In its recent session, the Virginia General Assembly passed a historic package of employment legislation that will reshape the workplace landscape across the Commonwealth. These new laws — spanning minimum wage increases, paid leave expansion, a ban on pay history questions, and expanded anti-discrimination protections — represent the most significant overhaul of Virginia employment law since 2020 and are on Governor Abigail Spanberger’s desk for signature. Below is a summary of the key provisions, which, if signed by the Governor, could take effect as early as July 1, 2026.
Minimum wage increase (HB 1/SB 1). Virginia's minimum wage would rise on a phased schedule: to $13.75 per hour on January 1, 2027, and to $15.00 per hour on January 1, 2028. Beginning January 1, 2029, the minimum wage would be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index.
Paid sick leave (HB 5/SB 199). Virginia’s paid sick leave mandate, previously limited to certain home health workers, would now extend to all public and private employees. Employees would accrue at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, with an annual cap of 40 hours that employees would be permitted to carry over from year to year. Leave could be used for illness, medical appointments, caregiving, and absences related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. This provision would take delayed effect on July 1, 2027.
Paid family and medical leave (HB 1207/SB 2). Under this law, Virginia would...
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