What Is The Minimum Wage In Virginia? A Complete Guide

Are you curious about What Is The Minimum Wage In Virginia? WHAT.EDU.VN provides you with a detailed explanation of the current minimum wage laws in Virginia, including recent adjustments and future increases. We aim to simplify complex information for everyone, offering insights into earning potential and the cost of living.

1. What is the Minimum Wage in Virginia in 2024 and Beyond?

The minimum wage in Virginia is currently $12.41 per hour as of January 1, 2025, and will remain in effect until January 1, 2026. This adjustment is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) to reflect the increasing cost of living. The Virginia Minimum Wage Act mandates that employers pay all covered employees at least this adjusted minimum wage rate.

To delve deeper, let’s explore the historical progression and future outlook of the minimum wage in Virginia:

Historical Context: The Virginia Minimum Wage Act has been amended over the years to gradually increase the minimum wage, aiming to provide a more livable wage for workers.
Recent Adjustments: As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage increased to $12.41 per hour. This change was calculated based on the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers (CPI-U), as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Future Increases: The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) will continue to make annual adjustments to the minimum wage based on the CPI-U. Employers and employees should stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and fair compensation.

2. How is the Virginia Minimum Wage Calculated?

The Virginia minimum wage is calculated using a formula that considers the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U). Each year, the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) adjusts the minimum wage based on the annual increase in the CPI-U, as published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Here’s a breakdown of the calculation:

Base Minimum Wage: The current minimum wage rate (e.g., $12.00 per hour).
CPI-U Increase: The percentage change in the CPI-U for the most recent calendar year.
Adjustment Calculation: Multiply the current minimum wage by the CPI-U increase percentage.
Adjusted Minimum Wage: Add the result from step 3 to the current minimum wage.

For example, in December 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an annual CPI-U increase of 3.4%. The calculation for the minimum wage adjustment was:

$12.00 + ($12.00 x 0.034) = $12.41

This adjusted rate of $12.41 per hour is effective from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026.

3. Who is Covered by the Virginia Minimum Wage Act?

The Virginia Minimum Wage Act covers most employees in the state, but there are some exceptions. Understanding who is covered ensures both employers and employees comply with the law.

Here’s a detailed look at coverage and exemptions:

Generally Covered: Most employees working in Virginia are entitled to the state minimum wage. This includes full-time, part-time, and temporary workers.
Exemptions: Certain categories of workers are exempt from the minimum wage requirements. These may include:
- Employees of Religious, Charitable, or Educational Organizations: Those working for non-profit entities may have different wage standards.
- Individuals with Disabilities: Workers whose earning capacity is impaired may be paid a special minimum wage under certain conditions.
- Students: Those employed by educational institutions may be subject to different wage regulations.
- Outside Salespeople: Employees who primarily work outside the office, making sales, may be exempt.
- Farm Laborers: Some agricultural workers may be exempt based on the size and nature of the farming operation.

4. What are the Penalties for Not Paying Minimum Wage in Virginia?

Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage in Virginia face significant penalties. These penalties are designed to ensure compliance and protect workers’ rights.

Here’s a breakdown of the potential consequences:

Legal Action: Employees can file a lawsuit against employers to recover unpaid wages. This includes the difference between what they were paid and the legal minimum wage, plus additional damages.
Back Pay: Employers may be required to pay back wages to employees for the period during which they were underpaid. This can be a substantial amount, especially in cases of long-term violations.
Fines: The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) can impose fines on employers who violate the minimum wage law. The amount of the fine can vary depending on the severity and frequency of the violation.
Civil Penalties: In addition to fines, employers may face civil penalties, which can include further monetary damages payable to the affected employees.
Criminal Charges: In some cases, particularly those involving repeated or willful violations, employers may face criminal charges.

5. How Does the Virginia Minimum Wage Compare to the Federal Minimum Wage?

The comparison between the Virginia minimum wage and the federal minimum wage is essential for understanding workers’ rights and employer obligations.

