Virginia Lawmakers Approve Minimum Wage Hike

Legislation would gradually raise state's minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2028.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Virginia lawmakers have approved legislation that would gradually raise the state's minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2028. The bill now heads to Governor Spanberger, who has expressed support for the measure.

Why it matters

This minimum wage increase is part of a broader effort in Virginia to address income inequality and provide a living wage for low-income workers. The gradual implementation aims to balance the needs of workers and businesses.

The details

The legislation would raise the minimum wage from the current $7.25 per hour to $11 per hour by January 2023, then increase it by $1 per year until it reaches $15 per hour in 2028. The bill includes provisions to pause the increases if the state's economy is significantly impacted.

  • The minimum wage will increase to $11 per hour by January 2023.
  • The minimum wage will increase by $1 per year until it reaches $15 per hour in 2028.

The players

Governor Spanberger

The Governor of Virginia who has expressed support for the minimum wage increase legislation.

Virginia Lawmakers

The state legislators who have approved the bill to gradually raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2028.

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What they’re saying

“Governor Spanberger 'looks forward' to signing legislation to raise Virginia minimum wage”

— Governor Spanberger (wset.com)

What’s next

The minimum wage increase legislation now heads to Governor Spanberger's desk for signature.

The takeaway

This minimum wage hike is a significant step forward for workers' rights in Virginia, providing a path to a living wage while aiming to balance the needs of businesses and the state's economy.