January 31, 2022
Today, Senate Democrats in the Commerce and Labor Committee and its subcommittees passed several measures to protect workers, and killed bills that would roll back progress.
Majority Leader Dick Saslaw said: “Virginia is the number-one state for business in part because of our strong workforce. The new laws passed by Virginia Democrats in the past two years have set up the Commonwealth’s employers and employees for success. We are committed to building on our recent achievements and making sure any rollbacks that endanger people who are an integral part of our robust economy are stopped in their tracks.”
Caucus Chair Mamie Locke said: “Lifting up workers lifts our entire economy. Making sure Virginians can exercise their rights to safety, security, and prosperity at work helps all boats rise. I’m proud to say that Senate Democrats are standing strong when it comes to protecting workers’ rights, and therefore more widely our economy. Everyone in the Commonwealth needs a job that can cover basic necessities, and the assurance that one surprise expense won’t land them in bankruptcy. It’s that simple, and we won’t go back.”
BACKGROUND:
Bills passed out of committee or subcommittee:
- SB677 (Lewis): Workers compensation; cost of living supplements
- SB447 (Boysko): Pay history inquiry, prospective employee; prohibited, civil penalty
Bills killed in committee or subcommittee: