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SB 1324

Obstructing health care facility access; penalties.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Ebbin and 1 co-sponsor

SB 1324 would criminalize obstruction of health care facilities but was vetoed by Virginia's Governor and the veto was sustained by the Senate.

Senate sustained Governor's veto
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1324

Legislative bill overview

SB 1324 would have created criminal penalties for obstructing access to health care facilities, including abortion clinics, reproductive health centers, and other medical providers. The bill established both misdemeanor and felony charges depending on the severity and repetition of obstruction, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.

Why is this important

This bill directly addresses access to medical services by criminalizing blockades, harassment, and interference at health care facility entrances. The veto and subsequent sustained veto indicate significant disagreement between the legislative sponsors and the Governor over whether such protections are necessary or appropriately framed.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Opponents argue the bill could restrict protest and demonstration rights, particularly regarding abortion-related activism
  • Scope and definition: Disagreement over what constitutes "obstruction" and whether the language is precise enough to distinguish illegal blockades from lawful protest
  • Partisan divide: The bill reflects broader national debates over abortion access and the role of government in protecting or restricting clinic access, with different stakeholders viewing the issue through fundamentally different moral and political frameworks

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

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