GOVERNOR'S VETO

Pursuant to Article V, Section 6, of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto Senate Bill 373, establishing a state-administered family and medical leave program.

The proposed paid family and medical leave program is a one-size-fits-all solution that removes the incentive for the private sector to provide these benefits. Many businesses in Virginia already have paid family and medical leave policies.

Additionally, the fact that with its multi-billion-dollar budget, the Commonwealth would be exempt from the mandate required for small businesses or nonprofits, is evidence that this proposal is unfair.

Accordingly, I veto this bill.