The Details
Virginia has enacted legislation (House Bill 1), which sets and increases the state minimum wage in the following phases:
- Jan. 1, 2026: $12.77 per hour
- Jan. 1, 2027: $13.75 per hour
- Jan. 1, 2028: $15.00 per hour
- Jan. 1, 2029 and moving forward: An adjusted state hourly minimum wage rate.*
*The minimum wage will be set by Oct. 1, 2028 and adjusted annually thereafter (adjustments will not be negative). See the text of the law for further details.
Farm Laborer and Farm Employee Minimum Wage Increased
Virginia had previously excluded farm laborers and farm employees from the definition of an employee that must receive the minimum state hourly wage. Virginia has enacted legislation (House Bill 20), which requires farm laborers and farm employees to receive the minimum wage and minimum wage increases under House Bill 1.
House Bill 1 is effective July 1, 2026 through July 1, 2030.
Next Steps
Ensure employees are paid at least $12.77 per hour and review the upcoming changes to the minimum wage.