fundamental freedoms and strengthen democracy. With House approval secured, the amendments now advance to the Senate and, when passed, will be sent to Virginia voters for final approval.
The House passed the following constitutional amendments:
House Joint Resolution 1 (HJ 1), patroned by Leader Charniele Herring, to enshrine reproductive freedom in the Virginia Constitution, protecting access to contraception, abortion care, IVF, prenatal and postpartum care, miscarriage management, and infertility treatment.
House Joint Resolution 2 (HJ 2), patroned by Delegate Elizabeth Bennett-Parker, to guarantee the automatic restoration of voting rights for returning citizens.
House Joint Resolution 3 (HJ 3), patroned by Delegate Mark Sickles, to remove Virginia’s outdated constitutional ban on same-sex marriage and protect marriage equality.
House Joint Resolution 4 (HJ 4), patroned by Delegate Rodney Willett, to provide a one-time exception to redraw congressional districts and give Virginians a crucial voice, while ensuring Virginia’s bipartisan redistricting process will resume after the 2030 census.
“Virginians elected and expanded a Democratic majority because they trusted us to protect their rights,” said Speaker Don Scott. “By completing this second passage, we are honoring that trust and putting these fundamental questions where they belong — in the hands of Virginia voters.”
House Majority Leader Charniele Herring said, “With the passage of HJ 1, Virginia is taking decisive action to protect reproductive freedom in the Commonwealth, and ensure that personal healthcare decisions remain between the patient and doctor and free from political interference.”
“The right to vote is fundamental to our democracy. Completing this second passage is about fairness, redemption, reintegration, and the belief in second chances,” said Delegate Elizabeth Bennett-Parker.
“Love is love, and now we’re one step closer to ensuring that our Constitution finally reflects that,” said Delegate Mark Sickles. “By advancing the removal of the ban on same-sex marriage, civil unions and domestic partnerships, Virginians will be protected should the Supreme Court reverse its historic decision.”
“Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, but right now, they are under threat. This amendment gives Virginians the power to level the playing field and protect our democracy for our kids and grandkids,” said Delegate Rodney Willett. “This amendment is a temporary, one-time exception that gives Virginians a crucial voice and meets the needs of the current moment, while ensuring Virginia’s bipartisan redistricting process will resume after the 2030 census.”
“These amendments reflect our shared values and our responsibility to future generations,” said Privileges and Elections Chair Delegate Cia Price. “They strengthen freedom, equality, and fairness across our Commonwealth.”
Next Steps
The constitutional amendments now advance to the Senate. If approved, they will be placed on the ballot for Virginia voters to decide in a statewide referendum.
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