Virginia & Region

Virginia Clean Energy Mandates Drive Dominion Energy Rate Hikes

Clean energy mandates in Virginia's Clean Economy Act are behind more than half of Dominion Energy's rate increases that affect Chesterfield residents.

Virginia Democrats are discussing rising electric bills, with clean energy mandates accounting for more than half of Dominion Energy's recent rate increases. The Virginia Clean Economy Act requires utilities to invest heavily in solar farms and other renewable infrastructure across the state. These investments are passed through to customers in the form of higher utility bills.

Virginia candidate avoids debate in 1st District race

A Democratic challenger declined a joint forum invitation with Republican U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman in the Williamsburg area.

A Virginia League of Women Voters chapter in the Williamsburg area invited Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman and Democratic challenger Shannon Taylor to a candidate forum following the August 4 Democratic primary for Virginia's 1st Congressional District. Taylor's campaign declined the invitation.

Virginia advocates seek to protect farmland from data center expansion

State advocates are pushing to protect Virginia farmland from data center expansion as farmers face financial pressure.

Farmers throughout Virginia confront mounting financial pressures, making their land increasingly vulnerable to development. Advocacy groups are now pushing to keep farmland protected specifically from data center operators and other developers. This push reflects a growing statewide concern about preserving agricultural land amid rapid infrastructure expansion.

States Move to Regulate Quick-Cash Home Buyers

Advocates say cash home buyer companies exploit vulnerable homeowners, prompting many states to tighten oversight of the practice.

Companies advertising quick cash for homes through signs, text messages, and mailers have drawn criticism from consumer advocates who say the practice confuses vulnerable homeowners and causes them to lose home equity. The businesses, often run by wholesalers, promise fast sales and seamless transactions. In response, many states are now implementing stricter oversight of the cash home buying industry.

State Updates Graduation Rules for Chesterfield High School Students

Virginia has updated high school graduation requirements to give students more flexibility in core courses and exemptions for CPR/first aid training.

Virginia has updated high school graduation requirements with expanded options for core courses and new exemptions for CPR and first aid training. State officials are also exploring how to better integrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes into student schedules. The changes are designed to give students more flexibility in how they meet graduation requirements.

State considers stiffer penalties for public marijuana use

Virginia lawmakers are weighing higher fines for public marijuana consumption before legalizing adult use, but youth advocates warn it could disproportionately harm young people and Black residents.

As Virginia prepares to open its legal adult-use marijuana market next summer, state lawmakers are considering stiffer civil penalties for public consumption. Youth advocates are urging the legislature to reconsider, warning that higher fines could place a disproportionate burden on young people, their families, and Black communities—potentially deepening existing racial disparities in enforcement.

National race underway in Virginia's 2nd District

Incumbent Republican Jen Kiggans and Democrat Elaine Luria are running a competitive rematch in Virginia's 2nd Congressional District ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm election.

Virginia's 2nd Congressional District has become one of the most competitive races in the nation. Incumbent U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Virginia Beach, is defending her seat against Democrat and former representative Elaine Luria, whom Kiggans defeated in 2022. Two independent candidates, Matt Baker and Bishop Staten, are also running in the race.

Democrats' Path to Five Virginia GOP Congressional Seats

Democrats could flip some of Virginia's Republican-held congressional districts if turnout patterns shift, but face uneven odds across the five targeted seats.

A statewide analysis breaks down Democrats' odds of winning Virginia's five Republican-held congressional districts by comparing turnout and voter behavior scenarios. In three districts, Democrats could win if presidential-election-level voter participation coincides with midterm-level Republican turnout. The remaining two districts present steeper challenges, requiring either turnout above presidential levels or some Republican voters to change their ballots.

Dominion and NextEra Expand Merger Package for Virginia

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy have expanded their merger proposal with additional commitments for Virginia.

Dominion and NextEra have announced an expanded package as part of their merger bid. The expansion includes additional commitments aimed at Virginia. Details on the specific provisions and timeline require review of the full source material.

Virginia Proposes Requirement for Licensed Nurses in Schools

Virginia's health committee has introduced a proposal to require every school building to employ a licensed nurse by 2028 to better manage student healthcare needs.

Virginia lawmakers are considering a legislative measure that would mandate licensed nurses in every school building beginning in 2028. The proposal aims to address healthcare gaps by ensuring trained medical professionals are available in schools to manage complex student medical conditions. While Virginia state law currently permits school divisions to hire nurses, it does not require them to do so.

Virginia jobless rate drops to 3.6% as labor force shrinks

Virginia's unemployment fell to 3.6%, though the decline reflects fewer people actively seeking work.

Virginia's unemployment rate reached 3.6%, a positive indicator on the surface, but the improvement came as the state's labor force contracted. A federal judge blocked a SNAP deadline that would have increased state costs. Meanwhile, Henrico County's Owens & Minor announced production facility closures affecting 400 jobs, and Prince William County moved to restrict by-right data center development.

State Secures $7.2M Childcare Grant for Regional Disaster Recovery

Virginia received a $7.2 million federal grant to expand childcare services in Southwest and Southside regions recovering from Hurricane Helene.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded Virginia a $7.2 million disaster-recovery grant to expand childcare across Southwest and Southside communities. The funding targets areas still recovering from Hurricane Helene's damage. The state will deploy the money to increase childcare capacity and help families return to work as recovery continues.

Hashmi holds listening tour on Dominion-NextEra merger

Virginia's lieutenant governor is gathering public input on the proposed Dominion-NextEra electric utility merger ahead of state regulatory hearings.

Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi is conducting a listening tour to hear concerns about the proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy. The State Corporation Commission will hold regulatory hearings on the proposal. Hashmi has expressed concern about the deal, which would reshape Virginia's largest power utility.

Columbia Gas raising rates for Virginia customers this fall

Columbia Gas is implementing an interim rate increase that will add roughly $11 per month to residential customers' bills.

Columbia Gas, which serves nearly 300,000 customers across 98 Virginia cities, towns, and counties, is enacting an interim rate increase. Residential customers will see their average monthly bill rise by approximately $11. The increase takes effect as temperatures begin to drop heading into the heating season.

Virginia studies brownfields for data center development

State lawmakers are exploring whether Virginia's brownfield sites—previously developed land that may need cleanup—could attract new data center campuses.

Virginia lawmakers are examining brownfield redevelopment as a potential strategy to attract data center investment to the state. The push focuses on previously developed sites that could reduce pressure on undeveloped land while spurring economic activity. Data centers require substantial infrastructure, including diesel generators for backup power, making site selection significant for both regions seeking development and nearby residents.

Virginia Rolls Out Chip-Enabled EBT Cards for SNAP Security

Virginia is issuing new chip-enabled EBT cards to reduce fraud and help SNAP recipients protect their benefits from theft.

Virginia residents receiving SNAP food assistance benefits are being issued new, chip-enabled EBT cards designed to make purchases more secure at participating grocery stores and markets. The cards aim to reduce fraud—Lynchburg recently reported a 21-fold increase in food aid fraud in August—and allow recipients to better safeguard their assistance funds from theft.

Virginia activists rally for data center development moratorium

Advocates are pushing state lawmakers to halt new data center projects while policymakers study the environmental and regulatory implications for Virginia.

A coalition of activists is calling for a moratorium on new data center development in Virginia as the state weighs the environmental and regulatory consequences of rapid expansion. The rally in Alexandria is part of broader efforts to bring legislative attention to how data centers affect water usage, energy demand, and local infrastructure. The push comes as Virginia continues to attract major tech investments.

Federal Judge Blocks SNAP Deadline Threatening Virginia Costs

A federal judge ruled that Virginia cannot be penalized for failing to meet a Trump administration deadline to implement new food assistance rules.

A federal judge in Oregon has blocked the Trump administration's deadline requiring Virginia and other states to implement new federal food assistance rules, finding the states lacked sufficient time to comply. The ruling also rejected federal guidance that would have cut benefits to lawful permanent residents. Virginia had faced potential penalties if unable to meet the deadline.

Virginia Relaunches $4.8M Nursing Program to Boost Workforce

Virginia is relaunching the Earn to Learn program, which pays nursing students during clinical training to keep more nurses working in the state.

Virginia's Earn to Learn program has returned with $4.8 million in funding to support nursing students and workforce retention. The program pays students while they complete their clinical training. Schools, hospitals, and healthcare providers across the state can apply for funding, with priority given to rural areas.

State tightens pool safety rules after child drowns

Virginia's Department of Health will strengthen pool regulations following a child's death three months ago.

The Virginia Department of Health is moving to toughen its pool safety regulations, prompted by a child's drowning three months prior. The stricter rules are intended to prevent similar incidents at public and private pool facilities across the state. Chesterfield County pools and water facilities will fall under the updated safety standards.

State proposes raising flood relief funding limits for repairs

Virginia is considering increasing spending caps in its flood relief program to help more residents repair bridges and retaining walls damaged by flooding.

The state is proposing to raise funding caps in its flood relief program for bridge and retaining wall repairs. Current spending limits have restricted which residents can access aid to rebuild after flooding. The proposed changes would remove some barriers that have prevented Southwest Virginia residents from getting state assistance.

Clean Virginia questions NextEra in $67 billion merger case

An advocacy group told state regulators that NextEra Energy's political ties and past utility acquisitions deserve scrutiny in the proposed $67 billion merger with Dominion Energy.

Clean Virginia, a clean energy advocacy group, is intervening in the Dominion Energy-NextEra Energy merger case before the State Corporation Commission. In a hearing this week, the group argued that NextEra's political history and record of acquiring utilities warrant close examination as state regulators review the proposed deal. The merger is valued at $67 billion.

Warner and Mizusawa Face Off in Virginia's 2026 Senate Race

Democrat Mark Warner and Republican challenger Bert Mizusawa are competing for Virginia's U.S. Senate seat, with differing platforms on AI regulation and party direction.

U.S. Senator Mark Warner is advancing artificial intelligence regulation as a key platform, while Republican challenger Bert Mizusawa argues that the Democratic Party's leftward direction will appeal to moderate voters. The race is receiving limited national media attention despite its statewide significance.

Virginia's school construction sales tax raises funding concerns

A new Virginia law lets localities fund school construction through a 1% sales tax, but some leaders worry it could leave shortfalls for approving communities.

Virginia has passed a law allowing localities to implement a 1% sales tax to generate revenue for school construction projects. The new authority offers opportunities for funding infrastructure needs, but some local officials and state lawmakers are raising questions about whether the measure could create funding gaps for jurisdictions that adopt it.

Virginia Mercury Roundup: Ballot Questions, Utility Merger, and More

Virginia voters face ballot questions this fall while state regulators review a major utility merger and the FAA pilots AI tools at D.C.-area airports.

Representative Abigail Spanberger has weighed in on several Virginia ballot questions coming this election cycle. Meanwhile, Clean Virginia is pushing for a state hearing on disclosure related to the proposed Dominion-NextEra merger. In other state news, an Eastern Shore workforce program is helping people enter forestry careers, and the FAA is testing new AI-assisted tools for air traffic control at major airports serving the D.C. region.

Virginia ballot: three amendments to decide

Virginia voters face three proposed constitutional amendments on the ballot; a Cardinal News explainer addresses common voter questions.

Cardinal News has compiled answers to reader questions about this year's ballot, focusing on three proposed constitutional amendments up for voter approval. The article responds to common inquiries to help voters make informed decisions at the polls.

Utility parent increases bill discounts for Virginia ratepayers

A utility company's parent has doubled bill discounts for Virginia customers to help facilitate a NextEra acquisition deal.

A utility's parent company has doubled bill discounts for Virginia ratepayers as part of an effort to secure regulatory approval for a NextEra buyout. The discounts appear targeted at Virginia customers specifically, rather than South Carolina ratepayers. Details on discount amounts and timeline are needed from the full article.

Survey finds 51% of Virginia families with children food insecure

A statewide survey found that more than half of Virginia families with children lack stable access to adequate food.

A new survey commissioned by the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, Virginia Department of Social Services, and No Kid Hungry Virginia found that 51% of families with children experience food insecurity. The survey fills a gap left by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's discontinuation of its annual hunger assessment. The finding reveals a substantial food access challenge among households with children across Virginia.

State roundup: AG seeks merger review, job cuts in region

Virginia's attorney general asked regulators to reconsider a major utility merger; nearby CarMax cut 60-plus jobs.

Attorney General Jay Jones has asked the State Corporation Commission to reset its timeline for reviewing the proposed Dominion-NextEra merger. Elsewhere in the region, CarMax announced job cuts affecting 60-plus positions in the Richmond area. Virginia Beach schools reached an agreement with the Civil Rights Office over sexual misconduct investigations, and Petersburg raised starting teacher salaries to $60,000.

What Voters Say Matters Most in Virginia Elections

A survey found healthcare, democracy, and data centers rank as top priorities for Virginia voters.

According to Cardinal News, a survey of 200 readers identified healthcare, democracy, and data centers as the issues voters consider most important in Virginia's recent midterms. The findings reflect statewide voter priorities as residents evaluate candidates and ballot measures.

Virginia Voters Grow Skeptical of New Data Center Projects

Virginians' support for data center development has collapsed—only 35% of state voters now favor new construction, a sharp reversal from years past when the projects were seen as low-impact economic contributors.

Public opinion on data centers across Virginia has shifted dramatically in recent years. Once widely viewed as benign development that generated local revenue without broader community harm, the industry now faces united opposition from residents. A spring poll found only 35% of Virginia voters comfortable with new data center construction.

Virginia's 1st District race could shift House control

Republican Rob Wittman faces Democrat Shannon Taylor in a closely watched race for U.S. House that could determine which party controls Congress.

U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, a Republican, is defending his seat in Virginia's 1st Congressional District against Democratic challenger Shannon Taylor as early voting for the 2026 midterm elections continues. The contest has emerged as one of the most competitive congressional races nationwide, with significant implications for which party will control the House of Representatives. Voters in the district are actively casting ballots in what analysts view as a pivotal matchup.

Virginia roundup: data centers, education, health regulations

Several Virginia-wide stories are making headlines this week, but none are specific to Chesterfield County.

Virginia Mercury published a roundup of statewide news: Microsoft faced emissions fines for a data center, Virginia boys are falling behind in education and job benchmarks according to a panel, Roanoke County's data center NDA concerns surfaced amid Governor Spanberger's transparency push, State Farm began dividend payments to Virginia customers, and kratom was found unlabeled in cat's claw products sold across the state.

Virginia Confronts $1.7 Billion Highway Maintenance Shortfall

Virginia faces a $1.7 billion shortfall in highway maintenance funding, with I-81 improvements planned to begin in spring 2027.

Virginia is confronting a $1.7 billion gap in highway maintenance funding. The state has plans to begin construction in spring 2027 on the first phase of a three-phase improvement project on a 9-mile stretch of Interstate 81. The shortfall reflects broader challenges in maintaining the state's transportation infrastructure.

Dominion Energy Merger Expands With Bill Credits and 1,000 Jobs

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy announced expanded merger benefits including four years of bill credits for Virginia customers and 1,000 new jobs.

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy announced expanded benefits from their merger with Virginia customers. The package includes four years of bill credits for eligible customers and the creation of 1,000 new jobs across the state. The companies say the expanded agreement increases the value of the merger for Virginia residents and the economy.

Diesel prices hit record $6.51 per gallon nationwide

Diesel fuel reached an all-time high of $6.51 per gallon Monday as the ongoing Iran conflict disrupts global fuel supplies, prompting even some Republican senators to question the war's economic cost.

Diesel fuel prices reached a record average of $6.51 per gallon Monday as the ongoing conflict in Iran continues to disrupt fuel supplies. Some Republican senators, including Trump administration allies, are withdrawing support for the war, signaling growing concern about its economic toll. The fuel price surge will likely ripple through transportation, agriculture, and other sectors that depend on diesel.

Data center policy debated in congressional races

Democratic and Republican candidates in nearby congressional districts are trading claims about data center regulation and economic impact.

Cardinal News fact-checked campaign claims made by Democratic candidates in the 5th and 6th congressional districts about their Republican opponents' stances on data centers. The article examines what each side is saying about data center development and what positions they are not addressing.

Business Owner Urges Virginia to Mandate Data Center Waste Heat Use

A business owner proposes that Virginia should require data centers to productively use their waste heat, such as for winter greenhouse operations.

Data centers discharge nearly all input electricity as heat; modern liquid-cooled systems output warm water at temperatures ideal for greenhouses in winter. A business owner argues Virginia should mandate such productive reuse as a regulatory condition, rather than leaving waste heat unused.

AG Seeks Fresh Review of Dominion-NextEra Merger Deal

Virginia's Attorney General is asking state regulators to restart their review clock for a $67 billion Dominion Energy-NextEra Energy merger after the companies proposed expanded deal conditions.

Attorney General Jay Jones asked the State Corporation Commission Friday to reset the 180-day review period for the proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy, after the two companies filed supplemental documents on Sept. 14 outlining new and expanded terms. The request essentially gives regulators more time to evaluate the revised proposal. The SCC is responsible for determining whether the merger serves Virginia's public interest.

Dominion, NextEra Offer Bill Credits to Win Merger Support

Two Virginia utilities are offering households 2 additional years of bill credits as they seek approval for a proposed merger.

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy are offering Virginia households an additional 2 years of bill credits in efforts to build support for their planned merger. The companies are presenting the credits as an incentive to gain public and regulatory backing for the combination.

Dominion, NextEra extend bill credits in merger bid

Dominion Energy and NextEra are offering Virginia households two additional years of bill credits as part of their regulatory push to gain approval for a merger.

Dominion Energy and NextEra have extended a customer incentive package that includes two more years of bill credits for Virginia households in an effort to build support for their planned merger. The move appears timed to influence ongoing regulatory review of the combination. The credits represent a tangible benefit offset to rate impacts that could accompany the merger.

Virginia Faces $1.7 Billion Highway Maintenance Funding Gap

Virginia's state transportation department reported a $1.7 billion shortfall in highway maintenance funding that could affect road conditions and future infrastructure projects statewide.

Virginia faces a $1.7 billion funding gap for highway maintenance, according to state transportation department staff. The state's bridge inventory has grown by 400 structures over the past 20 years, straining resources. The shortfall threatens to accelerate road deterioration and create economic and safety risks that could delay future construction work.

Trump Administration Proposes Shift in Federal Homelessness Funding

The Trump administration is proposing to redirect federal homelessness grants toward treatment and law enforcement, reversing a decade of Housing First policies.

The Trump administration is proposing changes to how federal homelessness grants are distributed to localities. The proposal would shift funding priorities toward treatment-first approaches, including sober living programs, increased cooperation with law enforcement, and more temporary and transitional housing options. This represents a reversal from the Housing First model that has guided federal policy for the past decade.

State expands disaster relief fund for flood victims

Virginia is streamlining its disaster relief claims process and raising spending caps to speed disbursement to residents affected by the February 2025 Southwest Virginia flood.

The state has announced changes to its disaster relief fund to accelerate aid delivery to flood victims. The reforms streamline the claims process and increase spending caps. As of Thursday, more than $42 million of the $50 million allocated had not yet been disbursed to residents.

Spanberger unveils plan to regulate Virginia data centers

Virginia's governor proposed new rules for data centers, including stricter environmental standards and transparency requirements to prevent non-disclosure agreements in local deals.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger introduced a legislative package Friday aimed at regulating Virginia's data center industry. The proposals would tighten environmental standards, increase financial contributions from operators, and require transparency by barring non-disclosure agreements between localities and developers.

Spanberger Issues Data Center Accountability Order, Creates AI Task Force

Virginia's governor signed an executive order to regulate data center growth and impacts while stopping short of an outright ban on new development.

Governor Abigail Spanberger has issued an executive order aimed at holding data centers accountable for their growth and impacts across Virginia, establishing new regulatory measures without imposing a complete moratorium on development. The action follows months of budget disputes over data center tax exemptions and recent safety concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. The executive order also establishes a state task force focused on AI oversight and regulation.

NextEra Megamerger Doubles Virginia Bill Discounts

NextEra's acquisition of Dominion includes doubled bill discounts for Virginia customers, while South Carolina customers receive no new benefit.

NextEra Energy is acquiring Dominion Energy as part of a megamerger that brings expanded utility bill discounts to Virginia customers. The discount amount is being doubled for the state. However, South Carolina customers affected by the merger are not receiving similar discount increases.

Early Voting Begins Friday; Court Blocks Mail-Ballot Restrictions

Early voting for Virginia's midterm elections begins Friday, days after the Supreme Court blocked mail-ballot restrictions sought by the Trump administration.

Early voting for Virginia's November 3 midterms opens Friday, providing voters more than six weeks to cast ballots. The timing comes after the U.S. Supreme Court blocked mail-ballot restrictions proposed by the Trump administration. Chesterfield voters will select a U.S. senator and a House representative.

Chesterfield voters can cast early ballots for Senate, House races

Early voting began today across Virginia, giving Chesterfield residents the option to cast ballots ahead of the general election.

Early voting has opened for Virginia's 2026 election cycle. Voters can participate in contests for U.S. Senate, 11 House races, referendums on constitutional amendments, and various local offices. Chesterfield residents should verify their voter registration and check polling locations before casting ballots.

Virginia leaders push to end data center deal secrecy

Virginia senators and local candidates are calling for transparency in data center agreements by eliminating non-disclosure agreements that keep deal terms hidden from the public.

Virginia state senators and candidates running for office are urging an end to non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in data center development deals, which they say prevent public scrutiny of industry contracts and terms. The push for transparency aims to give residents and local governments better visibility into major economic development agreements. This effort reflects growing concern about data center projects negotiated behind closed doors.

Virginia congressional candidates face off in early campaign season

A Cardinal News overview of Virginia's 2026 congressional campaign landscape features several candidates vying for office.

Cardinal News has published an overview of Virginia's congressional campaign season, featuring candidates including Beth Macy, Mark Warner, Bert Mizusawa, and Ben Cline. The piece examines the developing race landscape ahead of the general election cycle. Chesterfield voters will be among those affected by these statewide races.

New Tool Tracks Affordable Housing Set to Lose Protection

A new statewide dashboard helps Chesterfield and other localities identify affordable housing whose affordability terms are expiring so they can work to preserve them.

A newly launched digital dashboard created by Housing Forward Virginia, the Virginia Housing Alliance, and Locus Impact identifies affordable housing properties whose affordability protections are set to expire. The tool is designed to give local governments like Chesterfield advance notice so they can take action to preserve these properties. It provides a way to monitor which affordable units may be at risk without active intervention.

Dominion-NextEra Merger Bid Revised With New Bill Credits

Dominion and NextEra have revised their proposed merger to offer additional bill credits and job creation for Virginia.

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy have submitted a revised bid for their proposed merger that includes increased customer bill credits and commitments to create Virginia jobs. The companies are refining their offer as part of the regulatory review process for the merger. Details on the specific credit amounts and job locations remain unclear from available reporting.

120,000 Virginians Losing Food Assistance as Prices Rise

About 120,000 Virginians are losing SNAP food assistance while grocery prices climb and local food pantries struggle to keep up.

Virginia is experiencing a significant reduction in food assistance enrollment, with approximately 120,000 residents no longer on SNAP as food costs continue rising. The decline is straining food pantries and nonprofits across the state that are working to fill the gap for those struggling to afford groceries. Initiatives like Lynchburg Grows—a nonprofit farm that grows and donates produce—exemplify efforts underway to help residents access more affordable, healthy food.

Virginia Lawmakers Propose Federal Data Center Regulation

Two Virginia members of Congress have introduced bills designed to create siting standards for data centers and require greater disclosure of their power and water consumption.

Two members of Virginia's congressional delegation have introduced bills aimed at establishing federal standards for where data centers can be built in communities, requiring transparency about their power and water usage, and protecting nearby areas from international threats. The bills build on federal infrastructure models used for power grids, internet infrastructure, and the national highway system, suggesting a coordinated national approach to managing data center growth.

United Way of Southwest Virginia to host a disaster preparedness summit

Dennis Sanders (left), assistant environmental manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation, and Michelle Earl, communications manager for VDOT, discuss the damage done to U.S.

Dennis Sanders (left), assistant environmental manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation, and Michelle Earl, communications manager for VDOT, discuss the damage done to U.S. 58 from floodwaters caused by Hurricane Helene on Sept.

Spanberger declares a state of emergency due to drought conditions and low hay production in Virginia

Gov.

Gov. Spanberger visits Williamson Farms in Botetourt County.

