RICHMOND, VA — Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed House Bill 353, sponsored by Delegate Katrina Callsen, into law, expanding access to affordable health benefit options for nonprofit employees across the Commonwealth.
The legislation allows 501(c)(3) organizations to sponsor health benefits consortia, enabling charitable nonprofits to band together to pool risk, strengthen purchasing power, and offer more affordable, high-quality health coverage to their employees. Small and mid-sized nonprofits, in particular, often face significant challenges providing competitive benefits due to rising insurance costs and limited bargaining power.
The Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE) – Virginia, alongside partners including the Dan River Nonprofit Network, advocated for the passage of HB353 as part of a broader effort to strengthen the nonprofit workforce across the Commonwealth.
Virginia’s nonprofit sector plays a vital role in communities statewide, employing nearly 400,000 people and delivering essential services that support families, strengthen local economies, and improve quality of life. Expanding eligibility for health benefits consortia is expected to improve workforce stability, support recruitment and retention, and help nonprofits remain competitive employers.
“HB353 is a practical, forward-looking solution that strengthens the nonprofit workforce and the communities they serve,” said Dr. Mariane Doyle, Executive Director and CEO of the Center for Nonprofit Excellence – Virginia. “By allowing 501(c)(3) organizations to sponsor health benefits consortia, Virginia is giving nonprofits a meaningful pathway to provide more affordable and sustainable health coverage for their employees.”
With the Governor’s signature, HB353 will take effect July 1, 2026, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the nonprofit workforce and expanding access to affordable health coverage across Virginia.
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Mariane Doyle