Chef Todd Scheider/File

The judge presiding over the case of a former Executive Mansion chef accused of embezzlement says that she will make a decision by the end of the week on whether to dismiss the charges.  Richmond Circuit Court Judge Margaret Spencer also heard oral arguments by defense attorney Steven Benjamin–who asked for dismissal of the charges against Todd Schneider–and the special prosecutor, Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Gregory Underwood, who argued against dropping the charges.  Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan has more details from the courthouse in Richmond.

More bills that have become state law as of July 1st include a series of changes in education policies that were key parts of the Governor’s legislative agenda during this year’s General Assembly session. Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports that while the reforms were initially met with mixed reviews, many past and present education leaders on both sides of the political aisle now say that without them, some students could fall behind.

Nearly two dozen new or “tweaked” public safety laws are now in effect as of Monday.  Many, such as a two-year moratorium on the use of drones in the Commonwealth, may go unnoticed.  But as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports in Part 4 of our series, lawmakers say that if they improve the quality of life for just one person, they’re well worth the debate, financial commitment, and paper they’re printed on.

Prior to the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to suspend part of the Voting Rights Act, Virginia’s General Assembly had already passed some revisions to state election law.  Although the Commonwealth IS one of the states that the Act had mandated for Justice Department pre-clearance, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli believes at least some of the bills passed earlier this year are necessary.  In Part 5 of our series on the new state laws that just took effect, Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports that lawmakers passed them with a goal of ensuring the integrity of elections.

Texting-while-driving was already against the law, but now police have a new tool that will enable them to hand out more citations.  Supporters of the revised Virginia law hope that steep fines will deter drivers from taking their eyes off the road to read and send text messages.  But in part 2 of our series on new state laws that took effect this week, Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports that texting is not the only activity that’s targeted. 

Among the new state laws that take effect today is the marquis legislation of this year’s General Assembly session:  the long-term transportation-funding plan.  With road maintenance eating away at construction dollars and the gas tax losing ground as an adequate funding source, lawmakers decided that a wholesale revision of the transportation funding formula was necessary.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the changes will impact not only drivers but all consumers who make purchases.

A Virginia contingent including the group Environment Virginia is reacting to President Obama’s new EPA regulations and the crackdown on CO2-producing power plants.  The members are speaking out about how they believe Virginia is being affected by gas emissions …and note that the Commonwealth broke several heat, snow, and rainfall records last year.  But as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, they also say that the rise over the years of a debilitating tick-born disease is just as disturbing.

Before Democrats, including Vice President Joe Biden, converge on Richmond this weekend for their Jefferson-Jackson dinner, another caucus will take place. The members say that as the Latino presence expands in Virginia, it’s imperative for them to be politically involved—especially as lawmakers make decisions specific to their communities with or without their input.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, that’s also why the Commonwealth’s Democratic Latino Organization has called its members to meet in Richmond this Saturday.

There is mixed reaction in Virginia regarding the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of federal recognition of all legal marriages. In a statement, the Attorney General’s office says it will defend the Virginia Constitution, which defines marriage as the union between one man and one woman.  But as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, that position is pitted against another legal juggernaut, the ACLU, which is applauding the decision and says it will fight to pave the way for same-sex marriages within the state.

An amendment proposed by U.S. Senator Mark Warner to the immigration-reform bill is languishing in the Senate even as the legislation moves closer to passage.  The amendment would enable more highly skilled, foreign-born college graduates and entrepreneurs in science and technology to start businesses in the U.S.   Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports that as China, India, and other nations make gains to close their economic gaps with the U.S., Warner believes his plan is more imperative than ever.

Chris Chmura,
Chmura Economics & Analytics

A well-known economist is relaxing her predictions somewhat about the effects of federal sequestration on Virginia and now sees a reason for some optimism. As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, Chris Chmura says although the impact of the cuts will still hurt the Commonwealth more than most states, she expects there will be some modest job growth.

A panel of experts whose responsibility is preparing Virginia for more uniform laws throughout the 50 states is NOT ready to sign off on proposed human trafficking legislation. As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, while one Commissioner for Promotion of Uniformity of Legislation believes the concept is great, he also says some tweaking is needed before the Commonwealth joins the other states that are ready right now.

