California is poised to make history as the first US state to ban so-called "gay panic" defenses.  For those not familiar, these defenses argue that a revelation about actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender identity should excuse a murderous outburst so that it is merely manslaughter and not murder.  

The Washington Post has a write-up about the bill, which currently awaits Governor Brown's signature.  

VEBA is an affiliate of the National LGBT Bar Association, the bar organization that spearheaded passage of the California measure and continues to work to end such defenses around the country.  Support VEBA through membership, volunteerism, or a financial contribution and you can be part of the effort to stop these defenses here in Virginia.