Legislators and Jewish leaders from throughout the Commonwealth gathered together as Governor Glenn Youngkin signed HB 18 and SB 7 to expand criminal penalties against bigotry and close a serious gap in the code by ensuring ethnicity is explicitly recognized among the protected classes.

“Today we come together as Virginians to sign legislation that builds the framework to take action because hatred, intolerance, and antisemitism have no place in the Commonwealth,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to prioritize the safety and security of all Virginians as our Commonwealth continues to be a beacon of freedom and opportunity.”

“The unanimous passage of these bills reflects the shared commitment across party lines of upholding the principles of equality and justice in Virginia,” said Attorney General Jason Miyares.

“I’m proud to be here today with Governor Youngkin and leaders of Virginia’s Jewish Communities to enshrine these much-needed protections into law. As Israel stands on the verge of a two-front war, I have personally witnessed the atrocities imposed upon the Jewish people based on antisemitic beliefs. We have a moral obligation to stamp it out in the Commonwealth of Virginia and these United States. I have and will continue to stand with Israel and I’m proud to have been the Chief Patron of this important legislation and thank my democrat colleagues for their co-patrons and bipartisan support,” said Senator Bryce Reeves.

“As the grandson of Holocaust survivors and a Jewish parent whose kids have confronted antisemitism, I know how important it is that all Virginians are safe regardless of their ethnicity. I am thankful to Speaker Don Scott and other leaders in the House as well as Senator Bryce Reeves and Governor Youngkin for helping us pass this critical legislation,” said Delegate Dan Helmer.

The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of the UJCVP advocated for this legislation during the 2024 Virginia General Assembly session, following the Governor of Virginia’s Commission to Combat Antisemitism Task Force report recommendations.

The UJCVP is especially grateful to the legislators from the Virginia Peninsula that co-sponsored these bills:  Delegate Cordoza, Delegate Price, Delegate Simonds, Delegate Ward, Senator Diggs and Senator McDougle.  

To learn more about the JCRC, our advocacy work, or how to get involved, click here.