1. Hate Crime Legislation: Should crimes against people because of their sexual orientation be included in hate crime legislation?

Answer: First off, in relation to all these questions, I am opposed to discrimination in any form -- whether it be on the grounds of sexual orientation, gender, religious, ethnic or racial background. I have worked throughout my life to ensure that all people are accorded dignity and respect .

Therefore, I would support adding sexual orientation to the crimes covered under Virginia's "hate crimes" law such as the bill sponsored by Delegate Jim Almand in the last session but which ultimately was defeated in the Courts of Justice Committee by a 17-6 vote. I would work with Jim Almand and other legislators to develop a strategy on the best way to advance this legislation.

2. Sodomy Laws: Would you work to erase sodomy laws from the books?

Answer: These laws have not been enforced except in certain situations against gays and thus should be abolished.

3. Job Discrimination: Would you work to ensure that sexual orientation could not be a cause for job discrimination?

Answer: I definitely believe that sexual orientation should not be the cause for job discrimination and I will speak out on this issue. I would certainly work hard to ensure that the Commonwealth does not discriminate in its employment practices. Because of existing federal laws on employment discrimination, I am unsure that the state has the authority to enact legislation, but I would look into this.

4. Legalizing Relationships Between GLBT Partners: What are your views on legalizing relationships between gay or lesbian partners?

Answer: I believe gays and lesbian partnerships should have the same rights and legal obligations as with other relationships. I am willing to work with the gay and lesbian community to figure out how to accomplish this in Virginia, given a past history of discrimination on a wide variety of grounds.

Nancy O'Brien (electronic mail, November 8, 2001).