Statement: General Assembly Moves to Finish Path to $15 Minimum Wage, Boosting Pay for 421,000 Workers in Virginia

Today, Ashley Kenneth, President and CEO of The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis released the following statement after the Senate joined the House to pass legislation to reach a $15 minimum wage (SB1, sponsored by Sen. Lucas, and HB1, sponsored by Del. Ward):

“With today’s vote, the Senate joins the House in moving Virginia closer to fulfilling lawmakers’ commitment to help families afford the basics.

“Raising the minimum wage to $15 by 2028 means higher pay for people who are already working hard but struggling to get by. This critical choice will help more than 421,000 people in Virginia better afford rent, groceries, and transportation while strengthening local economies across the state.

“A strong wage floor also creates fair competition. Businesses that pay responsibly shouldn’t be undercut by those relying on poverty wages to cut costs. Setting a clear, statewide standard helps ensure work is valued, and employers compete on quality and service — not on how little they pay their workers.

“Finishing the path to $15 means more workers can rely on one job and fewer families are forced into impossible choices — moving Virginia closer to an economy that works for everyone.”

People who are paid low wages say the increase would ease ongoing pressure. 

“Right now, even working full time doesn’t cover the basics,” said Jonei Battle, a Virginia restaurant worker and teacher’s aide. “I still have to choose between groceries and other bills, and sometimes rely on loans just to get by. A $15 wage would mean I can plan ahead instead of just surviving day to day.”

The Commonwealth Institute urges the governor to sign this legislation into law so that Virginia continues to move toward an economy where work provides security and opportunity.