Changes are about to be made in the state of Virginia on July 1. The Virginia General Assembly passed many laws earlier this year that will change the lives of Virginians.
Some of these laws address school systems, sexual assault, as well as citizens’ privacy and safety.
Here is an overview of some of the new notable laws.
House Bill 1932
This law, also known as the ‘move over’ law, will protect pulled over or stopped drivers. Drivers will now have to either slow down their vehicle or change lanes when passing stopped vehicles with their flashing hazard lights or any other cautionary signs.
House Bill 1592
This law enforces public schools to inform parents of student involvement in any alleged bullying incident within 24 hours of finding out. This pushes the timeline sooner whereas the previous requirement was to notify the parents within five school days.
House Bill 1895.
This law, also known as, “The Silenced No More Act” will prohibit all confidentiality clauses of sexual assault and sexual harassment claims. This will ensure that issues surrounding sexual assault will not be concealed, as it will allow employers and employees to discuss such issues.
House Bill 1895 will also forbid any employment agreement that could hide any details regarding sexual assault and harassment claims.
Senate Bill 1040
This law prohibits Virginia employers from using employees’ social security numbers or any part of the number on issued identification badges or access cards.
Senate Bill 1040 will prevent hackers from using these private numbers to invade people’s privacy and will reduce identity theft.
House Bill 1924
This law will allow people with disabilities to be paid a livable wage, specifically if they are paid a sub minimum wage. The law will also support those who are transitioning from a sub minimum wage employment to competitive integrated employment. This emphasizes the cruciality of wage equity and social equity.
For more information on these laws and other new laws go to Virginia’s Legislative Information System at lis.virginia.gov.
Spartan Echo 