Nick Gilmore
Everything you possibly could want to know about all things weather
Homepage: http://theweatherzone.wordpress.com
Spanberger Takes Moderate Approach in First Town Hall
Posted in Virginia's News on February 20, 2019

Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger takes questions during her first town hall in Virginia’s 7th District. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / RADIO IQ)
New congresswoman Abigail Spanberger kept a campaign promise and met with constituents Tuesday night for a town hall. It’s the first public forum Virginia’s seventh congressional district has had in two years. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Should Health Insurance Companies Be Able to Prioritize Cheaper Drugs?
Posted in Virginia's News on February 19, 2019

Credit: Brandon Giesbrecht / Flickr
How much influence should health insurance providers have over which drugs you take? That’s an issue lawmakers are debating in Richmond. Michael Pope reports.
Effort to Increase Subcommittee Transparency Moving Through General Assembly
Posted in Virginia's News on February 18, 2019
Lawmakers in Richmond are considering a proposal that would shed greater light on how state government works. Michael Pope has the story.
State Leaders Weigh Equity Policies Amid Political Scandals
Posted in Virginia's News on February 13, 2019
In the wake of the blackface scandal, Governor Ralph Northam is asking Cabinet members to come up with ways to address inequality. Michael Pope has the latest.
Creating an Opportunity for HBCU Students out of Yearbook Scandal
Posted in Virginia's News on February 12, 2019

A GoFundMe campaign is aimed at helping students research Virginia’s politicians.
It took decades for a racist photo on Governor Ralph Northam’s medical school yearbook page to come to light. Now one group wants to find out what else could be lurking out there, and they’re relying on a particular group of people to do the research. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Virginia’s Schools May Soon Be Able to Decide Whether to Open Before Labor Day
Posted in Virginia's News on February 12, 2019

King Dominion’s “Dominator” roller coaster. The Richmond-area amusement park has long been opposed to efforts to reverse a law requiring public schools to open after Labor Day weekend. (Credit: daveynin / Flickr)
School divisions across Virginia may be on the verge of starting classes before Labor Day, or least having that option. Michael Pope reports.
Tax Deal Almost Derails Over Question About Who Gets Left Out
Posted in Virginia's News on February 11, 2019
A handful of Democrats in the statehouse briefly blocked a tax relief package after progressive groups said it disproportionately hurt low-income African-Americans. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Fairfax Impeachment Talk On Hold… For Now
Posted in Virginia's News on February 11, 2019
Embattled Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax is back at work this week, presiding over the Senate and resisting calls for his resignation. Michael Pope has details.
Governor Agrees to Sign Republican Tax Proposal
Posted in Virginia's News on February 8, 2019
Governor Ralph Northam is agreeing to sign off on a Republican tax proposal, returning about half a billion dollars to taxpayers rather than investing the money in education and infrastructure. Mallory Noe-Payne has the latest from the Capitol.
Virginia AG says he Wore Blackface at College Party
Posted in Virginia's News on February 6, 2019

Credit: Creative Commons
The political crisis in Virginia escalated dramatically Wednesday when another top Democrat — Attorney General Mark Herring — admitted putting on blackface in the 1980s, when he was in college. Michael Pope has more reaction.
On Busiest Day of the Year, General Assembly Feeling Effects of Northam Controversy
Posted in Virginia's News on February 5, 2019
The General Assembly is in a state of limbo. Lawmakers are trying to get work done on the busiest day of the year while people are wondering when — or if — the governor will resign. Michael Pope is at the Capitol with the latest.
Lawmakers Agree on Redistricting Commission, But Differ on Execution
Posted in Virginia's News on February 5, 2019

Credit: sabreguy29 / Flickr
The process of drawing maps for House and Senate districts in Virginia has been a source of frustration — for voters and for members of the General Assembly. That process may be on the verge of dramatic change, although not without a knock-down-drag-out fight. Michael Pope reports.
Calls for Northam to Resign Continue in Richmond
Posted in Virginia's News on February 4, 2019
Protests continue today outside the executive mansion in Richmond. As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, the Governor’s former allies and supporters continue to turn their backs.
Lawmaking Goes on in Richmond Despite Northam Controversy
Posted in Virginia's News on February 4, 2019
Lawmakers in Richmond are back at work this week, despite the swirling controversy surrounding Governor Ralph Northam. Michael Pope is at the Capitol with the latest.
Who Exactly Is Justin Fairfax?
Posted in Virginia's News on February 4, 2019

Credit: Lee District Democratic Committee / Creative Commons
The events in Richmond have created a new focus on the lieutenant governor, typically a low-profile job that has suddenly been cast into the spotlight. Michael Pope reports.
Va. News: Post Office Relocation, Virginia Beach Mystery Photos
Posted in Virginia's News on February 4, 2019

