Virginia is developing its new Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, and the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) is beginning to share more information about how the program will be implemented.
This summer, VEC held nine listening sessions with workers, employers, small businesses, healthcare providers, insurers and other stakeholders. More than 2,000 people registered, with more than 200 comments submitted.
What employers are asking about Paid Family & Medical leave
Several themes emerged from the listening sessions that are particularly relevant for businesses:
- Rules and timelines: Employers want clear information about eligibility, job protection, contributions and when requirements will take effect.
- Existing benefits: Businesses are looking for clarity on how PFML will coordinate with FMLA, disability benefits, employer-provided leave and health coverage.
- Multi-state and remote employees: Questions remain about employees who live or work across state lines, work remotely or split their time between states.
- Claims administration: Employers want clear notification procedures and straightforward processes.
- Employer requirements: Questions include payroll administration, small-employer rules, private plans and other administrative responsibilities.
- Documentation: Employers and other stakeholders are seeking clear requirements for certification, verification and program integrity.
What we know so far
While additional details are still being developed, VEC has shared some important information about how the program is expected to work.
When does Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) begin?
Program development will continue through 2026–2027. Payroll contributions are scheduled to begin April 1, 2028, with benefits becoming available December 1, 2028.
Who will be covered?
Most Virginia workers are expected to be covered, including part-time employees and employees of small businesses. Self-employed individuals will be able to opt in. State government employees will have a similar benefit.
Employers may also be able to offer a private plan if it meets or exceeds PFML benefits and receives VEC approval.
How will the program be funded?
Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) will be funded through payroll contributions from covered employers and employees. VEC will set the contribution rate each year.
Contributions are generally expected to be split 50/50 between employers and employees, although employers may choose to pay a larger share. Small businesses will be exempt from paying the employer contribution.
How much leave will be available?
Eligible workers may receive up to 12 weeks of paid leave per year, with safety leave available for up to four weeks per year.
Qualifying leave may include caring for a new child, recovering from a serious health condition, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, certain military family needs, and circumstances involving domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking.
How much will employees receive?
Benefits are expected to replace a percentage of weekly wages, approximately 80%, capped at 100% of the statewide average weekly wage.
What will employers need to do?
Employer responsibilities are expected to include withholding and submitting contributions, providing required employee notices, supporting employee leave requests and coordinating PFML requirements with payroll systems.
What happens next
VEC says feedback from the listening sessions is informing its proposed PFML regulations and educational materials. The agency has also updated its PFML FAQs and plans to provide additional opportunities for stakeholder input.
For businesses, there is time to prepare, and there are still details to be finalized. InUnison will continue following the implementation process and sharing updates that affect employers as more information becomes available.
Go to the source for Paid Family & Medical leave
Watch VEC’s PFML listening session recordings
Information reflects current VEC guidance and is subject to change as regulations and implementation details are finalized.
This legislative update is brought to you through InUnison’s partnership with the Virginia Retail Federation, helping keep our members informed on policy issues affecting Virginia businesses. Find other policy and advocacy articles here.
