New Va. Delegate Fights Modern Massive Resistance Movement to LGBT Equality

RICHMOND VA - January 29, 2015 - In the Virginia House of Delegates, the longest continuously meeting legislative body in the western hemisphere, progressive legislation has historically met with massive resistance – almost always trailing the rest of the country.  Delegate Marcus B. Simon (VA-53) had introduced three pieces of equality legislation in an effort to push the Commonwealth forward. All died on mostly party line votes. 

"Virginia can't build a 21st century brand and economy as long as we continue to have a 19th century legal scheme regarding marriage and families," said Simon.

Hours after the United States Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal of a 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling declaring Virginia’s same sex marriage ban unconstitutional, Simon introduced HB 1288 to formally repeal the 1975 statute banning same sex unions in the Commonwealth.

He also partnered with Virginia’s Democratic Governor Terrence "Terry" McAuliffe on a bill that would have updated gender specific references like husband & wife to spouse (HB 1600). 

Building upon his work from last session, he also introduced HB 1454 to add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes in Virginia’s fair housing statute.

The House Courts Civil Law Subcommittee tabled Simon’s HB 1600, on a party line voice vote.

"This bill would have been an important step toward bringing Virginia's Code up to date, with modern definitions to match today's modern families. To stay economically competitive, Virginia needs to build a 21st century brand and economy, divesting itself of any outdated 19th century legal schemes regarding marriage and gender roles," said Simon.

Secretary of Commerce Maurice Jones, testified in favor of the statute, pointing out that more than 90% of all Fortune 500 companies have non-discrimination policies, which include sexual orientation. To compete with other states for these businesses, the Commonwealth must embrace this policy as well.

"As an elected official, it is my duty to uphold the rights of all citizens in the Commonwealth. I consider the fight for equal rights to be an integral part of this," said Simon.

A lifelong resident of Virginia, Simon expressed concern for the way Virginia will be perceived nationally if it continues its policy openly condoning discrimination.

"Today my colleagues in the House of Delegates decided that only some Virginians should benefit from the protection of its laws. Condoning senseless discrimination is causing people to leave Virginia.  It hurts our ability to attract new companies, and the talented, creative employees that they need to work in new industries.

Virginia is being left behind – socially, and economically. We must rebrand ourselves as an inclusive Commonwealth, free of subjugation and prejudice.  A Commonwealth which every resident can be rightfully proud to call their home.

I will continue to fight for equality in the Commonwealth and stop discrimination at the source.  In 2015 no person should face discrimination.  We live in a diverse society.  To allow any form of discrimination will only hold us back from developing our full potential," Simon said.

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