Virginia’s two most powerful lawmakers yesterday called for a special session to be held to fix a legislative error that guarantees workers across the state a “day of rest” on the weekends.
A spokeswoman for Gov. Mark Warner said he is inclined to call the special session, which could happen as early as Tuesday.
House Speaker William J. Howell and Senate President Pro Tempore John H. Chichester issued a statement yesterday saying that lawmakers could return for a one-day session to fix the glitch and forego the payments associated with the session.
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The two Stafford County Republicans said it would cost the state $25,905 if lawmakers accepted a per diem and mileage costs they are entitled to
The bill approved by the General Assembly wipes out antiquated “blue laws” that once mandated business closings on Sundays. A provision mistakenly stricken from the books was a decades-old exemption for private businesses from a “day of rest” law that dates to the 1600s. The mistake went unnoticed and Mr. Warner signed it into law.
The new law entitles workers to take off Saturday or Sunday — their chosen day of worship.
“The governor is working with legislative leaders and agrees a special session may be the best route,” said Ellen Qualls, spokeswoman for the Democratic governor who is vacationing in Idaho.
Last week, a judge approved an emergency request by businesses and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce to block the law from taking effect for 90 days. It was scheduled to take effect July 1.
Workers across Virginia have been telling their bosses that they want Sundays off.
• This article is based in part on wire service reports.
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