Seven rural community colleges receive $5.93 million for healthcare training

Seven community colleges in what the Virginia Community College Association dubs the state’s “rural horseshoe” have received $5.93 million to train more healthcare workers.

Seven community colleges in what the Virginia Community College Association dubs the state’s “rural horseshoe” have received $5.93 million to train more healthcare workers. Virginia has so far disbursed $122 million of its $198 million in Rural Health Transformation Fund money to organizations around the state.

SCC urged to hold Chesterfield hearing on Dominion merger plan

Advocates are calling on the State Corporation Commission to hold a field hearing in Chesterfield on the proposed Dominion Energy merger.

A proposal is circulating that the State Corporation Commission should hold a field hearing in St. Paul to examine a proposed merger involving Dominion Energy. The hearing would give local residents and stakeholders an opportunity to weigh in on the proposal directly.

Paramedics are helping patients manage illnesses, connect with services and avoid calling 911. But these programs can be tough to sustain in rural areas.

Keith Carroll, director of Danville’s community paramedicine program (right) helps a trainee measure Elizabeth Fitzgerald’s blood oxygen level.

Keith Carroll, director of Danville’s community paramedicine program (right) helps a trainee measure Elizabeth Fitzgerald’s blood oxygen level. Fitzgerald regularly receives visits from Carroll through the community paramedicine program.

Opioid authority awards $12.3 million for prevention, treatment and recovery in Virginia

Virginia will steer more than $12.3 million in opioid settlement money toward state programs ranging from naloxone distribution and treatment services to youth education and recovery support on college campuses, the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority announced recently.

Virginia will steer more than $12.3 million in opioid settlement money toward state programs ranging from naloxone distribution and treatment services to youth education and recovery support on college campuses, the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority announced recently. The agency’s Grants Committee approved its latest round of funding for 39 projects across 18 state agencies and […]

Virginia roundup: Flight restrictions, nursing home staffing concerns

Virginia lawmakers and agencies face emerging challenges around airport safety, long-term care staffing, and new food regulations.

A Virginia Mercury news roundup highlights several state-level developments: following a collision at Reagan National Airport (DCA), Virginia senators plan to introduce legislation restricting flights; a WHRO investigation finds nursing homes across the state are operating short-staffed while oversight agencies struggle to monitor them; and new food safety regulations took effect September 10 statewide.

Virginia Rolls Out Secure EBT Cards to Chesterfield Residents

Virginia has begun mailing new chip-enabled EBT cards to nearly 750,000 residents receiving SNAP benefits, including households in Chesterfield.

Virginia has started distributing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards equipped with chip-and-tap technology to households enrolled in the SNAP food assistance program. About 749,000 state residents currently receive these benefits. The upgraded cards are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to steal SNAP benefits from families.

Virginia license plate reader law clarified

USA Today reports on what Virginia law requires regarding license plate readers like Flock.

A USA Today article examines Virginia's legal framework governing license plate readers, including devices like Flock used by law enforcement. The specific regulations and restrictions are detailed in the full article, which clarifies how the state law applies to this surveillance technology.

State awards $132 million to regional school construction projects

More than a dozen Southwest and Southside Virginia schools received state construction grants, including $5.19 million to Buena Vista for a Parry McCluer High School renovation.

The Virginia School Construction Assistance Program distributed $132 million in grants to schools across Southwest and Southside regions. Buena Vista City Schools secured $5.19 million, covering 30% of a planned $17 million renovation at Parry McCluer High School. The funding is part of the state's ongoing effort to support K-12 facility improvements.

Warner Declines AARP Debate in 2026 Senate Race

AARP canceled its planned Senate debate after incumbent U.S. Senator Mark Warner declined to participate.

AARP has canceled its "People's Debate" for Virginia's 2026 U.S. Senate race after Democratic incumbent Mark Warner said he could not commit to the event. Republican challenger Bert Mizusawa had agreed to participate.

Virginia's data center debate heats up heading into elections

Virginia's backlash against data center expansion is emerging as a midterm issue, with policy tensions mounting at the state level.

Data center development has become a contentious issue in Virginia politics as the state heads toward midterm elections. The backlash reflects growing concerns about land use, environmental impact, and policy direction around large infrastructure projects. State officials are weighing competing interests between economic development and community concerns.

Virginia jails recorded 58 deaths last year

Virginia saw 58 deaths in its jail system over the past year, according to state figures.

Virginia jails recorded 58 deaths last year, according to reporting from Cardinal News. The figure represents deaths across Virginia's jail system statewide. The story was part of a broader roundup of state news items.

Virginia adds sesame to major food allergen list

Virginia's health department is requiring restaurants to label sesame as a major food allergen, effective Thursday, joining eight other regulated allergens.

The Virginia Department of Health announced that sesame will be added to the state's list of major food allergens, joining fin fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, milk, peanuts, soy, wheat, and eggs. Food establishments must update their allergen labeling practices and guidance under the revised regulations. The changes take effect Thursday.

SCC Adds In-Person Hearings for Dominion-NextEra Merger

Virginia's utility regulator is adding three in-person hearings where residents can testify about the proposed $67 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy.

The State Corporation Commission has scheduled three in-person public hearings as part of its review of the proposed $67 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy. These hearings—added alongside three telephonic testimony sessions already planned—will give residents formal opportunities to comment on whether the deal should be approved or rejected. The commission is weighing whether the merger would benefit or harm Virginia customers and the grid.

Rising College Athletic Budgets Squeeze School and Student Resources

Colleges facing steep athletic budget growth are increasingly redirecting general school funds and imposing mandatory student fees instead of relying on donor fundraising alone.

College athletic programs are consuming a growing share of university resources as budgets climb faster than donor contributions can keep pace. Virginia Tech and Clemson illustrate the trend: Tech doubled its athletic fundraising over the past decade, yet Clemson outpaced it with even larger gains. Schools are now turning to general operating budgets and mandatory student fees to bridge the widening gap between athletic spending and available donor revenue.

Federal Plan Could End Tax Breaks for Universities With Race-Based Policies

The federal government proposes revoking tax-exempt status from private universities that use race-based admissions and scholarship policies.

The U.S. Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service have formally proposed ending tax-exempt status for private universities that employ race-based policies in admissions, scholarships, or other programs, characterizing such practices as discrimination. The proposal would affect institutions that currently offer admission, scholarships, or assistance targeted at historically disadvantaged groups and minorities. The move represents a shift in federal tax policy toward educational programs involving race-conscious admissions.

Virginia proposes sales tax for school modernization

A proposed sales tax increase on fall ballots in 47 Virginia localities could generate $1.27 billion over three years for school construction.

Virginia is proposing a sales tax increase that would appear on fall ballots in 47 localities. A study estimates the measure could generate $1.27 billion over three years directed toward school construction and modernization. The proposal comes as the state estimates it needs $25 billion in total to fully modernize its school infrastructure.

Trump tariffs may ripple through Virginia economy

President Trump's escalating tariffs on Canadian goods are pushing prices higher and becoming a campaign issue in competitive midterm races.

President Trump has escalated his trade war with Canada by increasing tariffs on goods, a move that is raising costs and shaping the political landscape ahead of November's midterm elections. Canada is reportedly targeting tariffs on goods from states with close races, creating political pressure for Republican candidates in several states. High prices remain a top voter concern as the midterms approach.

Kaine: Congress May Revisit Medicaid Changes

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine said Congress could potentially reverse or modify Medicaid cuts the Virginia legislature enacted last year.

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine told a Virginia food bank that Congress may have an opportunity to adjust or undo Medicaid changes the Republican-controlled state legislature implemented last summer. Kaine suggested this could happen whether or not Democrats gain control of Congress. The potential reversal would address coverage reductions that affected low-income Virginians.

Virginia Lt. Gov. Hashmi prioritizes state energy costs crisis

Virginia's lieutenant governor is launching a listening tour to address energy costs, which he calls his top concern for the state.

Virginia Lt. Gov. Hashmi has announced a listening tour focused on energy costs, signaling it as a leading priority for state leadership. The move reflects growing concern over energy affordability across Virginia. State health officials are also tracking a recent uptick in rabies cases statewide.

Virginia's Straining Grid Needs New Energy Sources

Virginia's electricity demand is rising due to data centers, manufacturing, and growth, but the state imports more power than any other in the nation.

Virginia's energy demands are rising rapidly as data centers, manufacturing, and population growth drive up electricity consumption. The grid is already strained and the state imports more power than any other state in the nation. Experts say Virginia must expand energy capacity to keep pace with economic development.

Lt. Gov. Hashmi tours Richmond on energy cost concerns

Virginia's lieutenant governor is hosting a listening tour focused on Richmond energy costs, calling the issue her top priority.

Virginia Lt. Gov. Hashmi is conducting a listening tour centered on Richmond energy costs, positioning affordable energy as a leading concern. The tour aims to gather input from residents about energy affordability challenges in the region. Though Richmond-focused, rising energy costs affect neighboring communities including Chesterfield County.

Dominion-NextEra merger advances, Alexandria gains seat

A $66.8 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy is moving forward with Alexandria now at the negotiating table.

Virginia seeks public input on 2026 statewide rail plan

Virginia's Department of Rail and Public Transportation will host a virtual meeting next week to gather public input on its statewide rail plan.

The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) is hosting a virtual public meeting to gather input as it develops its 2026 statewide rail plan. Chesterfield residents are invited to participate and share their perspectives on rail transportation priorities. The public comment period represents an opportunity to influence the state's approach to rail infrastructure planning.

Virginia's Culture of Closed-Door Government Persists

A special prosecutor cleared Franklin County officials of open-meetings violations, reflecting Virginia's broader pattern of conducting public business behind closed doors despite state FOIA law.

A special prosecutor has cleared Franklin County officials in an open-meetings investigation, illustrating a persistent pattern in Virginia government: leaders conducting decision-making in closed sessions despite state law presuming all government business should be public. The Virginia Freedom of Information Act requires officials to justify exceptions to public meetings, yet many state leaders routinely operate outside public view. The case underscores the tension between Virginia's transparency requirements and the reality of how much government business happens behind closed doors.

Virginia overdose deaths decline as Chesapeake expands Narcan training

Overdose deaths continue to fall across Virginia, with Chesapeake now offering free Narcan training to residents.

Virginia's overdose mortality rate continues a downward trend. Chesapeake is expanding access to Narcan—the opioid overdose reversal medication—by offering free training programs to community members. The initiative aims to equip more residents with life-saving intervention skills.

Supreme Court Weighs Trump Vote-by-Mail Restrictions

The Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to overturn a court order blocking a Postal Service rule that would restrict mail-in voting.

The Trump administration asked the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday to overturn a temporary restraining order issued by U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani in Massachusetts. The order blocked a U.S. Postal Service rule that would restrict mail-in voting. The court case will ultimately determine whether this voting method remains available in future elections.

Mold plan compliance: Virginia schools face state mandate

Virginia law requires school districts to submit mold remediation plans, but only 15 of Virginia's districts have done so as of the reporting date.

A Virginia state law mandates that school districts develop and submit mold inspection and remediation plans. As of the article's date, only 15 school districts statewide have submitted their required plans, suggesting widespread non-compliance across the state. The status of Chesterfield County Schools' submission is not detailed in the available excerpt.

Wittman voted 60 times to repeal ACA, then backed subsidies

Rep. Rob Wittman switched from opposing the Affordable Care Act to supporting extended subsidies, but Congress let them expire anyway, leaving thousands of Virginians uninsured.

U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Westmoreland, cast 60 votes to repeal the Affordable Care Act in 2017, but nearly a decade later joined just 17 Republicans to support extending expired ACA subsidies. Despite his vote, Congress ultimately allowed the subsidies to lapse. The expiration has prompted 94,000 Virginians to drop their health insurance coverage.

Virginia Speaker Raises Affordability Concerns on Dominion Merger

House Speaker Don Scott filed concerns about the $67 billion NextEra-Dominion Energy merger, urging the State Corporation Commission to prioritize customer affordability in its review.

Virginia House Speaker Don Scott submitted a letter to the State Corporation Commission expressing concerns about the proposed $67 billion merger between NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy. Scott advised regulators to ensure the deal prioritizes affordability for customers. The merger is currently under SCC review.

Virginia lawmakers weigh Flock camera ban statewide

Virginia state legislators are considering whether to ban the use of Flock automatic license plate readers by law enforcement agencies.

Virginia lawmakers are weighing a potential statewide ban on Flock cameras, automated surveillance devices that read and record license plates. The proposal reflects growing legislative scrutiny of the technology's use by police departments. Residents and advocates have raised privacy concerns about the cameras' data collection and retention practices.

Virginia lawmakers consider restricting Flock traffic cameras

Virginia state lawmakers are weighing a potential ban on Flock cameras, which use artificial intelligence to capture vehicle license plates and movement data.

Virginia lawmakers are considering legislation to restrict or ban the use of Flock cameras, AI-powered surveillance systems that automatically photograph license plates and track vehicle movements. The move reflects growing concerns among state representatives about privacy implications and data collection practices. The proposal is under active consideration in the state legislature.

Virginia job losses accelerate despite data center growth

A new state economic forecast warns that Virginia's job losses are picking up pace, though data center construction is offsetting some slowdown.

Virginia's economy shows mixed signals in a quarterly forecast from the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service. While GDP is expanding again, employment losses are accelerating—suggesting economic growth that isn't translating into broad job gains. Data center construction appears to be a key prop supporting the state's overall economic picture.

Virginia consumer confidence falls sharply amid inflation pressures

A Roanoke College poll shows Virginia household sentiment declined significantly in August as residents contend with rising costs and labor market weakness.

Consumer confidence in Virginia dropped sharply in August, with the Virginia Index of Consumer Sentiment falling to 59.6—erasing gains from earlier in the year. The decline, documented in a Roanoke College poll released Thursday, reflects mounting financial pressure from renewed inflation and a softening job market. Households reporting strain on finances signal potential headwinds for spending and economic growth in the coming months.

Virginia Bishops Urge Vote Against Fall Constitutional Amendments

Two Virginia bishops are urging Catholics to vote no on constitutional amendments regarding abortion and same-sex marriage on the fall ballot.

Two Virginia bishops have condemned two constitutional amendments scheduled for a fall vote and called for Catholics to vote against them. The bishops' letter was read from pulpits across Virginia. Supporters of the amendments have criticized the bishops' action, calling it "misguided" and a "scare tactic."

Lt. Gov. launches listening tour on possible Dominion merger

Virginia's lieutenant governor is holding public listening sessions to gather input on a possible merger involving Dominion Energy, the utility provider serving Chesterfield County residents.

Virginia's lieutenant governor has launched a listening tour to seek public input on a possible merger involving Dominion Energy. The effort suggests the state is exploring or considering consolidation at the utility level. The tour aims to gather perspective from residents and stakeholders about how such a merger might affect Virginia's energy market.

Judge Halts Key Virginia ICE Cooperation Law Provision

A Virginia judge blocked a key part of the state's new law limiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement cooperation.

Virginia enacted a new law designed to limit state and local law enforcement cooperation with ICE. A judge has halted a key provision of the law, though details of the ruling and its scope require the full article text.

Human Rights Advocate Ahrar Enters 7th District Race as Independent

A social justice advocate from Dumfries is running for Virginia's 7th Congressional District as an independent candidate.

Alaha Ahrar, a 36-year-old human rights advocate, announced her candidacy for Virginia's 7th Congressional District as an independent. Ahrar, who immigrated from Afghanistan and became a U.S. citizen, holds a degree from Mary Washington College and is a multilingual social justice advocate. Her entry brings another independent voice to a race affecting multiple counties including parts of Chesterfield.

Flock Safety cameras lose support across Virginia localities

At least a dozen Virginia jurisdictions have ended or paused contracts with Flock Safety for public surveillance cameras since July.

A wave of Virginia localities is cutting ties with Flock Safety, the public safety technology company that provides surveillance cameras. At least a dozen jurisdictions have withdrawn since July, with three counties announcing cancellations this week alone. Lynchburg is among the latest considering whether to continue the program.

Federal Judge Blocks Virginia Immigration Cooperation Law

A federal judge temporarily blocked a Virginia law that would have restricted how local law enforcement works with federal immigration authorities.

A federal judge has temporarily blocked implementation of a Virginia law restricting local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The temporary ruling means the law cannot be enforced while legal challenges proceed. The decision reflects an ongoing national debate over state and local control of immigration policy.

Federal Court Blocks Virginia Police-ICE Collaboration Ban

A federal court has blocked Virginia's law that prohibited local police from working with federal immigration enforcement agents.

A federal court has blocked Virginia's law restricting state and local police from cooperating with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The ruling concerns the state's authority to limit police participation in immigration enforcement activities at the federal level.

Dominion Power Proposes $922M Rate Increase for Fuel Costs

Dominion Power is seeking approval for a rate hike to recoup approximately $922 million in fuel costs.

Dominion Power has proposed a price increase aimed at recovering roughly $922 million in fuel expenses. The proposal requires regulatory approval before implementation. Specific details on the rate percentage and timeline were not provided in available reporting.

Dominion-NextEra Merger Faces Scrutiny Over Rates, Climate

Arlington officials raised concerns about how a $67 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra would affect utility rates and climate commitments in Virginia.

Arlington's Board intervened in the proposed $67 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy, citing concerns about potential impacts on electricity rates and climate goals. The board filed formal intervention in the regulatory review process, joining other jurisdictions weighing in on whether the merger serves customers' interests.

Dominion Merger Faces Regulatory Scrutiny Over Rates

Virginia regulators are reviewing Dominion Energy's proposed merger with NextEra over concerns about electricity rates and climate impact.

Virginia's utility regulator is examining Dominion Energy's proposed $67 billion merger with NextEra. The review raises questions about how the deal might affect residential rates and the company's climate commitments.

Dominion Energy seeks rate increase; Virginia regulators resist

Dominion Energy has requested another rate increase from customers, but Virginia officials are opposing the bid.

Dominion Energy, the major utility provider serving much of Virginia, is seeking approval for another rate increase. Virginia state officials are pushing back against the request, signaling regulatory resistance to the proposal.

Dominion Energy Seeks Rate Increase as Virginia Bills Rise

Dominion Energy is pursuing another rate increase as Virginia residents face higher energy bills, prompting pushback from some groups.

Energy bills have increased for Virginia residents, and Dominion Energy is now seeking an additional rate increase. The proposal is facing resistance from some groups raising concerns about affordability and mounting costs for households across the state.

Virginia education board updates graduation requirements for students

Virginia has updated high school graduation requirements and expanded course options available to students statewide, including those in Chesterfield.

The Virginia education board has updated high school graduation requirements and expanded the course options available to students. The changes will take effect for Chesterfield County students as they progress through their high school years. Details on which specific requirements were updated and what new courses are available are not yet detailed in the announcement.

Virginia bans streaming video while driving

Drivers in Virginia can no longer stream video while operating a vehicle under new state law.

Virginia has enacted a new law prohibiting drivers from streaming video content while behind the wheel. The law targets distracted driving and joins other state restrictions on phone use. Chesterfield residents who drive should be aware of the change to avoid violations.

Virginia Bans Live Streaming While Driving

Virginia enacted a new law prohibiting live streaming while driving, with exceptions for emergency situations.

Virginia has passed a law banning drivers from live streaming while operating a motor vehicle. The law includes exceptions for emergencies. The law aims to reduce distracted driving incidents on state roads.

USPS whistleblower says agency defied court order on voting restrictions

A U.S. Postal Service whistleblower alleges the agency ignored a court order while building tools to restrict mail-in voting under new Trump administration policy.

A USPS whistleblower has alleged the agency rushed to develop electronic tools to implement Trump administration restrictions on mail-in voting. According to the complaint, the USPS defied a court order directing it to stop work on the system. The whistleblower predicted the outcome could have a catastrophic effect on elections.

Federal Judge Blocks Virginia's Police-ICE Cooperation Limit

A federal court has blocked a Virginia law that restricted local police departments from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

A federal judge has ruled against a Virginia law that limited how local police could work with ICE. The law had restricted police cooperation with immigration enforcement in certain circumstances. The ruling reverses that limitation, allowing police departments to resume broader cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

94,000 Virginians Drop ACA Insurance in Past Year

Virginia Mercury reports that 94,000 Virginians have dropped their ACA health insurance coverage over the past year.

Data released by Virginia Mercury shows that 94,000 Virginians have discontinued ACA insurance coverage over the past year, marking a significant shift in health insurance enrollment across the state. The numbers underscore ongoing changes in how Virginians access and maintain health coverage. For Chesterfield residents with ACA plans, the trend reflects broader shifts in insurance decisions affecting the region.

Virginia surveillance system raises data-sharing transparency concerns

A Virginia investigation finds confusion among police departments about how data from Flock Safety cameras is shared and with whom.

Residents and officials in Virginia are raising questions about transparency around Flock Safety surveillance systems, with police departments uncertain about their own data-sharing practices. A Williamsburg resident's request to police revealed gaps in knowledge about how footage and data collected by the systems are distributed. The investigation highlights broader concerns about surveillance oversight in Virginia city halls.

Virginia's Law Banning ICE Cooperation Halted Pending Trial

A court has paused a Virginia law prohibiting law enforcement cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement while legal challenges proceed to trial.

A Virginia law banning state and local law enforcement cooperation with ICE has been halted by a court pending trial. The pause leaves the law's implementation suspended while litigation continues. The outcome of the trial will determine whether the ban takes effect or is struck down.

Virginia's Ice Cooperation Ban Put on Hold Pending Trial

A Virginia law restricting local police cooperation with federal immigration enforcement has been halted by a court order while the legal challenge plays out.

A Virginia law that would ban local law enforcement cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement faces a court-ordered hold pending trial. The halt means the law is not currently in effect while the legal challenge proceeds. The outcome will determine whether local police policies on immigration enforcement are shaped by state or federal authority.

Virginia Board expands graduation requirement options for students

The Virginia Board of Education has updated course approvals and graduation requirements, giving students more pathways to earn standard or advanced diplomas.

The Virginia Board of Education has clarified and expanded its list of approved courses and graduation requirements that schools must follow. The updates build on recent legislative efforts to give students more flexibility in how they can meet graduation requirements, particularly in math and science coursework. Schools will need to understand and implement these new rules.

Virginia Assembly requests special session on NextEra-Dominion merger

Virginia lawmakers are requesting a special legislative session to examine the proposed merger between NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy.

The Virginia General Assembly has asked for a special session to review a proposed merger between NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy. The session would allow legislators to examine the merger's implications before the companies proceed. The request signals legislative interest in scrutinizing the deal's impact on the state.

Summer food recalls expose gaps in national safety system

A record cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce is among numerous food recalls this summer, raising concerns about food safety oversight.

Multiple food recalls across jalapeños, frozen berries, beef, and alfalfa sprouts have occurred this summer, alongside a record-breaking cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce that has sickened thousands. The pattern of recalls has drawn attention to cuts in federal funding and staffing at public health agencies under the Trump administration, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the nation's food safety infrastructure.

Federal judge pauses Virginia ICE cooperation law

A federal judge has temporarily halted a Virginia law that limited state cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

A federal judge issued a pause on Virginia legislation designed to restrict state agency cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The ruling temporarily blocks enforcement of the law while legal challenges proceed. The decision affects how state agencies may interact with federal immigration enforcement operations.

Federal judge blocks Virginia ICE law, limits local enforcement

A federal court temporarily halted a Virginia law that regulated how local police participate in Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations.

A federal judge has issued a temporary block of a Virginia law governing local law enforcement involvement in ICE activities. The ruling came as a challenge to how the state law regulated police participation. The decision is temporary, pending further court proceedings.

Federal Judge Blocks New Mail Voting Restrictions Nationwide

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration's new restrictions on mail-in voting, calling the rule unconstitutional.

A Massachusetts federal judge declined the Trump administration's request to overturn a temporary restraining order blocking the U.S. Postal Service from enforcing new restrictions on mail-in voting. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani, who issued the 14-day order on August 27, found the rule appears "substantively unconstitutional." The decision means voting restrictions remain blocked while the legal battle continues in federal court.

Dominion shareholders approve NextEra merger

Dominion Energy shareholders voted 98% in favor of merging with NextEra Energy.

Dominion Energy shareholders overwhelmingly approved a merger with NextEra Energy, voting 98% in favor of the proposed combination. The shareholder vote represents strong investor backing for the deal to combine two major utilities. The merger will require additional regulatory approvals before it can be finalized.

Amazon Drone Delivery Expands to Richmond Area

Amazon is launching drone deliveries in Richmond, potentially expanding the service to surrounding areas including Chesterfield County.

