The January 14, 2025, Regular Session of the Virginia House of Delegates commenced with the Speaker calling the house to order. The session focused on several key resolutions, notably House Joint Resolution 2, which proposed an amendment to the Virginia Constitution regarding the restoration of voting rights for individuals with felony convictions.

Delegate Maldonado from Prince William reported that the committee had met to count votes on various judicial nominations, all of which were confirmed with overwhelming support. The nominees for circuit courts, general district courts, juvenile and domestic relations district courts, and the auditor of public accounts were all declared duly elected.

The session then shifted to House Joint Resolution 2, which aimed to amend the qualifications for voters and the restoration of voting rights. Delegate Cherry proposed three amendments to the resolution, which were discussed in detail. The first amendment sought to differentiate between violent and nonviolent felonies regarding the automatic restoration of voting rights. Delegate Cherry argued that individuals convicted of violent crimes should undergo a more rigorous process for rights restoration, emphasizing the need for accountability to victims.

In contrast, Delegate Parker from Alexandria advocated for the resolution, highlighting that the proposed amendment would foster a more just society by automatically restoring voting rights upon release from incarceration. He argued that continuing to impose restrictions on individuals who have served their time contradicts the values of redemption and reintegration into society.

The debate intensified as delegates expressed differing views on the implications of the resolution. Delegate Milday voiced strong opposition, asserting that the amendment undermines accountability and fails to consider the rights of victims. He emphasized that individuals should earn their rights back through a transparent process that acknowledges the harm done to victims.

Ultimately, the house voted on the proposed amendments. The motion to pass by the first amendment was agreed to with a vote of 52 in favor and 47 against. The subsequent amendments were also passed by a narrow margin, leading to a final vote on House Joint Resolution 2 itself. The resolution was approved with 55 votes in favor and 44 against, marking a significant step towards changing the voting rights landscape in Virginia.

The session concluded with discussions on House Resolution 9, which proposed an amendment to the Virginia Constitution to affirm the right to marry without discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender. This resolution also received support from various delegates, who emphasized the importance of ensuring equal rights for all Virginians.

In summary, the January 14 session was marked by significant discussions on voting rights restoration and marriage equality, reflecting ongoing efforts to address historical injustices and promote inclusivity in Virginia's legal framework.