Virginia House Bill HJR476

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/23
• Refer: 1/3/23

Caption

Constitutional amendment; repeal of same-sex marriage prohibition (first reference).

Impact

The successful passage of HJR476 could have significant implications for state laws regarding marriage and family relationships. The repeal would allow the state and its political subdivisions to create or recognize legal statuses for same-sex couples that confer rights, benefits, and obligations similar to those of marriage. This change would position Virginia alongside states that have already embraced marriage equality, thereby promoting inclusivity in family law and civil rights.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 476 (HJR476) proposes a constitutional amendment to repeal the existing prohibition on same-sex marriage in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Specifically, the bill aims to remove Section 15-A of Article I from the state constitution, which defines marriage as strictly between one man and one woman. By repealing this language, the resolution seeks to align state law with the evolving views on marriage equality and the recognition of same-sex relationships.

Contention

While HJR476 is positioned as a step towards equality and civil rights for the LGBTQ+ community, it may also face opposition from groups that uphold traditional views on marriage. The arguments against the repeal may center on the belief that marriage should remain a union exclusively between one man and one woman. Discussions in the legislative context could reveal a divide among lawmakers regarding the moral, social, and legal implications of redefining marriage in the state constitution.