Amazon announced drone delivery service is coming to Richmond, marking the company's expansion into the Virginia region. The service will allow residential deliveries via unmanned aircraft. This represents part of Amazon's broader rollout of drone technology across multiple U.S. markets.

Virginia voters to weigh 1% sales tax for school funding

Voters in 47 Virginia jurisdictions will decide whether to approve a 1% sales tax increase to fund school construction, modernization, and in some areas, transportation projects.

A 1% sales tax increase is heading to voters across 47 Virginia jurisdictions to fund school construction and facility modernization efforts. In Northern Virginia areas, the revenue could also support public transportation projects. The measure aims to address aging school infrastructure and growing demand for transit systems.

Virginia schools explore wearable panic alarms under new law

A new Virginia law allows schools to consider wearable panic alarm systems for safety, though Chesterfield's position on adoption remains unclear.

Virginia schools are reviewing options for wearable panic alarm devices following passage of a new state law that permits their use. These systems could allow staff to alert emergency services in active threat situations. Details on which schools or districts are moving forward with implementation remain limited.

Virginia Power Grid Approaching Capacity Limit, Consultants Warn

National security consultants say Virginia's power grid is running out of reliable capacity to serve military bases and defense operations across the state.

National security consultants have raised concerns that Virginia's electrical grid is nearing its maximum reliable capacity for serving military bases, defense communities, and defense industry operations. The assessment highlights growing infrastructure stress on systems that support critical national security operations in the region. Power grid reliability directly affects both military readiness and civilian communities dependent on consistent electricity supply.

Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Virginia ICE Law

A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Virginia law that regulated how local police work with immigration authorities.

A federal judge has issued a temporary block of a Virginia law that governed local law enforcement's participation in activities with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The law had established rules for how local police departments could cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The temporary block means the law is not currently in effect while legal challenges proceed.

Dominion's $4M in Campaign Gifts Raise Governance Questions

Virginia's House Speaker has received nearly $4 million from Dominion Energy, prompting scrutiny of the utility's influence over officials who regulate its operations and proposed merger.

Virginia House Speaker Don Scott has accepted nearly $4 million in campaign contributions from Dominion Energy over his career. Scott says these donations won't influence his position on Dominion's proposed merger with Florida-based NextEra Energy. The contributions highlight ongoing tensions between utilities' ability to fund political campaigns and the neutrality expected of elected officials who oversee them.

Voting rights advocates gather at D.C. march

Thousands rallied at the Lincoln Memorial to protest a Supreme Court decision that weakened voting protections for majority Black congressional districts.

Voting rights advocates and politicians, including Virginia Governor Spanberger, gathered at the Lincoln Memorial to express concerns over a recent Supreme Court ruling that gutted protections under the Voting Rights Act for majority Black U.S. House districts. The march came four months after the decision and two months before midterm elections, marking 63 years since Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech at the same location.

West Nile virus cases reported across Virginia amid mosquito activity

Virginia has confirmed six West Nile virus cases this year as mosquito surveillance reveals elevated activity statewide.

Virginia has reported six West Nile virus cases so far this year, including one in the Eastern Region. Mosquito surveillance has detected elevated West Nile virus activity in some Virginia areas, with recent testing revealing levels not seen in several years. Residents across the state should be alert to the circulation of West Nile virus during summer months.

Virginia's school funding formula unfairly ranks rural counties, supervisor warns

A Craig County supervisor says Virginia's school funding formula overestimates rural counties' financial capacity, placing unsustainable education spending burdens on families in less prosperous areas.

A Craig County official argues that Virginia's school funding formula incorrectly groups rural counties like Craig alongside more prosperous jurisdictions, overstating their ability to contribute to education costs. The formula fails to account for actual economic circumstances in rural communities, where tax bases cannot support the funding expectations the state's system imposes.

Virginia law removes barriers to adoptee birth certificate access

Virginia's new law enables adoptees to access their birth certificates, removing legal roadblocks that previously prevented records disclosure.

Virginia has enacted new legislation that grants adoptees access to their birth certificates, overcoming restrictions that had blocked record access for years. The law represents a significant change in adoption records policy at the state level. At least one adoptee has successfully obtained their birth certificate under the new provision.

Virginia law expands adoptee access to birth certificates

A new Virginia law removes barriers that prevented adoptees from accessing their birth certificates.

Virginia has enacted legislation making it easier for adoptees to access their birth certificates, addressing a long-standing challenge for those seeking records. The law removes procedural roadblocks that previously blocked adoptees from obtaining these documents. This represents a policy shift toward greater transparency in adoption records.

Virginia educators push for stricter classroom screen time limits

Parents and educators are urging Virginia's Board of Education to adopt new guidelines that reduce classroom technology use, saying excessive screen time undermines core learning.

Former educators and parents across Virginia are advocating for new state guidelines to limit classroom screen time and digital tool use in schools. Advocates argue that reliance on technology is interfering with essential learning methods students need most. The push includes consideration of a draft policy by Virginia's Board of Education.

Virginia attorney general forms unit to challenge federal overreach

Virginia's attorney general is establishing a legal unit to challenge what the state views as federal government overreach.

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones announced the formation of a new legal unit dedicated to challenging federal government overreach. The state also stands to receive $353 million through a settlement with Meta, and Virginia Tech secured nearly $1.7 million in federal research grants.

Virginia adoptees gain access to birth certificates under new law

Virginia passed a new law allowing adoptees to access their birth certificates, removing longstanding legal barriers.

Virginia has enacted a law that grants adoptees access to their birth certificates, addressing a significant legal hurdle that previously blocked many from obtaining these records. The change removes restrictions that had prevented adoptees from gaining key identifying information. This represents a shift in state policy around adoptee rights and access to records.

State Board Hears Parents' Call for Lower School Screen Time

Parents urged Virginia's Board of Education to restrict classroom screen time and adopt stricter technology policies in schools, particularly in younger grades.

Advocates and parents pushed Virginia's Board of Education to adopt limits on classroom screen time during an Aug. 27 meeting in Richmond. Nearly two dozen speakers called for stricter technology policies, particularly in elementary grades, citing increased student device use since the pandemic. The effort reflects growing concerns about balancing educational technology with student well-being.

New Virginia law opens adoptees' access to birth certificates

Virginia passed a new law allowing adoptees to access their birth certificates after long-standing legal barriers.

A new Virginia law has removed previous restrictions preventing adoptees from accessing their own birth certificates. According to reporting, at least one adoptee faced years of roadblocks before gaining access under the updated statute. The change reflects a shift in state policy on adoptee rights and records access.

New Virginia law expands adoptee access to birth certificates

Virginia's new law removes barriers adoptees faced when seeking their original birth certificates.

Virginia has passed a new law that grants adoptees greater access to their birth certificates, removing obstacles that previously blocked such requests. The change responds to years of documented cases where adoptees encountered roadblocks in obtaining these records.

Legal fight over Va. reproductive rights amendment continues

Plaintiffs challenging Virginia's reproductive rights amendment ballot language say they'll pursue a court fight to invalidate the vote regardless of when their current case resolves.

Virginia voters face a constitutional amendment on reproductive rights this fall, but its path remains contested. Lawyers challenging the ballot language wording have had their case stalled since June, with no resolution expected before Election Day. Even so, plaintiffs' counsel says they intend to pursue legal action afterward to overturn the results of the vote.

Statewide pushback against technology gains bipartisan support

Residents across Virginia are pushing back against data centers and surveillance technology, uniting political opponents around technology concerns.

A bipartisan movement is emerging across Virginia against technology expansion, from data center development to surveillance infrastructure. The trend reflects growing concern about the pace and scope of tech implementation in communities, cutting across traditional political divides that typically split on most other issues.

PJM Proposes Data Centers Bring Own Power to Grid

A regional grid operator is proposing that new large data centers provide their own electricity supply instead of drawing from the public grid.

PJM, the grid operator serving 13 states including Virginia, has filed a proposal with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requiring new large-load customers, primarily data centers, to supply their own power. The proposal is intended to address strain on the electrical grid from rapid data center expansion. FERC must approve the rule for it to take effect.

Federal broadband official visits Virginia

A federal broadband official announced that all contracts are signed for a national connectivity program.

Arielle Roth, director of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, announced that all contracts have been signed to move forward with the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program. The announcement was made during a visit to view fiber-optic cable installation infrastructure. The BEAD program aims to expand broadband access across the country.

Virginia won’t be able to cover federal SNAP, Medicaid funding cuts, governor warns

Volunteers at Park View Community Mission in Lynchburg stock food pantry shelves with a new shipment of bread in September 2025.

Volunteers at Park View Community Mission in Lynchburg stock food pantry shelves with a new shipment of bread in September 2025. Gov.

Virginia to receive $353 million in landmark Meta child-safety settlement

Virginia is set to receive at least $353 million from Meta Platforms Inc.

Virginia is set to receive at least $353 million from Meta Platforms Inc. under a major multistate settlement that would also require the parent company of Facebook and Instagram to adopt new safeguards aimed at protecting children from addictive features and harmful content.

Virginia schools show ‘modest’ improvements on SOLs but haven’t returned to pre-pandemic pass rates, state says

The Virginia Department of Education reported that students showed “modest” improvements in reading and math SOL scores this spring.

The Virginia Department of Education reported that students showed “modest” improvements in reading and math SOL scores this spring. Cardinal file photo.

Spanberger orders state agencies to prepare for Medicaid, SNAP changes

Gov.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Tuesday ordered Virginia agencies to step up efforts to prevent eligible residents from losing Medicaid and food assistance as sweeping federal changes are set to take effect next year.

New challenges to Trump mail-in voting order arrive after US Supreme Court ruling

Democrat-led states and voting rights groups re-filed lawsuits Wednesday to block the Trump administration from executing a new regulation to restrict mail-in voting, while a federal judge lifted a nationwide pause on the policy in line with this week’s U.S.

Democrat-led states and voting rights groups re-filed lawsuits Wednesday to block the Trump administration from executing a new regulation to restrict mail-in voting, while a federal judge lifted a nationwide pause on the policy in line with this week’s U.S. Supreme Court decision that handed the administration a procedural win.

Headlines from across the state: Spanberger pushes Trump to back off new tariffs on Canada; more …

Gov.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger with press secretary Jack Bledsoe in May.

Virginians will weigh in on 3 changes to their state constitution this fall. Here’s a look at the proposed amendments.

Ben Williams officiates the wedding of Brittany Martz and Sarah Wilson in downtown Roanoke in early 2025.

Ben Williams officiates the wedding of Brittany Martz and Sarah Wilson in downtown Roanoke in early 2025. An amendment that will be on the ballot this fall in Virginia would remove a ban on same-sex marriage from the state constitution.

Virginia students make gains in reading, math as schools push toward pre-pandemic levels

Virginia students continued to make progress in reading and math last school year, posting gains that moved them closer to pre-pandemic performance levels, the Virginia Department of Education announced Tuesday.

Virginia students continued to make progress in reading and math last school year, posting gains that moved them closer to pre-pandemic performance levels, the Virginia Department of Education announced Tuesday. Across the commonwealth, students’ proficiency in math and reading increased by 0.4% from the prior school year.

The thousand-dollar line

I read every noise rule in Virginia that could reach a data center.

I read every noise rule in Virginia that could reach a data center. There are 73 of them across 43 jurisdictions, and the one that stopped me was not a decibel limit.

“Remember the little guy”: Kaine hears from Virginia farmers as Canada trade fight drives up concern

Just days after failed trade talks between President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney prompted new sweeping tariffs and threats of retaliation, U.S.

Just days after failed trade talks between President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney prompted new sweeping tariffs and threats of retaliation, U.S. Sen.

Headlines from across the state: Virginia loses almost 48,000 jobs in year; unemployment at 3.7%; more …

From elsewhere: Amazon gears up for drone delivery in Richmond area.

From elsewhere: Amazon gears up for drone delivery in Richmond area. Virginia considers calls for mandatory school nurses as healthcare gaps persist.

Edmunds: Virginia shouldn’t make hunters and anglers pay more for fewer services

Fishing in the New River.

Fishing in the New River. Photo by Jay Waide " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/cardinalnews.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_1433.jpeg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1" /> The Department of Wildlife Resources voted last week to increase the fees to hunt, fish and boat starting Oct.

American consumers will pay for the collapse of U.S.-Canada trade talks in ways hard to see. Here are the Virginia congressional districts with the most jobs at risk.

Volvo’s New River Valley plant in Dublin.

Volvo’s New River Valley plant in Dublin. Courtesy of Volvo.

Active court order still blocking Trump effort to restrict vote-by-mail

WASHINGTON — The U.S.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday handed a procedural victory to President Donald Trump on an executive order to curb mail-in voting, but the administration is still fighting a separate ruling that limits a portion of the order and remains in effect — complicating the administration’s temporary win.

Virginia Considers Requiring School Nurses Amid Growing Healthcare Gaps

Virginia lawmakers are weighing whether to mandate school nurse positions statewide, as roughly one in ten schools currently operate without nursing staff.

About one in ten Virginia schools operate without a school nurse, creating gaps in student healthcare management and support, according to education advocates. School nurses provide critical services including managing complex medical conditions and helping to reduce student absenteeism. While most Virginia school divisions currently employ nurses, state law permits but does not require their employment—a situation lawmakers are reconsidering.

Federal Postal Service Advances Mail Ballot Envelope Rules

The U.S. Postal Service is moving forward with new rules requiring standardized mail-in ballot envelopes and state data, despite a federal judge's criticism of the timing and process.

The Trump administration's U.S. Postal Service issued a 95-page notice Friday announcing new regulations that will eventually require standardized mail-in ballot voting envelopes and state voter data sharing. A federal district judge in Massachusetts has criticized the move as sowing confusion and artificially creating an emergency just over two months before the November midterms. The legal battle continues as the rule advances.

Virginia tightens nursing home oversight with new reform standards

Virginia's health department plans to adopt new sanction criteria for nursing homes to address oversight gaps revealed by documented neglect incidents.

Virginia nursing homes have experienced repeated incidents of neglect and unsanitary conditions, with data showing lapses in state oversight. The Virginia Department of Health is pursuing reform efforts to strengthen facility accountability. Officials aim to adopt new sanction criteria by year-end to improve how violations are enforced across facilities.

Virginia Report Signals Groundwater Decline East of I-95

Virginia's environmental agency released a report showing groundwater is becoming less available east of Interstate-95, and state lawmakers are weighing recommendations to address the issue.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality released a 117-page report indicating that groundwater availability is declining in the Eastern Groundwater Management Area, which covers regions east of I-95. The agency presented recommendations to lawmakers Thursday aimed at managing the decline. Policymakers are now considering what policy shifts, if any, should follow from the findings.

Virginia establishes climate research office at George Mason

Virginia launched a new climate research office at George Mason University to coordinate environmental policy across state agencies and universities.

Virginia established a climate research office at George Mason University to develop and coordinate state climate policy. The office will partner with Virginia Tech and other state universities, alongside state agencies and business groups including agricultural organizations. The effort aims to integrate academic research with policy development across sectors affected by climate change.

Virginia Approves First Hunting, Fishing License Fee Increase in 14 Years

Virginia's wildlife board voted to raise hunting, fishing, and trapping license fees for the first time since 2012, plus new costs for boating and camping.

The Virginia Board of Wildlife Resources approved fee increases for hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses, the first hike since 2012. The board also passed new fees and regulations for boating, camping, and conservation programs.

State roundup: voting rights, forestry, and utility news

Virginia state-level news on voting rights, Roadless Rule changes, and utility tariffs — no Chesterfield-specific impact reported in source.

A court affirmed voting rights for former felons, the USDA is advancing a Roadless Rule repeal affecting 400,000 acres in Virginia, Roanoke College launched a women's flag football team, and Dominion said it's seeking a Trump tariff refund. These are state or regional stories with no reporting tied to Chesterfield County specifically.

Federal Head Start proposal concerns Virginia families, advocates warn

A federal proposal to alter Head Start has prompted concerns from Virginia families who worry it could harm services for low-income children and families.

A federal proposal to alter Head Start is raising concerns among Virginia parents and advocates who worry it could undermine services for low-income families. The program provides early childhood education and family support to young children from economically disadvantaged households. Advocates emphasize the program's critical role during family hardships, pointing to examples of how it has supported families through crises such as job loss or the death of a breadwinner.

DCCC Triples Down on Effort to Flip 5th District

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is intensifying its campaign to unseat Republican Rep. John McGuire in the 5th Congressional District.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is escalating its push to flip the 5th Congressional District seat held by Republican Rep. John McGuire. Tom Perriello is running as a Democratic candidate in the race. The move signals Democrats' commitment to target this district during the coming election cycle.

Advocate: License plate readers crucial to catching domestic violence offenders

A domestic violence survivor argues that license plate reader technology helps law enforcement locate and prosecute dangerous abusers, and removing it would endanger victims.

A domestic violence survivors' advocate contends that license plate reader technology is essential for law enforcement to locate and prosecute offenders. The piece argues that eliminating such tools would make it easier for dangerous individuals to evade capture and prosecution, ultimately putting victims at greater risk. The advocate frames access to this technology as a public safety necessity rather than an invasion of privacy.

Virginia State Revenues Exceed Forecast, Governor Urges Caution

Virginia's state revenues came in above projections this fiscal year, but Gov. Spanberger is calling for careful spending as the state continues to experience job losses.

Virginia's revenues have exceeded budget forecasts, according to remarks Gov. Abigail Spanberger made to the General Assembly's budget committees on Aug. 19. While the state has recorded job losses, many resulted from retirements rather than employer closures, limiting the damage to the state's tax base. The governor and Secretary of Finance are advocating for cautious budgeting despite the positive revenue results.

Virginia schools turn to referendums as funding pressure mounts

A November wave of school bond referendums across Virginia reflects districts' growing need for voter-approved funding sources to cover construction and facility costs.

Virginia school districts are holding a surge of bond referendums in November, signaling reliance on voter approval for capital projects. The trend highlights the limitations of traditional funding mechanisms and underscores districts' need for expanded taxing options to meet facility demands.

Virginia hemp law prompts store closures

A new state law is forcing some hemp retailers to close their doors.

Virginia has enacted a new law affecting hemp retailers. The law is prompting some hemp stores to close. Specific details about the law's requirements and regional impact require the full article text.

Virginia Courts Bound by Supreme Court Firearm Rulings

Virginia courts must ensure firearm restrictions comply with Supreme Court precedent requiring the government to prove any restrictions align with historical firearm regulation tradition.

Two Supreme Court cases—Heller and Bruen—establish the legal framework for evaluating firearm laws in Virginia. Under these rulings, the government cannot ban firearms in common use by law-abiding citizens for lawful purposes. Any restriction must be proven consistent with the nation's historical tradition of firearm regulation.

Virginia Beach pauses new hyperscale data center projects

Virginia Beach has paused approvals for new hyperscale data centers for one year as communities weigh the impacts of rapid expansion in the region.

Virginia Beach announced a one-year pause on new hyperscale data center projects, according to 13 News Now. The pause comes as communities across Hampton Roads and beyond continue to evaluate the effects of rapid data center growth on infrastructure, utilities, and local character. The moratorium gives officials time to study impacts before approving additional facilities.

Proposed $67 billion utility merger raises solar, affordability concerns

A major utility merger proposal is drawing scrutiny over potential impacts on residential solar installations and electricity costs.

A proposed $67 billion utility merger is attracting concerns from solar advocates and consumer groups who worry about its effects on rooftop solar access and customer bills. The deal has sparked debate over affordability and renewable energy policy. Details remain developing as the proposal moves through regulatory review.

Measles outbreak in neighboring Virginia counties now over

A measles outbreak in Buckingham and Cumberland counties that sickened 154 people over three months has been declared over by the Virginia Department of Health.

A measles outbreak in Buckingham and Cumberland counties has been declared over after infecting 154 people and resulting in four hospitalizations during a nearly three-month span. The Virginia Department of Health announced the end of the outbreak. Regional residents should remain aware of measles circulation patterns in neighboring counties as part of broader vaccination and public health monitoring.

Judge Affirms Voting Rights for Formerly Convicted Virginians

A federal judge upheld a ruling that restores voting rights to some Virginians with felony convictions who were wrongly disenfranchised.

U.S. District Court Judge John Gibney affirmed an earlier ruling that found certain Virginians with felony convictions should not have lost their voting rights. The decision comes after some affected residents missed opportunities to vote in recent congressional primary elections. The affirmation means those individuals can now vote in future elections.

General Assembly to study data center tax policy

Virginia's legislature has launched a study examining tax exemptions and potential consumption taxes on data center operations, part of a spring budget compromise.

The Virginia General Assembly is undertaking a formal study of tax exemptions and consumption tax options for data center operations. The effort stems from a compromise reached during biennial budget negotiations in spring. The study will examine the fiscal implications and policy options for the state's data center tax framework.

Federal roadless forest rule repeal threatens 400,000 Virginia acres

The Trump administration is moving to repeal a 25-year-old rule protecting virgin forestland, which could open roughly 400,000 acres across Virginia—mostly in the Shenandoah Valley—to development.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is advancing a full repeal of the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, a federal regulation that protects millions of acres of undeveloped forest nationwide. In Virginia, the rule currently safeguards an estimated 400,000 acres of forestland, primarily in the Shenandoah Valley region. If repealed, those lands could become available for logging, roads, and other development.

Dominion Energy proposes $67 billion merger

Dominion Energy is proposing a $67 billion merger that would affect Virginia utilities and residents.

Dominion Energy has proposed a $67 billion merger. The deal would impact Virginia's energy landscape. Virginia residents should understand key details as the proposal moves through review.

Could Virginia Expand Its Utility Regulator? Constitution Allows It

A proposed merger between major energy companies is raising questions about whether Virginia should expand its three-member State Corporation Commission, which oversees utility rates and service.

Virginia's State Corporation Commission, a three-member body created by the state constitution, currently regulates utilities including rates and service standards. The Dominion-NextEra merger proposal has prompted discussion about whether the state should expand the SCC's size to handle complex regulatory challenges. The state constitution technically allows lawmakers to enlarge the commission, though it has remained at three members for decades.

Virginia wildlife board to vote on new hunting and fishing fees

Virginia's wildlife board will vote this week on proposed new fees for hunting, fishing, boating and camping.

The Virginia Board of Wildlife Resources will hold votes Wednesday and Thursday on proposed new fees and regulations for hunting, fishing, boating and camping. Virginians are split on the proposals, with some residents opposed to increased costs while others view such increases as necessary.

Virginia revenue surge fueled by data center tax

Virginia's general fund grew by $2.1 billion in fiscal 2026, boosted by a new energy tax on data centers that's projected to generate $600 million annually.

Virginia's general fund increased by $2.1 billion during the fiscal year ending in July, according to Gov. Spanberger, who credited record public service investments and a newly enacted energy consumption tax on data centers. The tax is projected to add $600 million annually to state coffers.

Virginia fire service funding faces scrutiny over rising costs

Studies show Virginia's fire departments are underfunded, with proposals emerging to address the shortfall.

Research indicates Virginia's fire service funding model is insufficient to meet departmental needs. Equipment costs, particularly turnout gear, have risen sharply in recent years. Policymakers are exploring solutions to strengthen fire service support across the state.

Largest Utility Merger Advances Despite Recusal Concerns

Virginia is reviewing a proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy that would create the nation's largest electric utility, though a State Corporation Commission chair with NextEra ties has declined to step aside from the case.

Virginia lawmakers and utility regulation experts are evaluating a proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy that, if approved, would create the largest electric utility in the United States. The State Corporation Commission is weighing the proposal through its Commission on Electric Utility Regulation review process. The case has been marked by a conflict-of-interest question: State Corporation Commission Chair Kelsey, who previously worked as an attorney for NextEra, has declined to recuse herself from the decision.

Dominion Energy Offers $1.78B Bill Relief in NextEra Merger

Dominion Energy is proposing $1.78 billion in customer bill relief as part of its merger with NextEra Energy.

Dominion Energy has linked $1.78 billion in bill relief to its merger with NextEra Energy. The company is offering the relief to customers as part of the deal. Dominion customers in Virginia, including those in Chesterfield County, could benefit from reduced utility bills if the merger is approved.

Virginia customers push back on $67B utility deal

Virginia customers are objecting to a major utility deal as another rate increase is planned.

A $67 billion utility agreement is drawing pushback from Virginia customers. The deal coincides with plans for an additional rate hike, raising concerns about future costs for residents across the state.