Planned Parenthood and abortion-rights advocates may have lost the battle over the implementation of new Regulations for Licensure of Abortion Facilities, but now the organization is targeting the gubernatorial campaign of the man they say is responsible for those new laws.  Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli is now the recipient of Planned Parenthood Virginia PAC’s “Gynotician of the Year Award.”
Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports that in addition to the stethoscope and certificate dropped off at his office, the group hopes its efforts will result in handing him a defeat in November.

Photo Credit: Every Child Matters Campaign

Child advocates are calling out statewide candidates and demanding they take a stand on children’s issues and make them a major part of their campaigns.  The  “Strong Kids, Strong Virginia” initiative was launched after a recent Mason-Dixon survey found that the gubernatorial candidates’ views on the matter are murkier than those of current and former governors. And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the coalition aims to raise awareness of these issues so that candidates and elected officials will take notice. 

A panel of state lawmakers has begun a serious review of Virginia’s tax credits, exemptions, deductions, and similar “preferences.”
The evaluation comes after the Joint Audit and Legislative Review Commission found that the tax breaks did not always perform as intended, were often inefficient, and cost the state billions of dollars in revenues.
But as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the members of the Joint Subcommittee to Evaluate Tax Preferences say that overhauling the tax code will not be easy.

The General Assembly panel tasked with deciding whether Virginia should expand its Medicaid program or not held its first meeting–in a room packed with expansion opponents, many representing groups such as Americans for Prosperity.

The Senators and Delegates wasted no time getting up to speed on the complex facts about how the program currently operates. And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the need for more flexible administration and control of skyrocketing costs emerged as two of the major themes.

Photo Credit: Virginia Organizing

A comprehensive immigration reform bill in the U.S. Senate that survived an effort to expand its border-security requirements still has a long way to go before its passage.  Meanwhile, a House bill with tougher enforcement provisions is being advanced by Republicans-led by 6th District Congressman Bob Goodlatte.  But as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, a state coalition says the Commonwealth’s residents prefer the Senate version … and it’s urging the Congressional delegation to support it.

Several organizations are still advocating for Virginia lawmakers to expand Medicaid within the Commonwealth. Opponents have argued that it is already too costly, is the largest single item in the state budget, and is in need of many reforms. But as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the Department of Medical Assistance Services says it is addressing one major expense-by simplifying the process for providing care to those who receive both Medicaid and Medicare.

Painting themselves as the “mainstream ticket,” the Democratic nominees for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General say Virginians have a clear contrast between them and the Republican nominees, which the Democrats have dubbed “the Tea Party ticket.” And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, as a show of solidarity, the defeated primary candidates announced that they’re now committing themselves to getting their former opponents elected.

Not all minds learn the same way.  However, when it comes to education, millions of children across the U.S. are swept into the same system of state and federal mandates—with expectations of positive academic results AND developing a sense of individuality. But as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, parents at Patrick Henry Elementary school in Richmond, the Commonwealth’s only elementary charter school, are telling lawmakers that the state needs more charter schools and it’s time to get rid of the associated stigma.

Regardless of where you stand on the issue, implementation of the Affordable Care Act is coming, and the reality is it will have an impact on businesses—large and small.  The Virginia Chamber of Commerce led a strategy session for its members to help make implementation less burdensome.
Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports that the question asked by many businesses—especially smaller ones— is how they can remain competitive and innovative while spending a significant share of dollars on health insurance.

Virginia’s Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli is accusing the IRS of refusing to release $125-million  in settlement funds to Virginia.  It comes at a time when the IRS is under scrutiny for its spending and other questionable practices, but the Attorney General says that’s just a coincidence. And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, after months of trying to get the agency to ante up, he’s shining a light on the problem through the media with hopes of getting a response.

Hunger pangs may be a sign to raid the refrigerator, order carryout, heat up some leftovers, or head to your favorite restaurant.  But thousands of Virginia children don’t have that option.  In fact—and it’s a little-known fact—area food banks throughout the Commonwealth are in greater need of supplies over the summer than over the holidays, when most food drives take place.  Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil has more details.

