WeVote

Bill

Bill

HB 488

Wage garnishment; state tax debt.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 14 co-sponsors

HB 488 modifies Virginia's wage garnishment procedures for state tax debt, balancing revenue collection against worker financial protection in a bill that passed the House unanimously.

Signed by Speaker
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 488

Legislative bill overview

HB 488 modifies Virginia's wage garnishment procedures specifically for state tax debt collection. The bill has passed the House unanimously and is now in the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee. The exact provisions are not detailed in the action summary provided, but the focus on garnishment procedures suggests changes to how the state can recover unpaid taxes from wages.

Why is this important

Wage garnishment directly affects workers' take-home pay and financial stability. Changes to garnishment rules for tax debt impact both the state's revenue collection efficiency and individual workers' ability to meet basic living expenses. This is particularly significant for lower-income earners who may struggle most with tax obligations.

Potential points of contention

  • Worker financial hardship: Stricter garnishment authority could leave workers with insufficient income for essential expenses, though conversely, limits on garnishment protect workers from over-collection
  • State revenue collection: Changes may affect Virginia's ability to recover legitimate tax debts efficiently, creating budget implications
  • Fairness and proportionality: Determining appropriate garnishment limits balances creditor rights against debtor protection, with disagreement over what constitutes fair treatment

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

Sign in to ask a question.