On November 13, the House Privileges and Elections Committee convened to discuss House Joint Resolution 9, a proposed amendment to the Virginia Constitution that seeks to safeguard marriage equality. Delegates Michelle Maldonado (D-Manassas), Rozia Henson (D-Lorton, Woodbridge), and Paul Milde (R), representing parts of Northern Virginia, participated in the proceedings, which underscored Virginia's ongoing evolution in its approach to civil rights and marriage laws.
The resolution, introduced by Delegate Mark Sickles (D-Fairfax), aims to remove outdated language defining marriage as solely between one man and one woman. It also establishes protections ensuring that marriage rights are granted equally, regardless of sex, gender, or race. Sickles highlighted the growing public support for marriage equality, citing polling that shows a significant shift in attitudes since the original constitutional ban was enacted in 2006.