RICHMOND, VA — Today, Virginia House Democrats passed HB5, a top priority to expand paid sick leave protections to workers across the Commonwealth. The bill extends Virginia’s existing earned sick leave law to cover employees of private employers and state and local governments, allowing workers to earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. HB5 ensures accrued sick leave is not lost when a worker is transferred or their employer changes, allows employers to offer more generous policies, and permits workers to use earned sick leave to care for their health, support a family member, or address situations involving domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The bill includes clear enforcement standards and a delayed effective date of July 1, 2027.
“HB5 is about making sure working Virginians don’t have to choose between their health and their paycheck,” said Del. Kelly K. Convirs-Fowler. “This bill sets a clear, fair standard so workers can take care of themselves and their families, while giving employers time to prepare and flexibility to do more if they choose.”
###