Virginia Abortion Amendment (HJ1): What You Need to Know

Virginia is at the center of the abortion debate. A proposed constitutional amendment would enshrine abortion as a fundamental right in our state, threatening pregnancy centers and leaving moms with fewer life-affirming options. Currently, Virginia is already the most pro-abortion state in the South, where abortion is legal through birth with virtually zero protection for preborn babies. On top of that, an Abortion Amendment is in process that would enshrine “reproductive rights” into the state constitution.

The Proposed Constitutional Amendment

The core of the proposal states: “That every individual has the fundamental right to reproductive freedom and that the right to make and effectuate one’s own decisions about all matters related to one’s pregnancy cannot be denied, burdened, or otherwise infringed upon by the Commonwealth, unless justified by a compelling state interest and achieved by the least restrictive means.”

Furthermore, the amendment prohibits the Commonwealth from penalizing, prosecuting, or otherwise taking adverse action against an individual for exercising the individual’s right to reproductive freedom or for aiding another individual in the exercise of such right, unless justified by a compelling state interest.

Timeline and Legislative Process

The Amendment has already passed once through the VA General Assembly. The following dates and statistics are critical to understanding the path forward:

• November 4, 2025: Election for the House of Delegates must occur.
• House of Delegates Status: Currently 51-49 Pro-Abortion. If that flips on November 4th, the problem goes away for now.
• January 2026: The new General Assembly will vote a second time for the Amendment.
• November 2026: If it passes the assembly, it will be on the ballot for a popular vote.
• Current Polling: Analysts say polling on the amendment is 61-39 in favor.

Threats to Pregnancy Resource Centers

This is a major threat to Pregnancy Centers. If the amendment passes, it could easily be interpreted to mean that PRCs that don’t offer abortion services are “denying, burdening, or infringing” on the rights of Virginia citizens. We would be exposed to legal threats that could hamper or even stop our ability to minister to women and babies in our communities.

Federal Developments and Public Comments

The National Women’s Law Center submitted a public comment on the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) proposed rule on “Reproductive Health Services” which was released on August 4, 2025. The Department’s proposal would harm veterans and their loved ones by stripping away access to abortion care and counseling. Access to abortion is necessary for the health and safety of veterans, and for all people to determine their futures. The Department’s proposed rule threatens the freedoms, health, and well-being of those who have served.

How to Take Action

Care Net Peninsula is here to equip you with the truth and tools to act. Below you will find resources to help you share and spread awareness about what is happening in Virginia:

• Pray for God’s Protection over preborn babies in Virginia.
• Ask the Lord to intervene and stop the advancement of the abortion amendment that threatens the lives of preborn babies and pro-life pregnancy centers like ours.
• Pray for perseverance and resolve of our ministry and that the staff would remain encouraged in their ministry to clients and babies amidst all the noise.
• Pray for our leaders as they navigate how to respond to threats like the abortion amendment.

We provide the help and hope local women need to choose life for their baby. You can also support through One-Time Gifts, Monthly Gifts, or by choosing to Volunteer with CNP.