In a rare joint appearance, Virginia’s major-party gubernatorial candidates appeared on the same stage, albeit very briefly.  But Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli and Terry McAuliffe seemed to respect one another, while also describing their definition of transparency and open government—the theme for the Virginia Public Access Project luncheon.  As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, while they both have support for business and economic development in common, they are far apart on many other issues.

Although the General Assembly this year shot down one opportunity for Governor McDonnell to fulfill a campaign promise to restore the voting and civil rights of nonviolent felons, the Governor has found a way to sidestep lawmakers and make progress toward that goal.  A day after Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli unveiled his advisory report on the issue, McDonnell announced his own initiative.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, it does not require amending the state Constitution.

Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli has unveiled a list of options that would expedite the process of voting-rights restoration for non-violent felons.  The proposals were made by a bipartisan advisory panel he created after a rights-restoration amendment to the state Constitution that he endorsed failed to pass the General Assembly this year.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the Attorney General says Governors can and should do more to intervene.

Meantime, Democrats aren’t buying the Attorney General’s change of heart. They accuse him of playing election -year politics as he campaigns for Governor.

As the statewide and local campaigns heat up and we move closer to a Democratic Primary, the State Board of Elections wants to remind citizens of a number of rules to remember regarding voter and candidate ethics.  As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the Board takes seriously state code violations which could result in fines or other penalties.

Tens of thousands of state employees will likely see an increase in the cost of their health insurance plans beginning July 1st.   They also face a deadline this week,  as the Commonwealth begins to implement significant changes in its health insurance plans.  Open enrollment for revising health benefits, investing in flexible spending accounts, adding family members, and other options ends this Friday.  Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, reductions in premiums could await those who enroll in a new Wellness Engine called “MyActiveHealth.”

State revenues improved a little last month following a dismal drop of 6.1%  in March.  The news reassured members of the House Appropriations Committee, who worry that federal sequestration cuts could have a negative impact on both Virginia’s economy and the state’s coffers.  As Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the Commonwealth’s Secretary of Finance confirmed that they have good reason for concern.

More than 13,000 GOP convention delegates have converged on Richmond from all over the state to confirm Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli as the party’s gubernatorial nominee—and to nominate their candidates for Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General on Saturday.  Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil talked with some of them to find out why they’re delegates, what they expect to hear Saturday, and who they’re supporting.

Liberty University is once again rolling the dice by asking a three-judge panel appointed by Presidents Clinton and Obama to side with the Christian-based college against some of the mandates in the Affordable Care Act.  The 4^th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel  pointed out that Liberty’s case is broader than other, similar suits.  Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports that some judges questioned whether it’s premature since all regulations have not yet gone into effect.

A new Quinnipiac poll gauges where Virginia voters stand on Governor Bob McDonnell in light of the relationship between McDonnell and Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams, who paid for wedding catering for the Governor’s daughter.  As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the poll suggests that the Governor has taken a popularity hit—but not enough right now to threaten his political career.

A Richmond judge has set a trial date for the felony embezzlement case of former Executive Mansion chef Todd Schneider, who is accused of stealing food from the residence.  Schneider also catered the wedding of Governor McDonnell’s daughter, and his descriptions of the relationships between Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams, the McDonnell family, and Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli have prompted new investigations but no new charges.  Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan has more details from the courthouse in Richmond.

Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Gregory Underwood will now handle the state embezzlement case of a former Executive Mansion chef.  That’s because a Richmond circuit court judge has agreed to Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli’s request to withdraw from the case.  But  it’s not certain yet whether the chef who believes he’s a whistleblower will have to go to trial.

Todd Schneider’s lawyers argued that because the Attorney General knew of alleged improprieties between the Governor’s office and the CEO of nutritional supplements-maker Star Scientific, the Attorney General’s office should not have filed the charges against Schneider to begin with, and the case should be dismissed.

Judge Margaret Spencer delayed ruling on that until the new prosecutor can review the case.  Schneider claims that Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams broke ethics laws by paying the catering bill for the wedding of McDonnell’s daughter.

