Improving Wages and Working Conditions
We envision a Virginia where all workers are paid a living wage and treated with dignity.
About Our Work
Every worker deserves fair pay, safe conditions, and respect on the job. Yet too many Virginians face wage theft, poverty wages, and unjust exemptions that leave them vulnerable. At Virginia Interfaith Center, we are part of a coalition that advocates for policies to raise the minimum wage, remove exemptions rooted in racism, and add recourse for recovering stolen wages. We also coordinate a certification program to recognize employers committed to paying a living wage and we work with a coalition to raise the minimum wage, remove exemptions rooted in racism, and add recourse for recovering stolen wages.
Quick Links
Legislative Actions & Priorities
Living Wage Virginia Program
The Living Wage Virginia Program recognizes employers that are committed to paying living wages above the current state and federal minimum wage standards, adjusting periodically for the cost of living. By lifting up businesses committed to paying fairly, we create a culture of dignity in the workplace.
Apply to become a certified Living Wage Employer here.
See the most up-to-date Living Wage Rates from Living Wage of US here.
Wage Theft
Wage theft is the illegal underpayment or nonpayment of wages, and it affects workers in every industry. It occurs when employers fail to pay minimum wage, deny overtime pay, steal tips, misclassify employees as contractors, take unlawful deductions, or issue paychecks that bounce. Every worker has rights, regardless of immigration status. We are committed to raising awareness about wage theft and strengthening enforcement across Virginia.
If you believe that your rights have been violated, our wage theft resources can help.
Submit a Wage Theft Complaint Form here.
Raising the Minimum Wage
We continue to support efforts to raise the minimum wage in Virginia to $15 by 2027. Through coalition work, we advocate for policies that ensure all workers—especially those in low-wage industries—can provide for themselves and their families.
View 2025 Minimum Wage Bill Overview here.
Minimum Wage Exemptions
We continue to support efforts to remove minimum wage exemptions rooted in racism and support policies to include farmworkers and H-2 workers in minimum wage protections.
How to Get Involved
You can stand with workers by supporting campaigns for fair pay and safe workplaces.
Contact your legislators to demand stronger wage protections, share your story to raise awareness about wage theft, or encourage your employer to join the Living Wage Virginia Program.
We also encourage you to visit our Get Involved and Events pages to connect with upcoming advocacy opportunities.
Helpful Resources
Support Paid Time to Care For All Workers
Support Sick Days for All Workers
Living Wage Virginia Program Application
Living Wage for US: Certification & Wage Rates
Submit a Wage Theft Complaint Form
2025 Minimum Wage Bill Overview (15 by 2027)
More Ways To Get Involved
Join us in making a difference—discover how you can support our mission, attend upcoming events, and explore our resources to stay engaged and help create positive change in our community.
