A Surprising Year for College Applications
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 16, 2021
The pandemic has played havoc with many things this year including college admissions.
As Sandy Hausman reports, applications at some schools were up dramatically, while other institutions appear to be falling short.
Senate Committee Kills Workers Comp Retaliation Bill
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 15, 2021
Senators rejected a House bill that would prevent employers from retaliating against their employees.
Michael Pope explains why.
State Lawmakers Considering Baseline Data Privacy Law
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 15, 2021
What can a company do with your personal data? That’s what lawmakers are discussing in the General Assembly. California already has its own law. Jahd Khalil reports on a data protection act proposed for Virginia.
Legislation Moving Forward in Richmond Would Ban Guns at All Virginia Polling Places
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 15, 2021
Now that Democrats are in control of the General Assembly, firearms are prohibited in a number of places. And, one of those places might soon be a polling place. Michael Pope has the story.
Va. News: Absentee Ballots and Boosting Minority Owned Businesses
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 14, 2021
Minority owned businesses in the upper Shenandoah Valley will soon have a new source of capital. And Virginia lawmakers are looking to change the way absentee ballots are counted.
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.
It’s Open Season for Campaign Fundraising Thanks to Mostly Online Special Session
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 12, 2021
Lawmakers are now in a General Assembly unlike any other, partly because it’s largely virtual. But, the laws around campaign fundraising also work differently. Michael Pope reports.
Adoption Agency “Conscience Clause” is Target of Legislation
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 12, 2021
Lawmakers are debating a bill aimed at preventing discrimination by adoption agencies.
But, as Michael Pope reports, the House and the Senate are divided over how to do it.
A Divide Over Electric School Buses?
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 12, 2021
Last year’s passage of the Virginia Clean Economy Act meant electric utilities needed to come up with more than 3,000 megawatts of energy storage capacity. One place was in the batteries of electric school buses.
But as Jahd Khalil reports, some Democratic lawmakers and environmental groups weren’t on the same.
Bill Extending Background Check Processing Time for Gun Purchases Moving Forward
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 11, 2021
Last year, Democrats took action on a host of new gun control laws. Now, they are coming back around to make some changes. Michael Pope explains.
Legislation Seeking to Cut Back on Court Fees Now Under Consideration by State Senate
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 11, 2021
Senators are considering a House bill that would reduce some court fines and fees. Michael Pope reports.
State Lawmakers Working to Come Together on Virginia’s Budget
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 10, 2021
Lawmakers in Richmond are trying to balance the books during a pandemic and an economic crisis. Michael Pope reports.
Legislation Closing Campaign Finance Loophole Moving Forward in Richmond
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 10, 2021
Virginia lawmakers may be on the verge of closing one of the most notorious campaign finance loopholes in the country. Michael Pope reports.
DMV Data Legislation Currently Under Consideration by State Senate
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 10, 2021
Earlier this year, Virginia residents with an undocumented immigration status could apply for a Virginia driver privilege card for the first time. But advocates were concerned that Immigration and Customs Enforcement could use the DMV data without a court order. Jahd Khalil has more.
Virginia House and Senate at Standoff Over Expungement… Again
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 10, 2021
Lawmakers agree they want to make it easier to expunge old criminal records. But, for a year now Democrats who control the General Assembly have not been able to agree about how to make that happen. Michael Pope explains why.
Virginia Senate Considering Legislation Declaring Racism a Public Health Crisis
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 9, 2021
Lawmakers are considering a resolution that makes a declaration about the problem of racism. Michael Pope reports.
A Look at Some of the Transportation-Related Legislation Moving Forward at the General Assembly
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 8, 2021
Nearly half of Virginia’s carbon emissions come from transportation. The House of Delegates took on a number of bills hoping to reduce those emissions, and now they’re in the senate’s hands. Jahd Khalil has this report.
Despite Republican Calls for a Short Session, General Assembly to Continue This Week
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 8, 2021
The General Assembly session is now at its midpoint. Republicans tried to force Democrats into a shorter session, but that strategy failed. Michael Pope has details.
