New Virginia Laws Taking Effect in 2026

Bassyonni

ago 8 hours

As 2026 approaches, Virginia will introduce a series of significant new laws, impacting various sectors from agriculture to labor. Residents can expect these changes to come into effect on January 1, 2026.

Key New Virginia Laws in 2026

Agriculture Regulations

The Baby Food Protection Act, known as HB 1844, mandates stricter testing for infant formula. Manufacturers must test their products for toxic heavy metals as outlined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Frequent testing required for infant formulas.
Results must be displayed on product labels and websites.
Consumers can report high metal levels to Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Telemarketing Protections

The Virginia Telephone Privacy Protection Act, SB 1339, will empower consumers to stop unwanted telemarketing messages. Individuals can simply reply with “STOP” or “UNSUBSCRIBE” to halt communications.

Requests to stop messages must be honored for at least 10 years.

Social Media Usage Limits

The Consumer Data Protection Act, SB 854, aims to protect minors online. Social media platforms will implement age verification mechanisms to ensure users under 16 have limited access.

Minors will be restricted to one hour of use per day.
Parents can adjust their child’s time limits with consent.

Criminal Procedure Enhancements

Under HB 1665, defendants will receive clearer billing for fines and fees. They can request detailed breakdowns of their financial obligations.

Defendants can ask for updated balances over time.

Health Insurance Updates

Health insurance coverage will see notable changes. Under HB 1828/SB 1436, patients will no longer face additional charges for essential screenings such as mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds.

Prostate cancer screenings will also be covered by insurance providers.
Cancer screenings must align with American Cancer Society guidelines.

Labor and Employment Adjustments

The minimum wage will rise from $12.41 to $12.77 per hour as per state guidelines from the Department of Labor and Industry. Additionally, unemployed workers will benefit from increased weekly benefits.

Weekly unemployment compensation will increase by $52.

These changes reflect Virginia’s commitment to enhancing consumer protections and public health while also supporting workers. Residents should prepare for these new regulations as they go into effect in 2026.