From the State Capitol in Richmond, I’m Craig Carper.
The House has approved the Virginia Values Act which would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Danica Roem is the first trans woman to serve in the House.
“No person in the commonwealth of Virginia should ever be afraid to be who they are and to be that well and to thrive in this commonwealth because of who they are not despite it and not because of who discriminatory politicians tell them who they’re supposed to be. Let’s pass this bill.”
Equality Virginia says the bill would protect LGBT Virginians from discrimination in employment, housing, banking and public accommodation.
Vee Lamneck, Deputy Director of Equality Virginia
“So this would have a fundamental life changing impact on LGBT individuals, on their families, their schools and on their communities.”
The Family Foundation says the bill goes beyond what the public believes is a reasonable regulation on private business. They’re supporting challenges to similar laws in federal court.
Victoria Cobb, President, Family Foundation of Virginia
The Supreme Court does not think it’s appropriate to step in and push an ideology against any group of faith-based people who are simply trying to live out their lives consistently with their religion.
The Senate is expected to pass the bill tomorrow.
For Assembly 20 I’m Craig Carper.
