Coming on the heels of an executive order requiring all state agencies to disregard Virginia's former ban on same-sex marriage, Governor Terry McAuliffe has secured adoption rights for married gay couples, The Virginian-Pilot reports:
“Now that same-sex marriage in Virginia is officially legal, we owe it to all Virginians to ensure that every couple is treated equally under all of our laws, no matter whom they love,” the Democratic governor said in a statement. “This historic decision opened the door to marriage equality, and now it is my sincerest hope that it will also open more doors for Virginia children who need loving families.
“By formally recognizing that same-sex couples can now legally adopt, we are more fully complying with the ruling in this important case, and sending the message once again that Virginia is open and welcoming to everyone.”