Virginia Public Radio: Recent Episodes
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Credit: NPRLast week, voters elected a state senator from Loudoun to Congress. Now, as Michael Pope reports, the special election to fill that seat will determine control of the Virginia state Senate.
Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis speaks before the Virginia State Crime Commission at their November 2024 meeting. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Technology to photograph and read your car’s license plate isn’t new, but laws for how Virginia law enforcement agencies use that tech may be after the 2025 legislative session. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
While the dust from this month’s election settles, there’s plenty of looking ahead to 2025.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne Youngkin assesses storm damage caused by Hurricane Helene in Grayson County. (Credit: Christian Martinez / Governor Youngkin’s office)Governor Glenn Youngkin held a press conference to update the state on its ongoing response to Hurricane Helene. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
A recent change to early voting may be helping Democrats in a series of special elections that are about to happen. Michael Pope reports.
Sharon Pressler, from Chatham, said this is the third time her family has made the trip to Buckhanan County to see elk. (Credit: Roxy Todd / Radio IQ)If you’re in far southwest Virginia during fall, you might here an elk bugling…
These 700-pound animals used to live throughout the eastern United States, but European colonizers overhunted them, and they went extinct in the 1800s.
Now, elk are coming back. Roxy Todd joined a bus tour of tourists who traveled to see elk in their new habitat.
Members of the Virginia General Assembly will consider a trio of constitutional amendments when they gavel into session in two months. Michael Pope has a preview.
Lanie Kruszewski’s ghost bike along River Road in Richmond. (Credit: Ian Stewart)While many are preparing to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, others are preparing for another, more somber event.
This Sunday, November 17th, families from around the globe will hold vigils and memorials to honor the people lost due to road-related tragedies.
It’s called World Day of Remembrance. And for some Virginians, the day is a reminder to keep fighting for changes in legislation to make the streets safer for everyone.
Ian Stewart has more.
Former Governor Terry McAuliffe speaks to students at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government. (Credit: Michael Pope)Why did Democrats under-perform in the election last week? Michael Pope has perspective from a former governor.
When UVA rejected his application, Arthur Brown negotiated a better deal. Today, he’s US Ambassador to Ecuador. (Credit; U. S. State Department)The U.S. has nearly 200 ambassadors in other countries, and when a new president takes office, some of them will likely be replaced.
One of them is a Virginia man with a remarkable story to tell.
Sandy Hausman spoke with him and filed this report.
Credit: NPRTurnout in rural parts of Virginia last week was larger than many Democrats expected. Michael Pope has the numbers.
Virginia Board of Education President Grace Turner Creasey, Governor Glenn Youngkin and Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons at a press conference announcing new school standards. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin gave a name to his new education standards Friday morning. Brad Kutner has more on the new effort and some concerns about its roll out.
The Asian community is playing an increasingly large role in shaping the politics of Northern Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
The voting is over while the counting continues and the analysis of what worked and what didn’t is well underway.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRThe election is not over yet. Two sitting members of the state Senate got new jobs in the U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday, which means at least two special elections.
Michael Pope has a preview.
As final vote totals continue to trickle in, some of the contours of the election are emerging from the numbers. Michael Pope is taking a look at the statewide candidates.
Green Rock inmate Armando Sosa shares details of a troubled childhood and his educational efforts in prison. (Credit: Delia Cohen/Proximity for Justice)Forty years ago, an American designer and two of his friends hosted a TED talk – the first in a series of lectures about technology, education and design at a conference center in California.
Beginning in 1990 it became an annual event, and now it’s spreading through a collection of independent programs focused on local and regional people and issues.
This year, TEDx hosted its first event at a Virginia prison. Sandy Hausman has details.
Virginia House Speaker Don Scott speaks with reporters the day after Donald Trump won reelection. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Republican candidates may not have won Tuesday’s statewide races in Virginia.
But Donald Trump’s success at the national level has Virginia Democrats looking for ways to turn the party’s luck around in the future, as Brad Kutner reports.
Virginians have made their voices heard in the 2024 election. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch – break down the results from across the Commonwealth.
Democrat Eugene Vindman at his watch party in Fredericksburg. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Democrat Eugene Vindman declared victory in Virginia’s 7th District congressional race Tuesday night. Brad Kutner has more from Fredericksburg.
The Deyerle precinct in Roanoke saw a brisk business on Election Day 2024. (Credit: David Seidel)More than two-thirds of registered voters in Virginia have waited until Election Day to cast their ballots for president, U.S. senator, House members and some local offices.
Joe Staniunas talked to some Roanoke voters who showed up to vote today and found a mixture of anxiety and hope.
Credit: NPRIf you’ve been anywhere near a television recently, you’ve probably seen a flood of political ads. Michael Pope details the spending spree.
Former President Donald Trump is headed to Virginia Saturdayfor a rally in Salem, three days before the election. Roxy Todd spoke with political analyst Karen Hult, who says Trump is likely hoping the move will boost Republican turnout for congressional races.
The law requiring Virginia’s Department of Motor Vehicles to produce a list of suspected noncitizens to strike from the roll of eligible voters was signed by then Governor Tim Kaine almost 20 years ago. Michael Pope has this look at what was happening at the time.
Marian Fuller on board her Albemarle County school bus. (Credit: Christine Kueter)Driving a school bus is tough work—early mornings, tight schedules, navigating the roads as well as the ups and downs of the school lives and home lives of dozens of children.
In our Meet Virginia series, Christine Kueter introduces us to one driver who’s been doing it for more than 40 years.
We’re in the final days of the 2024 campaign.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
A Virginia big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus) female in the early spring photographed during a cave survey. (Credit: Larisa Bishop-Boros / Wikimedia)It’s Halloween, which means it’s time for spooky ghosts and scary bats! But Brad Kutner spoke to one researcher who argues bats, including Virginia’s own state bat, are more helpful than scary.
A ballot drop box sits out front of the Powhatan County’s Registrar’s office. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Across Virginia, voters are putting their ballots in drop boxes. Michael Pope has this look at drop box security.
(Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne)As the 2024 presidential election nears, fears of voter fraud and voting by noncitizens have dominated national dialogue.
Here in Virginia, Brad Kutner found proof of such claims is rare at best.
Credit: NPRThe airwaves are being flooded with political ads, but many of them are not from the candidates or their campaigns. Michael Pope tells us about outside spending from political action committees.
The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Governor Glenn Youngkin Wednesday, and allowed his plan to remove potential noncitizens from Virginia’s voting rolls to resume. Brad Kutner has more.
You can check your registration status here.
The Miller Center’s Professor Barbara Perry (Credit: UVA)When the presidential campaigns are finally over and the votes are counted and certified, there’s one more thing that could change the course of American history.
It’s called the Electoral College, and we are the only democracy in the world that still has this remnant of an earlier time.
Sandy Hausman reports on what it is, how it works, and why it’s still a thing.
Virginia’s governor says his embattled voter purge program is just an effort to keep noncitizens off the state’s voter roll. But, as Brad Kutner found out, many legal voters have been caught in the fray, too.
While Election Day is next week, Virginians have been voting for weeks. Michael Pope has this look at early voting so far.
Credit: NPRJustices at the United States Supreme Court are deciding whether to consider Governor Glenn Youngkin’s voter purge. Michael Pope has the latest.
Credit: Roxy Todd / Radio IQWith Halloween approaching, pet owners may want to take note: the holiday does pose health risks for animals. Roxy Todd spoke with an animal expert for some advice on making sure your furry friends are safe this Halloween.
A federal judge is ending Governor Glenn Youngkin’s purge of alleged noncitizens from the voter rolls. As Michael Pope reports, the court ruled there’s no evidence that any of the people removed are non-citizens.
Court battles over Virginia election procedures are playing out.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: Jahd KhalilA federal judge is set to rule on a request to shut down Governor Glenn Youngkin’s controversial voter purge program. Michael Pope reports.
Regardless of who wins the 2024 presidential election, Virginia’s agribusinesses – think food, fiber and fuel – are expecting things to change. Brad Kutner looked into that uncertainty.
A federal judge in Alexandria will hear a challenge Thursday to Virginia’s effort to remove people from the voter rolls in advance of the election. Michael Pope reports.
This graph, compiled using the new data from the FBI, shows reported hate crimes in Virginia. That number is at its highest point in nearly two decades.The number of reported hate crimes is on the rise in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
8th District Congressman Don BeyerArtificial intelligence is revolutionizing everything from medicine to entertainment. Michael Pope reports that it’s even making a splash in Virginia politics.
Attorney General Jason MiyaresVirginia Attorney General Jason Miyares is a facing malicious prosecution lawsuit following his failed bid to convict an election official of fraud.
Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
The explosion of data centers in Virginia is creating a surge in demand for power.
Michael Pope reports it’s also impacting how that power is generated.
The lawsuit over Virginia’s voter roll purge, and its potential fallout, are still making headlines.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
High waters toppled campers and homes along the New River as Tropical Storm Helene swept through Virginia. This is located along Julia Simpkins Road in Allisonia in Pulaski County, Sept. 30.
(Credit: Roxy Todd)When floods swept across Appalachia three weeks ago during Helene, it was one of the worst natural disasters to hit the region in a generation. But flash flooding in the mountains does happen.
One example is the 2016 flood in West Virginia, which killed 23 people and destroyed more than two-thousand homes.
A Virginia Tech professor has been researching what helped communities rebuild after that flood, and why some communities are only now seeing progress.
