Virginia Dems prioritize creation of a state-run paid family and medical leave program

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginians may soon be able to take paid time off if they have or adopt a baby, need to care for a sick family member or have a serious health condition of their own that causes them to miss work. 

That’s because Virginia Democrats are prioritizing legislation to create a state-run paid family and medical leave program in Virginia. 

The program, which would be similar to unemployment insurance, would be run by the Virginia Employment Commission. Employees and most employers would pay into the program.

The state would then pay employees who have to take time off for qualifying reasons, including having a baby, medical reasons or caring for a sick loved one.

“We are the only country in the industrialized world that doesn't have a federal paid leave policy,” said Sen. Jennifer Boysko (D-Fairfax), who is sponsoring the legislation. 

The program would pay qualified workers up to 80% of their average weekly salary for up to 12 weeks, something Democrats saif is necessary to help working Virginians. 

“Everyone deserves the dignity and the ability to care for themselves and their loved ones, and hold on to their jobs and get some of their paycheck when the biggest things happen,” Boykso said. 

However, Republicans largely oppose the idea. They said that because employees and employers will fund the program, it will take money directly out of Virginians' pockets. 

“They’re pushing projects like paid family medical leave, which will tax businesses, and it’ll tax employees, taking more money out of each employee's paycheck, whether they want to participate in the program or not,” said Senate Minority Leader Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover).

Former Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) vetoed several bills that would create a state-run paid family and medical leave program in Virginia.

Meanwhile, Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) has expressed support for a state-run paid family and medical leave program as recently as Monday, Jan. 19, in a speech before a Joint Session of the General Assembly.