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- Bristol building owners continue to fight legal battle against abortion clinic
The landlords of Bristol who tried for two years to get the abortion clinic out of their building have appealed the dismissal their lawsuit against clinic owner.
- Survey Finds Majority of Virginia Families With Children Face Food Insecurity
State-commissioned poll fills gap left by ended USDA hunger survey; food banks report rising demand and thinner donations.
- Seven Rural Virginia Community Colleges Receive $5.93 Million for Health Care Training
A new state grant will help seven rural Virginia community colleges expand nursing, allied health and other training programs tied to local workforce needs.
- Marcia Price Bill Extending Landlord Eviction Wait Passes Senate, Heads to Abigail Spanberger
RICHMOND, Virginia – In a closely divided vote, the Virginia Senate approved House Bill 15 on March 10, 2026, by a tally of 21-19, sending the measure to Governor Abigail Spanberger’s desk.
- Housing Bills to Boost Supply, Protect Tenants on Way to Abigail Spanberger's Desk
While some of the most progressive housing bills did not survive this year’s legislative session, many housing proposals are on their way to Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s desk — some of which she has already stated she will sign into law.
- Hampton Roads tenants describe landlord’s abuse, retaliation after landmark fair housing settlement
A new settlement with Hampton Roads landlord David Merryman — who is currently serving a 17-year sentence for defrauding the federal government — means several of his former tenants will receive a piece of $2.5 million in financial compensation over the next year. Merryman must sell his Virginia properties, numbering over 60, and can never […]
- Virginia Democrats Push $17 Million Eviction Prevention Program Amid Budget Bloat Concerns
Virginia lawmakers are advancing a new state budget that includes a massive $17 million allocation for eviction prevention assistance, sparking immediate concerns among fiscal conservatives. This hefty provision is tucked inside House Bill 30, which proponents are calling the Affordable Virginia Budget for the upcoming fiscal years. While advocates claim the funding is necessary to […]
- Prince William County Approves $20 Million Capital Investment Boost for Parks and Recreation in FY2027
The Prince William County Board of Supervisors recently approved a substantial financial commitment to the local parks system as part of the upcoming fiscal year budget. The fiscal year 2027 budget includes a $20 million increase in capital investment specifically designated for the Department of Parks and Recreation. This funding boost aims to address backlogged […]
- Fairfax City Council Reviews Development Proposal for Housing Stock Increase
Council Member Stacy Hall spoke during a Fairfax City meeting held on July 28, 2026. The focus was a proposed development that would add new dwelling units to the city. The current total of dwelling units stands at 10,467 according to the details shared. This proposal would increase the housing stock by 45 percent. The […]
- Candidate David Beckwith Discusses Tax Strategy for Younger Voters
Congressional candidate Dave Beckwith appeared in a discussion regarding economic strategies. The conversation highlighted a proposed flat tax rate of 5 percent. This element forms part of efforts to address issues for Gen Z. The plan involves changes to taxation to influence financial outcomes. Participants in the discussion referenced challenges with payments among younger adults. […]
- Expert Testifies on EMF Standards and Data Center Concerns at Council Hearing
Theodora Scarato spoke before the Montgomery County Council at a recent public hearing. She characterized existing electromagnetic field safety standards as a fairy tale. Her remarks focused on the limitations of current guidelines in addressing modern exposures. Scarato described degraded power conditions that result in electrical pollution. This pollution can extend across distances of up […]
- As Virginia officials weigh data center pushback, report details industry’s public service funding
As a single mother balancing work against earning a nursing degree, Yvettrise Hoskie thought homeownership was out of her reach. Now, she’s settling into a Henrico County townhome development. The county’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund helped with her downpayment, but the financial assistance was made possible by one of the state’s more controversial neighbors — […]
- National landlord with property in Virginia accused of housing discrimination
Civil rights complaints filed in Virginia and other states allege that Greystar, a national apartment management company, has violated fair housing laws by rejecting prospective tenants that use housing vouchers to help pay their rent. An investigation by nonprofit watchdog Housing Rights Initiative found over 100 instances where properties managed by Greystar in Virginia, Maryland, […]
