RICHMOND, VA (Rocktown Now) — Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed legislation creating a paid family and medical leave program to support more than three million workers across the Commonwealth. Virginia is the first state in the South with statewide paid family and medical leave.

The Governor was joined by legislators, workers, small business owners, and families from across the Commonwealth who will now be able to welcome a new child, care for loved ones, and recover from illnesses without sacrificing their pay. Under the new law patroned by Senator Jennifer Boysko and Delegate Briana Sewell, Virginia workers will be able to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave to address serious health needs for themselves or a family member, including parental leave.

“Today, we are empowering millions of Virginia parents and workers with the security, dignity, and peace of mind they deserve,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “Virginia is now the first state in the South to create a paid family and medical leave program. Under this landmark law, hardworking Virginians will have the freedom to take care of loved ones, recover from illness, and spend time with their newborns — all with the confidence that they will keep their paychecks. Because no one should have to choose between spending time with their newborn and paying their bills. No one should have to drain their savings or fall behind on rent because a loved one gets sick. And no one should be forced to return to work while facing a serious illness.” 

Spanberger continued, “Not only is this law a huge win for workers, but it will allow small- and mid-sized businesses to better thrive in our Commonwealth by offering competitive benefits they previously could not afford. Thank you to Senator Boysko, Delegate Sewell, and every other leader in the General Assembly who has worked for years to get paid family and medical leave across the finish line. I am proud to partner with you to deliver this historic achievement for Virginia workers and parents, and I look forward to continuing working together as we make our Commonwealth a better place to start a family, create a career, and build a business.”