Constitutional amendment (first reference); marriage between two adult persons; repeal of same-sex marriage prohibition; affirmative right to marry. Repeals the constitutional provision defining marriage as only a union between one man and one woman as well as the related provisions that are no longer valid as a result of the United States Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, 576 U.S. 644 (2015). The amendment prohibits the Commonwealth and its political subdivisions from denying the issuance of a marriage license to two adult persons seeking a lawful marriage on the basis of the sex, gender, or race of such persons. The Commonwealth and its political subdivisions are required to recognize any lawful marriage between two adult persons and to treat such marriages equally under the law, regardless of the sex, gender, or race of such persons.
Sponsored bills
Prescribed pediatric extended care centers; licensure; regulation. Authorizes the State Board of Health to license prescribed pediatric extended care centers, defined as nonresidential health care service centers that provide a link in the continuum of care for medically dependent or technologically dependent children. The bill establishes the scope of services offered by such centers and requirements for operation, management, staffing, facilities, and maintenance and directs the Board to promulgate emergency regulations to implement the provisions of the bill. The bill has a delayed effective date of July 1, 2026.
Maddy summaryHJ 620 is a ceremonial resolution commending *NORTH of the JAMES* magazine for its contributions. It does not create new laws or affect any policies, regulations, or specific individuals. The resolution formally recognizes the magazine's work through a vote by both the House and Senate, passing by voice vote in February 2025. As a procedural measure, it has no binding effect on government actions or funding.
Maddy summaryHJ 628 is a ceremonial joint resolution commending the Children's Home Society of Virginia for its work supporting children and families in Virginia. It does not create new laws, change policies, or directly affect any individuals or organizations beyond expressing legislative appreciation. The resolution passed both the House and Senate by voice vote in early 2025 and was formally adopted. As a non-binding expression of support, it has no practical impact on services, funding, or regulations.
Maddy summaryThis bill (HJ 644) is a joint resolution commending the Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance of Virginia for its work in supporting individuals recovering from substance use disorders. It formally recognizes the organization's contributions to community health and recovery efforts in Virginia. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no binding policy impact or direct effect on laws or regulations. The measure passed both chambers of the General Assembly with voice votes in February 2025.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial joint resolution honoring Matthew Robert Chiaverotti. It has no policy provisions or direct impact on legislation, citizens, or government operations. The resolution formally celebrates his life and legacy through a symbolic gesture by the legislature. As a commemorative measure, it does not create new laws or alter existing policies.
Unlawful designation as Doctor of Physical Therapy. Adds to the list of titles that are unlawful to use without a license "D.P.T." and "Doctor of Physical Therapy." The bill also removes "P.T.T." and "Physical Therapy Technician" from such list.
Maddy summaryHJ 616 is a ceremonial resolution commending Colonel Gary T. Settle for his service. It does not create new laws or affect any policies, programs, or individuals financially or operationally. The resolution formally recognizes his contributions through a non-binding expression of appreciation from the legislature. This procedural bill was passed unanimously by both chambers with no substantive impact beyond the symbolic commendation.
Claims; Keshawn Clarence Duffy; compensation for wrongful incarceration. Grants relief in an amount to be appropriated to Keshawn Clarence Duffy, who was wrongly convicted of and subsequently incarcerated for two counts of forcible sodomy.
Maddy summaryHJ 564 is a non-binding resolution honoring the late Honorable Henry Levander Marsh, III, recognizing his contributions to the state. It does not create new laws or affect any specific group, as it is purely commemorative. The resolution passed unanimously in both the House and Senate and was formally adopted by the legislature. This type of resolution serves to acknowledge an individual's legacy without implementing policy changes.