Key Points:

Federal Minimum Wage: The federal minimum wage has been $7.25 per hour since 2009. This rate applies to covered non-exempt employees nationwide.
Virginia’s Higher Rate: Virginia’s minimum wage is higher than the federal minimum wage. As of January 1, 2025, it is $12.41 per hour.
Employer Obligation: Employers must pay whichever rate is higher. In Virginia, the state minimum wage prevails due to being higher than the federal rate.
Interstate Commerce: Businesses engaged in interstate commerce are generally covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets the federal minimum wage. However, state laws can provide additional protections and higher minimum wages.

6. What Factors Influence Changes to the Virginia Minimum Wage?

Several factors influence changes to the Virginia minimum wage, reflecting broader economic conditions and policy goals.

Economic Indicators

Consumer Price Index (CPI): The CPI measures changes in the price level of a basket of consumer goods and services. Increases in the CPI often lead to adjustments in the minimum wage to maintain workers’ purchasing power.
Inflation Rates: High inflation erodes the real value of wages, prompting lawmakers to raise the minimum wage to offset these effects.
Cost of Living: Areas with higher living costs may advocate for higher minimum wages to ensure that workers can afford basic necessities.

Legislative and Political Considerations

State Legislation: The Virginia General Assembly can pass laws to increase the minimum wage. These legislative actions often reflect the political climate and priorities of the elected officials.
Policy Goals: Minimum wage laws are often used to address income inequality, reduce poverty, and stimulate economic growth.
Advocacy Groups: Labor unions, worker advocacy groups, and other organizations play a crucial role in lobbying for minimum wage increases.

Employment and Business Conditions

Unemployment Rates: High unemployment rates may create resistance to minimum wage increases, as businesses fear higher labor costs could lead to job losses.
Business Profitability: If businesses are struggling, there may be concerns that increasing the minimum wage could force some to close or reduce their workforce.
Economic Growth: During periods of strong economic growth, there is often more support for raising the minimum wage, as businesses are better positioned to absorb higher labor costs.

7. How Does the Minimum Wage Affect Small Businesses in Virginia?

The minimum wage has a multifaceted impact on small businesses in Virginia, influencing their operations, profitability, and employment practices.

Increased Labor Costs: One of the most direct effects of a minimum wage increase is the rise in labor costs. Small businesses with many minimum wage employees may see a significant portion of their expenses increase.
Price Adjustments: To offset higher labor costs, some small businesses may raise prices on their goods and services. This can help maintain profit margins but may also affect competitiveness and customer demand.
Reduced Hiring: Some small businesses may respond to higher minimum wages by reducing their hiring. They may try to operate with a smaller staff or delay expansion plans.
Automation: Faced with rising labor costs, small businesses may invest in automation to reduce their reliance on minimum wage employees. This could include implementing self-checkout systems, automated inventory management, or other technologies.
Employee Morale and Productivity: On the positive side, a higher minimum wage can improve employee morale and reduce turnover. Happier, more financially secure employees may be more productive and committed to their jobs.
Competitive Advantage: Small businesses that can afford to pay higher wages may gain a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining talent. This can lead to a more skilled and motivated workforce.
Compliance Costs: Small businesses must also bear the costs of complying with minimum wage laws, including updating payroll systems, tracking employee hours, and staying informed about changes in the law.

8. What are Tipped Minimum Wage Laws in Virginia?

Virginia’s tipped minimum wage laws are designed to ensure that employees who receive tips as part of their income are adequately compensated.

Key Aspects:

Standard Minimum Wage: The standard minimum wage in Virginia, as of January 1, 2025, is $12.41 per hour.
Tipped Employee Definition: A tipped employee is someone who customarily and regularly receives more than $30 per month in tips.
Tip Credit: Virginia law allows employers to take a “tip credit” toward the minimum wage obligation for tipped employees. This means that employers can pay tipped employees less than the standard minimum wage, provided that the employee’s tips bring their total compensation up to at least the minimum wage.
Minimum Wage for Tipped Employees: As of 2023, Virginia no longer has a separate, lower minimum wage for tipped employees. Employers must ensure that the combination of direct wages and tips equals at least the standard minimum wage of $12.41 per hour.
Employer Obligations: Employers must inform tipped employees of the tip credit provision and ensure that employees retain all of their tips, except in valid tip-pooling arrangements.
Tip Pooling: Tip pooling is allowed, where tips are shared among employees who customarily and regularly receive tips. However, managers and supervisors are generally prohibited from participating in tip pools.
Non-Compliance: If an employee’s tips, combined with their direct wages, do not meet the standard minimum wage, the employer must make up the difference.
Record Keeping: Employers must maintain accurate records of tips received by employees.