Roxy Todd reports.
Virginia Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings briefs legislators at the capital in Richmond. (Credit: Virginia Senate livestream)Hurricane Helene damaged about 6% of Virginia’s economy.
That’s according to an update provided Tuesday by the Commonwealth’s Secretary of Finance.
But as Brad Kutner found out, federal aid is expected to improve the region.
A look at fall colors in Virginia Tech’s Stadium Woods Old Growth Forest.
(Credit: John Seiler/Virginia Tech)Despite a rough patch of drought, and the hit the region took from Helene, Virginia is expected to have a good, but not great, fall color season.
Jeff Bossert has more.
With less than a month to go until Election Day, Virginia’s governor is facing a federal lawsuit over removing alleged non-citizens from the voter rolls.
Michael Pope tells us purging the voter rolls has a long and complicated history in Virginia.
Glynn Bise raises cattle in Smyth County. The pasture was flooded when Helene brought heavy rains and high winds to the area on Sept 27-28. (Credit: Roxy Todd)Early estimates say Helene cost farmers in the Commonwealth more than $139 million.
This number from the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service is a developing tally and will likely increase in the coming days.
Roxy Todd explains why some farmers are worried for the months ahead.
Credit: NPREarly voting has already been going on for several weeks, and the turnout is highest in congressional districts held by Republicans. Michael Pope reports.
With early voting underway, there’s a legal challenge to Virginia’s recent purge of voter registrations.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Graphs of ad spending in the U. S. Senate campaign, as of Oct. 10, 2024. (Credit: Virginia Public Access Project)With the election only weeks away, television viewers are seeing a parade of political ads. Michael Pope reports that one race is seeing lopsided ad spending.
In Smyth County on Monday Oct. 7, a bulldozer is pulling river rocks from Big Laurel Creek where part of Laurel Creek Road collapsed during Helene. There are many places along roads throughout the area that were damaged in the floods. (Credit: Roxy Todd)It’s been almost two weeks since Helene damaged hundreds of homes across Southwest Virginia and took the lives of two people.
Roxy Todd visited Damascus and surrounding communities this week, where it could take more than a year to rebuild washed out roads and fully reopen the Virginia Creeper bicycle trail.
The economy in one region of Virginia is facing problems. And it might not be the region you’re expecting. Michael Pope reports.
Here’s a link to the Stephen Fuller Institute report.
A free speech watchdog group has once again included Virginia in its annual report of America’s Censored Classrooms. Brad Kutner has more.
After weeks of build-up, the candidates for U. S. Senate finally took the debate stage.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
The effort to legalize skill games might be in trouble, even if some of the machines are up and operating across Virginia. Michael Pope has the latest.
Republican Hung Cao and Democrat Tim Kaine met for a televised debate Wednesday night.
Michael Pope has the details what will likely be their only debate before Election Day.
Democrat Eugene Vindman and Republican Derrick Anderson debate at the University of Mary Washington on October 2, 2024. (Credit: University of Mary Washington livestream)Two U.S. Army veterans, Derrick Anderson on the right and Eugene Vindman on the left, squared off over the future of Virginia’s 7th Congressional District Wednesday night.
Brad Kutner has more.
Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney (top seat) gets his flu shot alongside state Senator Lamont Bagby (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Richmond’s mayor and area elected officials got their flu shots Wednesday as part of a statewide push from the Virginia Department of Health. Brad Kutner joined them in that effort, and he has this guide on how to get a painless shot.
A donation center has been set up at the Newport Community Center until Thursday, Oct. 3. The group is also collecting donations in Blacksburg and Christiansburg over the next several weeks. (Credit: Roxy Todd / Radio IQ)Initial estimates in Virginia suggest at least 200 homes were flooded across several counties, and that number will likely rise, as officials continue assessing all the damage across southwest Virginia. Roxy Todd was in Giles County, where volunteers are organizing to help people here in Virginia, and across Appalachia.
Credit: NPRRepublican candidate for United States Senate Hung Cao will face off against incumbent Democratic Senator Tim Kaine in what will likely be the only debate of the campaign tonight. Michael Pope has a preview.
Credit: FBICrime is one of the issues at the center of the presidential campaign, and as Michael Pope tells us, the latest numbers from the FBI show crime is down.
High waters toppled campers and homes along the New River as Tropical Storm Helene swept through Virginia. This is located along Julia Simpkins Road in Allisonia in Pulaski County, Sept. 30. (Credit: Roxy Todd / Radio IQ)Emergency officials are still assessing the full extent of the damage to southwest Virginia from Helene. Many communities are without water and power, and residents evacuated across seven counties.
Roxy Todd was in several of the impacted communities Monday and brings us this story.
A court ruling in Arlington might have a huge influence in how zoning works across Virginia. Michael Pope explains why.
A Virginia State Police helicopter, part of the agency’s Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team, or HART, takes part in a rescue mission one the roof of Unicoi County Hospital in Erwin, Tennessee. (Credit: Virginia State Police)A viral video from Virginia State Police released Friday shows two of the agency’s helicopters rescuing flood victims from the roof of an eastern Tennessee hospital. Brad Kutner spoke with VSP and got the first public account of how the daring mission unfolded.
Credit: Radio IQSenator Mark Warner is working with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on a bill to help preserve hardwood trees in Virginia and Kentucky. As Michael Pope reports, the trees are important for the production of furniture and spirits.
We’re checking in on the crowded and complicated race for mayor in Virginia’s capitol city as well as the latest round of polling in the Presidential contest.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Plaintiffs John and Janet Raymond appear at the press conference for their lawsuit against Virginia’s ban on conversion therapy for minors. (Credit: Brad Kutner)A religious counselor in Henrico County asked a state judge Thursday to block Virginia’s ban on conversion therapy for minors.
Brad Kutner has more on the suit and an interview with someone who survived the controversial practice.
Former Republican Congressman Barbara Comstock, left, appears with former Congressman Denver Riggleman at a Harris-Walz event in Old Town Alexandria. (Credit: Michael Pope)The presidential campaign of Kamala Harris is picking up some Republican support in Virginia. Michael Pope reports that two former members of Virginia’s congressional delegation are now endorsing the vice president.
Henrico Delegate Rodney Willet helps parents celebrate record state funding for Virginia pre-K and childcare programs. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)During the last legislative session, Virginia lawmakers expanded childcare and pre-K education, but it came at a price of over $400 million a year. Now, months later, that money is gone and there’s still thousands of families in need. Brad Kutner found out more.
Next year, members of the Virginia General Assembly will likely consider legislation to crack down on intimate images that are shared without consent. Michael Pope reports on a bipartisan group trying to create a new felony.
(Credit: David Seidel)Automakers may soon be required to start designing trucks and SUVs with lower front ends to help reduce the number of fatal head-on collisions with pedestrians.
Ian Stewart reports.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQVirginia is among the few states to permanently bar convicted felons from voting. A challenge to that ban went before a federal court Tuesday. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Republicans are praising Virginia’s governor for job growth while criticizing President Biden for inflation. Michael Pope reports on the complicated politics of economic credit.
Credit: Andy Santos / Virginia TechTechnologies that use artificial intelligence are being developed at a rapid pace. How will they impact people? Will these technologies be good for society?
Roxy Todd spoke with an engineer, and a philosopher, who are both interested in teaching software developers how to include ethical reasoning as they’re creating AI.
Credit: NPRNow that campaign season has started, television viewers can expect to see political ads during college football and the local news. Michael Pope reports that the ad spending is also moving online.
Some of the Tribal leaders at this year’s sovereignty conference; Top from left: Chickahominy Second Assistant Chief Reggie Stewart; Pamunkey Chief Robert Gray; Upper Mattaponi Chief Frank Adams; Nansemond Assistant Chief David Hennaman; Bottom from left: Chickahominy Indian Tribe-Eastern Division Chief Joanne Howard; Rappahannock Chief Anne Richardson and Monacan Chief Diane Shields. (Credit: Pamela D’Angelo)Many Virginians may not know there are seven independent nations in our state that require the same treatment afforded to leaders of other countries.
But the sovereignty of Virginia’s federally-recognized Tribes comes with a steep learning curve, as Pamela D’Angelo reports.
For many years, young people flocked to big cities. But now, Michael Pope reports that trends are shifting.
It’s officially voting season in Virginia – with the state’s early voting period kicking off today. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss that and the week that was in state politics and government.
Author Kenneth C. Davis (Credit: Nina Subin)According to the American Library Association, nearly 400 book titles were targeted for bans in Virginia last year. Michael Pope has the latest on the politics of banning books.
Credit: Jahd KhalilVirginia’s lengthy early voting period starts Friday. Michael Pope has this preview.
A VCU student speaks before a Senate Health and Education committee about her experience at last spring’s Israel/Palestine protests. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)It’s been months since pro-Palestinian protests were broken up by police officers across the Commonwealth, but Virginia Senators held a meeting Tuesday to hear from some of those impacted.
Brad Kutner has more from the General Assembly Building.
A screen grab of the new LIS home page. (Credit: Division of Legislative Automated Systems)Virginia legislators, legislative staff and political junkies all use the same system to learn about when a new bill drops, gets a hearing or gets voted on. It’s about to get its first major overhaul since its inception 30 years ago. Brad Kutner has more.
Credit: NPRUnited States Senator Tim Kaine is on the ballot this year. And as Michael Pope tells us he has a comfortable lead over his Republican opponent in the polls.
