Archive for category Virginia’s News
Could a “Digital Tax” Be on the Way for Virginia?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 15, 2020
Lawmakers are about to return to Richmond for a special session, and they’ll be looking for ways to fund criminal justice reform during an economic crisis. Michael Pope has this report about one possible new source of money.
State Lawmakers to Consider Policing Reforms
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 12, 2020

A coalition of 28 groups wants Virginia to reform policing — to emphasize community support rather than military tactics. (Credit: Ashton Erler)
When the General Assembly returns to Richmond in August to address a budget shortfall tied to the COVID pandemic, lawmakers will also be looking at reforms and possible cuts to policing. Sandy Hausman reports.
State Officials Weighing Emergency Medicaid Services for Undocumented Immigrants
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 12, 2020

Credit: CDC
Undocumented immigrants are being hit hard by the COVID-19 health crisis, and access to health care is a major stumbling block for many. But, Virginia could take action to increase availability of testing and treatment. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Schools Face Another Financial Crisis Thanks to COVID-19 and Economic Woes
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 10, 2020
In August, lawmakers will return to Richmond for a special session, and money for schools will be one of the key areas they’ll focus on. Michael Pope reports.
State Officials Outline Plan for Reopening Virginia’s Public Schools This Fall
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 9, 2020

Governor Ralph Northam during a recent COVID-19 update.
State officials outlined a plan Tuesday to reopen Virginia’s public and private schools this fall amid the ongoing pandemic. Nick Gilmore has details.
Here is more information from Governor Northam on the school plan, and details about what each phase of his reopening plan will mean for the state’s schools.
Down Ballot Races May Drive Turnout for Primary Elections This Month
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 8, 2020
Later this month, Republicans will go to the polls in a statewide primary to determine a U.S. Senate candidate. That election might end up being heavily influenced by what happens in two congressional districts. Michael Pope reports.
Rent Still a Concern for Many Struggling Economically, But Some Relief Possibly on the Way
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 5, 2020

The Virginia Supreme Court halted evictions Monday while state leaders work on a rent-relief program.
Meanwhile, new data from the Legal Aid Justice Center shows just how tenuous the situation is for many families struggling with the ongoing health and economic crisis.
Michael Pope reports.
You can find the court’s order here. And you can find more information on the report from the Legal Aid Justice Center here.
**Editor’s note: this story has been updated to include the eviction order from the Virginia Supreme Court.
Expungement Among Some Criminal Justice Reforms Left Behind by General Assembly
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 3, 2020
Democrats campaigned on the issue of criminal justice reform last year. But advocates say when they took power in the House and Senate, a lot of reform still got left behind. Michael Pope reports.
No More Debate: Alexandria Confederate Monument Now Gone
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 2, 2020

The statue honoring Alexandria’s Confederate war dead has been on this pedestal since the 1880s. Now it’s gone, and city leaders say the pedestal will be removed soon. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Confederate statues across the country have long been targets for protesters. But, one Confederate monument in Alexandria is no longer a problem… because it’s not there. Michael Pope reports.
Protestors Demand More than an Apology, After Police Tear Gas Demonstrators
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 2, 2020

Natalie Andre’ addresses Richmond police chief William Smith. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / RADIO IQ)
Hundreds gathered on the steps of Richmond City Hall Tuesday to hear the apology of Mayor Levar Stoney. That’s after the city’s police force fired tear gas into a peaceful rally Monday evening. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
State Lawmakers on Both Sides of the Aisle Call for Criminal Justice Reform
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on June 1, 2020

Credit: NPR
The death of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the protests across the country has lawmakers in Virginia considering criminal justice reform. And, there’s already some bipartisan agreement emerging during this time of crisis. Michael Pope reports.
As Unemployment Rate Soars, Will Job Losses Be Temporary?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 28, 2020

Credit: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Unemployment in Virginia hit a new record this week. Michael Pope reports.
An Early Look at the 2021 Gubernatorial Race
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 27, 2020

Credit: NPR
The election for governor is still 18 months away. But, as Michael Pope reports, candidates are already coming out of the woodwork.
Assessing Higher Education in a Post-Pandemic Virginia
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 26, 2020

Since 2011, private colleges and universities have offered more online learning opportunities. (Credit: Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at UVA)
The pandemic is changing many aspects of life as we now know it, and that’s a trend that will only continue for the rest of the year. Michael Pope has this preview for the fall semester of higher education.
Virginia Finalizing Phone App For COVID-19 Tracking
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 21, 2020

Credit: CDC
State officials expect to have an online COVID-19 self-check tool up and running within the next few days. Virginians will be able to record symptoms and get referred to testing. It’s just one aspect of the digital effort to control the pandemic. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
COVID-19 Benefits: Should Virginia Provide Them to Undocumented Immigrants?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 20, 2020
Should state and local governments in Virginia be helping undocumented immigrants who are being left behind in federal recovery programs? Michael Pope reports.
Controversial 287(g) Program Causing Debate in Prince William County Once Again
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 19, 2020

