WASHINGTON — A Constitutional amendment passed in Virginia that gives real property tax exemptions to the surviving spouses of U.S. military members killed in action from paying real estate taxes.

Del. David Ramadan, R-Loudoun, sponsored the amendment and said it’s the least the state can do for the spouses of those who died serving their country.

Virginia already offers a real estate tax exemption to veterans who became completely disabled as a result of their military service.

The General Assembly has unanimously passed Ramadan’s legislation twice, with an election in between votes, allowing the voters to have a voice on changing the Virginia Constitution.

The exemption applies only to the spouse’s principal place of residence.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. Follow @WTOP on Twitter and on WTOP Facebook page.