Virginia City Stops Abortion Clinics From Being Near Churches and Schools

Life News ^ | February 18, 2026 | Victoria Cobb

[Morgana]

We have great news to share with you!

Last week, the Lynchburg City Council voted 4–2 to pass a new zoning ordinance that places commonsense limits on where abortion facilities can operate . The measure requires any abortion clinic to stay at least 1,000 feet away from schools, churches, and neighborhoods, and requires a special use permit before any facility can open. This ordinance will go a long way in helping Lynchburg become a

Safe Zone for Life !

This ordinance does not ban abortion, but it ensures that communities have a voice and that vulnerable neighborhoods, families, and children are not forced to live next door to abortion facilities. After nearly five hours of public testimony, the overwhelming majority of speakers supported the ordinance, and hundreds of voicemails poured in, most in favor.

This moment reflects a clear message: when citizens engage, local leaders listen. Pastors spoke, believers showed up, and community members made their voices heard.

Across Virginia, the fight over abortion is intensifying. Efforts are underway to radically expand abortion access through constitutional amendments and policy changes. What happened in Lynchburg is a glimpse of what is possible when people of faith engage—and a reminder of how much work remains.

During the hearing, opponents argued that biblical convictions should not influence public policy, and some claimed this type of ordinance should never be considered at all.

Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 31:8 (ESV):

“Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.”

That is what took place in Lynchburg, and it is what must continue across our state. Lynchburg followed in the steps of Bedford to become a safe zone for life, and now is the time to encourage other localities to do the same.

Thank you for standing with us, for praying, and for staying engaged. The work continues, and your partnership makes it possible.

LifeNews Note: Victoria Cobb is the president of The Family Foundation, based in Virginia.

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TOPICS: Culture/Society; Government; US: Virginia
KEYWORDS: abortion; prolife; virginia

[Morgana]

Hope for Virginia?

[Steely Tom]

Some judge will make them put an abortion clinic in every girl’s locker room.

[No name given]

Hopefully (pun intended).

[KingLudd]

The governor and the legislature will pull an all-nighter to stop this. Northern Vriginia won’t stand for commonsense anywhere in the state. What NOVA wants, NOVA gets.