Richmond, Virginia — A newly filed Virginia bill would repeal the state’s right-to-work statute, marking one of the first major legislative proposals ahead of the 2026 General Assembly session, according to reporting from The Center Square. Senate Bill 32, introduced by Sen. Jennifer Carroll Foy, would eliminate legal provisions that prevent employers from requiring union membership or payment of union fees as a condition of employment.
Virginia has enforced right-to-work protections since 1947, making it one of more than 20 states with such laws on the books. The repeal effort would allow collective bargaining agreements that require workers to join or financially support a union—arrangements currently prohibited under state law.
Carroll Foy said her proposal aims to strengthen worker protections and address affordability concerns. She acknowledged that Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger has expressed opposition to fully repealing the law but argued the bill is part of broader efforts to “lower costs for Virginia families and protect the rights and opportunities of Virginia workers.”
Republican lawmakers swiftly criticized the measure. Senate GOP Leader Ryan McDougle argued that ending right-to-work protections would “reach into your paycheck” by enabling expanded collective bargaining, while Republican Caucus Chairman Mark Obenshain claimed the repeal would “pay off union bosses with your tax dollars.”
Spanberger has not yet publicly addressed SB 32, and The Center Square reported it was unable to obtain comment from her office before publication. The bill is expected to face intense debate when lawmakers convene in January.
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