Dozens of convenience store owners gathered at the Capitol earlier this year — donning yellow shirts — in support of legalizing skill games. State lawmakers ultimately decided to pass on that legislation. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Earlier this year, lawmakers considered legislation to legalize devices that look like slot machines at truck stops and convenience stores. They ended up rejecting those bills, but now, as Michael Pope reports, they’re popping up anyway.
A case involving the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative was debated in court Monday. Virginia’s Air Pollution Board voted to pull out of the program last June. As Roxy Todd reports, plaintiffs argued the move inflicted economic harm to conservation groups that help low-income residents weatherize their homes.
State officials are working with a new regional partnership to create a healthcare workforce for the future. Michael Pope reports.
Julie Peck with her son. Peck now advocates for new mothers who are also in recovery. (Credit: Julie Peck)For years, moms who are prescribed medication to treat opioid addiction have heard conflicting advice around breastfeeding. There is growing medical evidence to support that it’s safe.
But as Roxy Todd reports, opinions can be slow to change.
Polls are shedding new light on the 2024 election in Virginia, while one high-profile Republican is getting a head start on 2025.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQState officials are about to take a close look at how public education is funded in Virginia. Michael Pope has this preview.
The U.S. Census Bureau does more than just count US residents. It also conducts annual surveys which aim to better understand the wellbeing of those people.
The American Community Survey is one such measure, and data released this week shows Virginia is doing better than the rest of the country. Brad Kutner has more.
On the heels of Tuesday’s debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, Radio IQ’s Brad Kutner returned to the bus stop outside Richmond City Hall to find out what people thought. The most common response was, “I didn’t watch.”
Credit: NPROver the summer, Republicans were talking about Virginia being a battleground state. Now polls seem to show that’s slipping away. Michael Pope has the latest.
Here’s a link to the new VCU poll.
Some Republican candidates may not be polling well in Virginia. But as Michael Pope reports, the Republican governor remains popular.
First District City Council members Andreas Addison, left, joins RVAPB supporters, Matthew Slaats (black coat) and 9th District Council Member Nicole Jones to announce the new initiative. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Heads up Richmond residents: the city has $3 million, and they want you to help decide how to spend it.
Brad Kutner found out more about the project called the People’s Budget. It launched Tuesday in the city’s Jackson Ward neighborhood.
Credit: NPRDemocrats are hopeful that a new poll in Virginia shows momentum is on their side in the presidential election. Michael Pope has the numbers.
SCHEV’s Lee Andes shows Virginia Senators Bill DeStaph, Barbara Favola and Danica Roem a chart of costs and numbers of enrolls to the VMSDEP program at a Sept. meeting. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program, also known as VEMS-DEP, grants education benefits to the families of wounded vets.
Brad Kutner reports legislators got a more detailed look at the program’s growth and costs Monday ahead of a big report expected next month.
Appalachian Power crews work on a transformer and power lines. (Credit: Appalachian Power)This week, the Virginia State Corporation Commission will make a determination about whether many people in Virginia should pay higher power bills. Michael Pope has more.
*Editor’s note: this story has been updated with comment from Appalachian Power. Here’s the utility’s full statement:
Appalachian Power serves approximately 545,000 customers across southwest and central Virginia. The company’s biennial rate review application filed in March with the Virginia State Corporation Commission includes the base rates necessary to provide power to residential, commercial and industrial customers in our service territory. Our customers need safe and reliable service, and we work hard to meet those expectations while keeping costs as low as possible.
Background: Appalachian Power must file every two years for a base rate review under state law enacted last year. The application filed earlier this year is the company’s first application under the new state law. Reviews are an opportunity for the SCC to examine the company’s financial and operational performance, and any request to modify base rates for service.
Please note* the following update regarding the impact to customer bills as this number has changed. Since the March filing, Appalachian Power has lowered its revenue requirement from approximately $95 million to $64.2 million. Under the revised revenue figure, the monthly bill for a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours would increase $6.75.***
Local governments across Virginia are considering if they want to work with federal immigration officials. Michael Pope reports.
You can find the attorney general’s opinion here.
The final stretch of the campaign season in Virginia got off to a raucous start.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
The nonprofit justice reform group Julian reviewed data from 107 cities and counties to identify places where racial profiling may be a problem. (Credit: Julian)Earlier this year, a federal court dismissed charges against a Black man who was stopped by police in Richmond, after his lawyer showed proof of racial bias.
Now, a Virginia nonprofit has used the same approach to analyze traffic stops by more than a hundred other police departments, as Sandy Hausman reports.
November 13th, 2021. The Marching Virginians perform for tailgaters during a food drive to collect donations for local food banks. (Credit: Thomas Miller / Virginia Tech)Virginia Tech’s marching band is celebrating its 50th anniversary this weekend. Roxy Todd reports hundreds of alumni will join current band musicians to perform during Saturday’s football game.
Credit: Jahd KhalilFriday, Virginia’s presidential ballot will be finalized. And as Michael Pope reports, the first day of voting will happen later this month.
1,600 sheep are at home at the Spotsylvania Solar Center. (Credit: Sandy Hausman)Five years ago, some residents of Spotsylvania County were unsuccessfully fought plans for the largest solar array east of the Rocky Mountains.
Today that facility is generating a different sound and making money for a surprising group of people.
Sandy Hausman paid a visit to the Spotsylvania Solar Energy Center and has this report.
Chauncie Beaston’s bags contain clean syringes, alcohol wipes, cookers, tourniquets, and other harm reduction supplies. (Credit: Christine Kueter)In our Meet Virginia segment this month, we travel to Richmond, where Chauncie Beaston is fulfilling a pledge made to herself years ago.
Christine Kueter has that story.
Commercial property values are cratering across Virginia. As Michael Pope tells us, that’s creating a crisis for local governments trying to balance their books.
Virginia’s medical sector has a shortage of workers. But, as Michael Pope reports, it’s a problem that some people are working to fix.
Fewer people are quitting their jobs in Virginia.
Michael Pope has the story behind the numbers.
As campaigns kick into high gear this Labor Day weekend, so are efforts to finalize voting procedures in Virginia.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Lady Bird Johnson appears on a whistlestop tour through the South shortly after her husband, President Lyndon Johnson, signed the Civil Rights Act in 1964. (Credit: Library of Congress)This weekend, the spouses of the Democratic candidates for president and vice president will be barnstorming Virginia.
Michael Pope has this bit of historical perspective.
Democrats in Virginia are hoping the Harris-Walz policy proposals on housing will be a benefit in the election this year. Michael Pope reports.
The Virginia Board of Education meets on August 28th, 2024 at the Library of Virginia. (Credit: VDOE livestream)Governor Glenn Youngkin ran and won on a promise to address COVID-era learning loss. But with Standards of Learning test results staying relatively flat, the state Board of Education is looking to rewrite how Virginia grades schools. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley speaks to a group of Republicans in Arlington. (Credit: Michael Pope)Republicans are ramping up efforts to keep an eye on voting this year. Michael Pope has a preview.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQAs students head back to school, they’ll be walking into classrooms that receive different levels of funding based on where they are located. Michael Pope explains.
You can find the VPAP analysis of state data here.
Students documented what they observed and compared notes, as they collected sediment from a marsh in the Chesapeake Bay. (Credit: Spencer Coppage / Virginia Tech)Less than 10% of all plastics get recycled, and much of the rest ends up in rivers and oceans, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. A group of Virginia Tech students spent the summer analyzing how much and what kinds of microplastics are in the Chesapeake Bay. Roxy Todd spoke with them about what they discovered.
The political conventions are now over and the major party field is set for November’s election.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael recap some of the historical moments when Virginia was in the convention spotlight.
A screen grab from journalist Brandi Kellam’s presentation to the Commission to Study the History of the Uprooting of Black Communities by Public Institutions of Higher Education (Credit: Brandi Kellam / Virginia Senate Live Session Video Stream)Virginia’s universities are recognized among the best in the nation. But their expansion has often displaced adjacent communities.
Now, a legislative committee is looking into what impact state universities had on their neighboring Black communities. Brad Kutner has more from the committee’s first meeting.
Dr. Joshua Greenhoe with Sentara Health is among the first to use artificial intelligence to create medical records. (Credit: Sandy Hausman / Radio IQ)Doctors spend, on average, two hours a day documenting their exams and consultations with patients. Many use a laptop to make notes, looking at a screen and not at the people in their care. Now, however, artificial intelligence may be changing that situation, as Sandy Hausman reports.
Governor Glenn Youngkin meets with school superintendents, including Brunswick County Superintendent Kristy Somerville-Midgette, after announcing modest SOL score increases for the 2023-24 school year. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin said he was pleased with Virginia’s 2023-24 SOL results at a press event Tuesday. And, as Brad Kutner found out, numbers show slight increases in test scores in most school divisions.
People who are incarcerated across Virginia are about to start getting access to college classes. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPRA new poll from Roanoke College is the first from the school since Vice President Kamala Harris secured the top of the Democratic ticket. Nick Gilmore has details.
Inett Dabney, principal at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, holds up the Yonder pouches used to seal away student’s cell phones. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Virginia’s Department of Education released a draft policy Thursday that aims to make schools cell phone free for nearly the whole school day. Brad Kutner has more from one school in Richmond that got ahead of the curve and limited cell phone use in schools earlier this year.
The candidates for one of Virginia’s U.S. Senate seats will meet face-to-face.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin announces his reentry initiative. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Noting that one in five people released from state prison will be back behind bars within three years, Governor Glenn Youngkin is asking state agencies to do more.