9. How Often Does the Virginia Minimum Wage Change?

The Virginia Minimum Wage Act stipulates that adjustments to the minimum wage occur annually, based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U).

Here’s a detailed explanation:

Annual Adjustments: The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) is responsible for establishing the adjusted state hourly minimum wage each year.
Calculation Date: The adjusted minimum wage is typically determined by October 1 of each year.
Effective Date: The new minimum wage rate takes effect on January 1 of the following year and remains in effect until January 1 of the subsequent year.
CPI-U Basis: The adjustment is based on the percentage change in the CPI-U for all items, all urban consumers, as calculated and published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Legislative Reenactment: The General Assembly can reenact scheduled increases to the minimum wage rates. If this occurs, the adjustments are made according to the new legislative changes.
Notification: DOLI notifies business groups in Virginia of the upcoming changes to the minimum wage rate.
Employer Responsibility: Employers are responsible for staying informed about these annual changes and ensuring that they pay their employees at least the adjusted minimum wage rate.

10. What Resources are Available for Employers and Employees to Stay Updated on Virginia Minimum Wage Laws?

Staying informed about Virginia’s minimum wage laws is crucial for both employers and employees to ensure compliance and fair labor practices.

Reliable Resources:

Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI):
- Website: The DOLI website (doli.virginia.gov) is the primary source for official information on Virginia’s labor laws, including the minimum wage.
- Publications: DOLI provides various publications, notices, and fact sheets related to minimum wage requirements.
- Contact Information: Employers and employees can contact DOLI’s Division of Labor and Employment Law at (804) 786-2706 or [email protected] for specific questions or clarification.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- CPI Data: The BLS website (bls.gov) provides data on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U), which is used to calculate annual adjustments to the Virginia minimum wage.
- Economic News Releases: Stay informed about economic trends and labor market conditions through BLS news releases and reports.
Legal Professionals:
- Employment Attorneys: Consult with an employment attorney for legal advice and guidance on complying with Virginia’s minimum wage laws.
- Legal Updates: Subscribe to legal newsletters and updates to stay informed about changes in labor laws.
Business Associations:
- Virginia Chamber of Commerce: Join the Virginia Chamber of Commerce or other business associations to receive updates on legislative and regulatory changes affecting businesses in Virginia.
- Industry-Specific Groups: Participate in industry-specific groups to learn how minimum wage laws impact your particular sector.
Online Resources:
- WHAT.EDU.VN: Check WHAT.EDU.VN for updated information, articles, and explanations on Virginia’s minimum wage laws and related topics.
- Government Websites: Refer to official government websites for accurate and up-to-date information.

11. How Can I Report a Minimum Wage Violation in Virginia?

Reporting a minimum wage violation in Virginia is essential for protecting your rights as an employee.

Steps to Report:

Gather Information: Collect all relevant information, including pay stubs, employment contracts, and records of hours worked.
Contact the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI):
- Phone: Call DOLI’s Division of Labor and Employment Law at (804) 786-2706.
- Email: Send an email to [email protected].
- Website: Visit the DOLI website (doli.virginia.gov) for online resources and reporting options.
File a Complaint:
- Provide a detailed description of the minimum wage violation, including dates, times, and amounts.
- Submit all supporting documentation, such as pay stubs and employment records.
Follow Up:
- Keep a record of all communication with DOLI.
- Follow up with DOLI to check on the status of your complaint.
Legal Consultation:
- Consult with an employment attorney to understand your legal rights and options.
- An attorney can provide guidance and representation throughout the reporting process.
Confidentiality:
- DOLI will keep your complaint confidential to the extent permitted by law.
- Virginia law protects employees from retaliation for reporting minimum wage violations.

12. Are There Any Proposed Changes to the Virginia Minimum Wage Law?

Staying informed about proposed changes to the Virginia Minimum Wage Law is important for both employers and employees.