Spanberger Orders Emergency Preparedness Improvements

Virginia's governor issued an executive order to strengthen the state's ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters and emergencies.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger issued Executive Order 19 to strengthen Virginia's disaster preparedness and emergency response capabilities. Announced ahead of hurricane season, the order aims to streamline how the state manages crises. The executive order extends beyond natural disasters to address broader emergency scenarios affecting residents across the state.

Virginia Considers Piecemeal Data Center Moratorium Amid Growing Opposition

Virginia is weighing a partial moratorium on data center development as opposition to the projects spreads across the state.

Virginia is developing a piecemeal moratorium on data center expansion as resistance to the projects grows in counties like Botetourt. The potential impacts of such restrictions remain complex and multifaceted. This policy shift could affect how data center development proceeds across the state in coming years.

Virginia Beach explores data center regulations amid rapid expansion

Virginia Beach is considering a temporary moratorium on new data centers while it develops oversight rules, a move Chesterfield residents watching similar local development may find relevant.

Virginia Beach city officials are weighing a data center moratorium to pause new projects while the city develops comprehensive regulations for the sector. The move reflects growing concern about balancing economic development with community impact management. As a regional precedent, it may inform how Chesterfield approaches its own data center expansion.

Data center revenue funds Virginia affordable housing programs

Virginia's data center industry generates public service funding that supports affordable housing initiatives across the state.

As Virginia policymakers debate data center expansion, a new report examines how the industry funds public services. The example of Henrico County's Affordable Housing Trust Fund—which received backing from data center-related revenue—illustrates how these developments can directly support housing assistance for residents like Yvettrise Hoskie, a single mother pursuing a nursing degree.

Virginia hemp regulation survives court challenge

A federal judge rejected hemp businesses' emergency request to delay new Virginia regulations restricting THC in their products, clearing the way for rules taking effect Saturday.

Hemp businesses in Virginia sought a court order to block new state regulations set to take effect Saturday, warning that stricter THC limits would make much of their existing inventory illegal to sell. A federal judge declined to grant the emergency delay, allowing the restrictions to proceed. The decision affects hemp retailers and producers across Virginia, including any in Chesterfield County.

Virginia headlines: Union, drones, poetry, traditions

A roundup of statewide news from Virginia including firefighter union actions and community initiatives across multiple regions.

Virginia Mercury reported on several statewide developments: a firefighters union censured U.S. Rep. Spanberger over collective bargaining positions, James City County is testing drone delivery of defibrillators with VCU, Lt. Gov. Hashmi launched a poetry contest with Virginia Humanities, and ongoing coverage of a local tradition (details incomplete in source). The items span multiple counties and governance levels across the state.

Solar power key to Virginia's energy future, experts say

Energy experts say solar is essential to meeting Virginia's growing electricity needs, working alongside other power sources.

Energy policy experts argue that solar energy plays an important role in meeting Virginia's expanding electricity demands, but should not be the only power source. The focus for policymakers is determining how solar fits into a diverse energy portfolio alongside conventional and alternative sources to meet the state's growing needs.

Dominion asks state regulators for $922 million rate recovery

Dominion Energy has requested State Corporation Commission approval to recover an additional $922 million in fuel costs over multiple years.

Dominion Energy has asked the State Corporation Commission for permission to recover an additional $922 million in fuel costs incurred over multiple years. The utility is seeking regulatory approval for the expense recovery through the SCC. If approved, the costs would be recovered from ratepayers.

Civil rights leaders mark voting rights law anniversary amid ongoing protections debate

Civil rights advocates commemorated the 61st anniversary of the Voting Rights Act by expressing concern about the gradual weakening of voting protections, particularly for Black voters in the South.

Civil rights stalwarts, politicians, and academics held a commemoration for the Voting Rights Act on its 61st anniversary, lamenting the erosion of a law that historically enabled African Americans—especially in the South—to vote without fear of violence or polling place obstruction. The gathering highlighted the continuing debate over voting access and civil rights enforcement. The anniversary marks ongoing national discussion about the strength and scope of voting protections.

VRE Adds Sunday Service to D.C. for IndyCar Race

Virginia Railway Express will run a Sunday train to Washington, D.C. on August 23 to serve an IndyCar race series expected to draw 140,000 daily visitors.

Virginia Railway Express is running Sunday train service on August 23 timed with an IndyCar race series in Washington, D.C. The racing event is projected to bring 140,000 daily visitors to the capital region. Chesterfield residents interested in attending the race or visiting D.C. that weekend can use the expanded rail service.

Virginia Cannabis Growhouses Could Match Data Centers' Power Use

Virginia's legalized cannabis retail could eventually consume as much electricity as 78 to 148 data centers, raising questions about whether that power use should be taxed.

Virginia has legalized retail cannabis sales, setting the stage for significant electrical demand. Indoor cannabis growhouses consume more electricity per square foot than data centers, and depending on consumption rates, Virginia's cultivation could eventually use as much power as 78 to 148 data centers. This raises questions about how the industry's substantial electricity use should be regulated and taxed.

Dominion seeks $922 million more in fuel cost recovery

Dominion Energy is asking state regulators for permission to charge customers an additional $922 million to cover rising fuel expenses.

Dominion Energy has requested that the State Corporation Commission approve recovery of an additional $922 million in fuel costs. The utility attributed the increase to extreme power demands and rising natural gas prices beyond its original calculations. Actual fuel and purchased power expenses have risen dramatically from earlier estimates.

Dominion Customers Express Concerns Over Proposed NextEra Takeover

Dominion Energy customers are voicing concerns about a proposed $67 billion acquisition by NextEra as electricity bills continue to rise.

Dominion Energy customers are expressing concerns about a proposed $67 billion takeover by NextEra Energy. The acquisition announcement comes as customers across the region face rising electricity bills. The proposed deal has drawn customer opposition and scrutiny.

Virginia Reaffirms Vaccine Requirements After Trump Executive Order

Virginia's Department of Health says the state won't change its vaccine requirements for children despite President Trump's new executive order on childhood vaccines.

President Trump signed an executive order Monday directing changes to federal childhood vaccine guidance. Virginia's Department of Health responded Tuesday by reaffirming that the state will maintain its existing vaccine requirements and recommendations for all children. Health Commissioner Dr. Cameron Webb said Virginia families should trust the state's decisions, which are grounded in the best available science.

Virginia hit by cluster of severe storms Monday through Tuesday

Gusty winds swept across Virginia over two days as organized storm systems including squall lines and bow echoes moved through the region.

A series of organized storm clusters rolled across Virginia on Monday and Tuesday, producing dangerous winds. These systems, which meteorologists call squall lines, bow echoes, mesoscale convective systems, or derechos, packed sustained gusty conditions. The storms were part of a northwest-flow weather pattern that channeled them across the state.

Trump administration seeks quick Supreme Court ruling on vote-by-mail

The Trump administration is urging the Supreme Court to expedite its decision on an executive order that would restrict voting by mail.

The Trump administration has renewed its request for the U.S. Supreme Court to quickly rule on an executive order restricting voting options. A federal judge recently issued a nationwide injunction blocking the order from taking effect. The Supreme Court's decision on the case remains pending.

Schools watch vaccination records as measles concerns return

Virginia schools are reviewing student vaccination records as students return for the new year following a summer measles outbreak.

After a measles outbreak this summer, Virginia schools are placing renewed focus on vaccination compliance as students prepare to return for the new school year. State law requires all public school students to meet immunization requirements, including Tdap boosters and meningococcal vaccines. Families are being encouraged to verify their children's vaccination records before classes begin.

Lt. Gov. Hashmi Tours State to Gather Input on Dominion Merger

Virginia's Lt. Governor is launching a statewide tour to educate residents and hear their views on a proposed Dominion Energy-NextEra Energy merger under state review.

Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi announced a statewide tour to meet with Virginians and gather their input on a proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy, a Florida-based utility. The State Corporation Commission has a six-month window to decide whether to approve the merger. Hashmi's tour aims to educate residents about the case and hear their concerns during this decision period.

Dominion ordered to assign transmission costs to data centers

Virginia's utility regulator ordered Dominion to directly charge some transmission costs to data centers instead of spreading them across all customers.

A regulatory order requires Dominion Energy to directly assign certain transmission costs to data centers, rather than distributing those expenses across the broader customer base. This targets the growing cost burden associated with powering large-scale data center operations. The change aims to align cost responsibility with usage intensity.

Virginia schools' sales tax bid draws uncertain local outlook

Multiple Virginia communities are exploring a 1% local sales tax to fund school construction, though Chesterfield's participation status remains unclear from available reporting.

Virginia communities are pursuing a 1% local sales tax ballot measure to fund school construction projects. The effort appears statewide, with multiple localities exploring this funding mechanism. Details on Chesterfield County's specific involvement or stance are not provided in the source material.

Virginia Lottery Generates $914M for Public Schools

Virginia Lottery funding for K-12 public schools surpassed $914 million in fiscal year 2026.

Virginia Lottery players generated more than $914 million for the state's K-12 public schools during fiscal year 2026, according to an announcement this week from the state agency. The lottery remains a significant funding source for Virginia's education system. Chesterfield County's schools receive a share of state education funding, including lottery proceeds.

Virginia becomes latest state to ban child marriage

Virginia has banned child marriage as part of a national effort to protect young people from early marriage.

The Virginia Mercury reports that Virginia has joined several states in banning child marriage. The renewed attention to the issue stems from a recent Ohio case in which authorities rescued 16 children, whose mother was 15 when she married. Despite these state-level bans, child marriage remains legal in most U.S. states.

Data center boom strains Virginia utility power costs

Dominion Energy is purchasing power at higher market rates to meet growing demand from Virginia data centers.

Virginia's data center expansion is forcing Dominion Energy to enter costlier power markets to meet surging electricity demand. The utility is turning to more expensive generation and procurement methods as data facilities consume more grid capacity. This reflects the broader tension between attracting data center investment and managing energy infrastructure costs.

Data center boom strains Dominion's power market costs

Virginia's growing data center demand is forcing Dominion to purchase power at higher market rates.

Virginia's booming data center industry is pushing Dominion Energy deeper into expensive power markets to meet rising electricity demand. As more data centers locate in the state, the utility must purchase additional power at increasingly costly rates. This trend underscores the infrastructure pressures created by Virginia's emergence as a major data center hub.

5th District Candidates Split on Valley Link Transmission Plan

The two major-party candidates for Virginia's 5th Congressional House seat hold sharply different positions on a proposed transmission line and nuclear expansion.

Perriello opposes the Valley Link transmission project while expressing openness to expanding nuclear capacity at North Anna. McGuire has not clearly stated positions on energy issues, except for a letter addressing Valley Link. The district faces distinct energy infrastructure questions that candidates must address.

Virginia Orders Dominion Energy to Bill Data Centers for Transmission Costs

Virginia regulators directed Dominion Energy to charge data centers directly for transmission infrastructure costs instead of spreading the expense across all customers.

Virginia regulators have ordered Dominion Energy to assign transmission costs directly to data center operators rather than rolling them into utility bills paid by all customers. The shift means data centers will bear the costs of grid infrastructure improvements needed to support their heavy power demand. This change aims to tie infrastructure expenses more directly to the operations that drive them.

Virginia Lawmakers Consider Stronger Child Online Privacy Protections

Virginia state lawmakers are weighing proposals to update child online privacy protections for the first time in decades.

Virginia lawmakers are reviewing potential legislation to strengthen digital protections for children, citing federal privacy standards that haven't been substantially updated in nearly 30 years. Parents say current laws fail to protect children in today's digital landscape, particularly regarding app store accountability. The discussion reflects growing concern about how technology companies handle young users' personal data and online safety.

Virginia counties weigh data center rules, surveillance concerns

State-level roundup: other Virginia counties debating data center regulations, license plate reader oversight, and amendment campaigns.

A state news roundup reports that Amherst County is holding a hearing on data center ordinances, Spotsylvania is considering a moratorium call, and Halifax is hearing resident concerns about automated license plate readers. The posts also mentions a campaign for a rights restoration amendment underway across Virginia.

Virginia communities pursue 1% sales tax for school construction

Other Virginia communities are pursuing a 1% sales tax for school construction to fund repairs to aging facilities.

Virginia communities are moving to place a 1% sales tax for school construction on the ballot as a way to fund facility repairs. Supporters say this could provide much-needed funding for aging school buildings in financially stretched districts, though the exact revenue and voter approval remain uncertain.

Spanberger Assembles Corrections Council for Prison Reform

Virginia's governor is forming a council that includes people from the corrections system to help guide the state's approach to prison reform.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger is assembling a corrections council to shape Virginia's prison reform efforts. The council includes participants with direct experience in Virginia's corrections system, including formerly incarcerated individuals who can offer firsthand perspectives on reform needs. One example is Angel DeJesus, a public speaker and youth mentor who was pardoned by former Gov. Ralph Northam in January 2022 after spending time in both the Department of Juvenile Justice and Department of Corrections.

Regional squall line threatens central Virginia with severe storms

A line of gusty thunderstorms knocked out power to 100,000+ across central and western Virginia Monday, with more severe weather possible Tuesday.

A shelf cloud-fronted squall line swept through central and western Virginia on Monday, downing power lines and leaving more than 100,000 customers without electricity. Albemarle County saw the heaviest impacts with over 16,000 outages reported by early evening. Meteorologists warn additional rounds of severe storms could strike the region Tuesday and beyond.

Former NextEra attorney now leads utility merger review

Virginia's top utility regulator, who previously worked as a senior attorney for NextEra Energy, will decide whether NextEra can merge with Dominion.

Virginia's State Corporation Commission—the agency overseeing major utility transactions—is now led by an attorney who previously worked at NextEra Energy. The SCC will review the proposed merger between NextEra and Dominion Energy, a deal that has drawn scrutiny as data center development considerations increasingly shape utility regulation in Virginia. The decision will be closely watched by stakeholders across the state.

Virginia Campaign Seeks Automatic Voting Rights for Ex-Offenders

A new campaign is pushing to amend Virginia's constitution to automatically restore voting rights to people who complete felony sentences.

Organizers in Norfolk launched a campaign this week to amend Virginia's constitution, proposing automatic restoration of voting rights for people who finish serving felony sentences. Portsmouth school board member Quniana Futrell spoke in support of the measure, sharing how her personal experience with parental incarceration shaped her advocacy. The campaign highlights criminal justice reform as a way to restore full civic participation to formerly incarcerated residents.

FOIA concerns arise in data center debate

A Franklin resident's FOIA request highlights Virginia's pattern of closed-door government decision-making, a concern echoed in ongoing Chesterfield data center discussions.

A Virginia Mercury article documents how the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, while presuming government business is public by default, is frequently sidestepped by officials who don't adequately justify exemptions. The piece connects this systemic transparency issue to active debates over major local projects, including data center development.

Virginia work group weighs rules for self-driving vehicles

Virginia is developing regulatory guidelines for autonomous vehicles like Waymo as the state considers safety and liability rules.

A Virginia work group is considering regulations for self-driving vehicles operating in the state, including those from Waymo. The effort addresses safety and liability questions as autonomous vehicle technology expands. State officials are weighing how to govern this emerging transportation technology.

Virginia Governor Intervenes in Dominion, NextEra Merger Over Rate Concerns

Virginia's governor is stepping in to address concerns that a Dominion-NextEra merger could raise electricity prices for residents.

Virginia's governor plans to intervene in the proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy, citing concerns about potential impacts on electricity rates. The intervention signals state-level scrutiny of the deal before it proceeds. Regulators and officials will likely examine whether the merger serves the public interest and keeps utility costs stable.

Virginia bans student phones during entire school day

Virginia has implemented a new policy prohibiting K-12 students from using phones throughout the entire school day.

Virginia has adopted a statewide phone ban affecting all K-12 students during school hours. The policy aims to reduce classroom distractions and improve student focus. Chesterfield County schools will implement this requirement alongside other Virginia districts.

Spanberger weighs in on Dominion-NextEra merger

Rep. Spanberger has intervened in the Dominion-NextEra Energy merger.

Rep. Spanberger has intervened regarding a merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy. Additional details on the nature of the intervention and its implications require the full article text.

Spanberger intervenes in Dominion-NextEra merger review

U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger is intervening in the regulatory review of a merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy, raising concerns about the deal's impact on Virginia.

Congresswoman Spanberger, whose district includes parts of Chesterfield County, has formally intervened in proceedings related to the proposed merger of two major utility companies. Her intervention signals concerns about how the deal may affect customers and communities across Virginia.

Spanberger intervenes in $67B Dominion-NextEra merger deal

Rep. Abigail Spanberger has taken an unprecedented step to intervene in Dominion Energy's proposed $67 billion merger with NextEra Energy.

Rep. Abigail Spanberger, whose district includes parts of Chesterfield County, has intervened in the regulatory process for Dominion Energy's proposed merger with NextEra Energy, valued at $67 billion. This marks an unusual step for a member of Congress to take in a major utility merger. The intervention suggests concerns about how the deal may affect Virginia ratepayers and communities in her district.

Spanberger Formally Intervenes in $67B Dominion-NextEra Merger

Virginia's governor is seeking an unprecedented formal role in reviewing the proposed $67 billion sale of Dominion Energy to Florida-based NextEra Energy.

Governor Spanberger announced she will seek intervenor status in the State Corporation Commission's review of NextEra Energy's proposed acquisition of Dominion Energy, marking the first time a Virginia governor has formally intervened in an SCC proceeding. The $67 billion merger would transfer control of one of the region's largest utilities to a Florida-based company. Spanberger's intervention gives her administration a formal voice in the regulatory process determining whether the merger proceeds.

Governor Spanberger intervenes in Dominion-NextEra merger

Virginia's governor has intervened in Dominion Energy's proposed merger with NextEra Energy.

Governor Spanberger has intervened in the proposed $67 billion merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy. The specific nature of her intervention and its timeline are not available in the provided source material. Further reporting is needed to understand the governor's position and potential implications.

Cardinal News examines 5 key midterm questions for Virginia

Cardinal News outlines five critical questions that will shape the outcome of this year's congressional midterm elections in Virginia and nationally.

Cardinal News explores five key questions that will determine how this year's congressional midterm elections unfold in Virginia and beyond. The outlet poses these questions as central to understanding the eventual results, though specific details about each question are not provided in the available excerpt.

Virginia's data center debate shapes House races statewide

Data centers are emerging as a focal point in Virginia House races as state and local communities weigh economic growth against environmental concerns.

Data centers are influencing House races across Virginia as candidates and residents grapple with competing priorities. The trend reflects broader tension between economic development opportunities and community concerns about infrastructure impact. Petersburg residents have actively opposed data center projects in their area.

SCC orders Dominion to shift data center transmission costs

Virginia's State Corporation Commission directed Dominion Energy to develop a new tariff that assigns a larger share of transmission costs to data center operators.

Virginia's State Corporation Commission has ordered Dominion Energy to create a tariff structure that allocates more transmission infrastructure costs to data center operators. The move addresses how utility costs are distributed between traditional and heavy-power-consuming facilities. This marks a shift in how the utility prices grid capacity for industrial-scale customers.

SCC Orders Dominion to Assign More Transmission Costs to Data Centers

Virginia's State Corporation Commission has ordered Dominion Energy to develop a policy that assigns more of the cost for transmission infrastructure directly to data centers.

The State Corporation Commission recently directed Dominion Energy to develop a tariff policy that would increase the share of transmission infrastructure costs borne by data centers. High-voltage transmission lines function as power highways across the state, and the new policy would shift more of their construction and maintenance costs away from general ratepayers and toward the data centers they serve. This marks a regulatory effort to align infrastructure costs more directly with the industries driving demand for expanded transmission capacity.

Perriello, Powers win Democratic primary elections

Tom Perriello and Joy Powers won Democratic primary elections and will face Republican incumbents in the fall Congressional races.

Tom Perriello won the Democratic nomination in Virginia's 5th Congressional District, while Joy Powers secured the Democratic nomination in the 9th District. Both will advance to face Republican incumbents this fall—Perriello against Rep. John McGuire and Powers against Rep. Morgan Griffith. These primary wins set up competitive matchups for November's general election.

Mizusawa Wins U.S. Senate Primary; McGuire Advances

Bert Mizusawa and Rep. John McGuire won Republican primary elections Tuesday and will face Democratic challengers in November.

Bert Mizusawa won the Republican primary for U.S. Senate and will challenge incumbent Senator Mark Warner this fall. Rep. John McGuire won his Republican House primary and will face Democrat Tom Perriello in the general election. Both races will directly affect Chesterfield voters' representation in Congress.

Mizusawa wins GOP nomination to challenge Warner

Virginia Republicans nominated retired Gen. Bert Mizusawa to challenge U.S. Senator Mark Warner in November, while voters also settled several competitive House races.

Virginia voters cast ballots Tuesday in a primary that locked in the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate and determined several contested congressional matchups. Retired Army Maj. Gen. Bert Mizusawa won the GOP nomination to challenge incumbent Democratic U.S. Senator Mark Warner. The primary results now set the matchups Chesterfield voters will see when they return to the polls this November for the general election.

Federal Transportation Funding Set to Expire This Fall

Billions in annual federal highway and transit funding expire Sept. 30 as the Senate's latest spending bill fails to renew the program, leaving states including Virginia bracing for major budget cuts.

A U.S. Senate-backed stopgap spending measure passed this week does not address federal transportation funding that expires Sept. 30, leaving states—including Virginia—facing an estimated $38.6 billion annual budget shortfall starting Oct. 1. The expiring money comes from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, which authorized five years of highway and transit programs nationwide. Without congressional action to extend it, states will see significant reductions in road maintenance and transit projects.

Virginia weighs competing pressures on data center growth

As data centers expand across Virginia, the state must balance economic gains against environmental and land-use impacts.

Virginia's rapid data center expansion, including major projects in Prince William County, is forcing policymakers to make difficult trade-offs across multiple domains. The state must navigate competing priorities: economic opportunity and job creation versus environmental protection, land preservation, and community character. These tensions reflect a broader challenge facing local and state government as it shapes the region's future.

Virginia restores civil rights for over 66,000 residents

Gov. Spanberger restored civil rights to more than 66,000 Virginians, but actual voter registration and turnout will likely fall short of those eligible.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has restored civil rights to more than 66,000 residents. The action extends to Chesterfield County and other communities across the state. The practical electoral impact may be smaller than the total number affected, since eligibility does not automatically translate to voter registration or participation.

Virginia Proposes Expanding SAT Access for High School Students

Virginia is considering legislation to improve accessibility and opportunities for high school students to take the SAT exam.

Virginia has proposed new legislation aimed at increasing accessibility to the SAT for high school students. The measure seeks to remove barriers that currently prevent some students from taking the college entrance exam. If enacted, the change could provide more equitable college-preparation opportunities across the state.

Virginia primary election happens today statewide

Voters in Chesterfield County are casting ballots today in Virginia's 2026 primary election.

Virginia is holding its primary election today. Chesterfield County residents are voting to select party nominees for various offices. Coverage of election results will be available as voting concludes throughout the day.

Virginia Primary Day: Chesterfield Residents Vote Today

Chesterfield voters head to the polls today for Virginia's primary election.

Virginians are voting today in the state's primary election. Chesterfield County residents can cast ballots at their assigned polling locations. The primary determines which candidates advance to the general election.

Virginia Law Expands SAT Accessibility for High School Students

Virginia has enacted a law to increase access to the SAT for high school students.

A new Virginia law aims to make the SAT more accessible to high school students. The specific details of which accessibility measures are included and the timeline for implementation are not provided in available reporting. Chesterfield County high schools will be affected by the change.

Virginia law expands SAT access for high school students

Virginia has passed a law to increase accessibility for high school students to take the SAT.

A Virginia law aims to give more high school students access to SAT testing. The specifics of how accessibility is being expanded are not detailed in the available source material.

State Flood Recovery Fund Excludes Renters

Virginia's $50 million flood recovery fund applies only to property owners, leaving renters without access to state assistance.

The General Assembly set aside $50 million to help residents recover from devastating floods that hit Southwest Virginia in late 2024 and early 2025. However, the aid is limited to owners of "real property," meaning renters are ineligible. This policy leaves tenants who lost homes and possessions in the floods with few recovery options.

Residents weigh in on Dominion-NextEra energy deal

Cardinal News is seeking resident input on a proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra.

Cardinal News is inviting residents to share their views on a Dominion Energy-NextEra deal. The outlet also covered recent restaurant and retail developments across the region, along with news about a new jobs website aimed at veterans.

