RICHMOND, VA (Rocktown Now) — Abigail Spanberger has announced the enactment of a series of new laws aimed at strengthening worker protections, expanding access to paid leave, and investing in Virginia’s workforce.

The measures, approved by the Virginia General Assembly with the governor’s amendments, include the creation of a statewide paid family and medical leave program, along with policies addressing wage theft, pay equity, and compensation standards for public construction workers.

The newly established paid family and medical leave program will allow eligible workers to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave to care for a loved one, recover from a serious illness, or welcome a new child. The program will operate as a portable insurance system funded jointly by employees and employers, similar to unemployment insurance, and is expected to expand access to benefits for workers at smaller businesses.

“Today, we are making good on our promise to stand up for the men and women who power Virginia’s economy,” Spanberger said in a statement, noting that Virginia is the first Southern state to implement such a program. She added that the law will help workers avoid losing income during major life events while also enabling small businesses to offer more competitive benefits.

In addition to paid leave, lawmakers approved updates to the state’s prevailing wage system for public construction projects. The changes will require state agencies to establish Virginia-specific wage rates aligned with local standards, replacing reliance on federal benchmarks. Supporters say the move will improve wage accuracy and ensure fair competition among contractors.

Another measure strengthens enforcement against wage theft by creating clearer pathways for employees to recover unpaid earnings. The law grants additional authority to address violations, particularly for workers who may lack the resources to pursue legal action independently.

Lawmakers also passed legislation prohibiting employers from requesting or using a job applicant’s salary history when determining pay. The policy is intended to reduce long-standing pay disparities and promote greater transparency in hiring practices.

According to recent polling cited by the governor’s office, more than 80 percent of Virginians support establishing a paid family and medical leave program.

The new laws build on recent state efforts to raise the minimum wage, expand workforce training programs, and attract business investment, as Virginia leaders continue to focus on economic growth and worker stability.