As Sandy Hausman reports, he hopes to ensure former prisoners have what they need to succeed.
Virginia’s job growth is going strong, according to the latest data from the federal government. But, as Michael Pope tells us, it’s a mixed picture for different parts of the Commonwealth.
Solar power may offer a bright future of Virginia. Although, as Michael Pope tells us, some people are throwing shade on the industry.
Credit: Team USA Facebook pageOne of the athletes who won a gold medal in this summer’s Olympics lives in Blacksburg. Roxy Todd spoke with him about the race that shocked running fans across the world.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQRecent years have seen a dramatic rise in the number of students considered “at-risk” by the Virginia Department of Education. Michael Pope explains that’s because state officials now have better data.
While work on the 43-mile, multi-use path known as the Fall Line Trail continues in the Richmond region, another trail in Charlottesville is also in the works.
It’s one of many car-free trails that could eventually connect to others around Virginia.
Ian Stewart reports.
Credit: NPRSome Republicans in Virginia are crossing party lines to support Vice President Kamala Harris in the election. Michael Pope tells us this is part of a long tradition in Virginia politics.
African children receive donations from Aid To The Cry Of The Oppressed In Africa in 2023. (Credit: Aid To The Cry Of The Oppressed In Africa / Facebook)Concerns about the use of slave labor and subhuman working conditions were the subject of a recent Virginia Procurement workgroup meeting. The committee heard about the subject after a senator offered a bill banning the state’s purchase of materials made in such conditions. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Public bodies that do public business are supposed to make most documents available to the public.
But Michael Pope reports on an example in Northern Virginia where a town government is trying to shield documents related to a data center.
Virginia is about to get a windfall from the Infrastructure Act.
Michael Pope has details about one of the projects it will support.
Issues around the presidential campaigns are driving some of the political headlines this week.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recaps the week in politics and state government.
State Senator Bill Stanley is no stranger to a courtroom. He successfully fought the state’s skill games ban, only to have it reinstated months later.
That suit is ongoing. And as Brad Kutner found out, Stanley’s put a target on the state’s anti-saloon laws next.
Former Republican Congressman Denver Riggleman (R) hosted Harris Campaign Co-Chair Mitch Landrieu at his distillery on Afton Mountain. (Credit: Sandy Hausman)Former Republican Congressman Denver Riggleman is calling Donald Trump “crazy” and is urging voters to support Democrat Kamala Harris for president.
Sandy Hausman was on hand when he explained his reasons to a crowd of about 50 people.
Virginia’s abortion clinics saw increased in-person and virtual visits in the first quarter of 2024. That’s according to a new report from the Society of Family Planning. Brad Kutner has more.
The speaker of Virginia’s House of Delegates is calling on the governor to remove a member of the Board of Visitors at one of the largest universities in the state. Michael Pope reports.
Streaming services like Netflix and Prime have created new opportunities for stand-up comedians, and it seems like more people than ever are giving it a try.
A visit to one club in Charlottesville featured performances by an elementary school teacher, a park ranger and an MBA student from UVA. But one of the most surprising comedians in Virginia recently showed his stuff at a state prison.
Sandy Hausman has that story.
Credit: Guide2FluencyVirginia has many different regional accents, which can sometimes create a problem with new technology. Michael Pope reports that artificial intelligence has a hard time understanding some Virginia pronunciations.
VMI Chaplain John Casper with his special counseling assistant, CAVU (Credit: Sandy Hausman / Radio IQ)As college students prepare to leave for school, mental health professionals are gearing up to support those who find it hard to adjust to life away from home.
The challenge may be especially great at schools like the Virginia Military Institute where campus culture supports strength and self-discipline. This year, VMI will have a new approach to helping cadets, as Sandy Hausman reports.
Raccoons are one of six animals researchers detected the virus that causes COVID-19. (Credit: Joseph Hoyt / Virginia Tech)Researchers have discovered the virus that causes COVID-19 is present in several wild animal species in Virginia. Roxy Todd reports the study has implications for how the virus may mutate, and jump between species in the future.
Dr. Norma Jones-Ives in an operating room at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News. (Credit: Christine Kueter)Christine Kueter has been traveling the Commonwealth this year for our Meet Virginia series.
This month she introduces us to a doctor in Newport News who is using her own experience with trauma to transform new doctors and medical care for women.
And just a note about the content of this story—it does discuss childhood trauma and abuse.
Governor Glenn Youngkin meets with State Senators Creigh Deeds, Louise Lucas and House Speaker Don Scott at the July 2024 Governor’s Advisory Council on Revenue Estimates, or GACRE, meeting. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin says Virginia’s over 140,000 civilian federal employees have little to fear if former President Donald Trump’s promise to fire many of them comes true. Youngkin offered that reassurance after a recent state economic forecasting meeting where he spoke with Brad Kutner.
The 2024 presidential election is in full swing – with Virginia lawmakers stumping for the presumptive candidates this week. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist with the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss that and the week that was in state government and politics.
A ballot drop box sits out front of the Powhatan County’s Registrar’s office. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Election officials across Virginia’s 5th Congressional district were busy Thursday. Brad Kutner spoke to some as the recount in the June Republican primary matchup between incumbent Congressman Bob Good and state Senator John McGuire unfolded.
A winner is expected to be declared Thursday evening.
After months of debate, state lawmakers didn’t legalize slot-machine style machines at convenience stores and truck stops earlier this year. And as Michael Pope reports, some law enforcement officials are worried that some machines may be currently in operation.
Credit: ICEA federal court is ordering the release of several people in Virginia caught up in the immigration system. Michael Pope reports.
RNC Chairman Michael Whatley speaks with reporters at McLean’s in downtown Richmond. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley was in Richmond Wednesday morning supporting former President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign. Among the promises made by Trump so far is a vow to let states decide for themselves on the issue of abortion. But, as Brad Kutner found out, not everyone believes the former president.
Republicans are planning their strategy to reach voters in Virginia. Michael Pope has this preview.
A diagram showing the tax impact from undocumented immigrants. (Credit: ITEP)A new report from a left-leaning tax group says undocumented immigrants add nearly $700 million to Virginia’s economy. The numbers are disputed by some, however, as Brad Kutner reports.
The campaign of Kamala Harris for president is raising new questions about what it means to be a progressive prosecutor. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia is about to receive $100 million to capture methane emissions.
But environmental groups are not sold on the idea for what happens next, as Michael Pope reports.
Lots of news this past week about the presidential campaign. How will it impact Virginia?
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
One Virginia member of Congress is pressing the Post Office to make changes to ensure rural newspapers are delivered on time.
Michael Pope explains.
Newest Virgnia Board of Education member Meg Bryce (left), Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons and Board President Grace Creasey at the July, 2024 board meeting. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Governor Glenn Youngkin’s newest Board of Education appointee is getting push back from state Democrats.
Brad Kutner has more from her first meeting in Richmond.
Members of the General Assembly are expected to consider the rapid expansion of data centers next year. Michael Pope has this preview.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is putting together an energy plan for Virginia. Michael Pope has a preview.
Opponents of predatory lending are hopeful that a new federal rule might help people in Virginia.
Michael Pope reports.
Now that Kamala Harris seems poised to get the Democratic nomination for president, how does she poll in Virginia? Michael Pope is looking at the numbers.
Credit: Jessica Britton / Radio IQMembers of the state’s congressional delegation want a new pilot program allowing people to file their federal taxes for free to come to Virginia. And, as Brad Kutner found out, officials in Richmond want it, too.
Election season continues to ramp up – with new polling and campaign finance documents rolling out this week. Michael Pope chats with Jeff Schapiro – political columnist with the Richmond Times-Dispatch – about the week that was in politics and state government.
Credit: Radio IQ / Mallory Noe-PayneArkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders used bold language in the wake of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, and as Brad Kutner found out, it’s a feeling shared by some Virginia Republicans.
Mitch Rubenstien, with the Virginia chapter of Veterans for Foreign Wars, speaks at a Senate subcommittee in support of a fix to the VMSDEP program. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)After two failed attempts, the Virginia House and Senate passed a legislative fix to a veterans’ benefits bill in Richmond Thursday. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Public polling on the state of the presidential race this week seems to be moving in favor of the Republicans. Michael Pope has the story.
Credit: FBIAfter a spike during the pandemic, crime is down significantly across the country. Michael Pope has the details for Virginia.
Here’s a link to that FBI data.
In 2020, Virginia became the first southern state to lay out a legal mandate for a carbon-free electrical grid.
That’s why it was a surprise to many when Dominion Energy announced plans to build a NEW natural gas plant in Chesterfield County.
As Mallory Noe-Payne reports it could be the first of several so-called peaker plants around the state.
Patricia Buckley Moss stands outside the Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech in 2013. (Credit: Virginia Tech photo)Well-known Virginia artist P. Buckley Moss died Saturday at the age of 91.
David Seidel has more about her career.
Candidates for Congress are heading into a fall campaign season with millions of dollars cash on hand. Michael Pope is looking at the numbers.
The inflationary pressure that spiked prices in Virginia is finally turning around. Michael Pope reports that prices are going down.
Here’s a link to the new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Republican primary in the 5th is heading to a recount. Michael Pope reports that history suggests it won’t change the outcome.
November election issues top the political headlines in Virginia this week.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton is not letting health problems silence her for the rest of her term in office. As Michael Pope reports, she’s getting a new voice thanks to artificial intelligence.
