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HB 1173

Virginia Human Rights Act; reasonable accommodation for known limitations related to menopause.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 32 co-sponsors

Virginia bill requiring employers to provide reasonable workplace accommodations for employees with menopause-related symptoms, treating them as protected medical conditions.

Governor's recommendation received by House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1173

Legislative bill overview

HB 1173 amends Virginia's Human Rights Act to require employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees experiencing known limitations related to menopause. The bill extends existing disability accommodation protections to menopause-related conditions, treating them similarly to other medical conditions that affect job performance or work environment needs.

Why is this important

Menopause can cause significant symptoms—including hot flashes, night sweats, cognitive changes, and mood disturbances—that may temporarily impact work performance or require environmental adjustments. This bill would prevent employers from dismissing or penalizing workers for requesting accommodations and could reduce age and sex-based workplace discrimination affecting women in midlife careers.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and documentation challenges: Unclear standards for what constitutes "known limitations" and what medical documentation employers can require may create compliance confusion and potential litigation
  • Cost and implementation concerns: Employers may resist if accommodations (flexible schedules, temperature control, remote work options) are perceived as costly or operationally disruptive
  • Scope and precedent questions: Critics may argue this creates a new protected category beyond disability law, potentially opening employers to accommodations for other medical conditions, while supporters see it addressing a gap in existing protections

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

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