Families
- Virginia governor signs Dominion-backed bills. All eyes on regulators now.
RICHMOND, Va.—Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Thursday signed legislation that directs regulators to assign electricity costs to data centers and allows Dominion Energy to spend $900,000 a mile burying local distribution lines. The bills from Senate President Pro Tem Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, and Del. Destiny LeVere Bolling, D-Henrico, could have also required data centers to cover […]
- Franklin City Parent Alleges Systemic Special Ed Safety Lapses at School Board Meeting
Key allegations included a failure to properly investigate incidents, a lack of transparency, and instances where parents were not informed about occurrences involving their disabled children. The parent emphasized that these concerns extend beyond verbal issues or education matters to core child protection failures. She noted that incidents with developmentally disabled students are not always […
- 60 acres of Virginia Land Given for Free in Henrico for Black Virginians to Farm
Duron Chavis on land transferred to the Central Virginia Agrarian Community Land Trust. May 2026. (Photo by Shannon Heckt/Virginia Mercury) In a fallow field off the Virginia Capital Trail in Henrico County Tuesday morning, urban agriculture expert Duron Chavis walked through the grass alongside Parker Agelasto, a former Richmond City councilman who now leads the […]
- Virginia House Debates SB727: Bill Banning Assault Firearm Carry in Public Passes Amid Controversy
Tom Garrett described initial shock upon reading the text, which bars carrying such weapons ‘about his person’ in public areas. He employed a Venn diagram to demonstrate overlaps: Northern Virginia pickup truck owners, rural firearm owners, and recreational shooters/hunters. A limited exemption for hunting or target practice, he argued, fails to exempt most scenarios, like […]
- Mother Raises Serious Allegations Against Franklin City Schools Over Special Needs Student Care
She contended that although funding is designated to follow individual special needs students, the corresponding level of care does not materialize. According to her account, families advocating for their children encounter repercussions rather than support from the system intended to safeguard them. The parent highlighted operational gaps that hinder effective service delivery, noting that grants
- Move over, sheep. Cattle are grazing solar sites, too, and that’s good news for Virginia.
Cows graze under solar panels at Silicon Ranch’s 3.5-MW solar farm in Rutherford County, Tennessee. (Photo courtesy Silicon Ranch) The conventional wisdom was wrong. And having helped spread the conventional wisdom, I was wrong, too. Mea culpa. It turns out sheep aren’t the only animals capable of handling the job of vegetation management on solar […]
- Debate Heats Up in Fairfax County Over Recommending Smartphone Delay for Children Until 8th Grade
Proponents argue that early smartphone introduction fosters addiction, comparable to other compulsive behaviors, impairing impulse control and daily functioning. Behavioral challenges manifest as increased irritability and reduced social skills, compounded by cyberbullying prevalent on social platforms. Sleep quality declines due to screen-emitted light interfering with circadian rhythms, resultin
- Resident Voices Financial Hardship at Warren County Supervisors Meeting Over Proposed Tax Increase
In his public comment, Jenkins stated he works six days a week, tithes at church, and pays his taxes diligently. He disclosed having only 75 cents in his bank account, attributing it to the demands of family life. Describing his current home as too small for his growing family, Jenkins noted the challenges posed by […]
- DOJ Civil Rights Division Launches Investigation into Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano for Alleged Discrimination in Favor of Illegal Immigrant Defendants
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division has initiated a formal federal investigation into the Office of the Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney, led by Steve Descano, examining whether its plea bargaining, charging decisions, and sentencing policies discriminate against U.S. citizens by providing preferential treatment to illegal immigrant defendants. The notification was sent to
- Loudoun County Proposes New Taxpayer-Funded Short-Term Rent Supplement Program
Loudoun County, Virginia—one of the wealthiest counties in the United States—may soon launch a new county-funded “short-term rent supplement program” aimed at promoting housing stability. The initiative, advanced by Supervisors Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian) and Koran T. Saines (D-Sterling), has drawn attention for its broad eligibility criteria. The program would provide up to six months […]
- Virginia Legislation Seeks Modernization of Social Services Technology Systems
Virginia lawmakers are advancing legislation aimed at modernizing the technological infrastructure supporting the state’s administration of key federal benefit programs. House Bill 66, introduced in the 2026 session of the Virginia House of Delegates, directs the Department of Social Services and the Department of Medical Assistance Services to engage a third-party vendor to conduct a […]
- Fairfax County Parent Urges Superintendent Michelle Reid’s Resignation Over Alleged Mishandling of School Incidents
FCPS has faced multiple controversies during Reid’s tenure, which began in 2022 after her appointment by the Fairfax County School Board. One prominent issue involved Hayfield Secondary School’s football program, where state investigators confirmed violations of athletic recruitment rules. Dozens of players transferred from Freedom High School in Prince William County following a coach’s move. […]
