Virginia Democrats File Emergency Appeal After Judge Halts Mid-Decade Redistricting Amendment

They ask appellate courts to restore the path to an April 21 referendum as they challenge a ruling that found multiple procedural and timing violations.

Overview

The Tazewell County Circuit Court issued a permanent injunction on Tuesday, voiding all legislative actions on the amendment and blocking the planned April 21 ballot measure.
Judge Jack S. Hurley Jr. found lawmakers violated House Joint Resolution 6001 by expanding the 2024 special session’s scope without the unanimous consent or two‑thirds vote the rule required.
The court ruled the constitutional requirement for an intervening election was not met because the October 2025 passage occurred after early voting had begun for the November election.
The order also cited noncompliance with Virginia Code §30-13, which requires proposed amendments to be posted at courthouses at least 90 days before an election.
Democrats’ emergency motion argues the court overreached and that the posting mandate was removed from the constitution, and they seek a stay as appellate courts weigh the case with the referendum and potential congressional map changes in limbo.