Virginia lawmakers passed the Virginia Values Act, anti-discrimination legislation that protects LGBTQ individuals, on Thursday.

This act, currently encapsulated by HB 1049 and SB 868, These two bills both will prohibit discrimination in employment, public accommodation, public contracting, apprenticeship programs, housing, banking, and insurance based on sexual orientation or gender identity. 

SB 868 was passed by the Virginia Senate by thirty to nine on Thursday, and HB 1049 was passed by the House of the Delegates on Wednesday by fifty-nine to thirty-nine. Both bills still have to advance through the other chamber, but they are expected to pass through and be signed into law by Governor Ralph Northam. Virginia is anticipated to be one of the first southern states to pass such protections.