Credit: ICE
Should local governments be involved in federal immigration enforcement? It’s an issue that’s once again in the spotlight in Prince William County. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Nursing Homes Report Lack of N95 Masks, Isolation Gowns
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 19, 2020

Credit: CDC
Nursing homes in Virginia continue to have difficulty obtaining personal protective equipment. That’s according to new data published this week by the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Working Groups to Northam: Recommendations Should Be Requirements
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 13, 2020
Most of Virginia is about to start opening back up for business, and groups representing Virginia workers are hoping the governor adopts some emergency regulations first. Michael Pope reports.
COVID-19’s Economic Impact is Hitting Communities of Color Harder, Too
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 12, 2020

Credit: The Commonwealth Institute
Virginia is seeing massive amount of unemployment, and massive amount of claims for unemployment insurance. But, some groups are being hit harder than others. Michael Pope reports.
Here’s more information from the Commonwealth Institute.
“The hardest decision I’ve ever made…” Why One Northern Virginia Official Says More Time is Needed
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 11, 2020

Credit: CDC
Virginia may be on the verge of opening back up for business, at least most of Virginia. The governor is now moving toward a regional approach. Michael Pope reports.
Wexton Pushes for More Flexibility in Paycheck Protection Program
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 8, 2020

Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton
Congress is about to put together another coronavirus relief package, and one member of the Virginia delegation has a suggestion on helping businesses. Michael Pope reports.
Unemployment Benefits: What Happens after the Pandemic?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 7, 2020

Congressman Don Beyer (Credit: United States Congress / Wikimedia Commons)
Unemployment insurance is temporary, and it’ll eventually run out. That’s why one Virginia congressman is trying to expand it, although not everywhere all in the same way. Michael Pope explains.
Stress Injuries Common During COVID Crisis
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 7, 2020

Credit: CDC
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve been watching for certain symptoms – fever, for example, or cough. But for anyone touched by this crisis there may also be psychological symptoms. Sandy Hausman reports.
A Congressional Push to Ensure Localities Don’t Shutoff Utilities During Pandemic
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 6, 2020

Before the pandemic struck, the city of Petersburg shut off water to thousands of homes — leaving many without running water during Governor Ralph Northam’s stay-at-home order. (Credit: Ken Lund / Flickr, CC)
Congress is now considering the next round of economic relief prompted by the coronavirus pandemic. And, it might have a provision aimed at helping restore water to dozens of homes in Petersburg. Michael Pope reports.
Churches and COVID-19
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 5, 2020

Credit: Steven Coutts / Flickr, CC
Virginia may be on the verge of opening up again soon. But for now, churches across the Commonwealth are closed. And, that’s led to a legal challenge. Michael Pope reports.
Some State Lawmakers Want to Make it Easier for Long-Term Care Facilities to Share Case Information
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on May 1, 2020
How many cases of Coronavirus are in your neighborhood? Localized data on the pandemic has been difficult to come by. Michael Pope reports.
Expired Sticker? How the State is Handling Vehicle Inspections During a Pandemic
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 30, 2020

Credit: VSP Facebook Page
Did your inspection sticker expire at the end of April? There is some good news: You don’t have to worry about it – for the most part. Michael Pope reports.
Elective Surgeries Will Soon Be Allowed to Resume
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 29, 2020

Credit: CDC
In his Wednesday afternoon briefing, Governor Northam said medical, dental and veterinary facilities will be allowed to resume non-emergency procedures on Friday. Nick Gilmore has details.
Racial Inequity and COVID-19
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 28, 2020

Credit: CDC
The pandemic is hitting blacks and Hispanics hardest in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
Voting in a Pandemic: The Debate Over Next Month’s Local Elections
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 27, 2020

Credit: NPR
Next month, voters across Virginia will be heading to the polls to vote in local elections. That’s despite efforts to move those elections to June or November. Michael Pope reports.
Health Officials Working to Combat COVID-19 in Meat Processing Plants
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 27, 2020

Credit: CDC
A team of federal health officials is expected on the Delmarva Peninsula this week to address growing concerns of coronavirus amidst poultry plant workers. Mallory Noe-Payne has more.
Virginia Congressional Delegation Wants to Protect Contract Workers, Split on Best Strategy
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 27, 2020
Before the global pandemic shut down the economy, President Trump had proposed ship and submarine cuts that were almost universally opposed by Virginia lawmakers. The delegation is now fighting to help the state’s contracting industry while debating how best to do it. Matt Laslo reports.
Northam Lays Out Blueprint for Loosening Restrictions as Deaths from COVID-19 Surpass 400
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 24, 2020

