RICHMOND, Va. - Governor Ralp Northam signed 22 new laws to support Virginia workers.
The news laws are set to combat worker misclassification and wage theft, ban workplace discrimination, and prohibit non-compete covenants for low-wage workers.
Northam proposed to increase minimum wage starting May 1, 2021 instead of January 2021 and to advance prevailing wage, collective bargaining, and project labor agreement legislation then as well.
Northam says he proposes to see minimum wage go to $11 on January 1, 2022 and to $12 the following year.
I’m proposing to increase the minimum wage in Virginia starting May 1, 2021, go to $11 on January 1, 2022, and to $12 in January 2023. This will support working Virginians and help our economy rebound as quickly as possible from #COVID19.
— Ralph Northam (@GovernorVA) April 12, 2020
The governor also is proposing amendments to prohibit apprenticeship discrimination on the basis of gender identity and to create a work-sharing program to support workers impacted by COVID-19.
Northam says the new laws will ensure workers get the support needed during the coronavirus pandemic.
“Every Virginian deserves access to a safe and well-paying job,” said Governor Northam. “These new laws will support workers and help our economy rebound as quickly as possible from COVID-19. I am grateful for the General Assembly’s ongoing partnership as we address these critical issues.”