Credit: Virginia Public Access Project
A small Virginia town has been wondering why its post office is being moved. It seems they may now have the answer. And, the surprise appearance of some 70-year old photos has created a mystery in Virginia Beach.
Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s VA News link.
More now from Fred Echols.
Birth Control Access Continues to Prompt Heavy Debate in Richmond
Posted in Uncategorized on February 1, 2019
Lawmakers are in a heated debate over abortion this year. But that’s not the only point of distinction between Republicans and Democrats in the General Assembly. Access to birth control is another flashpoint in Richmond. Michael Pope has more.
General Assembly Continues to Erupt Over Tabled Abortion Bill
Posted in Virginia's News on January 31, 2019
A viral video of a House subcommittee meeting has turned the General Assembly upside down and made it the focus of conservative media. Michael Pope has more on the latest round of accusations.
Virginia’s Population Has Grown Over the Last Decade, But Very Slowly
Posted in Virginia's News on January 31, 2019

Richmond, along with the state’s other urban areas, continued to outpace other parts of Virginia in population growth according to the report. (Credit: Will Fisher / Flickr)
Virginia’s population continues to grow, but at a slower rate than the national average. That’s according to a new report from the University of Virginia. Nick Gilmore has details.
Paystub Protections Appear to Have Bi-Partisan Support Across the Capitol
Posted in Virginia's News on January 29, 2019

Credit: sabreguy29 / Flickr
Low-wage workers may be on the verge of getting new protections. Michael Pope reports.
State Lawmakers Split on Regional Carbon Emissions Programs
Posted in Virginia's News on January 29, 2019

Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
Should Virginia work with neighboring states to combat climate change? Lawmakers are divided. And, it’s a partisan disagreement. Michael Pope has more.
Could This Be the Year Virginia Establishes Redistricting Reform?
Posted in Virginia's News on January 28, 2019
Recent years have seen a number of lawsuits challenging how legislative districts are drawn, and many advocates and voters are hoping the system of partisan redistricting is about to change. Michael Pope reports.
Northam Announces Coal Ash Clean Up Agreement
Posted in Virginia's News on January 24, 2019
Virginia’s governor and a bipartisan group of lawmakers are announcing plans to require the state’s largest electric utility to excavate and clean up unlined coal ash pits. Michael Pope has details.
Court Picks Virginia Redistricting Plan that Helps Democrats
Posted in Virginia's News on January 23, 2019

Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
A panel of federal judges has chosen a redistricting map for Virginia’s House of Delegates that could shift some districts toward Democrats and help the party regain control in this year’s election. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
There’s Bipartisan Support to Remove Jim Crow Language from Virginia’s Code, With a Catch
Posted in Virginia's News on January 23, 2019
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are in agreement about getting rid of old Jim Crow language in the code. But Republicans have conditions. Michael Pope reports.
Lawmakers Want to Give Triple Damages to Stiffed Employees in Virginia
Posted in Virginia's News on January 23, 2019
A bipartisan group of lawmakers is coming together to help low-wage workers. Michael Pope reports.
To Make Schools Safe, Election Day Could Become a School Holiday
Posted in Virginia's News on January 22, 2019
After the school shooting in Parkland Florida, lawmakers in Virginia formed a task force to make schools safer. Now, several of their suggestions are now well on their way to becoming law. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
As Shutdown Drags On, Efforts Underway to Protect Impacted Virginians
Posted in Virginia's News on January 22, 2019
With no end in sight to the partial government shutdown in Washington, lawmakers in Richmond are trying to figure out how to help federal employees in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
State Lawmakers Want Employers to Provide Employees With Detailed Paystubs
Posted in Virginia's News on January 22, 2019

Senator Frank Wagner (R-Virginia Beach)
Lawmakers in Richmond are considering legislation to prevent wage theft. Michael Pope has the story.
Legislation to Raise Virginia’s Minimum Wage Killed in State Senate
Posted in Virginia's News on January 21, 2019

Credit: sabreguy29 / Flickr
The minimum wage in Virginia is $7.25 an hour. And, that’s not about to change anytime soon thanks to a party line vote. Michael Pope reports.
State Republicans Have Already Thrown Out Most Gun Control Legislation
Posted in Virginia's News on January 21, 2019
Access to firearms remains one of the hottest issues in Richmond. But the tone of the debate this year — an election year — is taking a dramatic turn. Michael Pope has the story.
Virginia’s Congressional Delegation Split on Government Shutdown
Posted in Virginia's News on January 21, 2019