- Bon Air Facility Addresses Infrastructure to Tackle Juvenile Corrections Challenges
Bon Air faces a significant staffing crisis that requires more than additional hiring to resolve. The facility operates under a model that has proven insufficient in meeting current demands within juvenile justice. Officials have outlined specific infrastructure improvements to enhance conditions and operational efficiency. Renovations target the Bon Air campus to expand capacity and upgrade […]
- Prince William County Allocates Additional $5 Million to Affordable Housing Reserve Fund
Prince William County officials have proposed a $5 million contribution to the Affordable Housing reserve fund as a central component of the upcoming fiscal year 2027 budget. This latest financial commitment brings the total local investment in the housing reserve to a significant $21 million over the period spanning from fiscal year 2024 to fiscal […]
- Late on rent? New Virginia law gives tenants more time and protection from eviction
Tamiaka Bryant has rebuilt her life from scratch before. She doesn’t want to have to do it again. Originally from North Carolina, Bryant saw her hometown of New Bern pummeled by Hurricane Florence in 2018. Flooding and heavy winds caused an estimated $100 million in commercial and residential damage, prompting the city to spend the […]
- Candidate Outlines Plan for Federal Fiscal Oversight and Economic Targets
Dave Beckwith, who is running for a congressional seat representing Virginia, has shared details of a multi-step initiative designed to tackle federal spending patterns and promote economic stability. The plan centers on structured oversight of government operations combined with efforts to stimulate expansion. It responds to concerns over debt trajectories and the need for measurable […]
- Landlords to Offer Payment Plans Before Evicting for Minor Rent Defaults, Virginia General Assembly Approves Bill
Virginia General Assembly Approves Bill Requiring Landlords to Offer Payment Plans Before Evicting for Minor Rent Defaults The Virginia House of Delegates and Senate have passed legislation that establishes new protocols for landlords seeking to address tenant nonpayment of rent under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. House Bill 95 specifically targets situations where […]
- Virginia’s $17 Million Eviction Program Expansion Sparks Fiscal Concerns
The Virginia state budget recently advanced a massive expansion of taxpayer-funded housing subsidies, raising concerns among fiscal conservatives about runaway spending. Lawmakers allocated an astonishing $17 million for eviction prevention assistance over the biennium, vastly expanding the state’s footprint in private housing matters. This hefty appropriation represents a drastic expansion from t
- Feds launch groundbreaking electric plane pilot program in Virginia
A view of BETA Technologies’ Alia A250 Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft in Charlottesville. (Photo by Nathaniel Cline/Virginia Mercury) Virginia hosted the first flight of the federal government’s advanced air mobility pilot program in Charlottesville on Friday, an electric aviation initiative that sets the stage for the nation to improve air transportation while boosting health […]
- Youth Detention Pressures Mount in Hampton Roads Region
Hampton Roads communities are confronting challenges in their youth detention services as juveniles are sent to facilities outside their immediate areas. The practice stems from limitations in local capacity that force reliance on distant options. Keeping youth connected to home environments has been identified as important for their overall development. Presentations on the topic outline […]
- Study Examines Radiation Absorption Differences Between Children and Adults Near Cell Towers
Theodora Scarato has drawn attention to research indicating that children absorb more radiation from cell towers than adults. The difference stems from thinner skulls and developing brains that allow greater penetration of radiofrequency signals. A 2023 study by Lee and Choi analyzed downlink electromagnetic field exposure in mobile communication networks. The work included computer simulations […
- Virginia Senate Examines Juvenile Abuse Cases and Interview Protocols
The Virginia Senate is conducting an examination of juvenile abuse cases throughout the state. This review focuses on the handling of disclosures made by children who have experienced abuse. The process involves assessing how initial responses influence subsequent outcomes for victims. Investigators play a key role in shaping the direction of these sensitive matters. Effective […]
- Virginia Resident Raises Concerns Over Rental Pricing Practices
A Virginia resident provided input during a legislative session regarding experiences with rent determination methods employed by corporate landlords in the state. The presentation detailed how certain pricing mechanisms lead to increases at specific times along with supplementary costs outlined in agreements. The individual recounted efforts to address these elements through direct engagement wit
