POLICY PRIORITY: Economic Security
Why?
What are we doing?
What are we doing?
Too many Virginia families struggle with economic security because of acute issues that arise in their lives or through structural shortcomings that place barriers to economic stability and freedom.
What are we doing?
What are we doing?
What are we doing?
SALT is focused on using data driven, people centered research to create and implement policies that provide economic security for all Virginians and provide a pathway to economic indepednece and vibrant communities.
In 2026 General Assembly session, we are continuing to work with Virginia Poverty Law Center, Legal Aid Justice Center, The
SALT is focused on using data driven, people centered research to create and implement policies that provide economic security for all Virginians and provide a pathway to economic indepednece and vibrant communities.
In 2026 General Assembly session, we are continuing to work with Virginia Poverty Law Center, Legal Aid Justice Center, The Commonwealth Institute, and the National Employment Law Project that build on last year's successes to raise Virginia's low Unemployment Insurance Recipiency Rate so we can ensure that more people receive the benefits they've paid into during their working years.
Economic Security Policies SALT is supporting in 2026
Increase Unemployment Insurance Insurance Benefits
Uniform Duration of Unemployment Insurance Benefits
26 Weeks of Benefits Guaranteed
Currently, Virginia workers don't have a clear understanding of how long their Unemployment Insurance Benefits will last. This legislation ensures everyone will receive 26 weeks of benefits. This will provide certainty and security as they look for new employment.
If You're not working & Not Being Paid You Deserve Your Benefits
Remove the Lockout Exemption
SB433(Bagby)
If you're locked out of work because of a labor dispute you are not able to access you unemployment benefits. This bill would remove the exemption for labor disputes. If your employer won't let you work and won't pay you, you should be able to access your benefits.