New Virginia Laws as of July 1, 2026
New state laws became effective on July 1, introducing changes to employment practices, criminal justice and consumer protection.
Here is a brief look at some of the biggest changes:
Employment
Employers must now include a salary or wage range in job postings. Employers can no longer ask applicants about their previous pay when making hiring decisions.
For a detailed list of new employment laws, visit the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry website HERE.
Criminal Justice / Clean Slate
Eligible misdemeanor convictions and some lower-level felony convictions can now be sealed from public view.
The law is intended to improve access to jobs, housing and licensing for people who have remained crime-free.
Some records will be sealed automatically, while others require a petition.
For complete details, visit the Virginia State Crime Commission website HERE.
Environment
Beginning July 1, all Virginia food vendors — including smaller restaurants and convenience stores — must stop using expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) food containers, unless they qualify for an exemption.
Larger chains were already required to comply in 2025.
Firearms
Virginia now restricts the sale, manufacture, transfer and importation of many semi-automatic firearms classified under the new law as assault firearms, as well as certain high-capacity magazines.
The new law does not apply to people who legally owned these firearms before July 1.
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Additional July 1 laws may be viewed HERE and HERE.
Updates to existing laws may be viewed HERE.