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Bill

Bill

HJ 1

Constitutional amendment (second reference); fundamental right to reproductive freedom.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lashrecse Aird and 57 co-sponsors

Virginia proposes a constitutional amendment guaranteeing reproductive freedom rights, requiring two legislative passages and voter approval to override state abortion restrictions.

Signed by Speaker
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJ 1

Legislative bill overview

This is a Virginia constitutional amendment that would enshrine a fundamental right to reproductive freedom in the state constitution. The bill is on its second reference (requiring passage in two consecutive legislative sessions before voter approval) and has advanced through multiple floor amendments and votes in the 2026 session.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments represent the highest form of state law protection, making reproductive rights harder to overturn through simple legislation. This directly addresses the post-Dobbs landscape where abortion regulation reverted to states, and would prevent future Virginia legislatures from restricting reproductive choices without another constitutional amendment.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope definition: The phrase "reproductive freedom" is not statutorily defined in the amendment text itself, leaving interpretation questions about what specific procedures and circumstances it would protect or require
  • Voter approval uncertainty: Even if passed by the legislature twice, the measure still requires approval by Virginia voters in a statewide referendum, making final outcome uncertain
  • Interaction with existing law: Unclear how this would affect existing Virginia abortion regulations and whether it would mandate coverage or funding for reproductive services beyond prohibition of restrictions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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