- Fairfax County Education System Examines Expanded Teacher Responsibilities
Fairfax County Public Schools have become the focus of discussions regarding the balance between academic instruction and additional support roles. Teachers describe an increase in responsibilities that include elements of care and supervision traditionally outside the classroom scope. These changes have prompted questions about the evolving function of public education in the county. Board meetin
- Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice Reports 173 Committed Youth Admissions Including Cases at Bon Air
The Department of Juvenile Justice for fiscal year 2025 recorded 39,882 juvenile intake complaints across Virginia. Of those complaints 6,354 resulted in detainments and 2,241 led to probation placements. A total of 173 youth received committed admissions which account for less than one percent of the overall population served by the department. Bon Air Juvenile […]
- Debate Emerges Over Off-the-Record Meetings in Virginia
Virginia Democrats are considering allowing secret meetings out of the public eye. This consideration has led to a debate on whether transparency in state government might be affected. The discussion focuses on the implications for open proceedings. The topic involves the nature of off-the-record political meetings. One aspect highlighted is that gatherings involving more than […]
- Fairfax County Counselor Addresses Concerns Over Excessive Screen Time for Young Children
Specifically, the counselor recounted experiences on a bus ride from the airport, while waiting in airport locations, and on planes, where every such child appeared to have a tablet in hand. ‘Stop handing tablets to kids everywhere,’ she urged, framing this as evidence of an unintended trend toward screen dependency from an early age. The […]
- Special Education Issues at Stonebridge High School Prompt Community Discussion in Loudoun County
Special education students in Loudoun County have been described as facing an alarming state of affairs within the public school system. Parents from Stonebridge High School have brought attention to the treatment of these students and their dedicated teachers. The core message underscores that students and staff members are not expendable in educational planning. Families […]
- Virginia lawmakers are set to return to Richmond as budget deadline nears
Virginia lawmakers are set to return to Richmond this month for another attempt to reach a budget deal, with just days until the start of the new fiscal year and no agreement yet on the state’s next two-year spending plan. The House of Delegates is scheduled to reconvene its special session June 18 at 10 […]
- Fairfax County School Board Reviews O-Days Policy on Assessments
Fairfax County School Board members engaged in a debate regarding O-Days and their role within the school calendar. The session addressed questions about whether these days reduce available time for assessments and teacher preparation. A board member presented arguments in favor of updating the existing policy. During the meeting, the speaker described O-Days as periods […]
- Traffic Detour Plans Set for PWC Parkway and Minnieville Road Intersection
A major traffic adjustment is scheduled to begin at the intersection of PWC Parkway and Minnieville Road in July. This shift will introduce new detour routes to facilitate construction activities in the area. The plans include a series of phased road improvements aimed at upgrading the infrastructure. Official updates are available through county resources for […]
- Virginia Legislature Advances Offshore Wind Workforce Training Initiative
The Virginia General Assembly has approved a new law intended to equip the state’s workforce with the skills necessary for the offshore wind industry. House Bill 67, which became law as Chapter 362, was signed by the governor and will take effect on July 1, 2026. The legislation focuses exclusively on developing training programs and […]
- SELC appeals to state supreme court over SCC approval of Dominion’s Chesterfield gas plant
The Southern Environmental Law Center, representing the Chesterfield County branch of the NAACP, Appalachian Voices, and Mothers Out Front, on Wednesday filed an appeal with the Supreme Court of Virginia over state regulators’ approval of Dominion Energy’s Chesterfield Energy Reliability Center (CERC), a gas peaker plant fiercely opposed by the groups and residents that’s slated […]
- Thousands of Virginians will regain the right to vote next month
Virginia resident Tati King, a former felon who helped lead a major lawsuit to win back his and others’ voting rights, stands outside of Virginia’s Capitol. (Photo courtesy of Phuong Tran/ACLU of Virginia) Tati Abu King, who was formerly incarcerated for a felony, has been waiting years to be able to vote again. A court […]
- Loudoun County Teams Advance to World Championships in Odyssey of the Mind and Robotics
