Virginia Becomes 38th State To Ratify ERA But Lengthy Legal Battle Looms

Two women walk past a painting of the beginning of the U.S. Constitution during a preview of the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Penn., on July 1, 2003. William Thomas Cain/Getty Images

Virginia, on Jan. 15 became the 38th state to vote to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) after the Senate and House of Delegates voted to approve the change to the U.S. Constitution.

Democratic lawmakers in the state-approved two separate but similar resolutions that would ratify the ERA in Virginia. Its being hailed as a historical moment and significant victory for women’s rights groups.