You can see Congresswoman Wexton announce the news here.
Virginia spent much of the last decade voting for Democratic Presidents but now Republicans in the Commonwealth are hoping a lack of enthusiasm for President Joe Biden could help flip Virginia this fall. And as Brad Kutner found out at a bus stop in downtown Richmond, they might get their wish.
Virginia historical markers recognize people and places across the Commonwealth. But now one is noting LGTBQ history for the first time. Michael Pope reports.
Delegate Mike Jones (far left) flanks earned sentence credit released folks who stand behind Senator Jennifer Boysko. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Virginia’s prison population has been shrinking – the result of lower crime rates and criminal justice reforms shepherded by Democratic legislators over the last few years.
Republican Glenn Youngkin resisted those efforts during his term as governor until the recent budget cycle which saw one major reform finally get the green light. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
The fentanyl crisis in Virginia is showing no signs of letting up any time soon. But, as Michael Pope reports, a new task force will be taking a look at the issue.
Three young rivercane plants growing inside sandwich bags. (Credit: Roxy Todd)Did you know there’s a type of bamboo that’s native to the United States?
It’s called rivercane, and it once grew near most rivers and streams. But then, it was nearly wiped out.
As Roxy Todd reports, a group made up mostly of volunteers is working to restore the plant in Southwest Virginia.
Nichole Wardlaw, a midwife with the American College of Nurse-Midwives, speaks at a press event at the Capitol. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)A new survey from the state shows low-income mothers, supported by subsidized health care plans, aren’t getting the care they’ve been promised. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQSchool’s out for summer for most of Virginia public schools. And as Michael Pope reports, teachers are worried about learning loss.
Virginia Senator Tim Kaine speaks at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, July 8, 2024 (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Questions about President Joe Biden’s future as a candidate are following other Democrats as they work through their own campaigns across the country. Among them is Virginia Senator Tim Kaine. He spoke with Brad Kutner.
Credit: NPRThe public square is increasingly online, and that includes some official public business. Michael Pope reports.
One of Virginia’s new laws as of this month involves cocktails-to-go. Michael Pope has the story.
From a recount in Virginia’s 5th District to a resolution over a veterans education benefit program – it’s been a busy holiday week in state politics and government. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist with the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQA review of Virginia’s state-run investment plans provided some good news earlier this week, but questions about whether the legislature should step in to reprioritize those funds were raised. Brad Kutner has more.
As of the beginning of this month, Virginia put dozens of new laws into effect. Michael Pope tells us about one that protects same-sex marriage.
The Virginia Board of Elections certified the results of the 2024 congressional primaries Tuesday. That gives Congressman Bob Good the chance to make good on his promise to ask for a recount in his failed bid against Senator John McGuire. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
President pro tempore of the Virginia Senate Louise Lucas and Majority Leader Scott Surovell during Monday’s special session. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Senate Democrats in Richmond once again failed to pass a bill to fix issues with a state veterans education benefit program Monday.
It was the second Senate session held to address the issue and dragged into the evening.
Brad Kutner explains what went wrong.
This week marks the one-year anniversary of federal higher education funding that is available to people who are incarcerated in Virginia. Michael Pope explains.
With the Fourth of July approaching, so is the season for fireworks. But fireworks can be triggering for people with post-traumatic stress disorder. Roxy Todd spoke with a researcher on ways we can help neighbors and family members.
Members of the Virginia Senate are expected back at the Capitol again today to reconsider a veterans benefit program. Michael Pope has this preview.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQVirginia’s House of Delegates and state Senate are at odds about how to fund an education benefit for the families of veterans. Michael Pope reports.
As Glenn Youngkin prepares to campaign with Donald Trump, there’s a big change underway in the governor’s office.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRMembers of the General Assembly are returning to the Capitol Friday to consider a budget question about benefits to veterans and their families. Michael Pope has the latest.
Credit: David Seidel / Radio IQSummer is prime time to see lightning bugs. Some anecdotal evidence suggests there may be fewer fireflies than in years past, and these bugs are threatened by human development. As Roxy Todd reports, there are ways to attract more fireflies to your yard.
One of the outcomes of last week’s primary election could mean zoning changes in your neighborhood. Michael Pope explains.
The Transportation Safety Administration reports record travel this summer and is bracing for the busy Fourth of July holiday. TSA expects to screen more than 32 million people from Thursday, June 27 through Monday, July 8th.
The agency also reports another record as some travelers attempt to fly with firearms. Sandy Hausman reports on what happens when people get caught and what excuses they offer for trying to bring contraband on board.
On July 1st, the state will launch two major prison reforms.
Sandy Hausman reports on what they’ll mean for inmates and their families.
Congressman Bob Good trails Republican challenger John McGuire by less than 400 votes.A week after the primary election, the results of the Republican nomination in the 5th Congressional District are still too close to call. Michael Pope has more on what happens next.
From left to right, Attorney General Jason Miyares, First Lady Suzanne Youngkin and Cynthia Morrow — director of the Roanoke City-Alleghany Health District — talk up the successful “It Only Takes One” campaign. (Credit: Nick Gilmore / Radio IQ)Virginia’s First Lady and its Attorney General rolled out a fentanyl awareness campaign in Roanoke earlier this year. And as Nick Gilmore reports, there are positive trends – both in that city and statewide.
An entrance to the Virginia state capitol (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne)Lawmakers will return to the Capitol once again later this week.
And, as Michael Pope tells us, one issue they have yet to resolve involves skill games.
Virginia’s abortion laws haven’t changed in the two years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned federal abortion protections with the Dobbs decision.
But that doesn’t mean they’re not the focus of elected officials and activists.
Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Carolina Power employees work on replacing older powerlines in Richmond’s Southside. (Credit: Brad Kutner)A heat dome is setting up over Virginia, just a few days shy of a new law that aims to protect those who can’t pay their utility bills.
As Brad Kutner found out, those protections could make a difference in the months ahead.
Lollie Winans and Julie Williams, in a photo provided by the FBIThe FBI announced Thursday that it had solved a crime that shocked Virginians more than 28 years ago.
DNA has now identified the killer of two young women who were camping in Shenandoah National Park.
Sandy Hausman has that story.
A Smart Grow Agritech weather machine stands above a Shenandoah Valley farm. (Credit: Glenn Rodes/Smart Grow Agritech’s Instagram)Blockchain advocates argue the technology offers a unique and safe way to store data.
And one Virginia company is hoping to see that technology used on farms across the state.
Brad Kutner has more.
One of the big winners in last night’s primary was Republican Hung Cao, who will face incumbent Senator Tim Kaine in November.
Michael Pope talked to two analysts about the race ahead.
Col. Monti Zimmerman speaks before the Senate Finance committee during a June 2024 special session. (Credit: Brad Kutner)The Virginia Senate failed to reach a compromise to fix a veterans’ education benefit program at a special session in Richmond Tuesday.
There was also disagreement over two proposed skill games legalization bills. A Republican effort wasn’t even heard. And a Democratic effort, carried by Senator Louise Lucas, was removed from the docket at her request after Governor Glenn Youngkin said he wouldn’t sign a skill games bill until the veterans program was fixed.
Brad Kutner has more from the capitol.
Virginia voters are choosing the candidates who will run in the November election.
Joe Staniunas heard what’s on the minds of a few voters in western Virginia on this primary day.
(Credit: Craig Wright)Virginia has significantly loosened gambling laws in the last 5 years and with it has come a rise in problem gambling.
But some treatment programs are seeing success, as Brad Kutner reports.
Virginia doesn’t have parole in a traditional sense, but it does offer post-release supervision. Changes in the state code have mixed up who has authority over those released when they violate the terms of that supervision.
Some judges are worried the confusion could violate the constitution.
Brad Kutner had more from Richmond.
The Salem Stone quarry in Dublin, Va. (Credit: Roxy Todd)On Monday, June 17, a new federal rule goes into effect that lowers how much silica dust is allowed in mines.
The change is expected to save thousands of lives.
As Roxy Todd reports, stone and gravel quarries may be the most impacted.
We’re just a few days away from Virginia’s primary election.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope run down some of the high-profile races.
The Virginia Senate will return to Richmond next Tuesday to address restrictions added to state military education benefits. The fix comes after veterans demanded changes, claiming new rules in the budget had ruined college plans for their children. Brad Kutner has more.
Credit: NPRRepublicans will be choosing a candidate to go up against incumbent U.S. Senator Tim Kaine in the primary Tuesday, June 18th. Michael Pope has this preview.
Virginia’s largest school system, one of the biggest in the country in fact, is about to enter into a collective bargaining agreement. Michael Pope has the details.
MVP construction near Elliston in Montgomery County. Photo taken May 20, 2024. (Credit: Penny Artis)The Mountain Valley Pipeline says it’s preparing to start transporting gas but has not yet said when that will begin. The company says it’s completed all safety checks, but, as Roxy Todd reports, some residents want to see more information about those inspections.
Poor Mountain in Montgomery County, Va. along the Mountain Valley Pipeline route. (Credit: Protect Our Water, Heritage Rights)The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission authorized the Mountain Valley Pipeline to begin running gas through its 303 mile pipeline.
Roxy Todd reports.
Retired Navy Seal Jason Redman speaks at the first hearing of the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program taskforce. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Virginia veterans gave elected officials and their gubernatorial counterparts an earful Monday.
It was part of the first public meeting of a task force designed to determine the fate of an education program for the families of injured vets.
