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Governor Youngkin Signs Anti-Bigotry Bill While Vetoing Other Legislation

Official Photo by Austin Stevens, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin

Governor Glenn Youngkin signed House Bill 18 earlier this week, reaffirming his commitment to combating “bigotry” by protecting citizens from unlawful discrimination, hate crimes and antisemitism.

In a post on X, Youngkin’s official account highlighted that “HB 18 and SB 7 are bipartisan pieces of legislation that build on our framework of action because hatred, intolerance and antisemitism have no place in the Commonwealth. We remain committed to prioritizing the safety and security of all Virginians.”

Amidst a flurry of bill signings, which included approving 100 pieces of legislation, Governor Youngkin also vetoed four bills. One of the vetoed bills would have created civil penalties for shop owners who fail to advertise that they are selling invasive plants that could harm other species.

Virginia Mecury has additional coverage:

Among the 100 bills signed is a measure that will codify a recommendation by the Commission to Combat Antisemitism that Virginia  revise its laws to better protect Jewish citizens from hate crimes, along with Muslims, Sikhs and other ethnic-religious groups.

Youngkin said the legislation aligns with one of his top priorities: combating antisemitism.

“As the first state to weave religious freedom into the fabric of our nation, Virginia is leading once again and sending a clear message that Virginians should not be the victim of a crime simply because of their religion, race, or ethnicity,” the governor said in an April 2 press release.

Sen. Bryce Reeves, R-Spotsylvania, and Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax, carried the legislation, Senate Bill 7 and House Bill 18.

“I’m thankful for the governor’s signature and the bipartisan co-patrons of this important bill,” Reeves said in a statement. He added that the legislation isn’t ultimately about a single group but about “defending the fundamental values of equality, justice, and human dignity for all.”

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