Same-Sex Couples in Virginia Can Adopt, Governor Says

iStock/Thinkstock(RICHMOND, Va.) — Same-sex couples in the state of Virginia can now legally adopt, the state’s governor said on Friday.

Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the state’s appeal of a lower court’s ruling striking down Virginia’s ban on same-sex marriage. In doing so, the lower court’s decision became effective, prompting the state to recognize and allow same-sex marriages.

“Now that same-sex marriage in Virginia is officially legal,” Gov. Terry McAuliffe said in a statement, “we owe it to all Virginians to ensure that every couple is treated equally under all of our laws, no matter whom they love.” Calling the Supreme Court’s decision “historic,” McAuliffe stated his “sincerest hope that it will also open more doors for Virginia children who need loving families.”

Citing Virginia law, which states that a “married couple or an unmarried individual shall be eligible to receive placement of a child for purposes of adoption,” McAuliffe said the message was being sent “once again that Virginia is open and welcoming to everyone.”

McAuliffe sent a bulletin to local divisions of the Department of Social Services on Friday making clear that, due to the Supreme Court ruling, the state will recognize and allow same-sex marriage, and allow any married couple — including same-sex couples — the opportunity adopt.

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