Brad Kutner has more.
One way to judge a candidate is how much money they’ve raised and spent, as Michael Pope tells us about another way to follow the money in this month’s primary.
Delegates Bobby Orrock and Keith Hodges at a meeting of the Joint Commission on Health Care in June 2024. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Social Determinants of Health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live and age. And a study, requested by the state’s Joint Commission on Health Care, into how Virginia can improve social determinants is about at its midpoint. Brad Kutner has an update.
Credit: NPRPolls are open right now in primary elections across Virginia, and Michael Pope tells us many of the candidates on the ballot are military veterans.
Environmentalists are worried about the governor rolling back environmental initiatives. But as Michael Pope reports, they are still hopeful about meeting benchmarks in the future.
A slide from JLARC’s presentation on I-81 traffic and toll feasibility. (Credit: JLARC)Virginia’s longest stretch of highway, I-81 along the state’s Appalachian spine, is no stranger to traffic backups. Brad Kutner spoke with one legislator who says there’s no quick fix.
Feuds between the governor and the legislature – and members of the same party – have made headlines in the last few days. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss this week in state government and politics.
Critics of Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin say he has repeatedly overstepped his authority by taking executive action without consulting the General Assembly. Michael Pope has the story.
A graph showing the number of lost hours on stretches of I-95 with the southbound lane over the Occoquan River showing a massive spike. (Credit: Virginia Department of Transportation)The stretch of Interstate 95 that runs just south of Washington D.C. is one of the worst in the country. And investigators with the state’s legislative watchdog agency have bad news about any future attempts to address the problem. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Virginia’s governor and its attorney general say the state won’t follow California’s vehicle emissions standards next year. Nick Gilmore has details.
VCU President Michael Rao speaks before elected officials at the June 2024 meeting of Virginia’s Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Virginia’s Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission, or JLARC, recommended changes to Virginia Commonwealth University Health’s hospital system leadership Wednesday.
The review came after a botched real estate deal between the city of Richmond and the hospital’s board. Brad Kutner has more.
Credit: NPRThis week, the U.S. Senate failed to pass a bill guaranteeing a right to contraception. As Michael Pope reports, a similar bill was vetoed by Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin last month.
The latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics has some good news for Virginia. Michael Pope explains.
U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Commander Peter Francisco speaks before a House committee in February 2024. (Credit: Virginia House of Delegates livestream)Virginia legislators passed a bill this session that would’ve given those with behavioral, neurological or cognitive health issues protections when in confrontations with the police. But Youngkin vetoed the effort. Now in summer working groups, Brad Kutner spoke to those hoping to see the problem addressed.
Abortion may end up being one important issue for voters this year.
But as Michael Pope reports, a new poll shows other issues are eclipsing it.
An undercover caretaker from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals snapped pictures of these animals being raised for medical research at a facility in central Virginia. (Credit: PETA)Two years ago, police and federal agents raided a dog-breeding facility west of Richmond, confiscating more than 4,400 animals – many in urgent need of veterinary care.
Sandy Hausman reports that Envigo pleaded guilty Monday to a violation of the Animal Welfare Act and will pay the largest fine in history for that offense.
As the June primary gets closer, campaigns are increasingly turning to a new way to reach out to voters.
Michael Pope has the story.
Many people were dismayed when – during the last legislative session – state lawmakers failed to approve a system for the sale of recreational cannabis.
They noted the loss of potential sales tax revenue. But at one of the state’s three poison control centers, experts say there are even more compelling arguments for taxation and regulation, as Sandy Hausman reports.
A forest in Bland County where rhododendrons, a native plant, are in bloom. (Credit: Roxy Todd)Walk outside and you hear a world of sounds, everything from birds to traffic and construction. But have you ever stopped to really listen to what you’re hearing, and what it can tell us?
Two researchers at Virginia Tech are exploring what scientists can learn about the natural world, through soundscapes, as Roxy Todd reports.
A new poll suggests Virginia might be in play in November’s presidential election, but will Thursday’s verdict have an impact?
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Members of Arc of Virginia, a group that supports the state’s disabled community, rally at the Capitol during the 2024 legislative session (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Disability advocates celebrated rare wins at a meeting of the Virginia Disability Commission Thursday afternoon. Brad Kutner has more from those who helped make the changes happen.
Credit: NPRDemocrats in Virginia are calling attention to healthcare as a major campaign issue this year. Michael Pope reports.
A nearly 100-year-old veterans benefit program saw cuts during the latest state budget cycle after costs ballooned 450% in just four years. As legislators try to learn more about the problem, Brad Kutner reports a fix may not come till next session.
Credit: NPRPresident Biden and former President Trump are tied at 42% each in Virginia, according to a new poll from Roanoke College. Michael Pope has the numbers.
The solar industry is starting to ramp up in parts of Virginia, and there’s a growing demand for trained workers.
Roxy Todd reports that at least eight colleges throughout the Commonwealth offer training for people wanting to learn how to install solar panels.
Voting has already started for Virginia’s June primaries. But as Michael Pope reports, former President Donald Trump is now weighing in with endorsements.
Earlier this year, members of the General Assembly approved legislation that would have changed the definition of bullying. But the governor vetoed that bill. Michael Pope reports.
Senator Bryce Reeves leads the May meeting of the subcommittee to Study the Feasibility of Establishing the Virginia Gaming Commission. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)The failure of Virginia lawmakers to legalize skill games in the 2024 session has raised questions about a special summer session to address the issue. But with record profits coming in, some want the state to remake its gambling oversight system first. Brad Kutner has more.
Graduate student Asma Al-Terawi operates equipment in a pharmaceutical sciences lab. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Hundreds of millions of dollars are flowing into Virginia to support a new drug manufacturing sector in and around Petersburg.
And Virginia Commonwealth University is hoping to provide a pipeline of new employees in those operations.
Brad Kutner has more.
We’re moving closer to Virginia’s Congressional primaries. And there’s new suspicion Glenn Youngkin might be angling for a new job.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Rockingham’s County Planner Dylan Nicely presents details about the county’s accessory dwelling unit planning at a meeting of the Virginia Housing Commission’s ADU subcommittee in May 2024. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Accessory dwelling units – sometimes called “mother-in-law suites” – allow family, friends or tenants to move into an already occupied lot. They’re smaller, cheaper and some see them as a fix to Virginia’s housing shortage. But as Brad Kutner found out, balancing local and state authority on the issue is the first hurdle in the process.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQSchools across Virginia may soon become hubs for social services. Michael Pope reports.
A Group of veterans who participated in the exhibit just before a photo during a lunch to close the exhibit last month. Far left top is Laura Hatcher, the photographer for the exhibit. Far right top is Clay Mountcastle, director of the Virginia War Memorial. (Credit: Pamela D’Angelo)This weekend, the country remembers our fallen servicemen and women. Nearly 1,500 Virginians were killed in the Vietnam War, and some 230,000 served in it.
During the past year, a group of Vietnam veterans, most in their 70’s, shared their stories and photos through an exhibit at the Virginia War Memorial.
As the exhibit ends at the War Memorial in Richmond, there are plans to bring it to more Virginians, as Pamela D’Angelo reports.
Joan Johns Cobbs, sister to Brown vs. Board plaintiff Barbara Johns, stands outside the General Assembly Buidling in May 2024. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)A scholarship to aid those impacted by the inequity of Virginia’s schools to Black students over 70 years ago is entering the summer with record funds and a record number of recipients. Brad Kutner has more.
Congressman Don BeyerOne Virginia congressman wants more transparency from groups working on artificial intelligence. Michael Pope reports.
Delegate Michael Feggans, Majority Leader Charniele Herring, Delegates Alfonso Lopez, Debra Gardner and Rip Sullivan at a press conference at the General Assembly Building. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Virginia first entered the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative in 2020, and it’s added over $800 million dollars to state efforts to combat climate change.
While Governor Glenn Youngkin has tried to pull the state out of the agreement, Democrats said Tuesday they managed to still achieve some environmental wins despite RGGI cuts. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Children’s advocacy center of Highlands Community Services in Bristol. (Credit: Children’s Advocacy Centers of Virginia)The state budget recently signed by Governor Youngkin includes funding for child advocacy centers. As Roxy Todd explains, CACs work alongside law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys to ensure children are safely able to report abuse.
Michael Sizemore from SAARA (left), former Riverside detainee Austin Wells (center) and Delegate Carrie Coyner (right) speak at a press conference at the Capitol. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)A recent job posting for superintendent at the Riverside Regional Jail, near Petersburg in Prince George County, is attracting the attention of a bipartisan group of legislators. Brad Kutner has more from those concerned with what formerly incarcerated folks say is inhuman treatment at the detention facility.
This summer, people who come into inheritance money will have new protections against predatory lenders. Michael Pope reports.
(Credit: NASA)Hurricane Season begins June first, and emergency managers will be watching storms as they evolve.
If forecasters think one will come ashore, officials will likely issue an evacuation order, but how much faith do people have in those orders? How far in advance should they be issued and by whom?
Those are questions the University of Virginia hoped to answer by analyzing tracking information from cell phones.
Sandy Hausman has more on this first-of-a-kind project.
Virginia’s governor is breaking records with the number of vetoes he’s issued. Michael Pope reports.
