Virginia Lawmakers Advance Four Amendments Ahead Of Referendum
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RICHMOND, Va. House Democrats advanced four constitutional amendments that would enshrine abortion protections, restore voting rights to people with felony convictions, remove a defunct ban on same-sex marriage and permit temporary mid-decade congressional redistricting pending voter approval. The measures passed the Democratic-controlled House after public testimony and await Senate consideration, where Democrats also hold a slim majority; the Senate advanced the redistricting proposal later in the week. Officials said voters will see proposed congressional maps before an expected April referendum. Supporters framed the push as restoring rights; opponents focused objections on abortion. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
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Timeline
- 1. More than 11 years ago: same-sex marriages began in Charlottesville, informing later marriage-equality efforts.
- 2. Last year: mid-decade redistricting activity in other states (including Texas) prompted Virginia legislative response.
- 3. Opening day of the 2026 General Assembly (Wednesday): House Democrats advanced four constitutional amendments after public testimony.
- 4. Later that week (Friday): the Democratic-controlled Senate advanced the mid-decade redistricting amendment and approved other measures.
- 5. Officials announced voters would see proposed congressional maps before an expected April referendum.
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