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Minimum wage in Virginia increases in 2025, but advocates say it's not enough

Last year, the Democrat-held houses of the General Assembly passed legislation to increase the minimum wage to $13.50 an hour in 2025 and $15 an hour in 2026. Gov. Glenn Youngkin vetoed that legislation, keeping the minimum wage at $12 an hour.

The minimum wage in Virginia is set to increase to $13.50 per hour starting January 1, 2025, as part of a gradual rise mandated by a 2020 law aiming for $15 by 2026. Despite this increase, advocates argue that it does not sufficiently address the rising cost of living. The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy and other groups are pushing for a faster increase to $15, highlighting that the current rate still leaves many workers struggling with basic expenses. Critics like Delegate Nick Freitas have expressed concerns about the potential negative impacts on small businesses, suggesting that the mandated wage hikes could lead to reduced hours or layoffs. Meanwhile, supporters like Delegate Jeion Ward emphasize the necessity of a living wage to keep pace with inflation and ensure workers can afford necessities.

Read the Full Richmond Article at:
https://richmond.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/minimum-wage-in-virginia-increases-in-2025-but-advocates-say-it-s-not-enough/article_efd1dc56-c86a-11ef-a32e-b39ca06653bd.html