The Virginia House of Delegates Committee for Courts of Justice voted 13 to 7 Friday to advance legislation carried by Deputy Majority Leader Todd Gilbert (R-Shenandoah) that would allow members of the legislature to defend the laws of the Commonwealth should the Governor and Attorney General choose not to do so. "In light of yesterday's announcement by Attorney General Mark Herring, it is imperative that we provide a mechanism to protect and defend the people of the Commonwealth and the laws they have duly adopted," said Gilbert. "I am pleased the House Courts committee has passed this legislation, and look forward to its passage by the full House very soon."