Pharmaceutical group calls for state drug price reform

A pharmaceutical care group is urging Governor Spanberger and state lawmakers to examine the prescription drug supply chain to lower costs and improve access.

A pharmaceutical care group is pushing state leaders to tackle rising prescription drug costs through supply chain reform. The group says Governor Spanberger and lawmakers have tools to lower drug prices and expand access to medications. The proposal focuses on systemic examination of how drugs move through the supply chain.

DEQ report raises drinking water concerns for data center expansion

A Virginia Department of Environmental Quality study warns that unconstrained data center development east of I-95 threatens drinking water supplies, with implications for Chesterfield County's growth plans.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality released a report examining environmental impacts of data center expansion in Virginia, with a focus on previously overlooked threats to drinking water supplies. The study appears to challenge the assumption that data center development can proceed without constraints east of I-95. The report's release raised questions about the state's approach to balancing economic growth with water resource protection.

Chesterfield Shoppers Can Save Up to Seven Percent This Weekend

Virginia's sales tax holiday runs this weekend on school supplies, clothing, and footwear, allowing shoppers to save up to 7 percent.

Virginia's annual sales tax holiday kicks off this Friday and runs through Sunday, giving shoppers a break on certain purchases. School supplies, clothing, footwear, and emergency preparedness items qualify for the tax exemption, which could save consumers between 5.3 and 7 percent on their total purchases. The timing is particularly beneficial for families preparing for the upcoming school year.

Virginia senators call for special session on groundwater

Virginia state senators are requesting a special legislative session to address what they call deeply alarming findings in a groundwater report.

Virginia state senators have called for a special legislative session to take action on a groundwater report they characterize as deeply alarming. The senators' specific concerns and legislative proposals are not detailed in available reporting. Groundwater quality issues can affect drinking water supplies and environmental health across the state.

Virginia Needs Statewide Data Center Policy, Official Argues

A state official argues Virginia should plan data center capacity statewide before approving new projects, rather than leaving decisions to individual localities.

Current Virginia law lets local zoning boards approve data centers case-by-case, but local officials can only evaluate site-specific impacts and negotiate local terms. They cannot determine whether the state has sufficient electricity capacity or protect ratepayers statewide from footing the bill for infrastructure upgrades. The argument is that Virginia should develop coordinated statewide planning before approving additional data center projects.

State education department reviews annual standardized testing program

Virginia's education department is considering changes to how it assesses student learning through annual standardized tests.

The Virginia Department of Education is reviewing its standardized testing program as part of a broader effort to modernize student assessments. The review reflects shifting leadership in education across the state, with new voices taking prominent roles in major positions. The outcome could reshape how schools statewide, including Chesterfield's, measure student progress and inform instructional decisions.

Primary election arrives tomorrow with key races ahead

Virginia's primary election takes place Tuesday, August 4, determining candidates for fall races including Chesterfield's supervisor contest.

Primary elections decide party nominees before the general election, and Tuesday's results will shape the candidate field for several offices. Cardinal News highlights five factors worth watching as polls close and results come in, including turnout levels and vote margins that signal competitive races ahead.

Federal Judge Orders Virginia to Meet Medicaid Work Rules Deadline

A federal judge rejected states' request to delay Medicaid work requirements, setting a January 1 deadline for Virginia to implement them.

A federal judge denied a request from 25 Democratic-led states to pause implementation of new Medicaid work requirements. The requirements, included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed by President Trump last summer, apply to states that have expanded Medicaid coverage. Virginia and other affected states must comply with the rules by January 1, 2027.

Democratic officials seek Supreme Court pause on voting order

Democratic state officials asked the U.S. Supreme Court to keep a temporary stay in place blocking President Trump's executive order to overhaul mail-in voting systems, saying states lack time to comply before the November elections.

About two dozen Democratic state officials petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday to maintain a pause on an executive order mandating changes to state mail-in voting systems. The officials argue that states do not have sufficient time to implement the required overhauls before the November midterm elections. The Supreme Court is considering whether to keep the stay through Election Day.

Chesterfield voters head to polls for Virginia primary elections Tuesday

Virginia's 2026 primary elections are happening Tuesday, delayed by two months due to redistricting uncertainty.

Virginia's primary elections are scheduled for Tuesday, occurring nearly two months later than the traditional June timing. The delay resulted from a congressional redistricting referendum that created uncertainty over which electoral map would govern the races. More than 30 candidates are competing in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate.

Virginia advances toward clean, affordable energy future

Virginia is progressing on policies to expand clean energy while keeping rates manageable for residents and businesses.

Virginia is moving forward with initiatives to increase clean and renewable energy resources while balancing affordability concerns. The effort involves major utilities and state policy, reflecting the region's commitment to environmental goals and reliable energy infrastructure. The progress comes as utilities like Dominion continue adjusting their service models.

Virginia Seeks Public Input on New Four-Year Energy Plan

Virginia's governor's office is developing a new statewide energy plan and is hosting stakeholder meetings to gather input on the state's power generation goals.

Virginia law requires the governor's administration to create a comprehensive energy plan every four years. Chief Energy Officer Josephus Allmond and Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery, along with Department of Energy representatives, are leading the effort and hosting invite-only stakeholder meetings. The plan will outline the commonwealth's energy needs and strategies for meeting power generation goals.

Virginia law mandates wage ranges in job postings

Virginia law effective July 1 requires employers to post wage ranges in all job listings and bars employers from requesting or using job applicants' salary history.

- Who: Virginia employers; state Sen. Jennifer Boysko; Del. Michelle Maldonado - What: New law requires wage ranges in job postings and prohibits reliance on salary history - When: Effective July 1, 2026 - Where: Virginia Virginia has enacted a new pay transparency law that took effect July 1, 2026, requiring employers to include wage or salary ranges in all job postings. House Bill 636 and its Senate companion, Bill 215, mandate disclosure of compensation in advertisements for new positions, promotions, transfers, and other employment opportunities. The law applies to all employers doing business in Virginia, regardless of company size. Employers must set the posted range in good faith, accounting for differences based on experience, education, credentials, and other job-related qualifications. The legislation also bars employers from asking job applicants about their salary history or relying on prior compensation when making hiring and compensation decisions. Employers may only confirm or use an applicant's voluntarily disclosed wage history if doing so supports offering a higher wage than initially proposed. The law includes anti-retaliation protections: employers cannot retaliate against applicants or employees who decline to provide salary history or ask about a position's pay. Chesterfield employers must comply with the new requirements when posting open positions. The law includes a 15-day safe harbor: if an employer corrects a non-compliant posting within 15 days of receiving notice of a violation, the employer avoids liability. Violations carry civil penalties. The Virginia Attorney General may pursue enforcement actions seeking up to $1,000 for a first violation and up to $5,000 for each subsequent violation. Employees or prospective employees may also file civil suits for damages within one year of an alleged violation. - Jennifer Boysko: Virginia state senator (D-Fairfax); sponsor of SB 215 - Michelle Maldonado: Virginia delegate (D-Manassas); sponsor of HB 636 - 2026-04-22: HB 636 and SB 215 enacted by Virginia General Assembly - 2026-07-01: Wage range and salary history law takes effect Supporters argue wage transparency reduces inequality and enables job seekers to make informed decisions. State Senator Boysko explained the rationale: "We want this to be about the person's qualifications first and foremost so that they are getting the best people possible." Advocates suggest the law could reduce unemployment and strengthen Virginia's business reputation by attracting talent. Some employers and critics worry the mandate may disadvantage small businesses that cannot match larger competitors' compensation packages. Concerns also exist about whether broad salary ranges will provide meaningful transparency to job seekers.

State Report Flags Groundwater Strain East of I-95

A Virginia Department of Environmental Quality report warns that groundwater supplies east of Interstate 95 face significant strain with declining availability projected, prompting lawmakers to seek action.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality released a 117-page legislative report this week documenting substantial stress on aquifers that serve eastern Virginia, with projections indicating declining groundwater availability. Virginia senators have requested a special legislative session to address the report's findings. The strain on these water sources raises concerns about the long-term reliability and safety of drinking water supplies for the region.

Virginia Launches Unit to Regulate Vaping and Hemp Products

Virginia's attorney general announced a new state enforcement unit to oversee vaping products, hemp-derived intoxicants, THC, and kratom retailers.

Virginia is creating a Regulated Products Enforcement Unit within the attorney general's office to handle the rapidly expanding market for vaping products, hemp-derived intoxicants, THC, and kratom. The unit, announced by Attorney General Jay Jones, will manage civil enforcement, retail compliance, product directories, and public education across the state. It consolidates regulatory responsibilities that were previously spread across multiple agencies.

Virginia group pushes for campaign finance limits

A Virginia advocacy organization is calling for stricter rules on political donations, including bans on corporate contributions.

Clean Virginia, an advocacy group, is renewing its push for comprehensive campaign finance reform at the state level. The group is calling for a ban on corporate contributions and stricter limits on donations from other sources. The effort reflects broader concerns about the influence of money in Virginia politics.

Valley Link Transmission Faces Opposition Across Rural Counties

Valley Link's proposed transmission line is unpopular in rural counties despite backing from both Trump and Biden-era energy policies.

Valley Link Transmission is advancing a Joshua Falls to Yeat transmission project that has generated opposition in rural counties. The resistance reflects broad frustration with energy infrastructure development and crosses typical political lines. The project results from energy policies pursued by administrations of both parties, limiting any single partisan critique.

Northern Virginia Electric Bills Rising for Families

Households across Northern Virginia are experiencing higher electric bills.

Electric bills are rising for families in Northern Virginia. The increase affects residential customers in the region. The story was reported by FOX 5 DC.

Disability Services Shortage Strains Virginia's Support for Young Adults

Thousands of Virginians with disabilities are waiting for services because demand far exceeds available Medicaid waiver slots.

Virginia has expanded Medicaid waiver slots to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities transition after losing school-based special education services. However, demand continues to outpace available slots, leaving thousands waiting for care. When young adults with certain disabilities graduate or turn 22, they face a critical gap in available services.

Berry Hill Megasite: Senators Question Permanent Jobs Claim

Senators say Berry Hill's 2,500 promised jobs are mostly temporary construction work, contradicting the performance agreement's permanent employment language.

Senators Lucas and Locke told residents that the 2,500 jobs at Berry Hill are primarily temporary construction positions, leaving only 25 to 50 permanent posts. However, the performance agreement itself defines these 2,500 positions as "new permanent full-time employment" and requires that number of permanent hires. The contradiction raises questions about the actual long-term employment impact of the planned AI data center.

Virginia Seeks New Student Assessment System

The Virginia Department of Education is replacing its student assessment system after years of complaints about delayed results and technology problems.

The Virginia Department of Education has taken steps to replace its student assessment system following criticism over delayed results, technology access issues, and frequent changes. The new system is estimated to cost the state at least $30 million per year. State and federal law require all Virginia students to take the assessments unless they qualify for exemptions.

Virginia Obamacare Enrollment Drops 8% as Federal Subsidies Expire

Federal health insurance subsidies expiring caused Virginia's Obamacare enrollment to drop 8%, joining 49 other states seeing similar declines.

Congress allowed federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act plans to expire at the end of last year, making coverage more expensive for consumers. Virginia experienced an 8% drop in Obamacare enrollment as a result. New Mexico is the only state that has replaced the federal subsidies with state funding to help residents maintain coverage.

Virginia could join 2028 Democratic primary voting earlier

Virginia is on track to become the sixth early-voting state in the 2028 Democratic presidential primary under a proposal recommended by the Democratic National Committee.

The Democratic National Committee's Rules and Bylaws Committee has recommended making Virginia one of just six early-voting states for the 2028 Democratic primary, positioning the commonwealth to vote before Super Tuesday. If approved, this would bring presidential candidates, campaign spending, and heightened national attention to the state in the weeks leading up to the larger primary contests. The recommendation marks a significant shift in how the Democratic primary process shapes its early calendar.

Virginia's New Cannabis Tip Line Gets Early Complaints

Virginia's recently launched cannabis reporting tip line has already fielded dozens of complaints as the state enforces new cannabis regulations.

Virginia launched a new tip line for reporting cannabis-related violations, and it has already received dozens of early complaints. The state is using the reporting mechanism to help enforce cannabis regulations across Virginia. Details on specific complaint types or enforcement actions were not provided in the available reporting.

Virginia grapples with data centers, power costs, groundwater pressures

Virginia officials weigh data center expansion amid concerns over power bills and groundwater strain across the state.

Loudoun County supervisors are considering a moratorium on data centers as state leaders address growing pressure on Eastern Virginia groundwater supplies. A statewide energy planning process is soliciting public input on data centers and power costs. Meanwhile, lawmakers are advancing plans for a childcare center to serve state employees.

Virginia Could Move Up 2028 Presidential Primary

State Democrats are proposing to make Virginia an early primary state in 2028, a move that would also shift the Republican primary calendar.

Virginia Democrats are proposing to establish the state as an early primary contest in 2028. If the proposal advances, it would reorder the Republican primary schedule as well. The change could position Virginia to exercise greater influence over which candidates advance in both parties.

Virginia Attorney: Domestic Violence Protections Need Expansion

A Virginia attorney argues the state's legal protections for domestic violence victims are inadequate, even for those with legal knowledge and resources.

A Virginia attorney and domestic violence survivor has called for lawmakers to strengthen protections for victims, arguing that current legal safeguards fall short. Writing in an op-ed, the attorney describes personal experience navigating Virginia's legal system after leaving an abusive marriage, noting that professional knowledge and the ability to hire experienced counsel were insufficient to ensure protection.

Heat Examined as Possible Factor in Virginia Train Derailments

A Virginia railroad expert is investigating whether extreme heat may be contributing to recent train derailments across the state.

Following a freight train derailment in Richmond this month, a Virginia railroad expert is examining the potential role of extreme heat in train accidents. Federal Railroad Administration data shows Virginia recorded four derailments since January (excluding the Richmond incident), all occurring at speeds under 9 mph. The investigation reflects growing questions about how summer heat affects rail infrastructure safety.

Virginia workers comp rates decline; state tightens development fund oversight

Virginia is cutting workers compensation rates again and imposing stricter oversight of its economic development fund.

Virginia's workers compensation insurance rates are declining for another year, providing cost relief to employers and workers. The state transportation board approved stricter oversight measures for its economic development fund to ensure more accountable use of funds. The state is also soliciting resident input on how to better engage environmental justice communities in its permitting process.

Virginia Employers Must Post Salary Ranges for Jobs

Starting July 1, Virginia employers are required to include a salary range in job postings, giving job seekers upfront pay information.

Virginia's new pay transparency law, effective July 1, requires all employers to disclose a good-faith wage or salary range when posting jobs — both publicly and internally. The law is designed to shift power toward job seekers by giving them salary information before they invest time applying and interviewing. Workers can now make informed decisions about whether a position fits their financial needs and have better leverage when negotiating pay.

Virginia drought, data center rules, broadcast merger in focus

Virginia faces a severe drought requiring months of rain recovery, regulators come under scrutiny over data center oversight, and broadcast merger challenges loom.

Recent Virginia news highlights three issues affecting state policy: reporting indicates regulators downplayed health concerns tied to data center operations, Virginia's attorney general alleges a court order violation in a Nexstar-Tegna broadcast merger, and the state faces one of its worst droughts in decades with water recovery requiring sustained rainfall. The stories reflect ongoing tensions around infrastructure oversight, media consolidation, and environmental strain.

Trump Administration Seeks Supreme Court Support for Vote-by-Mail Restrictions

The Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to uphold a vote-by-mail restriction order after federal courts blocked it.

The Trump administration on Monday asked the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a lower court ruling that blocked a broad vote-by-mail restriction order issued March 31. A federal appeals court had rejected an identical request from the administration just two days earlier. The executive order would impose significant new limits on mail-in voting if ultimately upheld by the courts.

Healthcare Access Declining Across Rural Virginia

Rural Virginia is experiencing declining access to healthcare, with Trump administration policies contributing substantially to the problem.

Healthcare access in rural Virginia is steadily declining. According to Virginia Mercury, policies enacted during President Trump's second term contribute substantially to this trend. The publication notes that the problem involves multiple factors rather than resting entirely on current administration decisions.

Virginia's energy generation and usage challenges span the state

A Cardinal News analysis of Virginia's energy landscape, from rural generation sites to demand centers, reveals ongoing challenges in how the state powers itself.

Cardinal News examined Virginia's energy infrastructure by tracing a path across the state—from Troy in Fluvanna County to Ithaca in Henry County—and found multiple issues with how Virginia generates and uses electricity. The article frames these challenges as obstacles similar to those Homer's Odysseus faced on his journey. Virginia residents and policymakers continue to grapple with energy supply and consumption patterns.

Virginia ranks among nation's best school systems

A new study ranks Virginia's public schools as the sixth-best in the United States.

Virginia's public school system has earned a top-six national ranking in a recent study. The finding reflects student achievement and school performance metrics across the state. Chesterfield County Schools, as part of Virginia's system, contributes to the state's overall standing.

State Seeks Input on Environmental Justice Permitting

Virginia's environmental agency is asking residents how to better protect low-income and communities of color from environmental harm when reviewing development permits.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality is seeking public input on how to better engage environmental justice communities when reviewing permits for projects that affect water, air, and land. Environmental justice communities are low-income neighborhoods or areas with predominantly communities of color that experience disproportionate environmental burdens. The agency's effort aims to strengthen community voice in decisions that could affect their neighborhoods.

State Board Tightens Rules for Development Fund Allocations

Virginia's transportation board approved new oversight rules for how a $644 million economic development fund distributes money to projects statewide.

The Commonwealth Transportation Board accepted new regulations this week that spell out how the state's Transportation Partnership Opportunity Fund will allocate money. The fund, which has invested over $644 million since 2005, supports major transportation projects tied to economic development. The regulatory changes give state lawmakers additional time to review the proposals before implementation.

New Sunday Voting Law Draws Mixed Turnout Across Virginia

A new Virginia law requires election offices to open on Sundays, but most rural areas reported minimal voter participation in the first weekend under the mandate.

Virginia election offices opened for voting on Sunday for the first time under a new law, marking an expansion of early voting access. Turnout was uneven across the state—two Northern Virginia localities saw substantial participation, but most rural areas recorded no votes. The results highlight varying levels of demand for alternative voting times across different regions.

National Apartment Company Faces Housing Discrimination Allegations

Greystar, a national apartment management company with Virginia properties, faces civil rights complaints alleging it rejected tenants using housing vouchers.

Greystar, a national apartment management company, faces civil rights complaints filed in Virginia and other states for allegedly violating fair housing laws. A nonprofit investigation by the Housing Rights Initiative found more than 100 instances where Greystar properties allegedly rejected prospective tenants using housing vouchers to help pay rent. The complaints allege the company's practices discriminate against voucher-holding applicants in violation of federal fair housing protections.

Gov. Spanberger Leads First European Trade Mission

Gov. Spanberger is conducting Virginia's first trade mission under her administration, bringing a delegation to Europe to promote the state's brewing and other industries.

Governor Abigail Spanberger is leading Virginia's first trade mission, traveling across Europe with cabinet members and industry leaders to showcase the commonwealth's businesses internationally. The delegation presented Virginia's brewing talent at the London Craft Beer Festival. The mission represents the governor's strategy to expand economic opportunities for Virginia companies in global markets.

Federal Judge Rules Virginia Abortion Drug Restrictions Unjustified

A federal judge ruled Thursday that the FDA did not adequately justify 2023 restrictions it placed on a medication used for early pregnancy termination.

A federal judge in Virginia ruled Thursday that the FDA failed to provide sufficient legal justification for restrictions it imposed in 2023 on a medication used to terminate early pregnancies. The ruling is part of an ongoing series of legal cases challenging abortion access policies in the state. The decision could affect how the medication is regulated in Virginia and potentially elsewhere.

Why your July rain doesn't erase regional drought

Heavy rainfall in your yard doesn't mean the region's drought is over—drought is measured regionally and over longer timescales than a few wet days.

A reader with July rainfall received this week asked why the region remains in drought despite four rainy days at his house. The answer: personal precipitation doesn't reflect regional water conditions. Drought status depends on water availability across a much wider area and time period, not individual rainfall events.

Over 150 Adoptees Access Birth Certificates After Virginia Law Change

A Virginia law change has made original birth certificates accessible to adoptees, prompting 150+ requests within two weeks of taking effect.

A recent Virginia law change has expanded adoptees' access to original birth certificates. Within two weeks of the law taking effect, more than 150 adoptees submitted requests for their original birth certificates, reflecting strong demand for previously restricted records. The surge suggests significant interest among adoptees seeking family information and personal history.

Lawmakers seek special session to extend merger review

Two Virginia lawmakers want the governor to call a special session so Virginia has more time to review a Dominion-NextEra merger deal.

Virginia Reps. Suetterlein and McNamara have appealed to Gov. Spanberger to convene a special legislative session to extend Virginia's timeline for reviewing a proposed Dominion Energy-NextEra Energy merger. The legislators argue that the current deadline does not provide sufficient state leverage to evaluate the deal.

Chesterfield Residents Pay $573 More for Gas Since Iran War

A congressional report finds Virginia households, including Chesterfield residents, have paid $573 more per household for gasoline since the U.S.-Iran war disrupted energy markets in late February.

A congressional report found that Virginians have experienced a steep increase in fuel costs since the U.S.-Iran war began in late February, with households paying $573 more for gas. The conflict has disrupted global energy markets and oil shipments, placing Virginia among the states facing the highest fuel cost jumps in the nation. Chesterfield residents are among those feeling the impact at the pump.

Uninsured ER Visits Rise 8% Statewide, May Affect Local Hospitals

Virginia emergency departments saw an 8% increase in visits from uninsured patients last year, a trend that could strain local hospital resources.

Virginia's emergency departments experienced an 8% increase in visits from uninsured or "self-pay" patients last year compared to the previous year, according to the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association. Self-pay classifications include people without insurance or who did not provide proof of coverage when seeking care. The statewide pattern suggests Chesterfield hospitals may face growing pressure from uninsured patient volume.

New Virginia Law Expands Tenant Protections from Eviction

Virginia enacted new legislation giving tenants additional time and legal protections in eviction proceedings.

Virginia has passed a new law that strengthens tenant protections in eviction cases. The law provides tenants with more time to respond to eviction actions and enhances their legal safeguards. This statewide measure affects all Virginia renters, including those in Chesterfield County.

Lawmakers urge special session on Dominion-NextEra merger

Two Republican state lawmakers are pushing Governor Spanberger to convene a special legislative session so lawmakers can vote on extending the State Corporation Commission's review of the potential Dominion-NextEra energy merger.

Two Republican state lawmakers have called on Gov. Abigail Spanberger to convene a special legislative session that would allow a vote to extend the State Corporation Commission's review period for the proposed merger between Virginia's largest utility, Dominion Energy, and Florida-based NextEra Energy. The SCC is preparing to begin what is expected to be a months-long examination of the deal. The lawmakers' push reflects concerns about the timeline for deciding a transaction that could significantly affect Virginia's energy landscape.

Dominion-NextEra merger sparks calls for special session

Lawmakers are calling for a special legislative session to address a proposed merger between power company Dominion and NextEra Energy.

A proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy has prompted Virginia lawmakers to consider calling a special legislative session. The exact details of the proposal and specific concerns driving the call for a special session require the full article text to report accurately.

Virginia Schools Gain Flexibility on Federal Education Funds

Virginia schools will have more control over how they spend federal education funds in the coming school year.

The U.S. Department of Education has loosened rules on how federal Title program funds can be used, giving Virginia schools greater flexibility in administrative and budget decisions. This change, effective heading into the upcoming school year, could shift how schools allocate resources for low-income student programs and teacher professional development.

Virginia election officials reject Trump system criticism

Virginia and Maryland election officials push back against Trump's claims that voting systems are broken.

Election officials in Virginia and Maryland are contradicting former President Trump's assertion that U.S. election systems are fundamentally broken. The response represents a broader defense of voting security by state officials. Virginia's Republican Senate primary is also shaping up as a significant race.

New Virginia Law Protects Tenants From Quick Eviction

Virginia enacted new protections giving tenants more time to catch up on rent before facing eviction.

Virginia has enacted a new law that strengthens tenant protections when renters fall behind on rent payments. The law provides additional time before landlords can proceed with eviction, giving tenants opportunities to remedy payment issues. The protections apply statewide and aim to prevent immediate displacement from temporary financial hardship.

New Virginia Law Extends Eviction Protections for Struggling Tenants

Virginia has enacted a law giving renters more time to resolve payment issues and strengthening legal protections against eviction.

