Newly Enacted Virginia Employment Laws: What Employers Need to Know for 2026

Written by: Kristina Keech Spitler

Part 1: Virginia Expands Employers Subject to the Virginia Human Rights Act

Virginia is expanding the definition of “employer” under the Virginia Human Rights Act. Beginning July 1, 2026, businesses with 5 or more employees may now be covered, significantly increasing compliance obligations. The new law also extends the time to file discrimination complaints to two years, creating additional risk considerations for employers.

Part 2: New Virginia Wage and Hour Laws Raise the Stakes for Employers

(Link available on publish date)

Virginia’s wage-and-hour landscape continues to evolve through minimum-wage increases, pay-transparency requirements, and expanded enforcement and liability provisions. These changes require employers to take a closer look at compensation practices, payroll procedures, and recordkeeping.

Part 3: New Leave and Benefits Requirements Are on the Horizon

(Link available on publish date)

Virginia is introducing new employee leave requirements and a state-administered paid family and medical leave program. These developments signal a shift toward expanded employee benefits and require employers to begin planning for policy updates and long-term compliance.

Part 4: Virginia Further Tightens the Rules on Non-Compete Agreements

(Link available on publish date)

New laws impose additional requirements for enforceable non-compete agreements, including severance obligations and expanded restrictions across industries. Employers should review existing agreements and ensure compliance with evolving legal standards.

Part 5: Workplace Safety Developments Focus on Heat Illness Prevention

(Link available on publish date)

Virginia is moving toward implementing workplace safety standards addressing heat illness prevention. While regulations are forthcoming, employers should begin evaluating policies, training, and safety practices in preparation for new requirements.

Part 6: Apprenticeships Continue to Gain Momentum in Virginia

(Link available on publish date)

Virginia is expanding its focus on apprenticeships as part of workforce development efforts. Employers may benefit from new opportunities to build talent pipelines through structured training programs and evolving regulatory support.

Part 7: Additional Employment Law Changes and Areas to Watch

(Link available on publish date)

Several additional laws and proposed developments highlight the broader direction of employment law in Virginia. These updates reinforce the importance of staying informed and monitoring future legislative changes that may affect employer obligations..

Contact Kristina Keech Spitler, Esq. or Meghan M. Phillips, Esq. to make sure your organization is prepared for these VHRA changes, review your employment practices, and assist with other employment-related legal issues at 703-369-4738 or kspitler@vfnlaw.com or mphillips@vfnlaw.com.

This blog post is not intended to provide legal advice or substitute for the advice of legal counsel with respect to specific facts and situations. See disclaimer