Discrimination Against LGBTQ Virginians Banned By New Law

RICHMOND, VA — Virginia on Saturday became the first state in the South to enact protections for the LGBTQ community against discrimination in housing, employment, public spaces, and credit applications. Gov. Ralph Northam announced he has signed the Virginia Values Act to end discrimination and protect residents regardless of race, religion, sex and other factors.

Senate Bill 868, sponsored by Sen. Adam Ebbin, prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in housing, public and private employment, public accommodations, and access to credit. The legislation also extends important protections to Virginians on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, and status as a veteran.

“This legislation sends a strong, clear message: Virginia is a place where all people are welcome to live, work, visit, and raise a family,” Northam said in a news release. “We are building an inclusive Commonwealth where there is opportunity for everyone, and everyone is treated fairly. No longer will LGBTQ Virginians have to fear being fired, evicted, or denied service in public places because of who they are.”

Northam’s signing of the Virginia Values Act makes discrimination against gay, lesbian and transgender residents in employment, housing and public accommodation illegal in the Commonwealth of Virginia, said Speaker of the House Eileen Filler-Corn in a statement. “It is now the law of the land that every Virginian can work hard, earn a living wage, and live their lives without fear of discrimination based on who they are or who they love. A tremendous victory.”

The Virginia Values Act represents years of work by activists, legislators, and progressive members of the business community to ensure full protection for every Virginian under the law, said Sen. Adam Ebbin in a news release.

“Sadly, during times of crisis like these, discrimination rises, and its effects become more apparent," Ebbin said. "When jobs are scarce and housing unaffordable, the reality of who you are must be an additional hurdle to putting food on the table or providing shelter for your family. This law provides important new protections.”