Virginia's new law extends protections for tenants facing rent hardship by providing additional time before eviction and strengthening legal safeguards. The measure aims to prevent housing instability for residents experiencing financial difficulties. Tenants now have expanded recourse and more runway to address delinquent payments.

New Virginia law expands tenant eviction protections

Virginia has enacted a new law giving tenants more time and stronger legal protections when they fall behind on rent payments.

Virginia recently passed legislation that extends protections for tenants facing eviction due to unpaid rent. The law provides additional time and legal safeguards for renters who fall behind on payments. Chesterfield residents who rent may benefit from these expanded protections.

ICE to require body cameras during traffic stops

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers will wear body cameras during traffic stops, following fatal shootings in Texas and Maine.

In response to two fatal shootings involving ICE officers in Texas and Maine, the agency will mandate that officers wear at least one body camera during traffic stops. The announcement came from Tom Homan, director of border enforcement under the Trump administration. The policy is intended to increase transparency and accountability in ICE's enforcement operations.

Data Centers Seek Private Power Plants, Testing Virginia Energy Rules

Data centers waiting for grid connections in Virginia want to build their own gas turbines, raising questions about whether such projects could sidestep the state's renewable energy requirements.

Virginia's data center boom is running into a power crunch. Dominion Energy has approximately 70 gigawatts worth of projects in its connection queue—a backlog that's delaying data centers from coming online. Frustrated with the delays, some data center operators are proposing to build their own gas turbine power plants, a move that raises questions about whether it circumvents Virginia's renewable energy mandates.

Virginia regulators weigh Dominion merger offer and rate risks

Virginia utility regulators are evaluating Dominion Energy's proposed merger, which offers $10 bill credits to customers but raises concerns about long-term rate increases.

Virginia regulators are reviewing Dominion Energy's merger proposal, which includes temporary $10 credits on customer bills as an incentive. However, officials are weighing whether the deal could lead to higher rates for customers over the long term. The regulatory process aims to balance short-term customer relief against potential future cost increases.

Regulators Weigh Rate Protections in Dominion Merger

Virginia regulators are evaluating $10 billion in bill credits as part of Dominion merger negotiations, balancing short-term customer relief against long-term rate concerns.

Virginia utility regulators are considering a proposal to provide $10 billion in bill credits as part of discussions surrounding a Dominion Energy merger. The regulators must weigh offering immediate financial relief to customers against concerns about how the merger might affect electricity rates in the years ahead. The final terms of any merger approval will reflect these competing priorities.

NextEra, Dominion Energy Announce Merger Proposal

Two major energy companies have proposed to merge, combining operations across multiple states including Virginia.

NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy have announced the details and terms of a proposed merger. The combination would create a larger utility company serving customers across multiple regions. The proposal still requires regulatory approval before it can proceed.

Dominion raises power bills with fuel charge, bond fees

Dominion Energy is increasing monthly power bills for Virginia customers with an $8 fuel charge and additional costs from 10-year bond interest.

Dominion Energy is implementing rate increases that include a new $8 monthly fuel charge and charges tied to bond interest payments over the next decade. The increases will affect Virginia power customers' monthly bills. The company cited fuel and financing costs as reasons for the adjustment.

Wildfire Smoke Expected to Degrade Local Air Quality

The Department of Environmental Quality issued an air quality alert for most of Virginia due to Canadian wildfire smoke expected Friday.

The Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for most of Virginia as smoke from Canadian wildfires moves across the region. Unhealthy smoke levels are expected to reach the surface on Friday, with effects already visible in western areas like the Roanoke Valley. The alert covers the state including Central Virginia.

Virginia crime down in 2025, state police report

Crime across Virginia declined in 2025 according to a new Virginia State Police report.

The Virginia State Police released data showing crime decreased across the state in 2025. The report was among several recent developments in Virginia's justice and public safety landscape, including a new federal prosecutor's office leadership appointment and unrelated incidents affecting state agencies.

Virginia Candidates Report Mixed Fundraising across Races

New campaign finance reports show Republicans raising more cash in two competitive districts where Democrats expected strength, while Democrats outraise Republicans in two rural districts.

Campaign finance reports reveal uneven fundraising momentum across Virginia's congressional races. Republicans are outraising Democrats in two districts seen as the party's best pickup opportunities, while Democrats are exceeding Republican totals in two rural districts that have received less campaign attention. Notable disparities include Tom Perriello commanding nearly three times the fundraising of challenger McGuire, while Macy reports stronger finances than Cline.

Tick season lengthens across region and nation

As ticks spread to new areas and emergency room visits spike, Virginia and other states are working to track and respond to the growing threat.

Tick season is expanding geographically and lasting longer, with emergency room visits for tick-related illness climbing above historical levels. States including Virginia are scrambling to monitor the spread and its public health impact. The shift reflects broader changes in tick populations and their range across North America.

State Backs Appeal on Data Center Transmission Costs

Virginia's General Assembly has backed a state legislator's appeal to the State Corporation Commission to address how rising transmission costs from data centers are allocated among utility customers.

The General Assembly has supported an appeal regarding transmission costs associated with large data centers in Northern Virginia. The action addresses how infrastructure expenses are distributed when major industrial facilities require significant energy upgrades to meet demand.

Parasite Spreading Nationwide; No Virginia Outbreak Confirmed

Cyclospora, a parasite causing diarrhea and stomach cramps, is spreading across the nation this summer, but Virginia's health department reports no evidence of an outbreak in the state.

A microscopic parasite called cyclospora that triggers intestinal illness—including diarrhea, cramps, and bloating—is spreading across the nation this summer. Virginia's Department of Health reported 37 confirmed cases as of early July but said there is no evidence of an outbreak occurring in the state. Residents can reduce infection risk by thoroughly washing fresh vegetables before eating.

Governor Defends Affordable Virginia Plan Six Months In

Gov. Spanberger is defending her cost-cutting agenda midway through her first year amid persistent economic concerns.

Six months into her governorship, Abigail Spanberger is defending her Affordable Virginia agenda, which aims to lower costs for residents. Economic concerns continue to persist despite her campaign promises. Spanberger won office with the largest margin for a Democratic gubernatorial candidate in over 60 years.

Dominion Energy seeks merger with NextEra Energy

Dominion Energy has filed an application to merge with NextEra Energy, marking a historic combination of two major utility companies.

Dominion Energy has submitted an application to merge with NextEra Energy. The article examines details of this historic utility industry merger. Further reporting context would be needed to fully explain the implications and timeline.

CDC Links Taco Bell Lettuce to Five-State Outbreak

The CDC announced that shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell is linked to a cyclosporiasis outbreak in five states, prompting the chain to remove it nationwide.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants is linked to an ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting five states. The fast-food chain stated it will remove the potentially contaminated lettuce from its supply chain nationwide. Cyclosporiasis is a parasitic infection typically spread through contaminated food or water.

Virginia SNAP enrollment drops 100K, strains food pantries

A decline of 100,000 SNAP enrollments across Virginia due to federal cuts is putting pressure on food pantries serving low-income residents.

Virginia has experienced a significant drop in SNAP enrollment as federal benefits reductions take effect, according to WSLS reporting. The 100,000-person decline is straining food pantries across the state as they absorb the impact of reduced enrollment and less federal support. Community food assistance organizations are facing increased demand from residents who have lost or reduced benefits.

State Regulators Begin Review of Dominion-NextEra Merger

Virginia regulators have started their formal review of Dominion Energy's proposal to merge with NextEra Energy.

State utility regulators have begun examining Dominion Energy's proposed merger with NextEra Energy, one of the nation's largest renewable power generators. The regulatory review will assess whether the deal benefits Virginia ratepayers and aligns with state energy goals. Dominion serves most of Chesterfield County's electricity.

State business roundup: Dominion, NextEra seek merger approval

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy have filed for regulatory approval of a merger, alongside other state business developments including facility closures and fair housing complaints.

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy have filed for approval of a proposed merger. Elsewhere in Virginia, Emerson plans to close a Charlottesville-area facility and lay off all workers at that location. Governor Youngkin has taken a chairman role at Red Cell Partners, and a major Richmond apartment operator faces a multistate fair housing complaint.

Rural Virginia broadband provider exits projects amid funding shortfall

RiverStreet Networks has withdrawn from multiple rural Virginia broadband expansion projects after failing to secure funding to reach over 30,000 potential customers.

RiverStreet Networks has informed Virginia's broadband office that it cannot complete planned fiber connections across rural areas of the state. The withdrawal affects projects that had been delayed for years. The company cited inability to secure necessary funding as the reason for stepping back from these deployment projects.

Poll: Virginians Back Spanberger Policies Despite Mixed Views

A VCU poll finds Virginia voters support Gov. Spanberger's key policies but hold mixed views of the governor herself, while also showing strong skepticism toward data center expansion.

A VCU poll shows Virginians approve of Gov. Abigail Spanberger's major policy initiatives, even though they're divided on her overall performance as governor. The same poll finds voters across the state are strongly skeptical about data center development, suggesting limited appetite for expansion of those facilities in Virginia communities.

NextEra–Dominion merger enters 6-month regulatory review period

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy have filed their proposed merger and regulators have started a 6-month review process.

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy have formally filed paperwork for their planned merger, triggering a 6-month regulatory review period. The review will examine the proposed combination of the two major utility companies. The outcome of this regulatory process will determine whether the merger can proceed.

New Virginia Law Targets Repeat Speeders

Virginia has enacted a new law strengthening enforcement against drivers with repeat speeding violations.

Virginia has passed legislation designed to address habitual speeding. The law targets drivers with multiple speeding convictions, increasing enforcement mechanisms. Specifics on implementation timeline and penalty changes are not yet available from the source provided.

Dominion files merger request with state regulators

Dominion Energy has filed for state approval of a merger with NextEra Energy.

Dominion Energy has filed an application with the Virginia State Corporation Commission seeking regulatory approval for a proposed merger with NextEra Energy. The filing marks the formal start of the state review process for the transaction. Specific terms and timeline details from the company are pending.

Dominion Files $66.8B Merger Application With NextEra

Dominion Energy has filed its merger application with NextEra Energy, officially starting the regulatory review process for a proposed $66.8 billion deal.

Dominion Energy has filed the required regulatory application for its proposed merger with NextEra Energy, a transaction valued at $66.8 billion. The filing formally initiates the approval timeline with state and federal regulators who will review the deal. The merger would combine two major utilities serving millions of customers across multiple states.

Dominion Energy and NextEra pursue merger approval

Two major power companies have filed for regulatory approval to merge in what would reshape energy operations across Virginia and beyond.

NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy have filed for merger approval with regulators. The deal would combine two of the nation's largest utilities. Regulatory approval would be required before any merger could proceed.

Virginia's Job Losses Outpace All Other States

Virginia has shed more jobs than any other state over the past year, driven by federal job cuts and manufacturing decline.

Over the past year, Virginia has experienced deeper employment losses than any other state, with only two states declining at a faster rate. Federal workforce reductions have contributed significantly to the trend, but the state is also shedding manufacturing jobs more rapidly than the nation overall. These losses suggest broader economic headwinds facing the region.

Virginia's Data Center Budget Plan Doesn't Address Energy Costs

State leaders' approach to data center spending doesn't solve the energy and cooling problems facing Virginia households, according to environmental advocates.

The Piedmont Environmental Council says Virginia's governor and General Assembly have failed to address the root causes of rising energy expenses through their data center budget approach. While residents struggle with summer cooling costs and electricity bills, state leaders' proposed "solution" doesn't tackle the underlying power demand and infrastructure challenges. Environmental groups argue that true relief requires addressing the structural issues driving energy costs, not just allocating budget to data centers.

Virginia Republicans Seek Warner Senate Challenge

GOP candidates are competing to challenge incumbent U.S. Senator Mark Warner, but Republicans face long odds in the race.

Virginia Republicans are mounting a challenge to U.S. Senator Mark Warner's seat, though the party faces a difficult electoral environment. The last Republican elected to Virginia's Senate seat was John Warner in 2002. GOP hopefuls are now competing to become the nominee for what is shaping up to be a competitive race.

Virginia proposes new hunting, fishing, boating fees

Virginia's wildlife department is proposing new fees and regulations for hunting, fishing, and boating to help cover rising operational costs.

Virginia's wildlife department is proposing new fees and regulations for hunting, fishing, and boating activities. The changes are intended to offset rising departmental costs. The proposal comes as the state evaluates its wildlife management resources and funding needs.

Virginia joins cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to fresh produce

Virginia is among states currently dealing with a cyclosporiasis outbreak associated with fresh produce, creating a food safety concern for residents.

Virginia is among multiple states experiencing a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to fresh produce contamination. Health officials are warning residents about potential exposure through contaminated food products. The outbreak highlights ongoing food safety concerns across the region.

Virginia hearing weighs data center power line costs

A Virginia hearing may determine whether data center operators or ratepayers cover the cost of new power lines needed to serve data centers.

A Virginia regulatory hearing is examining who should pay for power line infrastructure needed to support data centers. The outcome could shift costs from data center operators to utility customers or vice versa, affecting both economic development and electricity bills.

Virginia drought raises concern over regional water supplies

State officials are warning that severe drought across Virginia may force mandatory water conservation measures in parts of the state if conditions don't improve.

Severe to extreme drought continues across much of Virginia, prompting state officials and regional leaders to urge residents to conserve water. Officials stated that if conditions don't rapidly improve, mandatory water conservation measures may become necessary in affected regions. The drought has visibly impacted water levels at locations like Smith Mountain Lake in Southwest Virginia.

Virginia Commission Works to Strengthen College Boards

A state commission is examining ways to strengthen and depoliticize the governing boards of Virginia's public colleges and universities.

Retired Major General Cedric Wins, the former superintendent of Virginia Military Institute who was ousted last summer, is serving on a state commission focused on improving how Virginia's public colleges and universities are governed. The effort aims to strengthen these governing boards and reduce political influence in their operations. Wins' involvement represents another form of service following his recent departure from VMI.

Virginia closes year with $936 million budget surplus

Virginia ended its fiscal year with an unexpected $936 million surplus in the state budget.

Virginia completed its fiscal year with a $936 million budget surplus, according to reporting from Cardinal News. How state officials allocate this surplus could affect funding for education, transportation, and other services that serve Chesterfield County residents.

Study: Virginia data centers strain less water than critics claim

A Virginia taxpayers group analysis found that data centers accounted for only 1.4 percent of the state's water consumption in 2025, countering concerns about regional water depletion.

A Virginia taxpayers organization released analysis addressing longstanding concerns about data center water consumption. The study found that in 2025, data centers used just 1.4 percent of all water consumed across Virginia. The finding challenges critics who argue that cooling infrastructure for server farms significantly depletes regional water resources.

State regulators weigh data center utility cost sharing

Virginia regulators are considering whether data centers should pay more for the high-voltage transmission lines that exclusively serve them.

Consumer advocates and Gov. Spanberger's administration are urging the State Corporation Commission to require high-load customers like data centers to shoulder the costs of dedicated transmission infrastructure. The case involves Dominion Energy and addresses how transmission line expenses should be allocated across different customer classes.

SCC reviews Dominion data center transmission cost plan

Virginia's utility regulator is examining how Dominion Energy allocates transmission costs for data centers.

The State Corporation Commission is reviewing Dominion Energy's proposal for how to distribute transmission infrastructure costs between data center operations and other customers. The proceeding examines cost allocation methodology for high-capacity users.

Lawsuit Challenging Reproductive Rights Amendment Dismissed

A lawsuit seeking to block Virginia's reproductive rights constitutional amendment was dismissed in court, keeping the measure on track for November's ballot.

One of two lawsuits challenging Virginia's pending reproductive rights constitutional amendment was dismissed Tuesday in Campbell County Circuit Court. Virginians are scheduled to vote on the measure in November, which would protect access to abortions, fertility treatments, and contraception if approved. The dismissal clears one legal hurdle to the amendment reaching voters.

Emerson Electric to close Albemarle facility, lay off 139

Emerson Electric is shuttering its Albemarle County plant by year's end and eliminating all 139 remaining jobs.

Emerson Electric announced plans to close its Albemarle County facility by year's end, eliminating 139 jobs. The closure follows an earlier round of layoffs at the same plant last year. The manufacturer has not disclosed reasons for the shutdown.

Dominion begins regulatory review for NextEra merger

Dominion Energy has filed paperwork with Virginia's State Corporation Commission seeking approval to merge with NextEra Energy, initiating the regulatory review process.

Dominion Energy, which serves Chesterfield County, has filed paperwork with Virginia's State Corporation Commission to begin the merger approval process with NextEra Energy. The filing marks the formal start of the regulatory review, with the SCC expected to evaluate the proposed deal. Chesterfield residents and businesses rely on Dominion for electricity service across the county.

Virginia ranks 3rd in CNBC's latest state for business survey

Virginia moved up to 3rd place in CNBC's ranking of best states for business, with scores improving or holding steady in most categories despite a decline in the economy category tied to federal spending cuts.

Virginia climbed to 3rd in CNBC's 2026 rankings for top states in which to conduct business, up from its previous position. The state improved or maintained its score in seven of ten measured categories. The economy category saw the steepest decline, which CNBC attributed to recent federal budget reductions.

Virginia Law Shields Residents Seeking Hotel Shelter During Emergencies

Virginia has passed a new law protecting residents who seek hotel shelter during power outages and severe storms.

Virginia has enacted legislation designed to protect residents who seek hotel shelter during power outages and severe weather events. The law addresses situations when residents need emergency accommodations due to utility disruptions or storm damage. The protections ensure residents can access hotel services during critical situations without legal impediment.

Virginia firefighters rethink training as EMS calls dominate

Firefighters in Southwest Virginia are adapting their training to reflect the reality that most of their call volume comes from emergency medical services, not fires.

Virginia firefighters in Southwest and Southside regions spend most of their time responding to emergency medical calls rather than fire-related emergencies, according to discussion at a recent statewide first responder symposium in Blacksburg. Fire departments are evolving their training programs to match this operational reality. The shift reflects a broader trend in how modern fire services allocate resources and expertise.

Lt. Governor calls for deeper review of Dominion-NextEra merger

Virginia's Lt. Governor is pushing regulators to conduct a more thorough review of a proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy, citing the need for caution.

Virginia's Lt. Governor is calling for a deeper regulatory review of a proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy. The official emphasized the importance of careful scrutiny in evaluating the deal. The merger requires regulatory approval and the Lt. Governor's push for more thorough review signals concern about the proposal's implications.

Voided Virginia election cost local governments $11.6 million

A special election voided by Virginia cost local governments across the state $11.6 million, which they had to cover from budgets already tight from a shifted primary.

Virginia's voided special election came with a hefty price tag: $11.6 million paid by local governments statewide, including Chesterfield. While local officials say their budgets can absorb the cost because they'd already set aside funds for a June primary that was moved, the financial impact may complicate next fiscal year's planning, with more elections now anticipated than originally projected.

Virginia Medicaid to Expand Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell

Virginia is allocating nearly $15 million over two years to help Medicaid cover gene therapy treatments for people with sickle cell disease.

State lawmakers have budgeted nearly $15 million over two years to enable Virginia Medicaid to cover gene therapy treatments for people with sickle cell disease. This funding leverages a federal model designed to help Medicaid programs manage the high costs of this complex treatment. Healthcare providers say the expanded coverage will help patients access gene therapy more easily.

Virginia Fixes Cannabis Law Language Error

A state commission corrected a language error that prosecutors feared would have inadvertently left cannabis regulations unenforceable.

Prosecutors raised concerns that ambiguous wording in Virginia's cannabis law might have inadvertently repealed all cannabis regulations, creating enforcement chaos. A state commission fixed the error Wednesday, with a legislator calling it a routine mistake. The correction ensures cannabis remains regulated under state law.

Virginia Clean Slate Law Sets New Record-Sealing Rules

Virginia's new Clean Slate law establishes streamlined procedures for residents to seal certain criminal records.

Virginia has enacted a Clean Slate law that updates the rules for sealing criminal records. The law sets new procedures and timelines for residents to petition for record sealing, which can help remove barriers to employment and housing. This expands access to record relief for Virginia residents with certain criminal histories.

Virginia Cannabis Budget Creates Confusion Over Implementation Timeline

Virginia included cannabis sales legalization in its state budget, sparking disagreement between lawmakers, prosecutors, and state police over when the new rules actually take effect.

Virginia revived legal cannabis sales through language inserted into the state budget rather than standalone legislation. This approach has triggered confusion among lawmakers, prosecutors, Virginia State Police, and legislative officials, who are offering conflicting interpretations of when key provisions become effective. The disagreement highlights the complications that can arise when major policy changes are embedded in budget documents instead of passed as separate bills.

New State Funding Eases Health Insurance Costs

Virginia is providing state subsidy funding to help residents afford health insurance after enhanced federal subsidies ended.

After enhanced federal subsidies expired, thousands of Virginians canceled their health insurance plans as premiums rose. The state is now offering new subsidy funding to help as many as 200,000 consumers access coverage. Virginia residents can review available plans through the state's insurance marketplace.

Dominion Energy Rate Increase Takes Effect for Virginia Customers

Dominion Energy's new rate increase is now in effect for Virginia customers across its service territory.

Dominion Energy has implemented a rate increase for customers across Virginia. The utility's new rates are now effective for residential and commercial accounts. The specific increase amount and regulatory approval details were part of a state-level decision affecting the broader Virginia service area.

Dominion bills rise as Virginia rejoins carbon-trading program

Dominion Energy customers are seeing bill increases after Virginia rejoined RGGI, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, though experts dispute whether the two are directly linked.

Virginia has rejoined RGGI, a regional carbon-trading program designed to reduce emissions. Dominion Energy customers are experiencing higher bills around the same time. However, energy experts quoted by 13newsnow argue that rising bills and RGGI participation are not directly connected, suggesting other factors may be driving the increase.

Virginia official calls for extended review of NextEra-Dominion merger

A Virginia regulator is asking for more time to review a major energy company merger that affects local utility rates.

Virginia State Senator Hashmi has called on regulators to extend the review period for NextEra Energy's proposed merger with Dominion Energy. The merger affects one of the state's largest utility providers. Regulators are weighing the deal's implications for energy customers and infrastructure.

Virginia Law Changes Housing Rights for Medical Cannabis Patients

A Virginia law now restricts where medical cannabis patients can live, forcing them to choose between their prescribed medication and stable housing.

A recently enacted Virginia law is creating a housing barrier for medical cannabis patients. The law's restrictions mean patients in certain housing situations face pressure to stop using their legally prescribed cannabis or risk housing loss. This puts Chesterfield residents who rely on medical cannabis in a difficult position when seeking or maintaining housing.

Virginia Assault Weapons Ban Stalled by Court Challenges

Virginia's newly enacted assault weapons ban remains unenforced statewide as court battles play out, though state leaders continue pushing for gun violence prevention.

Virginia enacted an assault weapons ban, but it has been entangled in legal challenges barely a week after taking effect, effectively halting enforcement across the commonwealth. State Attorney General Jay Jones joined local officials, clergy, and lawmakers in Petersburg to discuss gun violence prevention efforts amid the legal uncertainty. The multiple court cases seeking to block or overturn the ban have created a statewide enforcement vacuum.

Stomach parasite confirmed in Virginia; health officials monitoring

A stomach parasite that causes severe diarrhea has been detected in Virginia, according to state health reports.

A parasitic infection causing severe diarrhea has reached Virginia, state health officials report. The Virginia Department of Health is monitoring cases in the state. Residents experiencing severe gastrointestinal symptoms should seek medical attention.

State Official Seeks Extended Review of Dominion-NextEra Merger

A Virginia state official is calling for an extended regulatory review of the proposed $67 billion Dominion Energy–NextEra merger.

Dominion Energy and NextEra have proposed a $67 billion merger that requires regulatory approval. A state official identified as Hashmi is urging that the review period be extended, suggesting additional scrutiny of the deal. The merger would combine two major energy companies and their operations across the region.

New Virginia subsidy could cut ACA insurance premiums by 70%

Virginia is launching a $150 million subsidy program starting in November that could help approximately 200,000 residents reduce their Affordable Care Act insurance costs by up to 70%.

Virginia state lawmakers and Gov. Abigail Spanberger approved $150 million in new funding to help residents offset the cost of Affordable Care Act insurance through the state exchange. The program launches in November and could reduce participants' monthly premiums by about 70%. Eligible Virginians can access the assistance through Virginia's ACA insurance marketplace.

