RICHMOND — Gov. Ralph Northam (D) signed an executive order Tuesday offering paid time off for state employees for the birth or adoption of a child, moving Virginia in line with a small but growing number of states.

Until Tuesday, Virginia provided parental leave only to employees who had given birth. And they had to use vacation time, sick time and then short-term disability, which provided only a fraction of their normal pay.

The new benefits, which took effect immediately, provide eight weeks of leave at full pay to mothers and fathers alike. Workers who become parents through adoption or foster placement are also eligible.

“The steps we are taking today will support the growth of our children, help parents in managing a work-life balance, contribute to a healthier and more productive workforce, and make the government of this Commonwealth an even more attractive place to work,” Northam, a pediatrician, said in a written statement.