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Bill

SB 2

Paid family and medical leave insurance program; definitions, notice requirements, civil action.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lashrecse Aird and 20 co-sponsors

Virginia bill creates paid family and medical leave insurance program with employer notice requirements and employee civil enforcement rights for qualifying medical and family events.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2

Legislative bill overview

SB 2 establishes a paid family and medical leave insurance program in Virginia, creating a mechanism for employees to take paid time off for family care, medical treatment, or other qualifying reasons. The bill includes definitions of covered events, employer notice requirements, and civil action provisions allowing individuals to enforce their rights under the program.

Why is this important

Paid family and medical leave directly affects working Virginians' ability to manage healthcare, childbirth, and family emergencies without losing income—currently available only through employer discretion in most cases. The program would establish a guaranteed benefit funded through an insurance mechanism, potentially reducing financial hardship during major life events and improving workforce retention, particularly for lower-wage workers who cannot afford unpaid leave.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism and employer cost: The bill's insurance structure will require clarification on whether premiums are employee-paid, employer-paid, or shared, and at what rates—affecting business operational costs and employee take-home pay
  • Scope of qualifying events: Defining which medical and family situations qualify for benefits can be contentious; broader definitions increase costs while narrower ones limit accessibility
  • Integration with existing federal/state programs: Clarification needed on how this coordinates with FMLA, unemployment insurance, and disability benefits to avoid duplication or gaps
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Civil action provisions could create litigation disputes over eligibility determinations and employer compliance standards

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

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