With one week remaining in the Virginia General Assembly’s session, the Virginia Catholic Conference has reported setbacks on two legislative issues it advocated for during the eighth week of proceedings.
A bill addressing access to health care facilities passed both chambers of the General Assembly. The legislation, which aims to prevent obstruction at health care sites, was criticized by the Conference for its potential impact on individuals offering prayer and counseling outside abortion clinics. The Senate approved the bill in January, followed by passage in the House with amendments this Wednesday. Due to differences between the House and Senate versions, a conference committee is expected to be formed to reconcile them. “In either form, the legislation is an infringement on the rights of individuals to assemble and pray in public spaces, a threat to freedom of speech, and a threat to vital efforts to offer life-affirming information and options,” stated the Conference.
On another front, a proposal that would limit solitary confinement in Virginia prisons was delayed. The measure would have capped most instances of isolated confinement at 15 consecutive days—a policy consistent with international standards for humane treatment of prisoners. Although it cleared the House last month with support from advocates including the Conference, a Senate committee voted today to postpone further consideration until next year.
The Conference also announced plans for participation in this year’s Virginia March for Life event scheduled for April 22 in Richmond. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP and utilize new informational materials available through vacatholic.org/Amendment regarding opposition to an abortion-related amendment.
The Virginia Catholic Conference serves as the public policy arm representing Catholic bishops from both dioceses within Virginia.
