Old Dominion News

NFIB State Director Julia Hammond expressed gratitude to Governor Glenn Youngkin for vetoing two bills that, according to her, would have negatively impacted small businesses. The legislation in question included House Bill 1928 and House Bill 2531.

House Bill 1928 proposed an increase in the state's minimum wage to $13.50 per hour by January 1 and $15 per hour by January 1, 2027. Hammond commented on this bill, stating, "House Bill 1928 was well-intentioned, but it would have wound up hurting the people lawmakers say they’re trying to help." She further explained that the wage increase could pressure employers to pay more to remain competitive and might force small businesses to raise prices or reduce their workforce.

The second measure, House Bill 2531, involved a mandatory paid leave tax. Hammond remarked on the challenges this posed for small businesses: "Small businesses operate on notoriously thin margins," she said. "Small employers do everything they can to provide benefits and leave options that work for their business model and employees, but mandatory leave would overburden small employers with a one-size-fits-all program they cannot afford."

Hammond highlighted ongoing struggles faced by Virginia's small businesses due to rising prices and labor shortages. She concluded by thanking Governor Youngkin for his decision: “On behalf of our small business members, I want to thank Governor Youngkin for vetoing these bills and helping Virginia’s small businesses stay competitive.”