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HB 1625

Minimum wage; farm laborers or farm employees; temporary foreign workers.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 23 co-sponsors

Vetoed Virginia bill would have imposed minimum wage requirements on farm laborers including temporary foreign workers, facing gubernatorial opposition over agricultural costs.

House sustained Governor's veto
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1625

Legislative bill overview

HB 1625 would have established a minimum wage requirement for farm laborers and farm employees in Virginia, with specific provisions affecting temporary foreign workers. The bill passed through the legislature but was vetoed by the Governor on March 24, 2025, and that veto was sustained by the House on April 2, 2025.

Why is this important

Agricultural labor markets operate under different federal rules than other industries, and minimum wage standards directly affect both worker compensation and farm operational costs. The bill's provisions regarding temporary foreign workers—who comprise a significant portion of Virginia's agricultural workforce—would have substantial economic implications for both laborers and agricultural employers.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural exemptions vs. worker protections: Traditional agricultural exemptions from labor standards create tension between supporting farm viability and ensuring fair worker compensation
  • Impact on temporary foreign worker programs: Minimum wage requirements could affect the competitiveness and availability of H-2A visa programs that farms rely on, potentially reducing labor supply
  • Farm profitability concerns: Agricultural margins are often thin, and minimum wage increases could disproportionately burden smaller farming operations compared to larger agribusinesses

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

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