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State Legislation: Bill Amendments · April 11, 2026 · Primary source

VA SB 128: new version, Introduced

Score 60PRIMARYregulatoryState legislature

Summary

Virginia SB 128, introduced in the 2026 session, prohibits employers from entering into, enforcing, or threatening to enforce covenants not to compete against health care professionals, defined as persons licensed by the Boards of Medicine, Nursing, Counseling, Optometry, Psychology, or Social Work. Violations carry a civil penalty of $10,000 per occurrence under existing Virginia law. The bill was enrolled and transmitted to the Governor, with a recommendation received by the Senate on April 11, 2026. An identical bill, HB 627, was passed concurrently.

What this may mean

Virginia healthcare employers, including hospitals, health systems, physician groups, behavioral health practices, and managed care organizations, that currently use non-compete agreements with licensed clinicians face $10,000 per-violation civil penalties if they enter into, enforce, or threaten to enforce such covenants once the bill takes effect. The prohibition covers a broad range of licensed professionals including physicians, nurses, counselors, psychologists, and social workers, directly affecting standard employment and credentialing contracting practices.

Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.

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