Virginia lawmakers send bill to increase hourly minimum wage to Spanberger

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A raise could be on the way for hardworking Virginians.

On Friday, Feb. 27, the House of Delegates passed a bill previously passed by the Senate that would raise Virginia’s minimum wage to $13.75 per hour in 2027 before increasing it to $15 per hour in 2028. The bill now heads to Governor Abigail Spanberger for her consideration.

“For 421,000 Virginians, it’s gonna be a great day,” said Del. Jeion Ward (D-Hampton), who led the effort to raise Virginia’s minimum wage for years.

Additionally, starting in 2029, Virginia’s minimum wage will rise consistent with inflation. Ward says the measure is about ensuring every Virginian can make ends meet.

“A lot of times we forget that people are having a difficult time even paying their mortgage, paying their rent, paying for child care, all those things, and now they’re gonna have just a little bit more money,” Ward told 8News.

In addition, Ward says it’s about ensuring all Virginians know they’re valued.

“I believe everyone and a lot of people equate what you make with your worth,” Ward explained.

However, Republican Senator Mark Peake (R-Lynchburg) says the bill could make inflation worse.

“Obviously, that’s what happens, they’ve got to cover their employee costs by raising the cost of their goods,” Peake told 8News. 

Peake added that raising the minimum wage could actually put Virginians out of work. 

"What this does is it forces companies, instead of paying lower wages to entry-level employees and young people, they go to robots," Peake said. "McDonald's, you have the kiosks, they don’t have employees anymore."

Governor Abigail Spanberger has previously said she will sign a bill to raise Virginia’s minimum wage to $15 per hour.