New laws go into effect today in Virginia

Big changes are coming to Virginia starting July 1st, as a wave of new state laws take effect, touching everything from school safety to driver responsibility and digital protections.

In education, school boards are now required to update their cyberbullying policies—specifically to cover off-campus online behavior between students. Cell phone use on school grounds is also under tighter control, though students can’t be suspended or expelled for violations. And for young influencers, new protections are in place: content creators must keep detailed records when minors under 16 appear in monetized content.

On the roads, all adult passengers must now wear seat belts—no matter where they sit. Violators face a $25 fine, or $50 if a minor is unrestrained. Drivers who hit pedestrians could face a misdemeanor if the incident causes serious harm or death. And adults who knowingly let an unlicensed minor drive? That’s now a Class 1 misdemeanor—with up to a year in jail.

At work, employers could now face civil lawsuits if an employee commits intentional harm—like assault—while on the job. And a new law changes how overtime is calculated for salaried, non-exempt workers.

Consumer protections also got a boost. All fees—especially on food delivery platforms—must be disclosed up front, and gift cards can no longer rack up inactivity or dormancy fees.

Crime victims now have three years—up from one—to file for compensation under the Virginia Victims Fund.

And at the DMV, drivers can request license notations for non-apparent disabilities, while autistic drivers will be given assistive communication envelopes for traffic stops.

Lastly, public colleges in Virginia must eliminate legacy admissions—ending the practice of giving preference based on family alumni status.