RICHMOND, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Virginia Senate has narrowly passed a measure that will raise the minimum wage to 15 dollars an hour by January 1st of 2028.

The bill codifies the adjusted state hourly minimum wage of $12.77 per hour that went into effective on January 1st and then increases the minimum wage to $13.75 per hour effective next January 1st, and to $15.00 per hour effective January 1st of 2028.

The bill passed on a party line 20-19 vote and now moves over to the House where Delegates have already passed a similar measure.

Governor Abigail Spanberger has stated she will sign the bill into law.

“Across our Commonwealth, I’ve heard from Virginia families who are stretching their paychecks more than ever but still coming up short at the end of each month. I’ve heard from Virginians who have had to choose between refilling their prescriptions, heating their homes, or keeping up with their rent or mortgage — all the while worrying about saving for their kids’ futures. 

“Every Virginian who works full time deserves the financial stability to support their families, plan for the future, and continue building a life here in the Commonwealth. But Virginians’ wages have not kept up with rising costs. 

“I look forward to signing this legislation into law to give Virginia workers a pay raise, and I’m grateful to the members of the General Assembly who have made stronger wages for working Virginians a priority.”