- Fairfax County School Board Considers Amendment to Reduce Elementary Early Release Days
The board, consisting of Chair Sandy Anderson (Springfield District), Ricardy Anderson (Mason District), Melanie Meren (Hunter Mill District), Robyn Lady (Vice Chair, Dranesville District), Seema Dixit (Sully District), Tom Dunn (Dranesville District representative), Karl Frisch (Providence District), Rachna Sizemore Heizer (Braddock District), Mateo Dunne, Marcia St. John-Cunning, Kyle McDaniel,
- A new law will make it easier to build a tiny house in your back yard, starting next year
An ADU with alley access in Richmond’s Fan neighborhood. (Photo by Wyatt Gordon) Accessory dwelling units — which could be a tiny house on another home’s lot, a garage-turned-apartment, a carriage house, or an ‘in-law suite’ — will be easier to build beginning next year, following Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s signature of a new law this […]
- Mount Vernon’s Revolutionary War Weekend Returns May 2-3: Step Into History as America’s 250th Anniversary Approaches
MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Just one week from now, George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate will once again come alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of the American Revolution. The popular Revolutionary War Weekend, scheduled for Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, 2026, promises an immersive two-day living-history experience that transports visitors back more […]
- Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Delivers Swift Justice: Transgender-Identifying Substitute Teacher Arrested for Alleged ‘Murder Spree’ Threats Against Virginia High School
In a decisive move that underscores the critical importance of community vigilance and strong law enforcement in protecting our children, the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 19-year-old Hadyn Dollery of Chantilly on charges of making threats of bodily injury. Dollery, a biological male who identifies as a transgender woman, was taken into custody off […]
- Tensions Escalate at Fairfax County School Board Meeting Over Vote on Unfinished Calendar
Hunter Mill District’s Melanie Meren voiced strong reservations, noting past instances where motions passed without full review but insisting she required a complete view before voting. ‘We’ve had motions voted,’ she said, adding, ‘until I see it… that is part of this process.’ Meren argued that proper presentation to the board enables informed decision-making, a […]
- Early poll is sobering for Spanberger, but it’s a wake-up call, not an epitaph
Gov. Abigail Spanberger speaks with reporters outside the Executive Mansion in Richmond earlier this month. (Photo by Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury) The first report card on Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s still brand-new term is in, and she can’t be happy with it. I’m hearing she’s decidedly unhappy. A new survey by the Washington Post and George Mason […]
- Fairfax County Student Representative Addresses School Board on Impact of Frequent Early Release Days
Anderson pointed to several specific concerns raised by students, teachers, and peers. She noted that early release days lead to inconsistent schedules across different grade levels, complicating teachers’ efforts to maintain steady pacing in instruction. These shortened days often result in abbreviated lessons, with content coverage adjusted downward to accommodate the reduced time. Families face
- Hospitals are not closing down
This post was originally published on this site. The hospitals in the area say that they will continue to serve the region, despite possible cuts in Medicaid funding which were approved by Congress last year. Public Citizen, a report highlighted by Virginia U.S. Senators. Tim Kaine, Mark Warner and others stated that Sentara Halifax Regional […]
- Purcellville Town Council Member Voices Strong Opposition to Valley Commerce Center Rezoning at Loudoun County Hearing
PURCELLVILLE, Va. — Loudoun County residents and local officials packed the Board of Supervisors chambers on April 15 for a contentious public hearing on the proposed Valley Commerce Center, a large-scale industrial development that has ignited debate over growth, rural character, and resource protection in western Loudoun County. At the center of the opposition stands…
- Abigail Spanberger signs bill forcing Virginia schools to add ‘Restorative Disciplinary practices’ before suspending students
Abigail Spanberger, the Virginia governor, signed into law a state bill that was passed by her Democratic colleagues. The bill prohibits public schools in Virginia from suspending or expelling a student before they have considered “restorative disciplinary practice” such as “peer mediation” and a “restorative circular.” Schools that do not use such practices are required […]
- Spanberger signs sweeping gun legislation reshaping Virginia’s firearm laws
Gun safety advocates at a Moms Demand Actions rally in Richmond. (Photo by Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury) Just hours before a midnight deadline, Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Monday submitted a series of amendments to high-profile gun legislation passed by the General Assembly last month, while also signing several related measures into law. Taken together, the changes […]
- Loudoun Education Foundation Bridges Meal Gap for LCPS Students During Snow Day Closures