Va. News: Virginia Beach Controversy, Civic Engagement Legislation
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 7, 2021
Virginia is about to enact a law that will make it easier for students to publicly engage in politics thanks to Republicans and Democrats working together. And a reminder in Virginia Beach that Americans have the right to be crude.
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.
Virginia Senate Follows House’s Lead, Votes to Legalize Marijuana
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 5, 2021
Lawmakers are moving forward with legalizing marijuana. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Senate Advances Bill Seeking to Expand the State’s Court of Appeals
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 5, 2021
Lawmakers are moving forward with a bill that could dramatically change the legal system in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
House of Delegates Votes to Abolish Death Penalty
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 5, 2021
Friday, the House of Delegates voted to abolish the death penalty by a vote of 57 to 41. Virginia’s now poised to be the first state in the south to abolish the death penalty. As Jahd Khalil reports, Friday’s vote in the House of Delegates comes after an emotional debate the day before.
Northam: Virginia School Divisions Should Offer an In-Person Option by March 15th
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 5, 2021
After the pandemic caused Governor Ralph Northam to close Virginia’s public schools last spring, he says it’s now time to reopen. Nick Gilmore has details.
Benefits of Birding in a Pandemic
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 4, 2021
COVID-19 is not a risk to birds. In fact, the pandemic has been very good for our feathered friends. Sandy Hausman spoke with the owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Charlottesville.
State Education Officials Say Many Students Have Some Catching Up to Do Thanks to the Pandemic
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 4, 2021
The pandemic prompted Virginia public schools to call off the Standards of Learning test used to assess student achievement statewide, but other measures point to trouble at a time when many kids are expected to learn online. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Legislation Ending Session Immunity for State Lawmakers Dies in Senate Committee
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 4, 2021
Elected officials like to tell voters they’re just like everybody else. But, they actually have immunity from prosecution during the General Assembly session. Michael Pope has details.
Bill Requiring Absentee Ballots to be Recorded in Precincts Where Voters Live Moves Forward
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 4, 2021
As more and more voters move toward absentee voting, important data about the geography of elections is not being collected. Michael Pope reports on an effort to fix that problem.
House of Delegates Set to Vote on Marijuana Legalization Friday
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 4, 2021
Last year, Virginia decriminalized the possession of marijuana. Thursday, the House of Delegates discussed the issues involved with legalizing it. Jahd Khalil reports.
Virginia Senate Passes Death Penalty Abolition Bill
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 3, 2021
Virginia has executed more people for a longer period of time than any other state. But, that’s about to change. Michael Pope reports.
Bill Adding More Transparency to New Redistricting Commission Advances
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 3, 2021
Last year was a census year. That means this year Virginia is redrawing legislative districts. And a piece of legislation seeks to add transparency, and accessibility, to the process. Jahd Khalil reports.
School Building Fund Legislation Advances
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 2, 2021
Lawmakers are debating a number of bills about what happens inside Virginia classrooms.
And as Michael Pope reports, they’re also considering a bill that aimed at improving school buildings across Virginia.
Criminal Justice Reform: Should Virginia Remove Presumptions Against Bail?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 2, 2021
Lawmakers are talking about a number of ways to reform the criminal justice system. And, one way is to change how the cash bail system works. Michael Pope reports.
The Legislative Effort to Make Environmental Justice Part of Virginia’s Code
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 2, 2021
Last year Virginia enacted the Virginia Environmental Justice Act. It made environmental justice the policy of the Commonwealth. Jahd Khalil has more on a bill to put it into action in each level of government.
Drop Boxes and Mail-In Ballots: Should Pandemic-Related Election Changes Be Permanent?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 1, 2021
Many of the pandemic-related changes to Virginia elections might end up being permanent. Michael Pope explains why.
House Subcommittee Takes Closer Look at Utility Overearnings
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 1, 2021
In Virginia, utility companies are allowed a certain rate of return. If they make more money than that, they typically have to give it back.
But Virginia also has a law which, unlike in other states, allows companies to take over-earnings and invest them in infrastructure projects.
