Virginia

Virginia currently maintains stronger protections for women’s rights than many states in the region, particularly around reproductive care and voting access. However, many of these protections are written into state law rather than the state constitution. This means elections still matter—not because rights are disappearing now, but because future lawmakers and courts will shape whether existing protections are strengthened, expanded, or left open to change.

What’s at stake

Reproductive healthcare access

Abortion remains legal in Virginia under existing state law. However, access is governed by legislation rather than the state constitution, meaning it could still be changed by future lawmakers.

In 2025, Virginia began the process of adding an expansive reproductive rights amendment to the state constitution to permanently protect them. Because constitutional amendments in Virginia must be approved by two consecutive legislatures and then by voters, the outcome of the 2026 elections will help determine whether the amendment advances or stalls before reaching the ballot.

Voting and civic participation

Virginia has expanded early voting and access in recent years, helping to stabilize participation across election cycles. These policies are established in state law but are not constitutionally protected. Changes in legislative control could affect voting access, election administration, or future expansion efforts.

Workplace protections

Virginia has taken steps to strengthen workplace accommodations and protections for pregnant workers. While these policies represent meaningful progress, their scope and enforcement depend on continued legislative support and administrative follow-through.

What will be on the ballot — and when

Virginia voters will have the opportunity to participate in two elections that will shape how women’s rights laws are written, interpreted, and enforced.

Primary elections (June 16, 2026)

• State legislative primaries
  • The Virginia House of Delegates (all seats)
  • The Virginia State Senate (all seats)

Primaries determine which candidates advance to the general election, and outcomes shape which policy approaches are available to voters in November

General election (November 3, 2026)

• Virginia House of Delegates (all seats)
• Virginia State Senate (all seats)
• U.S. House of Representatives

These offices influence whether new laws advance or stall, how existing laws are enforced or defended, and whether unresolved legal questions gain clarity or remain contested.

Election resources

The following links provide information to help voters understand what’s on their ballot and how to participate:

Virginia Department of Elections — voter registration, polling locations, and election dates
Ballotpedia — Virginia elections, 2026

WRDI provides election context to support an informed understanding of how laws and policies change. The initiative does not endorse candidates or parties.