LEF’s Fueled program supplies weekend meal bags, in-school food pantries, and snacks to 56 LCPS schools. By mid-school year, the program had distributed more than 30,000 weekend meal bags, helping students maintain focus on learning. The foundation coordinates with volunteers, including LCPS staff, high school students, and retired educators, to pack and distribute these resources […]
- Oakhill Farm, Monroe’s Loudoun County estate on pause
Landscape near Oak Hill Farm in Loudoun County, the former seat of President James Monroe, where legislators are trying to create a public park. (Photo by Alessandra Caceres Mendoza/VCU Capital News Service) By Alessandra Caceres Mendoza/VCU Capital News Service RICHMOND, Va. — Legislation to purchase the former estate of the fifth Founding Father for use […]
- Virginia sees 33,000 ACA enrollment drop since subsidies expired, more likely on the way
(Photo by Getty Images) What might be pocket change to some can be a breaking point for others — forcing tough choices between health insurance and everyday essentials. As Virginians, and Americans nationwide, face premium spikes in the Affordable Care Act marketplace after Congress failed to renew subsidies, many are weighing the cost of coverage […]
- ‘Skill’ slot machines are a risky bet for Virginia
Skill games in a Richmond corner store. The games popped up in gas stations, convenience stores and bars around the state before they were outlawed. (Photo by Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury) After 32 years in the United States Army and Virginia Army National Guard, I now spend my time managing my VFW Post’s charitable gaming activities. […]
- Abigail Spanberger signs first wave of bills targeting health care, housing and energy cost
Gov. Abigail Spanberger signing bills. (Photo by Charlotte Rene Woods/Virginia Mercury) Gov. Abigail Spanberger has signed the first first batch of bills passed by state lawmakers before they adjourned in mid-March, advancing measures on health care, housing and energy affordability. With hundreds of bills cleared by the legislature, she has until April 13 to sign, […]
- LCPS Gambles with Student Safety: Defying Severe Storm Warnings While Neighbors Close Schools
Another day, another episode of chaos dressed up and promoted as exceptionalism by Loudoun County Public Schools. Regional Weather Warnings and Neighboring Districts’ Responses Over the past weekend, the National Weather Service predicted a level 4-5 severe weather emergency for our region on Monday, March 16, with tornadoes and winds in excess of 70 miles […]
- Virginia Republicans Unanimously Approves Bill Easing Rental Lease Terminations for Military Personnel
RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia General Assembly has delivered a strong show of support for the state’s military community by passing House Bill 174, which streamlines the process for active-duty service members to terminate their rental agreements when faced with permanent changes of station, deployments, or other official orders. HB174 amends the Virginia Residential Landlord […]
- Virginia Legislature Overwhelmingly Approves HB 312 to Safeguard Consumers in Auto Glass Repair Industry
RICHMOND — In a display of strong bipartisan consensus, the Virginia General Assembly has advanced House Bill 312, establishing clear notice requirements for motor vehicle glass repair shops to protect consumers and ensure vehicle safety. The legislation, which ties violations to the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, passed the House of Delegates by a vote of […]
- Before You Vote in November, Look at What Happened in Richmond
This November, Virginians will choose who represents them in the U.S. House. As always, the economy will be the decisive issue, and midterms traditionally punish the party in power. What voters should not forget is what just happened in Richmond. Led by Abigail Spanberger, Democrats ran on “affordability.” After winning control of state government, they […]
- Op-Ed: Budget amendment would triple General Assembly member salaries, cost taxpayers more in retirement and frills
OINK, OINK — the hog is now the symbol of the Democratic Party in Virginia. Not even in power for two weeks, Sen. Scott Surovell (D-Fairfax) introduced a budget amendment to triple the salaries of state senators and delegates to $45,000, effective January 2028. According to the budget amendment, taxpayers would be on the hook […]
- Youngkin Touts Virginia Progress in Final State of the Commonwealth Address
On foster care and behavioral health, Youngkin pointed to the Right Help Right Now initiative as key to system improvements, aiming to better serve children and families. Critics, including Democratic leaders, have questioned the depth of reforms amid ongoing challenges. Virginia was named the top state for veterans by Smile Hub, attributed to policies like […]
- Virginia’s RGGI Withdrawal and Potential Reentry Spark Debate on Costs and Emissions
Republican sources claim RGGI extracted $828 million from Virginians during participation, with withdrawal saving $937 million. Projections for rejoining under new Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger suggest annual costs of $500 million, equating to roughly $1,100 per household in higher electricity bills. Industrial users reportedly faced increases exceeding $1,500 monthly previously.0527 Carb
- House committee advances bill to study VMI’s public funding status
Virginia lawmakers on Tuesday advanced a bill creating a task force that would examine whether the Virginia Military Institute should remain a publicly funded, state-sponsored institution, marking the most consequential legislative step yet in a debate over the school’s governance and culture.
