Virginia’s wage hike to $15 adds more pressure, says small business advocate

(The Center Square) – Virginia’s move toward a $15 per hour minimum wage is drawing warnings from small business advocates who say the policy could increase operating costs and place pressure on employers.

The legislation, which cleared both chambers of the General Assembly, is now before Gov. Abigail Spanberger. The governor has already indicated she intends to sign the measure.

“Our members aren’t surprised that the minimum wage increase passed, but they’re frustrated and worried about what will happen next,” said Julia Hammond, state director for the National Federation of Independent Business in Virginia.

Hammond said many small businesses already pay above the minimum wage but warned that state-mandated increases could still trigger broader cost adjustments.

“Raising the state minimum wage would put pressure on employers to pay more to stay competitive and force small businesses to raise prices to cover the costs of the mandate or else try to get by with ...