Governor Spanberger Signs Major Paid Leave Laws in Virginia

Abigail Spanberger, Governor of Virginia, signed two major labor laws on May 20, 2026, significantly expanding paid leave access for employees across the state. The first measure, House Bill 5 and Senate Bill 199, mandates that nearly all private employers and government entities provide up to 40 hours of paid sick leave per year. Eligible workers accrue one hour of leave for every 30 hours worked. This leave may be used for personal or family medical needs, as well as absences related to stalking, sexual assault, or domestic violence.

Implementation of the sick leave law follows a staggered schedule based on employer size. Businesses with 50 or more employees must comply by July 1, 2027, followed by those with 25 or more employees by January 1, 2028. All remaining employers with at least one employee must comply by January 1, 2029. The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry will manage regulations and enforcement, with violators facing civil penalties up to $500 and a private right of action for employees to seek reinstatement and double damages.

The second law establishes a state-administered Paid Family and Medical Leave insurance program offering up to 12 weeks of partial wage replacement. This program will be funded by shared employer and employee contributions to the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Trust Fund. Payroll remittances are scheduled to begin April 1, 2028, with the Virginia Employment Commission beginning benefit payments on December 1, 2028.