Potential Legislative Actions:

Review of Current Law: The Virginia General Assembly periodically reviews the Minimum Wage Act to assess its effectiveness and consider potential amendments.
Scheduled Increases: Future increases in the minimum wage may already be scheduled in the existing law. These increases are typically based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or specific dates outlined in the legislation.
Legislative Proposals: Individual legislators may introduce bills to modify the minimum wage, either to increase it further or to make other changes to the law.
Impact Studies: Before enacting significant changes, the General Assembly may conduct studies to assess the potential economic impact of a higher minimum wage on businesses and workers.
Public Hearings: Public hearings may be held to gather input from stakeholders, including business owners, workers, advocacy groups, and economists.
Amendments and Revisions: The General Assembly may amend or revise the existing law to address specific issues or concerns.
Effective Dates: Any changes to the minimum wage law will have a specified effective date, which employers must adhere to.

13. What is the Youth Minimum Wage in Virginia?

The youth minimum wage in Virginia refers to the wage standards applicable to employees under a certain age.

Details on Youth Minimum Wage:

Standard Minimum Wage: Virginia generally applies the same minimum wage to all employees, regardless of age. As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage is $12.41 per hour.
No Specific Youth Minimum Wage: Virginia law does not have a separate, lower minimum wage specifically for young workers (e.g., those under 18 or 20).
Equal Pay for Equal Work: Employers must pay young workers the same minimum wage as adult workers for the same work performed.
Federal Law: Under federal law (the Fair Labor Standards Act), a lower minimum wage ($4.25 per hour) is allowed for employees under 20 years old during their first 90 consecutive calendar days of employment with an employer. However, if the state minimum wage is higher, the state wage prevails.
Virginia Law Prevails: Since Virginia’s minimum wage is higher than the federal subminimum wage for young workers, employers in Virginia must pay at least the state minimum wage of $12.41 per hour, even to employees under 20 during their first 90 days.
Exceptions: Some exceptions may apply for specific types of employment, such as student workers or those with disabilities.

14. What Are Common Misconceptions About the Virginia Minimum Wage?

Common Misconceptions About Virginia Minimum Wage:

Federal Rate Applies:
- Misconception: The federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour applies in Virginia.
- Fact: Virginia’s minimum wage is higher than the federal rate; as of January 1, 2025, it is $12.41 per hour, and employers must pay the higher of the two.
Tipped Employees Can Be Paid Less:
- Misconception: Employers can pay tipped employees a lower minimum wage, and tips don’t matter.
- Fact: While employers can take a tip credit, the combination of direct wages and tips must equal at least the standard minimum wage. If tips don’t bring the employee up to the minimum wage, the employer must make up the difference.
Small Businesses Are Exempt:
- Misconception: Small businesses are exempt from paying the minimum wage.
- Fact: Most businesses in Virginia, regardless of size, must comply with the state’s minimum wage law. Some exceptions apply, but they are based on the type of work or the nature of the organization, not just the size of the business.
Minimum Wage Only Affects Low-Skilled Workers:
- Misconception: The minimum wage only affects workers in low-skilled jobs.
- Fact: While many minimum wage earners work in entry-level or low-skilled positions, the minimum wage can also affect workers in various industries and skill levels, as employers adjust pay scales to remain competitive.
Minimum Wage Never Changes:
- Misconception: The minimum wage stays the same for long periods.
- Fact: Virginia’s minimum wage is subject to annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The General Assembly can also enact legislative changes to the minimum wage.
Interns Are Always Unpaid:
- Misconception: Interns can always be unpaid.
- Fact: Unpaid internships must meet specific criteria under federal and state laws. If an internship primarily benefits the employer rather than providing significant educational benefits to the intern, the intern may be entitled to minimum wage.

15. How Does Virginia’s Minimum Wage Impact the Cost of Living?

The minimum wage significantly impacts the cost of living in Virginia, affecting workers’ ability to afford basic necessities and influencing the overall economic landscape.

