McClellan Statement on Senate Committee Votes to Protect Virginia Values Act

by John Reid
Senate Kills Bill that Would Undermine LGBTQ+ Protections from Discrimination

Yesterday, Sen. Jennifer McClellan (D-Richmond) released the following statement on the Senate General Laws Committee’s vote to block a House bill (HB 753) undoing key sections of the Virginia Values Act passed in 2020 by exempting religious-affiliated organizations and non-profits from certain antidiscrimination provisions.

“Today’s vote sends a clear message that Virginia welcomes everyone, with the strongest LGBTQ+ protections in the South,” said Senator McClellan. “This bill seeks to gut our progress, opening up loopholes to allow discrimination against LGBTQ+ Virginians. We still have work to do to achieve LGBTQ+ equality, but today’s vote ensures Virginia continues on the path towards progress.”

McClellan was a chief co-patron of the Virginia Values Act, which was patroned by Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-Alexandria) in 2020. McClellan authored a bill barring housing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, which was incorporated into the Virginia Values Act. 

Releated

VA Legislative Black Caucus condemns conditions at Red Onion State Prison

by John Reid Earlier this month, the PW Perspective reported on a petition by Concerned Citizens and Community Action Network to address reported incidents at Virginia’s Red Onion State Prison. Today, the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus issued a statement on the atrocities: “The VLBC is horrified at recent reports of incarcerated individuals setting themselves on […]

by John Reid