Virginia Governor Youngkin Signs Same-Sex Marriage Bill with Religious Exemptions
The new law, signed amid a flurry of legislative activity, ensures the legality of same-sex marriages in Virginia while granting religious organizations the right to refuse performing such ceremonies.
- Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed a bill protecting same-sex marriage, emphasizing religious exemptions for clergy and religious organizations.
- The law comes as a precaution against potential future reversals of same-sex marriage protections by the Supreme Court.
- Youngkin's action included signing 63 other bills, amending 12, and vetoing eight in the final days of the legislative session.
- The move has been praised by LGBT rights groups, highlighting Youngkin's leadership and inclusivity.
- Democrats aim to repeal a 2006 constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, further solidifying marriage equality in Virginia.