Effective July 1, 2022, Virginia Code § 15.2-1509 was amended to include the provision of hiring preference for persons with disabilities in addition to veteran's preference provided to those honorably discharged from the Armed Forces of the United States (including veterans who have a service-connected disability rating fix by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs). Candidates who receive hiring preference may be required to present documentation of disability. In addition, Section 1.11 of the Personnel Regulations has been updated to include the hiring preference.

• In making initial job appointments to the county service, appointing authorities shall take into consideration or give preference to an applicant's status as a person with a disability provided that the person meets all the knowledge, skills, and eligibility requirements of the job.
• Appointing authorities shall give additional consideration to veterans and veterans who have a service-connected disability fixed by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
• This consideration or preference is limited to initial appointments to county service, and shall not be required in demotions, promotions, or transfers.

How to Claim Hiring Preference:

• If you are applying for a job with Fairfax County, you will be asked Agency-Wide questions, which include an opportunity to indicate your status as a person with a disability. You must indicate your status in this section. 
• Prior to appointment to a merit position, eligible persons may be required to submit documentation certifying that they have a disability.  

Additional Resources:

Employment Resources for People with Disabilities