- They Promised Affordability. Then Came the Tax Hikes—and the Pay Raise
Promises of Affordability? More Like Broken Promises Virginia Democrats spent the campaign season hammering one message: affordability. Voters were told that Democrats would ease the financial burden on working families and make the state more affordable to live in. But since retaking control of Virginia’s government, their actions tell a very different story. Tax Hikes […]
- Virginia’s “Affordability” Lie: How Democrats Turned Campaign Promises into a Tax Tsunami
“Affordability” — Just a Campaign Slogan Virginia Democrats barely waited for the ink to dry on their election victories before revealing what their version of “affordability” really means. Within days of taking unified control of state government, they began advancing tax proposals that would push Virginia toward the highest tax burden in the nation. The campaign rhetoric sounded […]
- Washington County Sets April Special Election on School Sales Tax Amid Holston Merger Fears
Supervisors vote 5-2 for an April 6 referendum after a packed hearing; superintendent cites $200 million facilities needs while Damascus residents link the tax to Holston High consolidation fears.
- Amy Riccardi’s Swearing-In Marks a Victory for Common-Sense Education in Loudoun County
In a resounding win for parents, teachers, and students tired of progressive overreach in public schools, Amy Riccardi was officially sworn in on January 7, 2026, as the new Loudoun County School Board member for the Sterling District.
- Loudoun County Democrats Face Tax Relief Standoff Amid Booming Data Center Revenues
In a heated discussion at a recent Loudoun County Board of Supervisors meeting, Republican Supervisor Matt Letourneau highlighted the county’s reluctance to pass on tax savings to hardworking residents despite surging revenues from its thriving data center industry.
- Loudoun School Board Hands Over Power to Unelected Teachers’ Union, Locking in Massive Raises at Taxpayer Expense
In a move that undermines the authority of our elected school board and silences the voices of parents and taxpayers, the Loudoun County School Board voted 7-1 on November 25, 2025, to ratify a historic collective bargaining agreement with the Loudoun Education Association.
- Virginia Senate Republicans Call Out Democrats for Attack on Right To Work
RICHMOND, VA – Democrats spent all year promising they would not touch right to work and that they would protect the money in Virginians’ pockets. Now one of their first priorities is dismantling Virginia’s right to work laws and pushing mandatory collective bargaining, even though Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger promised she would not sign a repeal. “Democrats […]
- Controversy Erupts as Loudoun School Board Vice Chair Anne Donohue Pushes Restrictive Changes to Student Transfer Policies
In a move critics say could exacerbate hardships for families amid ongoing school rezoning efforts, Loudoun County School Board Vice Chair Anne Donohue has proposed sweeping changes to out-of-zone student transfer policies, framing them as necessary to “rein in” what she views as overly permissive practices.
- Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin Celebrate Virginia’s 59% Drop in Fentanyl Overdose Deaths
Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin joined a wide array of stakeholders and allies today at the Patrick Henry Building to celebrate the nearly 59 percent reduction in fentanyl-involved overdose deaths in the Commonwealth of Virginia today versus January 2022.
- Election 2025: Character Matters Over Party
The Stakes of this Election If the race for Virginia’s next attorney general hasn’t already been decided, what more must a candidate do to disqualify himself. The recent revelations about Democratic nominee Jay Jones are the case in point. His past text messages — violent, crude, and deeply unbecoming of anyone aspiring to be the […]
- House District 97, anchored in Virginia Beach, could determine party majority in House of Delegates
Just two years after House District 97 flipped from Republican to Democrat, the Virginia Beach district is being closely watched as a key race that could determine if Democrats will maintain their majority in the House, a hold they gained in 2023.
- Youngkin’s education board moves to toughen proficiency standards
Virginia students will soon face tougher academic expectations. Nearly a month after school leaders demanded greater transparency, the State Board of Education voted Thursday to support raising the benchmarks — or cut scores — for math and English, setting off a debate over how the changes will affect classrooms.
- GOP state Sen. Reeves launches 2026 US Senate bid, aims to unseat Warner
Virginia state Sen. Bryce Reeves, R-Spotsylvania, launched his campaign Wednesday for the U.S. Senate, setting up a high-stakes 2026 challenge to three-term Democratic Sen. Mark Warner.
- WATCH: Abigail Spanberger, Asked Whether Boys Should Play in Girls’ Sports, Instead Rants About ‘Costs’
Abigail Spanberger was asked a yes or no question: Does she support biological boys playing in girls’ sports and using girls’ bathrooms? Instead, the Democratic Virginia gubernatorial hopeful gave a rambling answer before abruptly discussing rising costs. “Do you support trans women playing in girls’ sports and being in girls’ restrooms?” ABC 13’s Alexia Stanbridge […]