The bills initially differed in the process a local governing body would have to follow in order to alter a monument, with the Senate-backed bill requiring a vote by a supermajority in order to act, among other things. The measures Northam signed do not require a supermajority, but allow a locality to hold a nonbinding referendum on what to do with its monuments.

Northam also signed bills to create a commission to recommend a replacement for Virginia’s Robert E. Lee statue in the U.S. Capitol.

“These monuments tell a particular version of history that doesn’t include everyone,” Northam said. “In Virginia, that version of history has been given prominence and authority for far too long.”

Said Locke: “It is past time we told a more complete story of our history and work to build a commonwealth that values everyone — no matter who you are.”

As the Democratic nominee for governor, Northam pledged action on Confederate monuments after the deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville in August 2017 — a gathering prompted by the City Council there voting to remove a statue of Lee.