Bill Scheduling Redistricting Ballot Referendum Passes Virginia House
The Virginia House of Delegates made headlines on Monday by voting along party lines to pass a significant bill scheduling a voter referendum on a proposed constitutional amendment regarding redistricting. The amendment is poised to allow for legislative changes to congressional maps mid-decade, which has been a contentious topic in Virginia.
Notably, this bill also aims to eliminate a long-standing requirement in state code that mandates clerks of circuit courts post proposed constitutional amendments on the doors of courthouses 90 days prior to the upcoming House election. This traditional practice was notably disregarded when Democrats first passed an amendment shortly before the November 2025 election, raising concerns about transparency and fairness.
The bill, spearheaded by Delegate Luke Torian, a Democrat from Prince William, carries with it the stipulation that the repeal of the old requirement will be retroactively effective from July 1, 1971. This retroactivity comes amidst ongoing litigation initiated by Republicans regarding the initial presentation of the constitutional amendment. A lawsuit filed in response to the amendment cites the courthouse posting requirement but has faced setbacks, including a judge’s denial of an injunction to halt the resolution’s passage.
On the House floor, Delegate Tom Garrett, a Republican from Buckingham, humorously referenced the situation, claiming that Democrats had crafted a “time machine” to alter past events. He quipped about how the Buffalo Bills might have fared differently if given such support, showcasing the growing political dramatics surrounding the redistricting debate.
In addition to scheduling the referendum, the legislation stipulates that any lawsuits relating to the redistricting amendment must be filed exclusively in Richmond City Circuit Court, diverging from the existing legal proceedings in Tazewell County Circuit Court.
Looking ahead, the bill must now pass the Virginia Senate and receive Governor Abigail Spanberger’s signature to move forward. If successful, Virginia residents will have the opportunity to vote on the redistricting constitutional amendment on April 21. Democrats aim to unveil a potential new congressional map this week, stirring further interest in this pivotal electoral issue.
For further information, contact Kate Seltzer at 757-713-7881 or via email at kate.seltzer@virginiamedia.com.