Affordability of Basic Needs: A higher minimum wage can improve workers’ ability to afford essential needs such as housing, food, healthcare, and transportation.
Poverty Reduction: Increasing the minimum wage can help reduce poverty rates by lifting low-wage workers out of poverty and providing them with a more livable income.
Economic Stimulus: When low-wage workers earn more, they tend to spend more, which can stimulate local economies. This increased spending can boost demand for goods and services, leading to job creation and economic growth.
Reduced Reliance on Public Assistance: A higher minimum wage can reduce workers’ reliance on public assistance programs such as food stamps (SNAP) and housing assistance, saving taxpayer dollars.
Income Inequality: Raising the minimum wage can help reduce income inequality by narrowing the gap between the highest and lowest earners.
Cost of Goods and Services: Businesses may respond to higher labor costs by increasing prices on goods and services. This can lead to inflation, potentially offsetting some of the benefits of a higher minimum wage.
Housing Affordability: In areas with high housing costs, even a higher minimum wage may not be sufficient to make housing affordable for low-wage workers.
Overall Economic Impact: The overall impact of the minimum wage on the cost of living depends on various factors, including the size of the increase, the state of the economy, and the responses of businesses and consumers.

16. What is the Difference Between Minimum Wage and Living Wage in Virginia?

Understanding the difference between the minimum wage and the living wage is crucial for assessing economic well-being and social equity in Virginia.

Minimum Wage:

Definition: The minimum wage is the lowest hourly wage that employers are legally required to pay their employees.
Legal Mandate: It is set by federal or state law and serves as a baseline for wage standards.
Virginia’s Minimum Wage: As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in Virginia is $12.41 per hour.
Purpose: The minimum wage aims to provide a basic level of income to workers, but it may not be sufficient to cover all essential living expenses.

Living Wage:

Definition: The living wage is the hourly wage needed to cover the basic living expenses of a household, such as housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and childcare.
Voluntary Standard: Unlike the minimum wage, the living wage is not legally mandated. It is a voluntary standard that some employers choose to adopt.
Calculation: The living wage is typically calculated based on the cost of living in a specific geographic area, using data on housing costs, food prices, and other expenses.
Regional Variation: The living wage varies significantly depending on the location, as the cost of living differs from one area to another.
Poverty Reduction: The living wage aims to provide workers with enough income to live above the poverty line and maintain a decent standard of living.

17. How Does the Virginia Minimum Wage Compare to Neighboring States?

Comparing Virginia’s minimum wage to that of its neighboring states provides valuable context for assessing its relative competitiveness and economic impact.

Here is a comparison of the minimum wage rates in Virginia and its neighboring states:

Virginia: As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in Virginia is $12.41 per hour.
Maryland: As of January 1, 2024, the minimum wage in Maryland is $13.25 per hour for employers with 15 or more employees and $12.80 per hour for employers with fewer than 15 employees. It is set to increase to $15 per hour by January 1, 2025.
North Carolina: The minimum wage in North Carolina is $7.25 per hour, which is the same as the federal minimum wage.
Tennessee: Tennessee does not have a state minimum wage law, so the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour applies.
Kentucky: The minimum wage in Kentucky is $7.25 per hour, which is the same as the federal minimum wage.
West Virginia: The minimum wage in West Virginia is $8.75 per hour.

18. How Has the Minimum Wage in Virginia Changed Over Time?

Reviewing the historical changes in Virginia’s minimum wage provides insight into the state’s economic policies and their impact on workers and businesses.

Historical Overview:

Early Years: Before the 21st century, Virginia’s minimum wage often mirrored the federal minimum wage.
2000s: There were periods when Virginia’s minimum wage remained at the federal level of $5.15 per hour.
Recent Increases:
- 2021: Virginia’s minimum wage increased to $9.50 per hour.
- 2022: The minimum wage rose to $11.00 per hour.
- 2023: It further increased to $12.00 per hour.
- 2025: The minimum wage is $12.41 per hour.
Legislative Action: These increases were the result of legislative action aimed at gradually raising the minimum wage to provide a more livable income for workers.
Future Adjustments: The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) is responsible for making annual adjustments to the minimum wage based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

19. What are the Arguments For and Against Increasing the Minimum Wage in Virginia?

There are numerous arguments for and against increasing the minimum wage in Virginia, reflecting diverse perspectives on its economic and social impacts.

