Virginia General Assembly 2026
Virginia Retail Federation
The 2026 Virginia General Assembly is officially underway. As lawmakers return to Richmond, Virginia Retail Federation is actively tracking legislation and advocating on behalf of retailers and the broader business community.
What You Can Expect from VRF in 2026
Beginning Monday, January 19, VRF will distribute the Weekly Advocate, providing a comprehensive recap of the most significant retail- and business-related legislative developments from the prior week.
What We’re Already Tracking
Our government relations team is actively monitoring early-filed legislation related to:
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Workforce and employment regulations
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Operating and compliance requirements
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Consumer and public safety policies
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Cost-related provisions, including fees and regulatory impacts
Members can access a running list of tracked bills and summaries below.
2026 General Assembly Updates
Here you can review the updates from the latest General Assembly Session.
Key Issues We’re Monitoring
Minimum Wage
Lawmakers have already filed bills proposing incremental increases to Virginia’s minimum wage, potentially reaching $15 by 2028, with some measures suggesting earlier or more aggressive timelines. These proposals could have direct implications for staffing strategies, payroll planning, and overall labor costs.
Paid Leave Requirements
Multiple proposals may seek to establish statewide paid family and medical leave programs or mandate paid sick leave. If enacted, these measures could introduce new administrative requirements and additional costs for employers.
Right-to-Work
While proposals may evolve during session, renewed debate around Virginia’s right-to-work laws is anticipated. Any changes could impact employer flexibility and the Commonwealth’s competitive business environment.
Our Philosophy
The Virginia Retail Federation’s core belief is that business owners should prioritize a safe, fair, and respectful work environment for their employees while having the ability to safeguard their business and employees from harmful practices or risks. Many businesses genuinely aim to excel in these aspects, but certain regulations can become excessively burdensome, adding extra costs and administrative complexities. Therefore, our advocacy centers on granting businesses greater autonomy and reducing undue burdens, especially for small businesses in Virginia.