The Center Square – A new Virginia would repeal the Right-to-Work law. This is one of the major proposals submitted ahead of the General Assembly session in 2026.

Senate Bill 32 by Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy would strike out Article 3 of Chapter 4 of Title 40.1 of Code of Virginia. This section of law prohibits employers from forcing workers to join a labour union in order to be employed. The law also prohibits agreements which deny someone their right to work because they refuse to pay union dues or join a labor union.

By repealing this article, protections would be removed that prevent compulsory union membership at most workplaces. Virginia has had right-to work legislation since 1947. Over 20 states have a right to work law, including the commonwealth.

Abigail Spanberger, the newly-elected governor of New York State, has stated that she is not in favor of repealing this law. Before publication, The Center Square had no luck in obtaining a response from Abigail Spanberger.

Republican Leaders responded to Senate Bill 32 on Wednesday, stating that the repeal of this bill could increase costs for local governments and families if collective bargaining is expanded. Senate Republican Leader Ryan McDougle claimed that Democrats are “already reaching for your paycheck” when they reopen the right-to work debate.

Carroll Foy discussed her bill on Wednesday in a Social Media Post, stating that the proposal aims to lower costs and strengthen worker protections.

She wrote: “I know that the Governor-elect stated her position on signing a repeal to Virginia’s so called right to work law,” “I filed this bill in order to ensure that we are engaged and moving on all areas where it is possible to lower costs for Virginian families and protect rights and opportunities for Virginia workers.

Mark Obenshain, Chairman of the Senate Republican Caucus, said that this measure would burden taxpayers in the end.

He said: “Make no mistake about it, this isn’t about protecting workers. It is about paying union bosses off with your tax money.”