Dominion Energy to Merge With NextEra in Historic Utility Deal

Virginia-based Dominion Energy has agreed to merge with NextEra Energy in an all-stock deal that would create the nation's largest regulated electric utility.

NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy have announced an agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction, creating what would be the world's largest regulated electric utility company. Under the deal structure, NextEra shareholders will receive one share of the combined company for each share held. The transaction will require approval from utility regulators and shareholders before closing.

Dominion Energy announces fuel charge increase for Virginia customers

Dominion Energy is increasing fuel charges for its customers, according to a company announcement.

Dominion Energy has announced an increase in fuel charges affecting its customer base. The utility company made the announcement through local media outlets. Additional details regarding the effective date, percentage increase, and specific customer impact were not included in the available source material.

Virginia police decertifications spike amid accountability push

Virginia is decertifying more police officers for misconduct, signaling increased accountability when law enforcement breaks the law.

Virginia has seen a spike in police officer decertifications—the removal of an officer's credentials to work in law enforcement. The reporting explores what triggers these decertifications and how the process works when officers break the law. This reflects a broader shift in how states address police accountability.

Virginia boosts unemployment benefit payments

Gov. Spanberger signed legislation increasing unemployment benefits for eligible workers across the state.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed bipartisan legislation raising unemployment benefit payments. The bills were sponsored by Del. Marty Martinez (D-Loudoun County) and Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-Alexandria). The measure aims to provide additional support to jobless workers.

Lt. Gov. Hashmi calls for closer Dominion-NextEra merger review

Virginia's lieutenant governor urged state regulators to more closely scrutinize a proposed merger between Dominion Energy and Florida-based NextEra Energy that could create the nation's largest utility company.

Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi sent a letter this week to the State Corporation Commission asking the commissioners to more thoroughly examine the planned merger between Dominion Energy, Virginia's largest electric utility, and NextEra Energy. The combined company would become the nation's largest utility provider. The letter signals Hashmi's concern about how the merger could affect Virginia residents and the state's energy landscape.

Virginia Water Utilities Must Step Up Line Inspections

A new Virginia law is requiring water utilities to ramp up inspections of their water lines, following Lynchburg's lead in identifying aging infrastructure.

Virginia has enacted a new law that mandates increased water line inspection regimens for utilities across the state. Lynchburg has begun implementing these expanded inspection programs to assess the condition of its aging water infrastructure and identify potential failures before they occur.

Virginia's new water line inspection law takes effect statewide

Virginia has enacted a new law requiring water systems to conduct more frequent water line inspections.

A new Virginia law is ramping up water line inspection requirements for water systems across the state. Lynchburg has begun implementing inspections under the mandate. The law represents a statewide initiative to improve water infrastructure oversight.

Virginia Legalizes Recreational Cannabis Sales

Virginia has legalized the sale of recreational cannabis, creating a new regulated market for adult consumers statewide.

Virginia has completed its legalization of recreational cannabis sales, allowing adults to purchase cannabis through a regulated retail system. The Washington Post reports key details about how the new framework operates. This is part of an ongoing shift in Virginia drug policy.

Virginia enacts criminal records sealing, expands climate efforts

Virginia now allows people with marijuana charges to seal their criminal records, and the state is expanding climate action while federal prison and transit projects proceed elsewhere in Virginia.

Virginia has made it easier for residents with marijuana-related criminal charges to seal their records from public view. The state also established a new State Climate Office at George Mason University to coordinate climate policy. Separately, federal authorities plan to close a portion of the Petersburg prison complex, and the Bedford Passenger Rail Project is accelerating.

PJM ordered to push data centers onto backup power in heatwave

The nation's largest electricity grid received federal approval to require data centers and major power consumers to activate backup generators during extreme heat.

The Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland Interconnection (PJM), which serves Virginia and a dozen other states, received approval from the Trump administration to require data centers and other large electricity customers to activate backup generators during this week's heatwave. U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright signed the order to help stabilize the grid during peak demand periods. The directive applies across PJM's multi-state service territory during periods of extreme heat.

Legal challenge targets Virginia's reproductive rights amendment

A lawsuit questions whether Virginia properly handled procedures for its pending reproductive rights amendment, with potential implications for other constitutional amendments.

A legal challenge has been filed against Virginia's pending reproductive rights amendment, questioning whether Paul Nardo, clerk of the House of Delegates, properly distributed copies to circuit courts as required. The case, Bansley v. Nardo, faces a hearing later this month and could affect both the reproductive rights amendment and two other pending constitutional amendments.

Virginia faces federal lawsuit over assault-style weapons ban

The Trump administration is suing Virginia over its newly enacted restrictions on assault-style weapons.

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a complaint challenging Virginia's newly enacted soft ban on assault-style weapons. Attorney General Jay Jones's office will review the federal complaint. Governor Abigail Spanberger has also announced additional board appointments and appointed a new director for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.

State news roundup: DOJ challenges Virginia assault weapons law

The U.S. Department of Justice sued Virginia over its 2023 assault weapons ban, Virginia rejoined a regional carbon emissions marketplace, and Vice President JD Vance visited Naval Station Oceana.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed suit challenging Virginia's 2023 assault weapons ban as unconstitutional, marking a significant federal dispute over state gun regulation. In climate policy, Virginia rejoined a regional carbon emissions marketplace to address environmental goals. The state also saw Vice President JD Vance visit service members at Naval Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, while Virginia Wesleyan University in the Hampton Roads region proceeds with a controversial name change to Batten University despite community protests.

Medicaid Coverage Returns to Planned Parenthood as GOP Ban Expires

Medicaid coverage for Planned Parenthood's non-abortion services is set to resume July 4 after a year-long Republican-backed ban expires, though GOP lawmakers are attempting to extend the restrictions.

Republicans secured a one-year ban on Medicaid payments to Planned Parenthood for non-abortion services like contraception and cancer screenings, which is set to expire July 4. Without congressional action to extend the ban, Medicaid funding will automatically resume. GOP lawmakers are attempting to find ways to maintain the restrictions beyond the deadline.

Judge Blocks Virginia's ICE Mask Restriction Law

A Virginia judge has blocked a state law that would have prevented ICE agents from wearing masks.

A Virginia court has blocked enforcement of a state law barring ICE agents from wearing masks. The ruling prevents the law from being applied.

Judge blocks Virginia law enforcement face mask law

A Virginia judge halted enforcement of a law affecting law enforcement face mask requirements.

A Virginia judge issued an order blocking a law related to face mask requirements for law enforcement from taking effect. The judicial ruling stopped the law before its implementation date. The decision affects law enforcement agencies across Virginia.

Data centers driving natural gas expansion, environmental group warns

A regional environmental law center says tech companies are pushing utilities to build far more natural gas plants than needed, undercutting the promise of cleaner energy in the Southeast.

The Southern Environmental Law Center is warning that tech companies seeking to power data centers are driving utilities to expand natural gas infrastructure at a massive scale. Despite initial promises that these companies would accelerate a transition to clean energy, the group argues that tech firms' wavering commitments are now threatening to lock the region into fossil fuel dependency for decades. The concern centers on Dominion Energy and similar utilities building gas plants to meet data center demand.

Virginia's Hundreds of New Laws Take Effect July 1

More than 1,100 bills signed by Gov. Spanberger take effect Wednesday, with some policies phasing in over time.

Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed more than 1,100 bills passed by the Democratic-controlled General Assembly. Hundreds of new Virginia laws are taking effect starting July 1, though implementation varies—some policies will begin immediately while others phase in gradually over coming months and years.

Virginia Funds Cancer Screening Program for Firefighters

Virginia's new budget allocates funds for cancer screening programs targeting firefighters at occupational risk.

Virginia has allocated funding in its new two-year budget to establish cancer screening programs for firefighters statewide. The initiative, a bipartisan effort, responds to research showing that firefighters face elevated cancer risk due to occupational exposures in their line of work. This adds a preventive health resource for firefighters across the state.

July 4 heat could top 100 degrees regionally

Southwest and Southside Virginia could see temperatures near or above 100 degrees over July 4th weekend, though storms may provide some relief.

A regional heat wave could bring highs near or above 100 degrees to Southwest and Southside Virginia through the July 4th holiday weekend. Scattered storms may interrupt the extreme heat for some areas. The forecast comes as the region heads into peak summer conditions.

Federal Judge Halts Virginia Law Enforcement Mask Ban

A federal judge blocked Virginia's mask ban for law enforcement officers.

A federal judge has halted a Virginia law enforcement mask ban, blocking the restriction from taking effect. The court's ruling overturns or suspends the state policy before it could be enforced.

DOJ Sues Virginia Over Assault Weapons Ban

The U.S. Department of Justice is challenging Virginia's state assault weapons ban in federal court.

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Virginia over its assault weapons ban. The lawsuit represents a federal legal challenge to the state's gun regulations. The outcome could have implications for Virginia's law enforcement and residents on both sides of the gun policy debate.

Cardinal News examines Virginia's new laws and budget impacts

A state-level review of Virginia's latest laws and budget items notes that their full impact on communities may take years to become clear.

Cardinal News has published a roundup examining ten significant laws and budget decisions from the Virginia General Assembly. The article notes that many of these measures will have long-term consequences that may not be apparent for years. While specific details are not provided in the available excerpt, the piece appears aimed at helping residents understand legislation affecting the state.

Virginia's new budget signals start of implementation phase

Virginia's adopted budget closes one legislative chapter and begins the work of putting those spending plans into action.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has secured passage of the state budget, moving past the negotiation phase into implementation. The budget approval signals completion of the legislative spending framework and the start of questions about execution and timeline for various allocations. The full details of how these funds will flow to localities and services remain to be seen in coming weeks.

Virginia Law Mandates Speed Limiters for Reckless Drivers

Virginia is implementing a new law requiring speed-limiting devices on vehicles driven by people with reckless driving convictions.

A new Virginia law will equip the vehicles of drivers convicted of reckless driving with speed-limiting technology. The devices restrict how fast these vehicles can travel, aiming to reduce dangerous driving behavior. The law represents the state's effort to improve traffic safety through technology-based enforcement.

Virginia Law Expands Judges' Authority on Extreme Speeding

A new Virginia law gives judges additional tools to address extreme speeding violations.

Virginia has enacted legislation that expands judicial authority in cases involving extreme speeding. The law provides judges with new discretionary powers to address the most serious speeding violations. Details on implementation and local impact remain to be determined.

Virginia General Assembly approves budget amendments

Virginia's General Assembly approved Spanberger's budget amendments after a monthslong impasse.

The Virginia General Assembly approved budget amendments, resolving a monthslong budget impasse. The amendments were championed by Spanberger. The approval ends the budgeting stalemate that had extended discussions.

Virginia Budget Uncertainty Ends as Spanberger's Amendments Pass

The Virginia General Assembly approved all 14 of Gov. Spanberger's budget amendments, ending months of budget uncertainty and finalizing the biennial budget.

The Virginia House and Senate approved all 14 of Governor Abigail Spanberger's amendments to the state spending bill, ending nearly six months of budget uncertainty. The approval finalizes the biennial budget that will guide state spending. The action resolves the extended delay that held up state budget planning.

Virginia budget impasse ends with Spanberger amendments

The Virginia General Assembly approved budget amendments that resolve a months-long budget standoff.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved budget amendments, ending a monthslong impasse. The amendments are attributed to Spanberger. The resolution allows the state budget process to move forward.

Supreme Court upholds state bans on transgender athletes

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that states can legally ban transgender athletes from competing on women's and girls' sports teams.

The Supreme Court has upheld laws in Idaho and West Virginia that ban transgender athletes from participating on women's and girls' sports teams, marking a major decision affecting state-level athletics policies nationwide. The ruling comes as the Trump administration has pursued broad restrictions on transgender issues. States now have legal backing to enforce or implement similar bans in their own school systems and athletic programs.

State Budget Creates New Tax on Data Centers

Virginia's new two-year budget activates a fresh tax on data centers while keeping their sales and use tax exemption in place.

Virginia lawmakers finalized a two-year state budget Monday that includes a new tax targeting data centers, the state's most energy-intensive industry. The provision preserves data centers' existing sales and use tax exemption, which was the subject of intense legislative debate in recent months. The new tax represents a compromise in ongoing discussions about how the state should tax this growing sector.

New Virginia Law Mandates Speed Limiters for Reckless Drivers

Virginia enacted a law requiring speed-limiting devices on vehicles of drivers convicted of reckless driving.

A new Virginia law will require speed-limiting devices to be installed on the vehicles of drivers convicted of reckless driving. The devices restrict a vehicle's maximum speed to reduce dangerous driving behavior. Chesterfield drivers convicted under this statute may face the requirement.

Virginia hemp retailers navigate shifting cannabis regulations

As Virginia prepares to launch a legal cannabis market next summer, hemp retailers are reassessing their business strategies amid changing state and federal regulations.

Virginia's legal cannabis market is set to launch next summer pending final state budget approval, creating uncertainty for existing hemp retailers who sell infused products like creams and drinks. Regulatory shifts at both state and federal levels are forcing some business owners to reconsider their operations. Hemp retailers are navigating an evolving legal landscape as the cannabis market formalizes.

Virginia General Assembly Approves Budget Amendments

Virginia lawmakers approved budget amendments that end a monthslong deadlock over the state budget.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved amendments that resolve a protracted budget impasse. Delegate Spanberger's amendments ended negotiations that had stalled the state budget process. The approval allows the state to move forward with its fiscal plans.

Virginia Cooling on Rapid Data Center Expansion

Virginia's enthusiasm for rapid data center growth is cooling as officials consider building facilities in locations where they could deliver greater economic benefit.

Virginia, home to the world's largest concentration of data centers, has seen appetite for rapid expansion in congested suburbs diminish. Observers note that rather than opposing data centers outright, the state should be more strategic about siting new facilities. Directing growth to areas where data centers would meet genuine needs could generate stronger economic returns for Virginia communities.

Virginia Clean Slate law takes effect July 1

A new Virginia law allowing certain criminal convictions to be sealed goes into effect July 1, giving residents with qualifying records a fresh start.

Virginia's Clean Slate law takes effect July 1, allowing people to petition the courts to seal certain criminal convictions from their records. The law aims to help residents move forward after serving their sentences by removing barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities. Courts across the state are preparing for implementation and an expected increase in petition filings.

Virginia approves state budget amendments, ending months of gridlock

The Virginia General Assembly approved Gov. Spanberger's budget amendments Monday, resolving a months-long dispute just before the new fiscal year begins.

The Virginia General Assembly approved a package of budget amendments proposed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Monday, formally ending a monthslong budget fight among the Democratic majority. The vote came with less than 48 hours remaining before the start of Virginia's new fiscal year, and both the House of Delegates and state Senate supported the amendments.

Supreme Court rules states can count ballots after Election Day

The U.S. Supreme Court said states can count mail-in ballots that arrive after Election Day.

In a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Monday that federal law does not prevent states from counting mail-in ballots that arrive after Election Day. The Trump administration and some Republican states had argued that all ballots should arrive by the close of polls, but the Court rejected that position. The decision affirms states' authority to set their own rules for late-arriving mail-in ballots.

Supreme Court Rules Police Need Warrants for Cell Location Data

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police must obtain warrants before searching cellphone location histories in investigations, citing Fourth Amendment protections.

The U.S. Supreme Court determined Monday that law enforcement must get warrants before searching cellphone location records near crime scenes, extending Fourth Amendment protections to digital location data. The ruling applies to all police searches for this type of information. The court left open the question of when such warrants would be legally reasonable, likely signaling future rulings on the specifics.

Lawmakers reconvene Monday to review Spanberger budget changes

Virginia lawmakers will meet Monday to consider Gov. Spanberger's amendments to the state budget before the new fiscal year begins.

The Virginia General Assembly reconvenes Monday to review proposed amendments to the two-year state spending plan, less than 48 hours before the new fiscal year starts. The House of Delegates will begin at noon. Lawmakers passed the original budget plan just one week earlier, and the governor's amendments will need approval before the deadline.

Virginia Law Brings Pay Transparency, Bans Salary Questions

New Virginia law requires employers to disclose pay ranges to job applicants and prohibits asking candidates about previous salaries.

A new Virginia law mandates that employers reveal pay information to job applicants and forbids asking about salary history during hiring. The law aims to close pay gaps and level the playing field for workers negotiating compensation. Employers must adapt hiring practices to comply with these requirements.

Virginia Democrats reach budget agreement on state amendments

Gov. Spanberger and state Democratic leaders finalized budget amendments, including one to accept James Monroe's Loudoun County home as a state park.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger and House and Senate Democratic leaders have resolved budget disputes through a series of amendments. One notable amendment would allow the state to accept the historic Loudoun County home of former President James Monroe as a state park. The agreement signals an end to tensions between the governor and the General Assembly's Democratic majority over the state budget.

Virginia law lets judges order speed-limiting devices for drivers

A new Virginia law gives judges the authority to require speed-limiting technology as a condition for some drivers.

Virginia has passed a new law that expands judicial authority over driver safety measures. Under the law, judges can now require certain drivers to install or use speed-limiting technology as part of court-ordered conditions. The law represents a shift in how courts can address traffic safety concerns.

Virginia Judges Can Order Speed-Limiting Tech for Drivers

A new Virginia law gives judges the power to require speed-limiting devices in the cars of drivers convicted of certain offenses.

Virginia has enacted legislation authorizing judges to impose speed-limiting technology as a sentencing condition for drivers convicted of specific violations. The devices restrict a vehicle's maximum speed, adding a tech-based enforcement tool to the state's traffic safety and criminal justice options. This measure applies statewide, including cases heard in Chesterfield County courts.

Virginia Judges Can Now Require Speed-Limiting Tech

Virginia judges gain the authority to require certain drivers to install speed-limiting devices in their vehicles as part of sentencing.

A new Virginia law expands judicial authority to impose penalties on dangerous drivers. Judges can now mandate that some offenders equip their vehicles with technology that restricts how fast they can drive, adding a tool to courts' enforcement options. The requirement would apply to drivers convicted of serious traffic violations or related offenses.

Virginia explores faster, cheaper bachelor's degree option

Virginia is joining an initiative with Ohio to create a three-year bachelor's degree model to help students graduate sooner and save money.

Virginia higher education leaders are partnering with Ohio to develop a three-year bachelor's degree pathway that would cut the traditional four-year timeline. The move aims to align degree programs with what employers need and improve college affordability for students. This follows Virginia's broader strategy to make higher education more accessible and cost-effective.

Virginia Budget Would Give Chesterfield Residents Monthly Utility Rebate

Virginia's new two-year budget would return an estimated $3 monthly rebate to residents through revenue from the state's carbon market program.

Virginia lawmakers have approved a two-year budget amendment that would share revenue from the regional carbon market with residents, small businesses, and churches. Under the amendment, utilities that burn carbon energy sources would purchase credits in the market, with 45 percent of those funds returned to customers as an estimated $3 monthly rebate. The budget is currently awaiting review by Governor Abigail Spanberger.

Offshore Wind Could Save Virginia Millions During Storms

A new Virginia offshore wind project could have prevented $10 million in energy costs during Winter Storm Elliott if it had been online at the time.

Virginians faced significant costs importing expensive natural gas during Winter Storm Elliott in 2022. The new Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project could have supplied domestic wind energy instead, potentially saving the state roughly $10 million in a single day. Experts believe offshore wind will strengthen Virginia's energy independence and stability during severe weather events.

Former 6th District Rivals Swap Endorsements

Two former congressional candidates for Virginia's 6th District—Beth Macy and Tom Perriello—have announced mutual endorsements.

Beth Macy and Tom Perriello, who previously ran against each other for Virginia's 6th Congressional District seat, have announced they are endorsing each other. This political alignment represents a shift in the race, which includes portions of Chesterfield County. The endorsement swap signals strategic cooperation between two prominent candidates in the district.

Background checks resume for Virginia private gun sales in July

Virginia will require background checks for private firearm sales starting in July.

Virginia will reinstate mandatory background checks for private firearms transactions beginning in July. The state is also addressing other matters: cannabis advocates are challenging a proposed increase to penalties for public consumption, schools in Danville have been released from state corrective action following progress, and Virginia is stocking waterways with walleye and saugeye to support recreational fishing.

Virginia's Reproductive Health Laws Affect More Than Abortion

Virginia's reproductive health laws have broader impacts on pregnancy care and medical decisions than many residents realize, according to patients and healthcare providers.

Virginia's reproductive health laws create real complications for patients navigating pregnancy care, including in-vitro fertilization and miscarriage management. Healthcare providers and patients say these regulations affect medical decision-making in ways that extend well beyond abortion policy. The laws can impact how and where patients receive care during pregnancy loss and other reproductive healthcare needs.

Virginia's healthcare centers warn reporting mandate threatens vulnerable patient access

Virginia's proposed state budget would impose new administrative reporting requirements on community health centers without state funding to support them.

The Community Healthcare Association has raised concerns that new 340B drug pricing reporting mandates included in Virginia's state budget would create unfunded administrative work for community health centers statewide. The association argues these compliance costs could force the centers to divert resources from direct patient care. The group is urging the governor to reconsider requirements that lack budget allocations to cover implementation costs.

Virginia May Delay Higher School Standards for Two Years

Virginia is considering pushing back the timeline for when stricter reading and math standards would take effect in schools.

Virginia's Board of Education is considering a two-year delay in implementing higher academic benchmarks for reading and math. Rather than gradually increasing standards over four years starting this year, the state would extend the timeline by two years. The shift comes after criticism over the original implementation plan.

Virginia Governor's Budget Changes, Fishing Debate in Focus

Virginia state news this week includes pending governor's budget amendments, a menhaden fishing industry dispute, additions to the state historic landmarks register, and increased traffic enforcement efforts in nearby Fairfax County.

The Virginia General Assembly is preparing for governor's budget amendments expected by Friday. In regulatory news, menhaden fishing firms have responded to allegations of legislative pressure. Separately, 15 new sites were added to Virginia's Landmarks Register. A notable enforcement initiative in neighboring Fairfax County resulted in over 11,000 citations and warnings in a single week, highlighting state traffic safety priorities.

State Restores Funding for HIV Healthcare Programs

Virginia's General Assembly restored funding for HIV treatment and support services, including the Ryan White program and opioid recovery initiatives.

The General Assembly has restored funding for HIV healthcare programs, including the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, which provides education, care, and support to people living with HIV. The restoration also supports workforce development programs and opioid recovery services. The funding reversal addresses critical gaps in community health services.

Federal Court Blocks Trump Mail Voting Restrictions

A federal judge blocked major parts of President Trump's executive order restricting voting by mail, finding it exceeded his constitutional authority.

A federal judge on Thursday blocked key portions of President Trump's executive order that would have restricted voting by mail, ruling the order exceeded his constitutional authority. The decision temporarily prevents the U.S. Postal Service from requiring states to provide lists of likely mail voters. An appeal is expected.

Virginia Resumes Private Gun Sale Background Checks July 1

A Virginia court dissolved an injunction that halted private firearm sale background checks, allowing them to resume July 1 statewide.

A Lynchburg Circuit Court judge ruled in favor of Attorney General Jay Jones' request to dissolve an injunction that had blocked background checks for private firearm sales since October. The decision restores the Virginia State Police's ability to conduct background checks at gun shows and private sales. Checks are set to resume July 1.

Virginia budget includes teacher raises and data center tax shifts

Virginia's state budget approval includes teacher pay increases and changes to data center taxation.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved a new state budget that includes teacher salary increases and modifications to the tax treatment of data centers. The budget represents legislative priorities around education funding and economic development policy. These changes will affect how state education budgets and business incentives are structured going forward.

Virginia Budget Deal Sets Two-Year Spending at $205 Billion

Virginia lawmakers approved a $205 billion budget to fund state services over the next two years.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved a $205 billion budget that will guide state spending for the next two fiscal years. The budget funds core state services including education, transportation, and public safety. As a result, Chesterfield County schools and local government services receive state funding allocations determined by this statewide spending plan.

State Cuts GO TEC Funding; Local Technical Education at Risk

Virginia's state budget eliminates funding for GO TEC, a technical education program that serves schools across the state.

Virginia's General Assembly has dropped funding for the GO TEC program in its recently passed budget. The program provides hands-on technical education to students in 49 school divisions across the state. The cut comes as employers increasingly struggle to find workers with technical skills.

Spanberger Creates New Council to Reform Virginia Prisons

Governor Spanberger launched a new council to address longstanding problems in Virginia's prison system by bringing together advocates, faith leaders, healthcare professionals, and public safety officials.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced the Governor's Community Partnership Council On Corrections this week to tackle persistent issues within Virginia's prisons. The council brings together representatives from advocacy groups, faith-based organizations, healthcare providers, and public safety agencies to develop solutions to challenges that have concerned residents and correctional officers for years.

