Virginia House Democratic Caucus: Caucus Chairman Statement on Anti-Discrimination Measure

From the Virginia House Democratic Caucus

March 9, 2010

CONTACT: Matt Mansell, 804-644-1966

House Democratic Caucus Chairman Ken Plum released the following statement this afternoon on the refusal of the House of Delegates to consider SB 66, Senator McEachin's bill to prohibit discrimination in state employment:

"Senator McEachin's SB 66 was an attempt to take an important step in protecting Virginians against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

"I am disappointed that Republicans in the House of Delegates once again refused debate on this important issue and placed in jeopardy Virginia's status as the 'Best State for Business.' By rejecting Senator McEachin's bill, House Republicans are sending a message to businesses and individuals around the country that Virginia is not welcoming of all people.

"It appears that the only solution we now have is for Governor McDonnell to send down a bill. I hope that he will do so immediately to enable proper debate on this topic."

Today's vote comes after Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli sent a letter to Virginia's colleges and universities asking them to repeal provisions protecting faculty and staff against discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Full video of today's floor debate can be viewed here:

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xcik2b_virginia-house-of-delegates-rejects_news

###