Credit: CDC
During a news conference Friday, Governor Northam offered the first details on a blueprint for how he plans to reopen Virginia. Nick Gilmore has details.
Barring Executive Action, Local Elections in Virginia Will Go Forward in May
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 23, 2020

Credit: NPR
Dozens of elections across Virginia are scheduled to take place a few days from now. As Michael Pope reports, efforts to move those elections have failed.
State Lawmakers to Tackle Definition of “Environmental Justice” Wednesday
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 21, 2020

Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
When lawmakers assemble in Richmond Wednesday, they’ll be considering an amendment from the governor to define environmental justice. Michael Pope reports.
Some State Democrats Want May Elections to Take Place in June Instead of November
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Spotlight on WVTF Public Radio 2012, Virginia's News on April 20, 2020

Credit: NPR
Lawmakers are about to return to Richmond for a General Assembly with social distancing. One issue that could become a flashpoint is what happens to local elections. Michael Pope reports.
Monday: Deaths from COVID-19 Reach 300 in Virginia; State Forms Testing Work Group
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 20, 2020

Credit: CDC
In an afternoon news briefing, Governor Ralph Northam announced the formation of a COVID-19 testing work group. The group will be made up of state health officials, as well as representatives from private and community health care providers. Nick Gilmore has details.
Northam Wants to Speed Up Timeline for Predatory Lending Protections
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 17, 2020

Credit: Taber Andrew Bain / Creative Commons
Lawmakers are about to consider a significant change to legislation aimed at cracking down on predatory lending. As Michael Pope reports, an amendment from the governor will speed up the timeline.
Virginia COVID-19 Cases Jump to 7,491, Northam says Economic Reopening is Tied to Case Data
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 17, 2020

Credit: CDC
The number of positive COVID-19 cases in Virginia jumped to 7,491 Friday, according to the Virginia Department of Health. That’s an increase of 602, the largest daily increase since the health department began reporting the data. Nick Gilmore has details from Governor Ralph Northam’s April 17th briefing.
Advocates Say They Want More Protections for Immigrants With Driver Privilege Cards
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 16, 2020

Credit: NPR
Next week, lawmakers will be considering an amendment to a bill allowing driver’s privilege cards for undocumented immigrants. Michael Pope has the story.
Opponents of Stay-At-Home Orders Rally at Virginia Capitol
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 16, 2020

Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / RADIO IQ
Even as confirmed deaths from COVID-19 rose above 200 today in Virginia, a few dozen people gathered on Capitol Square to protest Governor Ralph Northam’s stay at home orders. Mallory Noe-Payne was there and has this report.
Northam Extends Executive Order Closing Entertainment and Recreational Businesses By Two Weeks
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 15, 2020

Credit: CDC
During a press conference Wednesday, Governor Ralph Northam said social distancing is working, and because of that, the state is flattening the curve of COVID-19. But, as Mallory Noe-Payne reports, the governor is continuing an executive order closing many businesses across the Commonwealth.
A Look at What to Expect from the General Assembly Next Week
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 15, 2020

Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
Lawmakers will return to Richmond next week for what’s called a reconvene session, although this one will be done in the age of social distancing. Michael Pope has this preview.
Northam Signs Several Gun-Control Measures Into Law
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 10, 2020
New gun-safety laws will be radically changing Virginia’s approach starting July 1st. Michael Pope reports.
Lawsuit Could Free Some State Prisoners
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 10, 2020

Governor Northam has announced plans to free about 2,000 inmates who are scheduled for release from state prisons within the next year. They must pose no threat to public safety and have good prison records. About 28,000 more will remain behind bars – even if they’re disabled or have medical conditions putting them at high risk for death if they were to catch COVID-19. Meanwhile, a federal lawsuit may mean freedom for others as Sandy Hausman reports.
Congressional Response: Virginia’s Delegation and Their Efforts to Combat the Virus
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 10, 2020

Credit: NPR
Virginia lawmakers aren’t in Washington these days, but they’re working overtime to assist constituents in the midst of this coronavirus pandemic. Matt Laslo reports from Washington.
Many Localities Across Virginia Facing Tough Budget Decisions Thanks to COVID-19
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 9, 2020
Local governments across Virginia are now reassessing their budgets for the coming year. Michael Pope has this report on what to expect.
Update: Pets and COVID-19
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 9, 2020

Credit: Robbie Harris
There’s new evidence that cats can become infected with Coronavirus, but preliminary studies show they do not get sick with the disease, nor are they likely pass it on to people. Robbie Harris reports.
State Officials Want Better Racial Demographic Information on COVID-19 Cases
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on April 8, 2020

Credit: CDC
Is the pandemic hitting the African-American community harder in Virginia? As Michael Pope reports, the data on that is missing – for now.

