Virginia Catholic Bishops Fight Amendment for Abortions Up to Birth
Virginia’s Catholic bishops are urging Catholics and pro-life advocates to rally in Richmond as state lawmakers in the 2026 legislative session debate a proposed constitutional amendment that would enshrine virtually unlimited abortion, including up to the moment of birth.
The bishops of the Diocese of Arlington and the Diocese of Richmond have called the proposed “Virginia Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment” extreme, warning it would strip away protections for unborn children and jeopardize parental consent laws.
“This amendment would allow virtually unlimited abortion at any stage of pregnancy,” Arlington Bishop Michael Burbidge and Richmond Bishop Barry Knestout wrote in a joint letter to Catholics across the state.
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The amendment, which passed both chambers of the Democrat-controlled General Assembly in 2025, establishes a “fundamental right to reproductive freedom.” Opponents argue its broad language, including allowances for late-term abortions based that effectively permits abortions for any reason through all nine months of pregnancy.
“Virginia is facing a serious threat from an extreme proposed abortion amendment,” Bishop Burbidge said in a recent message urging action.
Pro-life groups, including The Family Foundation of Virginia, have dubbed it the “Unlimited Abortion up to Birth Amendment,” contending it would remove parental notification requirements for minors, eliminate safety standards for clinics and threaten conscience protections for health care workers.
If approved again in the 2026 session, the measure would appear on the November 2026 ballot for voter approval by simple majority.
Thousands of pro-life supporters are expected to gather Jan. 15 for the annual Virginia Pro-Life Day at the state Capitol as the General Assembly convenes, highlighting opposition to the amendment and promoting alternatives that protect both mother and child.
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