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ARTICLE · 01 JULY 2026

2026 Virginia Legislative Update

Virginia's political shift has ushered in sweeping employment law reforms that fundamentally alter the employer-employee relationship across the Commonwealth. From mandatory wage transparency and paid family leave to enhanced penalties for wage violations, these changes demand immediate attention from every Virginia employer as compliance deadlines approach.

United StatesEmployment and HR

The political landscape in Virginia has again shifted. After the 2025 elections, the Democratic Party controls the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Governor’s Office. During the January to May 2026 General Session, the General Assembly passed several important employment laws. The new laws generally strengthen employee rights and increase penalties and exposure for employers out of compliance.

Every Virginia employer must understand these new employment laws, some of which take effect on July 1, 2026.

The following is a summary of some of the most significant changes:

1. Minimum Wage Increases (HB1/SB1)

AMENDS: Virginia Code § 40.1-28.10

Virginia’s minimum wage is now $12.77 per hour.

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