Arguments For Increasing the Minimum Wage:

Poverty Reduction: A higher minimum wage can lift low-wage workers out of poverty and provide them with a more livable income.
Economic Stimulus: Increased earnings for low-wage workers can boost consumer spending and stimulate local economies.
Reduced Inequality: Raising the minimum wage can help reduce income inequality by narrowing the gap between the highest and lowest earners.
Improved Worker Morale: A higher wage can improve worker morale, leading to increased productivity and reduced employee turnover.
Reduced Reliance on Public Assistance: A higher minimum wage can reduce workers’ reliance on public assistance programs, saving taxpayer dollars.

Arguments Against Increasing the Minimum Wage:

Job Losses: Some businesses may respond to higher labor costs by reducing their workforce or slowing down hiring.
Price Increases: Businesses may raise prices on goods and services to offset higher labor costs, leading to inflation.
Reduced Competitiveness: Higher labor costs can make Virginia businesses less competitive compared to businesses in states with lower minimum wages.
Automation: Businesses may invest in automation to reduce their reliance on minimum wage employees, leading to job displacement.
Negative Impact on Small Businesses: Small businesses may struggle to absorb higher labor costs, potentially leading to closures or reduced profitability.

20. How Does the Virginia Minimum Wage Affect Teenagers and Young Adults?

The Virginia minimum wage has a specific impact on teenagers and young adults, influencing their employment opportunities, income, and educational pursuits.

Employment Opportunities:

Entry-Level Jobs: Many teenagers and young adults work in entry-level jobs that pay minimum wage, such as retail, food service, and hospitality.
Job Availability: A higher minimum wage can potentially reduce the availability of these entry-level jobs if businesses respond by reducing hiring or automating tasks.
Work Experience: Minimum wage jobs provide valuable work experience and skills development for young people entering the workforce.

Income and Financial Stability:

Earnings Potential: A higher minimum wage can increase the earnings potential for teenagers and young adults, providing them with more disposable income.
Financial Independence: Increased earnings can help young people become more financially independent and less reliant on their parents or guardians.
Savings and Investments: Higher earnings can enable young people to save for future education, housing, or other goals.

Education and Skills Development:

Opportunity Cost: A higher minimum wage can increase the opportunity cost of not working, potentially encouraging some young people to prioritize work over education.
Financial Support for Education: Increased earnings can help young people afford educational expenses such as tuition, books, and fees.
Reduced Student Debt: Higher earnings can reduce the need for student loans, helping young people avoid debt.

FAQ: Minimum Wage in Virginia

Question	Answer
What is the current minimum wage in Virginia?	As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in Virginia is $12.41 per hour.
How is the minimum wage calculated in Virginia?	The minimum wage is adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U), as calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Who is covered by the Virginia Minimum Wage Act?	Most employees in Virginia are covered, but there are some exceptions for specific types of workers, such as those in religious or educational organizations.
What are the penalties for not paying minimum wage?	Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage can face legal action, back pay requirements, fines, and civil penalties.
How does Virginia’s minimum wage compare to the federal minimum wage?	Virginia’s minimum wage is higher than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.
How often does the Virginia minimum wage change?	The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) adjusts the minimum wage annually, with changes taking effect on January 1 each year.
How can I report a minimum wage violation in Virginia?	You can report a violation by contacting DOLI’s Division of Labor and Employment Law via phone, email, or through their website.
Are there any proposed changes to the Virginia minimum wage law?	Stay informed about potential changes by monitoring updates from the Virginia General Assembly and the DOLI website.
Does Virginia have a youth minimum wage?	No, Virginia does not have a separate, lower minimum wage for young workers. The standard minimum wage applies to all employees, regardless of age.
How does Virginia’s minimum wage affect the cost of living?	The minimum wage impacts the affordability of basic needs, poverty reduction, and economic stimulus, though it can also affect the cost of goods and services.
What is the difference between minimum wage and living wage in Virginia?	The minimum wage is the legally mandated lowest hourly wage, while the living wage is the income needed to cover basic living expenses in a specific geographic area.

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