Dominion Energy Plans 4,000 MWh Storage Pilot

Dominion Energy Virginia is launching a long-duration energy storage pilot program to help stabilize the power grid.

Dominion Energy Virginia has announced plans for a pilot program testing long-duration energy storage (LDES) technologies with a capacity of 4,000 megawatt-hours. The initiative is part of the utility's efforts to integrate more renewable energy and improve grid reliability. This type of technology can store electricity for extended periods, helping balance supply and demand.

Coal Subsidies Push Up Energy Bills for Chesterfield Residents

Trump administration coal subsidies are raising electricity costs for Chesterfield households without meaningfully benefiting the coal industry.

The Trump administration's latest coal industry subsidies are expected to increase energy costs for Virginians, including Chesterfield County residents, without providing significant economic benefits to the coal sector. While the subsidies appeal to the president's political base, the coal industry faces structural challenges these subsidies don't address. Local households and businesses may see the costs reflected in rising utility bills.

Abortion ruling's effect on miscarriage care remains unclear

Four years after the Dobbs decision overturned abortion rights, confusion persists over how doctors should manage miscarriages under new restrictions.

A Virginia Mercury investigation found that the 2022 Dobbs decision and resulting state abortion restrictions have created ongoing uncertainty in how doctors treat miscarriages. Medical professionals across the state continue to struggle with interpreting the laws, leaving pregnant people unsure about their care options when complications arise.

Virginia Approves State Budget, Averts Shutdown

Virginia's government will keep operating after lawmakers approved the state budget.

Virginia's General Assembly has approved a state budget, preventing a government shutdown. The budget passage ensures continued funding for state operations and services that depend on state support.

Virginia addresses firearm law, measles risk, workforce funding

State lawmakers and officials tackle firearm accountability, measles prevention, and technical education funding in recent announcements.

Virginia state officials have introduced a new firearm industry accountability law highlighted by the attorney general, while health officials urge residents to protect against measles amid rising cases across the state. Additionally, lawmakers are considering state funding to cover Richmond Coliseum demolition costs, and a statewide technical workforce program for middle schools faces uncertainty as federal funding runs out.

Stop Sign Cameras Coming to Virginia Roads This July

Virginia is allowing municipalities to install stop sign cameras starting July to increase traffic safety, though privacy advocates have raised concerns.

A new Virginia law permits local governments to deploy automated cameras at stop signs beginning July 2026. Officials say the cameras will catch drivers running red lights and stop signs while increasing traffic safety and reducing violations. The move has drawn scrutiny from privacy advocates concerned about surveillance expansion.

Old Dominion Power seeks rate increase; residents can weigh in

Old Dominion Power has asked regulators for a rate hike, and Virginia residents, including Chesterfield County customers, can submit public comments on the proposal.

Old Dominion Power, which serves Chesterfield County and other parts of Virginia, is requesting approval for a rate increase from state regulators. Residents have an opportunity to voice support or concerns about the proposal through a public comment process. The state is accepting input before making a final decision on whether to grant the utility's request.

Civil Rights Group Pushes to Fix Ex-Felon Voter Registration

A civil rights organization filed a court motion seeking faster action to resolve delays preventing thousands of Virginians with past felony convictions from registering to vote.

Thousands of Virginians with certain past felony convictions remain stuck in voting registration limbo despite a civil rights victory earlier this year. A civil rights group filed a motion on June 18 asking the court to speed up reforms to the voter registration process. The group accused election officials of ignoring a voting rights lawsuit they had already won.

Virginia School Construction Tax Raises $119M in Five Years

Virginia localities have collected $119 million from a sales tax since 2021 to repair aging school buildings, but state data suggests the funding remains insufficient for the scope of needed upgrades.

Virginia established a targeted sales tax in 2021 to fund school construction and maintenance across the state's localities. Over the past five years, that tax has generated $119 million total—but a state survey found more than half of Virginia's schools are older than 50 years. Local officials are now pushing for the tax to be expanded statewide to close the widening infrastructure gap.

Virginia passes budget with teacher raises, data center tax updates

The Virginia General Assembly approved a state budget that includes raises for teachers and changes to data center taxation.

The Virginia General Assembly has finalized a state budget that provides teacher salary increases and modifies tax treatment for data centers. The budget reflects legislative priorities around education funding and economic development incentives. These changes will take effect with the new fiscal year.

Virginia may tax data centers' power usage to balance budget

Virginia legislators are proposing a new tax on data center electricity consumption to resolve the state's budget shortfall.

Virginia's General Assembly is considering a tax on the power consumed by data centers as one option to break a budget deadlock at the state level. The proposal would generate revenue for the state budget. It's unclear whether the tax would affect existing facilities or apply prospectively.

Virginia Legislature Approves Budget, Averts Shutdown

Virginia's state budget has been approved, preventing a partial government shutdown.

The Virginia General Assembly passed a state budget in time to avoid a partial government shutdown. The approval came days before the deadline when government operations would have been disrupted. State funding for services and operations will continue uninterrupted.

Virginia Law Eliminates Breast Cancer Screening Costs

Virginia passed a law to cover breast cancer screening expenses, but many residents don't realize they shouldn't be paying medical bills for this care.

Virginia's law eliminates out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer screening, removing a barrier to preventive healthcare. Many patients continue to receive and pay medical bills for screening services despite the law's protections. Residents who have already paid for screenings may be entitled to refunds under this legislation.

Virginia General Assembly Approves Two-Year Budget

Virginia's legislature approved a two-year spending plan to guide state resources.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved a two-year budget plan. This legislation will guide state spending priorities and funding across multiple fiscal years. The budget determines resource allocation for state agencies and services that affect communities throughout Virginia, including Chesterfield County.

Virginia General Assembly Approves State Budget

The Virginia General Assembly voted to approve the state budget.

The Virginia General Assembly has voted to approve the state budget, a key legislative action that determines funding allocations across state agencies and services. The approval moves the budget forward in the legislative process. Details about specific funding priorities, allocations to local services, or amendments included in the budget were not available in the headline provided.

Virginia General Assembly approves state budget agreement

Virginia lawmakers have reached agreement on a new state budget.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved a budget deal after negotiations among state leaders. The agreement represents a compromise on state spending priorities. Budget settlements at the state level can affect local funding allocations and services in Chesterfield County.

Virginia Budget Proposal Includes $600M Data Center Fee

The Virginia General Assembly is considering a state budget that imposes a $600 million fee on data centers and allocates $7 million for a transitional housing facility in Charlottesville.

On June 22, the Virginia General Assembly convened to debate a state budget proposal with two major components: a $600 million fee targeting data centers and $7 million in funding for a transitional facility serving unhoused residents in Charlottesville. The data center fee represents the state's approach to revenue generation and business regulation, while the housing allocation reflects statewide investment in homelessness initiatives.

Virginia Budget Includes Teacher Raises, Data Center Tax Changes

Virginia's new state budget includes raises for teachers and revises how data centers are taxed.

The Virginia General Assembly approved a state budget that includes salary increases for teachers across the commonwealth. The legislation also modifies tax policy for data centers, a sector significant to Virginia's economy. The changes take effect as schools and businesses prepare for the fiscal year ahead.

Virginia budget includes data center tax changes, teacher raises

Virginia's new state budget makes changes to data center taxes and includes teacher pay increases.

The Virginia General Assembly approved a state budget that includes modifications to data center taxation and teacher salary increases. The changes are part of the broader state spending plan. Details about the specific tax adjustments and raise amounts were not provided in the source material available.

Virginia budget approves teacher raises, reshapes data center taxes

Virginia's new state budget includes teacher pay increases and changes tax incentives for data center operations.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved a state budget that increases compensation for teachers across the state, responding to ongoing educator pay concerns. The budget also modifies tax policies for data center operations, a significant sector for economic development in many Virginia regions. Both changes carry direct implications for Chesterfield County's schools and local business climate.

Virginia Authorizes AI Cameras to Enforce Stop Signs

Virginia passed a new law allowing automated traffic cameras equipped with artificial intelligence to catch and cite drivers who run stop signs.

Virginia has enacted legislation that permits the use of AI-powered cameras to automatically detect and enforce stop sign violations. The technology could improve traffic safety by deterring dangerous driving behavior at intersections. Chesterfield County may consider implementing the system as part of its traffic enforcement strategy.

Virginia Authorizes AI Cameras for Traffic Enforcement

Virginia has approved a new law allowing municipalities to deploy AI-powered cameras that automatically catch drivers running stop signs or failing to yield at crosswalks.

A new Virginia law enables local governments to install artificial intelligence cameras to automatically enforce traffic violations at stop signs and crosswalks. The technology represents an expansion beyond traditional police enforcement. Chesterfield County officials will eventually decide whether to adopt this capability in their community.

Virginia approves AI cameras to catch traffic violations

Virginia has passed a law allowing automated AI-powered cameras to enforce stop sign and crosswalk violations across the state.

A new Virginia law authorizes the use of artificial intelligence-powered cameras to enforce traffic violations at stop signs and crosswalks. The technology aims to improve public safety by automatically detecting and documenting these violations. This represents an expansion of traffic enforcement technology in the state.

Virginia approves $28.5 billion six-year transportation plan

Virginia's transportation board has approved a $28.5 billion spending plan for infrastructure over the next six years.

Virginia's transportation board has greenlit a $28.5 billion budget to fund road, transit, and infrastructure projects across the state over six years. The plan represents a significant investment in the state's transportation network. Details on which specific projects Chesterfield will benefit from have not yet been announced.

Virginia Approves $205B Budget with Teacher Pay Raises

Virginia lawmakers passed a two-year budget with 4% raises for teachers and increased education funding.

Virginia legislators have approved a $205 billion two-year state budget that includes a 4% pay raise for teachers and increased funding for public education. The budget also funds healthcare expansion, state employee raises, and new revenue sources including a retail marijuana marketplace and a tax on data centers. The spending plan aims to maintain state services despite expectations of reduced federal funding.

Statewide Drought May Impact Data Center Water Use

Virginia's extreme drought is forcing water officials to decide whether data centers, which consume hundreds of thousands of gallons daily, will face the same restrictions as other customers.

About one-third of Virginia is under extreme drought conditions, prompting Governor Abigail Spanberger to urge water conservation statewide. As local water authorities impose restrictions on usage, questions are emerging about whether data centers—major consumers of water—will receive exemptions or face the same limits as residents and other businesses. The issue raises broader questions about how to balance supporting the data center industry with protecting limited water supplies during the drought.

State budget plan would cut flood prevention funding

Virginia's proposed budget would redirect money away from flood prevention and toward other state priorities.

A Virginia state budget proposal would redirect funds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) away from flood prevention and climate-related programs. RGGI money has traditionally supported environmental resilience and flood mitigation efforts across the state. The shift would repurpose those dollars for other state budget needs.

State budget passes with new data center consumption tax

Virginia's General Assembly passed a new state budget that includes a consumption tax on data centers.

The Virginia General Assembly has approved the state budget, which introduces a consumption tax on data centers. The spending bill now goes to Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who has the authority to apply line-item vetoes to the legislation.

Southside technical education program faces funding cliff

A middle school engineering program in Southside Virginia is at risk of ending without continued state funding.

GO TEC introduces middle school students to hands-on engineering and technical careers, and has become important to Southside Virginia's economic development efforts. Without state funding, the program may end this year. Regional supporters warn the loss would damage the pipeline of young people entering technical trades.

McGuire Faces Primary Challenge in Reelection Bid

Rep. John McGuire enters his first reelection campaign for Virginia's 5th Congressional District facing criticism over constituent service and recent redistricting changes.

U.S. Rep. John McGuire, a Goochland Republican representing Virginia's 5th Congressional District, is running for reelection for the first time. His campaign faces turbulence, including accusations that he has done little for constituents. A recent court decision invalidated a voter-approved redistricting amendment that Democrats had hoped would favor their party in the district.

Breast Cancer Screening Should Be Free, But Patients Still Pay

A Virginia law eliminated out-of-pocket breast cancer screening costs, but healthcare providers continue billing patients anyway.

Virginia enacted a law protecting patients from screening costs for breast cancer detection. Despite the legal requirement, many patients in the state are still receiving bills for these covered services. The discrepancy suggests that healthcare providers may not be properly implementing or communicating the law's protections.

Dominion-NextEra Merger Raises Questions for Local Utility Customers

Two major energy companies' proposed merger has raised questions about what it means for Virginia customers' rates and service.

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy have proposed a merger that would reshape Virginia's utility landscape. The combination has prompted questions from regulators and customers about how the deal could affect electricity rates, service reliability, and oversight. Details about the merger's timeline and specific terms are still being reviewed.

Virginia lawmakers approve state budget with data center tax

Virginia's new budget keeps tax incentives for data centers but adds a new tax on their electricity use.

State lawmakers have finalized a budget deal that maintains existing tax breaks for data center companies while introducing a new electricity tax on their operations. The budget also funds an inland port project in Washington County and includes money for a statue of Onzlee Ware in Roanoke. The package reflects a compromise between competing priorities in the state budget.

Virginia State Budget Deal Clears as Road Plan, Marijuana Rules Emerge

Virginia budget leaders reached an agreement, while lawmakers weigh recreational marijuana rules and a $29 billion transportation improvement plan.

Virginia state budget leaders have reached an agreement in principle on spending, according to Richmond Times-Dispatch reporting. The state transportation board has authorized a $29 billion multiyear infrastructure improvement plan, while lawmakers are separately considering how recreational marijuana legalization might affect the state's hemp farming industry. The Department of Justice has also challenged certain Virginia laws concerning law enforcement face coverings and ICE agreements.

Virginia Legislature Races to Finalize State Budget

Virginia lawmakers meet Monday to finalize the state budget before a June 30 deadline to avoid a government shutdown.

The Virginia House of Delegates and State Senate will meet Monday in Richmond to resolve remaining disagreements over the state budget. Lawmakers face a June 30 deadline, after which a failure to agree could trigger a government shutdown. Both chambers adjusted their schedules to prioritize reaching a final budget agreement.

Virginia budget deal clears hurdle amid statewide policy shifts

Virginia state leadership agrees on a budget framework while felons face voter registration delays and localities push back on data center expansion.

State budget leaders have reached a preliminary agreement on a spending deal. Meanwhile, some formerly incarcerated Virginians eligible to vote this summer are caught in registration limbo. In separate regional developments, Amherst County residents are urging supervisors to restrict data centers, and Virginia tribes are organizing to protect the historical site of Chief Powhatan's birthplace in Henrico County.

Virginia budget deadline approaches for state lawmakers

The Virginia General Assembly faces a deadline to pass a state budget.

The Virginia General Assembly is working toward a deadline to finalize and pass the state budget. This is a critical juncture in the legislative calendar when lawmakers must agree on spending priorities for state operations and services.

Three Republicans seek Senate nomination to face Warner

Three Republican candidates are competing in the Aug. 4 primary, each citing ties to Trump, to earn the chance to challenge U.S. Senator Mark Warner.

Three Republican candidates are competing in Virginia's Aug. 4 primary election for the party's U.S. Senate nomination. Each candidate is highlighting connections to former President Donald Trump. Early voting is already underway, with the winner advancing to face incumbent Senator Mark Warner in the November general election.

Voting Rights Amendment Pending; Thousands in Registration Limbo

Virginia will vote this fall on whether to automatically restore voting rights to people with completed felony sentences, but thousands remain unable to register in the interim.

A constitutional amendment heading to Virginia voters this fall would automatically restore voting rights to people convicted of felonies who have completed their sentences, addressing a long-standing barrier to civic participation. However, thousands of eligible residents currently cannot register to vote because their status remains unclear while the referendum awaits approval. The limbo period leaves these residents unable to participate in local and statewide elections despite having met all legal requirements.

Virginia roundup: data center debate, gun safety bill signed

Statewide news includes Democratic tensions over data centers, tribal advocacy in Henrico County, new gun safety legislation, and planned AI camera deployments at traffic stops.

Virginia's data center expansion is creating friction among Democratic lawmakers, while tribal nations are mobilizing to protect historical sites in Henrico County. Governor Spanberger signed gun safety legislation this week. The state is also rolling out AI cameras at stop signs, though details on implementation and scope remain limited.

Virginia Law Opens Path to Resentencing for Marijuana Convictions

A new Virginia law allows certain people with prior marijuana convictions to request resentencing hearings.

Virginia has passed legislation enabling resentencing hearings for individuals with select marijuana convictions. The law represents an opportunity for people previously convicted under stricter penalties to seek review of their sentences. Details on eligibility and the timeline for requesting hearings will likely depend on the specific conviction and when it occurred.

Virginia Law Opens Door to Marijuana Conviction Resentencing

Virginia has enacted a law that automatically triggers resentencing hearings for people with certain marijuana convictions on their records.

A new Virginia law creates an automatic process to reopen resentencing hearings for individuals with some marijuana convictions. The law allows eligible people the opportunity to have their cases reconsidered. This reflects evolving state policy around marijuana-related offenses.

Virginia law allows resentencing hearings for some marijuana convictions

A new Virginia law permits people with certain marijuana convictions to request new sentencing hearings.

Virginia has enacted a law creating a pathway for individuals with specific marijuana convictions to petition for resentencing hearings. The change applies to select marijuana-related offenses and allows courts to reconsider sentences in light of current policy. The shift reflects evolving approaches to marijuana convictions across the state.

Virginia Governor Proposes New Energy Tax on Residents

Governor Spanberger has proposed a new energy tax affecting Virginia residents, according to the American Energy Alliance.

Governor Spanberger has announced a proposed new energy tax on Virginia residents. The proposal has drawn criticism from energy industry advocates. Specific details about the tax's structure, rates, and implementation timeline are not available in the source material provided.

Virginia Energy Tax Takes Effect for Residents

Governor Spanberger's new energy tax increases costs for Virginia households.

Governor Spanberger has implemented a new energy tax affecting Virginia families. The tax is expected to increase utility bills for residents across the state. Details on implementation timeline and specific impact amounts remain unclear from the available headline information.

Virginia Approves AI Traffic Cameras for Pedestrian Safety

Virginia has authorized AI-powered cameras to help enforce traffic rules and improve pedestrian safety.

Virginia has enacted a law allowing AI cameras to be used for traffic enforcement with a focus on pedestrian safety. The technology enables automated monitoring of traffic violations and compliance with traffic rules. This represents a new enforcement tool that could reduce accidents in communities that deploy it.

Spotsylvania power line proposal draws sparse public interest

A planned 115-mile transmission line project held a public hearing in Spotsylvania this week, but few residents showed up despite opposition to similar projects elsewhere.

A proposed 115-mile transmission line that has prompted pushback in other locations held a public open house in Spotsylvania this week. The turnout was notably low. The project's larger footprint and regional scope suggest it may interest residents across the area as it moves forward.

Early voting opens today for August primary election

Chesterfield voters can cast early ballots starting today for the August 4 primary elections.

Early voting for the August 4 primary elections is now available to Chesterfield voters. The primaries will determine which candidates advance to the general election across multiple races. Residents can vote in person during the early voting period before Election Day on August 4.

Breast Cancer Screening Law Leaves Some With Unexpected Bills

A Virginia law that eliminates breast cancer screening costs is not preventing all patients from receiving bills they shouldn't owe.

Virginia enacted a law designed to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer screening, but some residents are still receiving unexpected bills for covered services. The gap appears to stem from providers and insurers not fully implementing or correctly billing under the law. Patients who receive questionable bills should verify their coverage and challenge charges they believe are incorrect.

Breast Cancer Screening Free Under Virginia Law — But Bills Keep Coming

A Virginia law requires free breast cancer screenings, but some Chesterfield residents are still receiving unexpected bills.

Virginia law requires health insurance plans to cover breast cancer screenings with no out-of-pocket costs to patients. Despite this requirement, some residents across the state—including in Chesterfield—continue to receive bills for these screenings, indicating a gap between the law's intent and its implementation. Patients who receive unexpected bills should review their statements and understand their right to dispute charges for covered screenings.

Virginia Senate Backs Data Center Tax Exemption, Adds Generator Tax

Virginia's Senate budget plan preserves a major sales tax break for data center companies while introducing a new tax on diesel generators.

The Virginia Senate released a revised budget proposal that preserves the longstanding sales and use tax exemption for data centers, resolving a key dispute between legislative chambers. The plan introduces a tiered tax targeting diesel generators used in the industry, expected to generate $1.8 billion in new revenue. The compromise seeks to balance tax incentives that attract data center investment against the state's need for additional revenue.

Virginia adopts new framework for solar projects on farmland

Virginia has passed a new law establishing rules for solar energy development on agricultural land.

Virginia has enacted legislation to regulate solar energy projects on farms across the state. The law creates a framework for how solar installations can be developed on agricultural property. The measure aims to balance renewable energy expansion with preservation of farmland resources.

Spanberger Joins Coalition Supporting Reproductive Rights

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has joined the Reproductive Freedom Alliance, a coalition of governors working to protect abortion access and reproductive healthcare.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced this week that Virginia has joined the Reproductive Freedom Alliance, a multistate coalition of governors committed to protecting reproductive rights. The alliance supports legislation and ballot measures while helping member states obtain medications like mifepristone used for abortion and miscarriage management. Spanberger has signed Virginia legislation into law aligned with the coalition's goals.

Federal Bill Threatens Virginia Rideshare Safety Rules

A federal transportation bill amendment could override Virginia's state-level safety protections for Uber and Lyft users.

A proposed amendment to the federal BUILD America 250 Act could preempt state-level safety regulations for ride-hailing apps. State legislators, including those from neighboring Colorado, are pushing back against the language, warning it would strip away protections that states like Virginia have put in place for passengers and drivers. The amendment was added during committee review by a California House Republican.

Virginia set to launch legal cannabis retail next summer

Governor Spanberger and state lawmakers unveiled a revised plan for recreational marijuana sales, expected to begin in July 2027.

Virginia officials released a revamped framework for recreational cannabis retail on Tuesday, with Gov. Abigail Spanberger and legislative leaders vowing a July 2027 launch pending final state budget approval. The announcement comes after Spanberger vetoed a previous marijuana marketplace plan lawmakers had approved.

Virginia Legislators Agree on Legal Cannabis Sales Framework

Virginia lawmakers have reached an agreement to allow legal cannabis sales beginning in July 2027.

Governor Abigail Spanberger and Virginia legislators announced an agreement on implementing legal cannabis sales in the state. Under the plan, legal sales are set to begin in July 2027. The framework represents a milestone in the state's cannabis policy reform.

Virginia Legislature Races Deadline on State Budget Impasse

Virginia's House and Senate have released competing budget proposals before a June 30 deadline, with disagreement over whether data centers should remain exempt from sales tax.

Virginia lawmakers are deadlocked on a state spending plan that must be finalized by June 30 to avoid a government shutdown. The central dispute concerns whether data centers should continue to be exempt from the state's sales and use tax—a difference that affects how much revenue the state collects. Both chambers have now released their own budget proposals, signaling continued disagreement.

Virginia gun ban, drought warnings reshape region ahead of summer

Virginia faces multiple statewide changes this summer, from a new gun ban effective July 1 to expanded drought warnings across 94 counties.

Virginia's gun ban takes effect July 1, prompting a surge in purchases ahead of the deadline. Meanwhile, the state has expanded drought warnings to cover 94 counties due to dry conditions. Federal and legal challenges continue on separate fronts, including a Department of Justice lawsuit over officer ID requirements and ongoing appeals surrounding the Mountain Valley Pipeline project.

Virginia governor faces budget standoff in rocky start

Gov. Spanberger's promise of pragmatic leadership is being tested by Democratic tensions and state budget negotiations approaching a shutdown deadline.

Six months into her term, Gov. Abigail Spanberger—Virginia's first woman governor—is confronting significant budget disagreements and friction within her own party. The state faces intense budget negotiations with a shutdown deadline looming. The early period of her administration, which began with pledges of less combative politics and affordability, has instead brought some of the most contentious start to a Democratic administration in recent years.

Dominion-NextEra merger could reshape local electricity rates

A proposed merger between Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy could affect how Richmond-area residents and Chesterfield County pay for electricity.

Dominion Energy and NextEra Energy are exploring a merger that could reshape the utility landscape serving the Richmond region, including Chesterfield County. While details remain limited in initial reporting, such mergers typically raise questions about customer rates, service reliability, and regulatory oversight. The deal would require approval from state regulators and federal authorities before moving forward.