The AG had asked to recuse himself, in part, because his office would face a conflict with state employees who may be called as witnesses.  The next hearing has been set for May 14.

While other states with a high military presence brace for the effects of sequestration, Virginia leaders are preparing for a double whammy with the possibility of another Base Realignment and Closure of key facilities.  But as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, unlike the last round of closures where the Commonwealth had little input, a gubernatorial commission is devising a strategy to make potential cuts less harmful.

The State Board of Education is moving forward with proposed “cut” or passing scores for Standards of Learning. As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the new cut scores are to help implement more rigorous standards to promote college and career readiness.

No action has been taken yet, but next month when the Virginia State Board of Education meets, it will discuss establishing new licensing requirements for educators who teach only online courses. And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, it reflects a concern that while online courses may be an effective cost-cutting measure, the reduced level of student-teacher interaction could decrease the effectiveness of instruction.

A study by the George Mason University Mercatus  Center ranks Virginia 8th among the 50 states in overall freedom.  Analysts examined a wide range of public policies and categories to create an index that measures both personal and economic freedoms.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the Commonwealth’s approach to fiscal and regulatory policies fared better than some other measures.

Graphic: Women’s Monument Commission

A monument to honor the achievements of Virginia’s women will be erected on Capitol Square once the funds are raised from private sources.  The monument is said to be the first of its kind in the nation… and will join the legendary statues of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and other historic icons on the grounds of the State Capitol.  As Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, a design that pays tribute to specific individuals AND women from all walks of life has been selected.

When the Department of Justice told Virginia that it must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act in caring for the intellectually and developmentally disabled, the state reached a compromise. The plan was to close four of its institutions and provide thousands of waiver slots through Medicaid for community-based housing. As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the major stakeholders have met to evaluate the plan’s progress.

A remembrance ceremony on the grounds of Capitol Square today [Tuesday] marked the 6th anniversary of the Virginia Tech shootings.  State officials joined family members of students who were killed and a survivor of the shootings to honor the 32 victims who lost their lives that day.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, they also had other horrific tragedies on their minds.

The question of which candidates have qualified to be on the June 11^th primary ballot is now settled.  Four candidates are running in the statewide Democratic primary for the offices of Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General, but voters may be surprised to learn that a number of Democratic and Republican candidates for the House of Delegates and local offices will also be on the ballot.  Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan has more details.

Voters can find all primary candidates in their districts on the State Board of Elections website.  The last day to register to vote for the June primary is May 20^th.

Steve Helber/AP

Although they won’t take effect until an executive branch review and the final adoption period, new abortion regulations that hold clinics to the same health and safety standards as hospitals have been sanctioned by the State Board of Health. And now, those who are against them say the Board ignored the concerns of people it represents by not granting exceptions to existing clinics—and instead choosing to be pawns of Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli.  Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil explains.

Image Credit: The Commonwealth Institute

While Virginians wait for the dust to settle and lawmakers breathe a sigh of relief that the transportation funding battle is over, the nonprofit Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis has combed through the rubble to examine its effects.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the think-tank’s report suggests that in their attempt to fix one problem, lawmakers may have actually created others.

A large contingent of Virginians says it will pressure congressional representatives to vote against  a proposal by the Obama administration that cuts into Social Security benefits. The AARP is part of the group that says the “Chained CPI” proposal breaks the promise made to millions of Americans.  As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the members expect all of their benefits to be available when it’s their time to collect. 

Governor McDonnell heads out West this week … before flying to the Far East on a trade mission to China and Japan.  A team of state economic development officials and cabinet secretaries will travel with the Governor on a 16-day job creation and marketing mission that begins in Los Angeles and San Francisco.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, he plans to “sell Virginia” in both Asia AND California.

A new state school division to manage some under-performing schools is not the only change to public education to be approved this year by state lawmakers.  An array of new laws to revise some programs and expand others will soon take effect.  And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, they will have an impact on students, teachers, and school administrations statewide.

The State Board of Elections has learned that there could be thousands of Virginia voters who are registered to vote in other states—and the number could rise once more data is collected. Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil explains that as a result, the voting integrity of some of those residents who have lived in other states could be called into question.