Bill > SJR3

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to modify Section 15-A of Virginia's Constitution regarding marriage. The amendment would repeal the previous language that defined marriage exclusively as a union between one man and one woman, which was invalidated by the U.S. Supreme Court's Obergefell v. Hodges decision in 2015. The new language affirms marriage as a vital personal right and prohibits the Commonwealth and its political subdivisions from denying marriage licenses to two adult persons based on sex, gender, or race. Furthermore, the resolution requires Virginia and its local governments to recognize lawful marriages between two adult persons and treat such marriages equally under the law, regardless of the participants' sex, gender, or race. This proposed amendment follows the standard legislative process for constitutional changes in Virginia, which requires agreement by a majority of members in both legislative houses in two consecutive sessions.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SJ3