Students from Loudoun County schools have qualified for the World Championships in Odyssey of the Mind and Robotics. The teams earned their spots through strong performances at the state competitions. Pinebrook Elementary in Leesburg contributed to the success with its Odyssey of the Mind team. The group achieved a first-place finish at the state level […]
- Franklin City Speaker Addresses Community Role in School Funding Discussions
During a session held in the City of Franklin Virginia municipal chamber, a speaker outlined approaches for residents to become more active in matters concerning school resources. The presentation centered on the observation that funding for Franklin City schools has not kept pace with needs, resulting in limited support for students. Attendees were informed about […]
- 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 […
- Virginia Marijuana retail plan in limbo after lawmakers reject Spanberger changes
In Virginia, the future of a legal, regulated market for adult-use marijuana remains in limbo years after possession was legalized. (Photo Illustration by Mario Tama/Getty Images) Five years after Virginia legalized simple adult possession of marijuana, lawmakers are at an impasse over how to finally stand up a legal retail market, after the General Assembly […]
- Prince William County’s Transit Operations: Funding Without General Fund Reliance and Comparison to Fairfax County
The system’s annual revenue totals about $30 million, sourced from mechanisms including local contributions and fares, with $20 million allocated from state grants and $10 million from other local streams. This covers the entirety of operations for services like OmniRide buses managed by the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC), which connects Prince William County […]
- State bus line debuts new east-west route that connects 10 cities across Virginia
The state’s bus line The Virginia Breeze launchd a new east-west route, The Tidewater Current, on April 20, 2026. Passengers may travel from Virginia Beach to Harrisonburg, with multiple stops along the way. (Photo courtesy Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation) Travelers looking to traverse the commonwealth from east to west and vice versa […]
- Abigail Spanberger’s first 100 days are flashing a warning Virginia Democrats should not ignore
Gov. Abigail Spanberger signs bills to set referendums for four constitutional amendments on Feb. 6, 2026. (Photo by Charlotte Rene Woods/ Virginia Mercury) Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed a package of gun bills on April 10, including a ghost gun ban, an industry liability measure and a closure of the intimate partner loophole. The bills are […]
- 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 […]
- Loudoun County Allocates $85.8 Million to Attainable Housing Since FY2023 in Proposed FY27 Budget
Key components of the FY27 proposal include $10.5 million allocated to a loan program anticipated to fund 100 units and $4.5 million for the attainable housing fund targeting 110 units. Starting in FY2027, a penny from cigarette tax revenue will be dedicated to down payment and closing cost assistance. These efforts build on a property […]
- Uptick in continued Virginia General Assembly legislation reflects varied motivations
The State Capitol in Richmond. (Photo by Kacy Lee/Capital News Service) By Kacy Lee/VCU Capital News Service RICHMOND, Va. — Hundreds of bills were continued to 2027 following the recent Virginia General Assembly session that concluded in mid-March, a method political experts say is increasingly used by lawmakers for several reasons. A total of 2,366 […]
- Marijuana testing challenges persist as Virginia retail market nears
Photo of Virginia Cannabis Control Authority graphic with campaign material on their website. (Photo courtesy Virginia Cannabis Control Authority) By Stef Anderson/VCU Capital News Service RICHMOND, Va. –THC breathalyzers are often discussed as a way to detect drivers under the influence, especially as Virginia closes in on a retail cannabis market, but questions remain about […]
- 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 […]
- Loudoun County Debates Allocation of $194 Million Surplus from Data Center Revenues
Loudoun County, Virginia, known for its concentration of data centers, is currently addressing how to manage a $194 million budget surplus generated in fiscal year 2025.
- Virginia Natural Gas proposes rate hike, consumer advocates fear big impact on low-income homes
Virginia Natural Gas (VNG) residential users could see their utility bills increase by an average of over $8 monthly, if state regulators accept the company’s current proposal to make an interim rake hike permanent.
- Jason Miyares focuses on law and order ahead of the 2025 elections
In an extensive interview conducted at his Richmond office earlier this week by Miyares – the son of Cuban refugees and the first Hispanic Virginian to be elected statewide – he insisted that the current situation in California was the result of poor leadership.