As Jahd Khalil reports, the House of Delegates is taking a closer look at that.
Effort to End Qualified Immunity Shelved This Session, Likely to Become Campaign Issue
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on February 1, 2021
Lawmakers are rejecting efforts to end qualified immunity for police officers. Michael Pope reports.
Va. News: Old Mining Sites could become Data Centers, Helping Whales & Ships Co-Exist
Posted by dseidelvtedu in Uncategorized on February 1, 2021
Remnants of southwestern Virginia’s economic past may be among the keys to its economic future. And researchers are looking for ways to make the Chesapeake Bay safer for humpback whales.
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.
VDH: Vaccine Administration Ramping Up, More Doses Expected Next Week
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 29, 2021
Last week, officials admitted Virginia had one of the worst state rates for administering vaccine on hand. This week, the news is better. Sandy Hausman reports.
Ending the Death Penalty: What Financial Impacts Could Virginia See?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 29, 2021
Lawmakers are considering legislation to abolish the death penalty in Virginia. Michael Pope reports on the potential financial implications.
Effort to Abolish the Panic Defense in Virginia Clears Hurdle in House of Delegates
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 29, 2021
Lawmakers are considering a bill that would create new protections for people based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Michael Pope reports.
State Lawmakers Weigh the Very Nuanced Issue of Conviction Expungement
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 28, 2021
Lawmakers are trying to work their way through a number of complicated issues this year. One of the most nuanced issues this year is how to expunge old convictions. Michael Pope has details.
Should Guns Be Allowed at Virginia’s Capitol Square?
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 28, 2021
Rising concern over the safety of lawmakers and the public is causing lawmakers to reconsider where guns are allowed near the state Capitol. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Senators Censure Amanda Chase
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 27, 2021
Members of the Virginia Senate are taking action to censure one of their own. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Senate to Decide Fate of Paid Sick Days Legislation
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 27, 2021
As the pandemic continues to grip Virginia, lawmakers are debating paid sick days. Michael Pope reports.
Northam Says More Vaccines On the Way, Promises Transparency
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 27, 2021
The COVID-19 vaccination effort has been a confusing one in Virginia up until this point. The governor worked to address frustration with the process Wednesday. Nick Gilmore reports.
The governor has also extended restrictions put in place last month to cut down on further spread of COVID-19 through the end of February. They were originally set to expire this week.
“We are ramping up vaccinations. This is no time to let down our guard,” he said.
Those restrictions include a stay-at-home order from 12 to 5am each day, a universal mask mandate for everyone five and older and a cap on social gatherings to 10 people.
Bill Adding Additional Scrutiny for Precinct Decisions Advances
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 26, 2021
Lawmakers are considering several changes to how elections work in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
‘Right to Appeal’ Legislation Clears One Hurdle in Virginia Senate
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 26, 2021
Lawmakers in Virginia are considering a proposal that would make a major change to the legal system in Virginia. Michael Pope has details.
Challenges Abound for Vaccination Efforts in Virginia’s Rural Communities
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 26, 2021
This week, some of Virginia’s rural health districts have begun the second round of COVID-19 vaccines, in addition to immunizing people in group 1B. That’s putting a strain on health districts on the Eastern Shore, Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck. Pamela D’Angelo spoke with the doctor who’s heading up efforts there.
Bill Ditching Signature Requirement for Absentee Ballots Passes State Senate
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 25, 2021
Lawmakers are considering a bill that would ditch the signature requirement for absentee ballots. Michael Pope has details.
Debate Over Mandatory Minimum Sentences Pops Up Again in Richmond
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 25, 2021
Lawmakers are considering a bill that would transform how sentencing works in Virginia. Michael Pope has details.
Va. News: VCU Professor’s Overdose Awareness Efforts, National Guard Music Teacher
Posted by Nick Gilmore in Virginia's News on January 24, 2021
A VCU professor has come up with an idea he hopes will be a lifesaver for people who overdose on opioids. And a Virginia public school music teacher has been there for his students even while deployed to D.C. with the National Guard.
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.
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