Why 3/5: The bill has a delayed effective date of July 1, 2027, but requires future preparation for new employment regulations and potential costs.
Virginia small businesses would be required to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked to most employees, increasing operational costs and administrative burdens. Non-compliance could result in civil penalties up to $500 per violation and employee lawsuits seeking double unpaid leave and actual damages, with regulations to be promulgated by July 1, 2027.
Update
Conferees appointed by House
Update
House Conferees: Convirs-Fowler, Feggans, Wilt
Update
Conference Report released
Cleared committee (favorable)
Conference report agreed to by House (61-Y 35-N 0-A)
Cleared committee (favorable)
Conference report agreed to by Senate (21-Y 14-N 0-A)
Update
Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB5)
Enrolled
Enrolled
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed House and Senate (HB5ER)
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
This bill has passed its votes and is headed to the Governor's desk. You still have a say — the Governor's office reads messages before deciding whether to sign.
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Summarized from the official bill text (“Employment; paid sick leave, civil penalties.”) · Read the actual bill →
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 31, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB5)
Line-item veto
Governor's recommendation received by House
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Governor's Recommendation