Virginia passes the Virginia Values Act becoming the first Southern state to pass comprehensive non-discrimination protections on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity & several other characteristics. In addition to sexual orientation & gender identity the bill also extends protections to Virginians on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability & status as a veteran. Governor Ralph Northam stated he will sign the Virginia Values Act into law once the House & Senate reconcile their versions of the bill. Alphonso David HRC President stated, "Today, history was made in Virginia & LGBTQ Virginians are one step closer to being protected from discrimination. No one should be discriminated against simply because of who they are or whom they love. This day would not have been possible without the years & years of tireless work from advocates across the commonwealth, or the voters in Virginia that filled the halls of the General Assembly with pro-equality champions who fulfilled their promises. HRC is proud to have worked to elect pro-equality lawmakers across Virginia in 2019 & we are thrilled to see that effort culminate in this important victory today. We're especially grateful for the leadership of Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw, Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, Senator Adam Ebbin & Delegate Mark Sickles, each of whom made this day possible. We also thank the patrons in each chamber, Sens. Jennifer Boysko & Jennifer McClellan in the Senate and Dels. Mark Levine & Delores McQuinn in the House." Once this bill is passed Virginia will truly be for all lovers.
For More Info: equalityvirginia.org
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