Credit: John Brighenti / Flickr
With the government shutdown in its second month, the pain is starting to be felt more by federal workers and people who rely on government services. The Commonwealth’s lawmakers remain divided on how to get the government’s lights back on. Michael Pope reports.
Should Virginia Expand “Telemedicine”?
Posted in Virginia's News on January 18, 2019
Technology is moving faster than the pace of lawmakers in Virginia. But some are hoping to catch up to the latest trends in telemedicine. Michael Pope reports.
Should Virginia Impose a Tax on Plastic Bags?
Posted in Virginia's News on January 16, 2019

Credit: velkr0 / Flickr
Are plastic bags a problem in Virginia? Lawmakers in Richmond are divided. Michael Pope has details.
Republicans Hope to Lift Age Cap on Autism Health Insurance Coverage
Posted in Virginia's News on January 15, 2019
Lawmakers in Richmond are hoping to expand health insurance coverage to children with autism. Michael Pope has more.
ERA Clears State Senate, But Future Remains Unclear
Posted in Virginia's News on January 15, 2019
Lawmakers in Virginia are moving forward with an old idea: the Equal Rights Amendment. Michael Pope has the story.
Lawmakers On Both Sides of the Aisle Finding Middle Ground on Foster Care System Reform
Posted in Virginia's News on January 15, 2019
Lawmakers are often divided along party lines on the hottest issues of the day. But, Republicans and Democrats are coming together on at least one issue. Michael Pope has details.
Virginia Inches Closer to Raising the Minimum Wage
Posted in Virginia's News on January 14, 2019

Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
The minimum wage in Virginia is $7.25 an hour, among the lowest in the nation. But, that might be changing soon. Michael Pope reports.
New Democrats Say They Want to Rein in Dominion
Posted in Virginia's News on January 14, 2019
As winter weather sets in, you may be looking at higher energy bills. But some state lawmakers say rates from Dominion are higher than they should be. Mallory Noe-Payne has more from the Capitol.
A Casino Push in Bristol, Danville and Portsmouth
Posted in Virginia's News on January 14, 2019

Credit: TaxRebate.org.uk / Flickr
Could casinos be the key to bringing jobs and revenue to some parts of the state? A bipartisan group of lawmakers thinks so. The effort is targeted to three Virginia localities. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Some Lawmakers Want to Require Minimum Wage for Piecework Laborers in Virginia
Posted in Virginia's News on January 11, 2019
The minimum wage does not apply to all workers, and Virginia law has several categories of workers who are exempt. Although, some lawmakers want to change that. Michael Pope reports.
ACLU Joins Call for More Information on How Virginia Handles Solitary Confinement
Posted in Virginia's News on January 10, 2019

Credit: David Nakayama / Creative Commons
Democratic lawmakers and the ACLU of Virginia are pushing for more information on how the state uses solitary confinement. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
Republicans Outline Legislative Priorities for 2019 Session
Posted in Virginia's News on January 9, 2019
Even though Democrats may have won every statewide election since 2009, Republicans are in control of the House and the Senate. Michael Pope has this preview of their priorities for this year’s General Assembly session.
Examining General Assembly Politics in an Election Year
Posted in Virginia's News on January 9, 2019
Lawmakers are assembling in Richmond for this year’s General Assembly session. The session is expected to last about two months, but many lawmakers are already looking ahead to November. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Board Approves Compressor Station for Atlantic Coast Pipeline
Posted in Virginia's News on January 8, 2019

Opponents of the compressor station express their disagreement by turning their backs to the Air Pollution Control Board. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / RADIO IQ)
A state board gave unanimous approval today to a controversial compressor station for the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Dominion Energy plans to build the station in a historically African-American community in Buckingham County. Mallory Noe-Payne was there as the board voted, and has this report.
State Lawmaker Wants to Reconsider Virginia’s Ban on Guns in Churches
Posted in Virginia's News on January 8, 2019

Credit: Steven Coutts / Flickr
Do guns belong in churches and synagogues? Lawmakers are about to take up that issue in Richmond. Michael Pope reports.
Dems Say Gun Regulations Could Save Lives
Posted in Virginia's News on January 7, 2019
On Monday, House Democrats outlined a set of legislative proposals dealing with gun safety. They say the measures are focused on saving lives. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
At Least One Virginia Lawmaker Wants to Criminalize 3D-Printed Firearms
Posted in Virginia's News on January 7, 2019

Credit: Justin Pickard / Flickr
The rise of 3D printing is creating a whole new world for manufacturing all kinds of items. But it’s also created new concerns about security at courthouses and airports. Michael Pope reports one Virginia lawmaker is hoping to update the code.
Fixing Virginia’s School Counselor Ratio May Be Easier Said Than Done
Posted in Virginia's News on January 3, 2019

Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
After several high-profile school shootings, lawmakers are trying to figure out how to make the classroom safer. But, they may be at odds over how much money to spend. Michael Pope reports.

