By Daniel Berti
Capital News Service
RICHMOND — Democratic lawmakers have introduced legislation that would provide Virginia workers up to three months of paid family and medical leave every year.
The bills would create a paid leave program, effective Jan. 1, 2022, for workers who are new parents, family of active duty military personnel, have serious medical conditions, or care for family members with serious medical conditions.
Del. Jennifer Carroll Foy, D-Prince William, sponsor of House Bill 2120, made her case for paid family and medical leave in Virginia at a press conference Monday.
“Spending time with a dying relative, giving birth to a child, caring for a sick parent, these should not be privileges reserved just for wealthy Virginians,” Carroll Foy said. “Hard-working, middle-class Virginians deserve to spend time with their families like everyone else does.”
Sen. Jennifer Boysko, D-Herndon, sponsor of an identical bill in the Senate, spoke about the economic benefits of paid leave for businesses.
“Paid leave programs have been shown to benefit businesses, making it more likely that employees will return to work, ready to work, rather than struggling financially,” Boysko said.
Under the paid leave program workers would be eligible to receive up to 70 percent of their average weekly wage, without exceeding $850 per week. Self-employed workers would also be provided the option of participating in the program.
The maximum combined amount of paid leave per year for qualifying workers would be 12 weeks.
In order to qualify for paid leave benefits, an employee would need to meet the administrative requirements in the bill, the requirements laid out in the state’s benefit eligibility conditions, and submit an application to the Virginia Employment Commission.
Funding for the proposed program would be provided by a family and medical leave insurance fund established by the Commission and financed through payroll taxes.
Sen. Barbara Favola, D-Arlington, is sponsoring a related bill that would provide a parental leave tax credit to small businesses that would begin in 2021. SB 1376 aims to create an income tax credit for a portion of the salary or wages paid by small businesses to full-time employees while on leave for the birth or adoption of a child.
The bill requires small businesses to provide full-time employees with at least eight weeks of paid parental leave.
In June, Gov. Ralph Northam signed an executive order offering eight weeks of leave at full pay to state employees for the birth or adoption of a child.
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A new gym is set to open in Dumfries, bringing 24/7 fitness access to the community. Workout Anytime will celebrate its grand opening on February 13 at 18069 Triangle Shopping Plaza (Suite C&D), offering state-of-the-art equipment, personalized training, and a commitment to fostering a healthier lifestyle.
At the helm of the new gym is Gary Wortham Jr., a former James Madison University football player and recruiter, taking on the general manager role. Wortham, a longtime Dumfries resident, is excited to bring his passion for fitness and community building to this new venture.
“We’re thrilled to be opening a full 24-hour fitness facility right in the heart of Dumfries,” Wortham said. “This town hasn’t had anything like this before, and I’m excited to provide a space where people of all ages can work toward their health and wellness goals.”
OmniRide has earned the prestigious Best Workplaces for Commuters designation, meeting rigorous standards for excellence in employee commuter benefits. This national recognition highlights OmniRide’s commitment to providing stress-free, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation options for Northern Virginia commuters.
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Learn more at OmniRide.com.
Linda Kathleen Williams (Green), 76, found peace on February 6, 2025 surrounded by the love of family and friends. Linda was a beautiful person both inside and out. She grew up in South Charleston, West Virginia with her parents, Charles and Mary M. Green and her 13 siblings.
From her parents, Linda learned the value of working hard, loving others and laughing often. Linda graduated from Charleston Catholic High School in 1966. As the second born and eldest daughter of a large family, Linda’s love for children and caring for others came naturally. She completed a degree in Early Childhood Education in Athens, West Virginia at Concord College in 1970.
Manassas City Council will discuss a proposed tax incentive on Monday, February 10, 2025, to support Micron Technology Inc.’s planned $2 billion expansion. The deal would extend the company’s favorable semiconductor equipment tax rate through 2035, saving Micron millions annually. The expansion, backed by $275 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce, is expected to create over 400 manufacturing jobs. City officials tout the investment as a boost for local economic growth, while residents and businesses will weigh the long-term benefits.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
