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Bill

HB 715

Labor and employment; collective bargaining by certain constitutional officers.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Patrick Hope

Virginia bill extending collective bargaining rights to certain constitutional officers; incorporated into broader labor legislation in 2026 legislative session.

Incorporated by Labor and Commerce (HB1263-Tran) (Voice Vote)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 715

Legislative bill overview

HB 715 would allow certain constitutional officers in Virginia to engage in collective bargaining with their employers. The bill appears to extend labor organizing rights to state officials who are currently restricted from such activities. This represents a significant shift in how Virginia treats a specific category of public employees.

Why is this important

Constitutional officers—such as sheriffs, commonwealth's attorneys, and other state officials—currently lack collective bargaining protections that other public employees may have. Granting these rights could affect compensation, working conditions, and dispute resolution for these positions across Virginia's counties and municipalities. The change also raises questions about the state's labor relations framework and which public employees should have organizing authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope: Which specific constitutional officers qualify, and whether the expansion is too broad or too narrow for effective implementation
  • Government efficiency concerns: Whether collective bargaining by constitutional officers could complicate state and local budget processes or create conflicts with elected officials' authority
  • Equity in public sector labor rights: Arguments both that these officers deserve the same rights as other workers and that their constitutional roles require different employment relationships than standard positions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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