Members of the General Assembly may have left the Capitol. But as Michael Pope reports, they did NOT adjourn.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQDemocrats and Republicans both gave up something to build a compromise budget for the Commonwealth this week. But changes to a program that supports the education of the family members of injured veterans were among sacrifices that are now causing folks to speak out. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Virginia lawmakers settled their differences over the state budget. And a new batch of endorsements might help settle some Congressional primaries.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
This week is the 70th anniversary of the Brown versus Board decision that led to the desegregation of public schools in Virginia and across the country. But as Michael Pope reports, it was only the first step in a long process in the Commonwealth.
Erin Pitts is New River Trail’s Chief Ranger of Visitor Experience. She’s standing inside Bertha Cave, looking at the ceiling, where there are glowing specks of bacteria, which look almost like stars. (Credit: Roxy Todd)This week marks the season’s reopening of several caves across Virginia.
If you’ve been curious about exploring a wild cave, but aren’t sure what you’ll expect, Roxy Todd suited up in a helmet and knee pads to bring us this preview.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQMembers of the General Assembly struck a deal and approved a state budget this week. As Michael Pope reports, part of that was new money for higher ed.
Spongy moths can strip a tree of its leaves and ultimately kill it. (Credit: National Park Service)Virginia’s unusually warm spring has meant a bumper crop of caterpillars attacking oaks and other trees in Shenandoah National Park.
That’s why, for the first time since 2008, forest managers have launched an aerial attack.
Sandy Hausman has that story.
Dozens of Virginia State Police officers face off with protesters at VCU. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)In addition to passing a budget this week, members of Virginia’s House and Senate launched separate inquiries into how state colleges responded to recent protests on their campuses. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQAll 140 members of the Virginia General Assembly were back at the Capitol this week to resolve a longstanding feud over the budget. As Michael Pope reports, the compromise includes raises for teachers.
In this 2022 photo, demonstrators in Richmond rallied to support RGGI. (Credit: Appalachian Voices)Lawmakers came back to Richmond Monday for a special session to approve a budget. And as Michael Pope tells us, the compromise does not include money for an environmental priority of the Democrats.
Back in April, dozens of convenience store owners gathered at the Capitol in yellow shirts in support of legalizing skill games. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Lawmakers were back in Richmond Monday to pass a budget. Michael Pope tells us supporters of skill games are still waiting for on resolution of that issue, though.
There’s news today that General Assembly budget negotiators and the governor have reached an agreement.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Senior lawmakers on the money committees are working behind closed doors with the governor to strike a deal on the budget. Michael Pope has the story.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQTwo northern Virginia families asked a federal appeals court in Richmond to step into the process used to support special needs students in the state’s school system. As Brad Kutner explains, the parents claim the system is designed for their complaints to fail.
Owner Whitey Taylor stands outside the Trump Store. (Credit: Craig Wright)At the solitary stoplight in Boones Mill along Route 220 in Franklin County sits The Trump Store.
It’s practically impossible to miss. And, after years of driving past it, Craig Wright paid a visit – and uncovered a story that is a snapshot of America’s political landscape.
Virginia free clinics serve tens of thousands of patients, and many rely on state money for at least a portion of their funding. While the legislature appears poised to give those clinics less money, new numbers show the clinics are in higher demand than ever. Brad Kutner reports.
Felicia Boney speaks at a union rally. (Credit: SEIU Virginia 512)Unions are playing an important role in the primary elections now underway. Michael Pope explains.
Campaign finance documents show a handful of competitive primaries for Congress this summer. But as Michael Pope tells us, there’s not a lot of transparency about how the money is used.
Credit: NPRSenior leaders of the General Assembly’s money committees are expected to meet with the governor this week to hash out a budget compromise. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: Jahd KhalilNow that early primary voting has started across Virginia, Republicans are encouraging their voters to get to the polls, even though many of them oppose 45 days of early voting. Michael Pope reports.
Protests roiled college campuses this past week, and stirred up Virginia politicians too.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Students expressed heartbreak over death and destruction in Gaza, but their protest on campus was peaceful. (Credit: Sandy Hausman / Radio IQ)Students at Virginia Tech, VCU and the University of Mary Washington staged protests earlier this week, prompting the arrest of more than 100 people charged with trespassing. The University of Virginia has, so far, taken a different tack as Sandy Hausman reports.
Starting this summer, Virginia will have a new law encouraging nuclear energy. Michael Pope has more on how the costs will be covered.
Governor Glenn Youngkin addresses the Board of Education. (Credit: Va. Dept. of Education livestream)With a new sports arena in the rear-view mirror and a legislature controlled by political opponents, Governor Glenn Youngkin’s largest impact on the state after he leaves office could be in the education space.
Brad Kutner reports on how that could come in the form of influence from board appointments and law changes.
Voting for the June primary starts this week. Michael Pope has a preview.
You can find more information about deadlines and other voting details here.
Betsy Wood plays guitar in her Giles County home. (Credit: Christine Kueter)Reporter Christine Kueter has been crisscrossing the state this year, collecting real-life stories for our Meet Virginia series.
Today, she introduces us a retired teacher from the New River Valley who taught her students more than just facts and figures.
Credit: NPRStudent protests and resulting arrests have upended life at some of Virginia’s universities in recent days. Michael Pope has more on how the state’s political leadership is lining up around the protests.
Jefferson Lab scientists working to break-up molecules of forever chemicals — from left, John Vennekate, Anne-Marie Valente-Feliciano, Uttar Pudasaini, Gianluigi Ciorati and Malachi Schram. (Credit: Emily Perdue/Jefferson Lab)The EPA now requires water treatment plants to test for a group of contaminants known as forever chemicals. Used in products like non-stick coatings and waterproofing, these substances are water, grease and stain resistant, but they’re also hazardous to human health – linked to liver damage, cancer and birth defects.
Getting them out of our water will be the next great challenge.
A lab here in Virginia is working on technology to achieve that goal as Sandy Hausman reports.
Police arrested dozens of people at a pro-Palestinian protest at Virginia Tech’s campus Sunday April 26th. (Credit: Roxy Todd / Radio IQ)Virginia Tech Police now say that they arrested 82 people late Sunday night and early Monday when they broke up a days-long protest on campus.
53 are current Virginia Tech students, according to a revised statement. Roxy Todd reports they were charged with trespassing.
New environmental rules from the federal government may help clear the air here in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
A map showing Virginia’s school regions with the depth of their teacher vacancy rates. (Credit: Virginia Department of Education)Virginia wasn’t an outlier in learning or teacher loss in the wake of the pandemic. But new teacher licensure programs, backed with state funds, are hoping to curb the lack of educators parts of the Commonwealth face. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Primaries for Congress are only a few weeks away, and new fundraising numbers are giving an indication of where the race stands. Michael Pope is looking at the numbers.
Primaries top the list of political topics in the news over the last few days.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Governor Glenn Younkin speaks before a crowd at VCU’s School of Engineering, opening the doors to his first STEM-focused lab school. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin is still looking to spend $100 million on new lab schools across Virginia, and a handful of applications were approved Thursday. But there were concerns about the viability of at least one of the programs. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
UVA Professor John Stankovic, graduate student Nan Wang and Professor Hongning Wang developed a system to support those who care for people with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. (Credit: Dan Addison / University Of Virginia Communications)Experts have raised alarms about the potential of artificial intelligence to cause problems for humanity, but in the field of medicine it’s already making a positive difference.
At the University of Virginia, for example, computer scientists are experimenting with a way to help caregivers do a difficult and frustrating job – caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Sandy Hausman has that story.
This summer, a new law will go into effect, and it may mean you pay a higher electric bill. Michael Pope reports that money will go toward development of nuclear power.
Norvel Lee state historical marker, dedicated in 2022 (Credit: Jeff Bossert)Until recently, if you do a quick web search on the name Norvel Lee, you’d likely find some of his accomplishments as a boxer.
The Botetourt County native did earn an Olympic gold medal in the sport, becoming the first Black Virginian to receive that honor in the early 50’s. But a state historical marker and recent book about Lee’s life story now offer a much broader perspective on his impact.
Meanwhile, family members say they’re discovering an even greater connection with him, more than 30 years since his passing.
Jeff Bossert has more.
The Democratic primary for lieutenant governor is heating up – with two high-profile candidates entering the race this week. Michael Pope has the latest.
Credit: Jahd KhalilPeople who are incarcerated might be able to get out of prison earlier now that the Supreme Court of Virginia is weighing in on how earned sentence credits are calculated. Michael Pope reports.
Dozens of convenience store owners gather at the Capitol in yellow shirts in support of legalizing skill games. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Virginia’s legislature said no to a host of amendments from Governor Glenn Youngkin to a bill legalizing skill games in the Commonwealth.
But that didn’t end the conversation and lawmakers agreed to work with the governor to find a more palatable bill. Brad Kutner spoke with Youngkin and some pro-skill game activists as those negotiations are kicking off.
A Richmond man’s victory in the United States Supreme Court is expected to help hundreds of thousands of veterans across the country. Michael Pope explains why.
There’s still a lot of unfinished business from the General Assembly Session.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope talk about where we’re headed next.
Lawmakers are expected to return to the Capitol in Richmond next month for a special session on the budget. Michael Pope has a preview.
Governor Glenn Youngkin signs a bill allowing colleges to pay student athletes for their name, image and likeness. He’s flanked to the left by Del. Terry Kilgore, Sen. Aaron Rouse and Del. Terry Austin. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Ever since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned rules barring college athletes from getting paid for the use of their image, states, including Virginia, have been working to develop rules to accommodate the change.
Thursday morning Governor Glenn Youngkin signed a bill that would make such payments easier.
Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Virginia Middle School in Bristol was built in 1916. (Credit: Bristol Public Schools)Lawmakers were unable to overturn a veto from the governor on a bill that might have helped school construction.
Michael Pope has more on the debate.
Members of the Virginia General Assembly gather in the House of Delegates for the 2024 veto session. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Virginia’s top elected officials appeared unified around the promise of a real compromise budget during Wednesday’s veto session. Brad Kutner has more from the Capitol.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is now facing a decision about what happens with slot-machine style machines in convenience stores and truck stops. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia’s legislature returns to Richmond Wednesday to review Governor Glenn Youngkin’s vetoes and amendments. While tension remains high, at least one bill with strong bipartisan support could see Youngkin rebuked. Brad Kutner has more.
All 140 members of the Virginia House of Delegates and the state Senate will be back in Richmond Wednesday. They’ll take action on all the governor’s amendments, including a historic number of budget amendments. Michael Pope has this preview.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQAll 140 members of the Virginia General Assembly will return to Richmond this week for a brief session to consider the governor’s amendments and vetoes. Michael Pope tells us one of the amendments they’ll be considering involves bullying in schools.
Convenience store owner Jarnail Singh participates in a protest over Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s proposed amendments to legislation that would legalize skill games in the Commonwealth. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Governor Glenn Youngkin tacked a lengthy list of amendments onto a bill that would legalize skill games.
Now, impacted store owners are pushing back.
Brad Kutner spoke to one such owner south of Richmond.
Innovative technologies produce gadgets meant to be helpful or simplify our lives. But sometimes, new products are used for unintended, illicit purposes.
Craig Wright has the story of a woman who wasn’t sure how to react to a disturbing alert she received on her phone about one such device.
Starting this summer, Virginia will have a new law against so-called “zombie mortgages.” Michael Pope explains.
The General Assembly is parsing through the governor’s many amendments and vetoes.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: Jahd KhalilRanked-choice voting has gained popularity in recent years. Although, as Michael Pope tells us, it’s not popular at the Executive Mansion.
Governor Glenn Youngkin ran on a law and order platform. And while that may have put most criminal justice reform efforts on the chopping block, advocates and elected officials were surprised by what survived his veto pen. Brad Kutner has more.
We’ve heard a lot about dangerous weather and rising seas associated with a changing climate, and medical experts say it will also take a toll on public health. That’s why the University of Virginia’s School of Nursing is hosting a conference on the subject this weekend. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Virginia’s workforce development is in the midst of a reorganization – one designed to make better use of federal money. Michael Pope reports.
A family who participated in home visiting through People Incorporated in southwest Virginia. (Credit: People Incorporated)Being a new parent is a learning experience. But accessing resources and help isn’t easy for everyone.
A program in Virginia is helping families build stronger relationships, by visiting with parents and kids in their own homes, as Roxy Todd reports.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin sits next to state Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera while the two hear about poor SOL test scores. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin released budget amendments and issued vetoes just hours before Monday night’s deadline. Some of Youngkin’s strikes hit education spending and funding plans crafted by Democrats. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Lawmakers will return to Richmond next week to consider next steps on a number of important bills. Michael Pope reports that they’ll need to make a decision on what to do about skill games.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin speaks to the press after announcing his “common ground” budget. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin offered more than 200 amendments to the General Assembly’s proposed budget Monday. The governor struck a more conciliatory tone, opening up the upcoming budget fight on a positive note, but Democratic leadership remained wary, as Brad Kutner found out.
(Credit: Michael Pope)Senator Tim Kaine is out with a new book this week.
And as Michael Pope tells us, it’s not the standard Washington memoir.
Abortion remains a key topic as the governor takes his final actions on bills from the General Assembly. Michael Pope has the latest.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin (Credit: Brad Kutner)Among Governor Glenn Youngkin’s education reforms was the development of a lab school program, linking colleges with local school systems to innovate new education models.
But as Democrats seek increased resources for the rest of the state’s public schools, they’re looking to reduce funding for that experiment in education.
Brad Kutner has more.
Time is running out for the governor to act on bills from this year’s General Assembly session.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin is setting new records for vetoing more bills than any other governor in recent years.
Michael Pope has details about one vetoed bill that would have encouraged teaching climate change in public schools.
Sen. Gazala Hashmi, center, holds the over 37,000 signatures collected supporting an effort to ensure access to contraception in the Commonwealth. She was joined, from left, by Rae Pickett, Virginia League for Planned Parenthood, Lara Bury and Penny Blue of Red Wine and Blue, Delegates Rae Cousins and Destiny LeVere Bolling, Tyanna Haynes of Birth in Color and Delegate Mike Jones. (Credit: Brad Kutner)After some justices of the U.S. Supreme Court suggested they should reconsider precedent protecting access to contraceptives, Virginia Democrats passed a law that would protect such access.
But the governor has yet to sign it, and advocates want him to act, as Brad Kutner reports from Richmond.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin, flanked from the left by Senators John McGuire and Mark Obenshain, signs a law increasing penalties for fentanyl-related production. Attorney General Jason Miyares and Delegates Buddy Fowler, Mike Cherry, Todd Gilbert and the families of overdose victims look on. (Credit: Brad Kutner)Governor Glenn Youngkin Thursday morning signed a bill that increases punishments for those who manufacture pressed pills that include fentanyl.
Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
A mother and son viewing the partial eclipse on Virginia Tech’s campus in Blacksburg in 2023. (Credit: Kristofer Rau)Next Monday, April 8, Virginians can see a partial solar eclipse, and most state parks are planning watch parties. Roxy Todd has tips for how to view the eclipse safely.
Thursday is a key deadline for primary elections this summer. Michael Pope has details.
Cindy Patterson and her horse Royale (Credit: Christine Kueter)All this year, Christine Kueter has been crisscrossing Virginia to listen to the stories of the 8.5 million people who call the Commonwealth home.
Today, she introduces us to a horse trainer in Abingdon who creates bonds with trust and understanding.
Senator Lashrecse Aird, flanked by (from left) Birth-in-Color’s Galina Varchena, Kenda Sutton-El and Dana Williams, Delegate Destiny LeVere Bolling and Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)For the first time, Virginia will mark Black Maternal Health Week starting Monday. The event comes after a 2023 study showed increased rates of maternal death in Black communities.
One legislator didn’t need a study to show just how bad the problem is. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Virginia is expecting an influx of people seeking abortions now that Florida will implement a six-week ban starting May 1st. Michael Pope has the story.
Earlier this week, Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed a plan from Virginia Democrats for a retail marijuana market. It comes years after the state decriminalized the substance, allowing an illicit market to flourish. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Governor Glenn Youngkin speaks at a news conference, as Senators Louise Lucas and Mamie Locke watch from the background. (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin’s hopes for a sports arena in northern Virginia may be dead, but politics in Virginia live on. Among deals that still need to happen between the Republican governor and his Democratic counterparts is the state’s budget. Brad Kutner has more.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is putting his signature on a bill legalizing cocktails to go. Michael Pope has the story.
The death of a sports arena deal in northern Virginia grabbed most of the headlines this week. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist with the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss that and all the happenings in state politics and government.
Acting Deputy Secretary of the Interior Laura Daniel-Davis stands with Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Director of the Department of Energy, former Delegate Glenn Davis, at a press event Thursday (Credit: Brad Kutner / Radio IQ)A top official at the U.S. Department of the Interior was in Richmond Thursday to announce millions of dollars to help reclaim abandoned coal mines from Wise to Chesterfield Counties. Brad Kutner has more from Richmond.
Tribal leaders discussed the act’s impact 100 years later. From left: Gregory Smithers, professor of American History, VCU; Assistant Chief Lou Wratchford, Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe; Wayne Adkins, First Assistant Chief of the Chickahominy Indian Tribe; Chief Lynette Allston, Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia; Chief Robert Gray, Pamunkey Indian Tribe (Credit: Pamela D’Angelo)Last week, as part of its Indigenous Perspectives Exhibit, the Library of Virginia asked four leaders from Tribes in Virginia to discuss the consequences to their cultures of the Racial Integrity Act put in place to preserve white supremacy in the state 100 years ago. Pamela D’Angelo reports.
Voters will head to the polls starting later this month to select all 140 members of the General Assembly. Michael Pope has this report on new polling showing what issues are on their minds.
Pandemic era teacher shortages continued across the Commonwealth. That’s one of the headlines from a new report on Virginia’s K-through-12 teacher pipeline from the nonpartisan Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission, or JLARC. Brad Kutner has more on the report released Tuesday morning.
With operations peppered across Virginia, WestRock is in merger talks with Ireland’s Smurfit Kappa that could create a paper and packaging company worth twenty billion dollars. Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about history, future, and big business of paper in The Commonwealth.
Now that Governor Glenn Youngkin is finally considering budget amendments, more details are emerging about the compromise. Michael Pope has this story about a proposal for an addiction recovery facility.
While medical providers track an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in humans here in Virginia, animal shelters report a surge of canine influenza. Sandy Hausman reports on why so many dogs are coming down with the disease, and what that means for pet owners.
Lawmakers have finally passed budget amendments. As Michael Pope tells us, the deal was struck too late for the traditional back-to-school sales tax holiday. But, parents and students will still get a break.
With action taken this week on the state budget, attention now turns to the fall campaign.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQ15 senators are saying goodbye to the General Assembly, a huge change in a chamber that does not usually see that much turnover in a single year. Michael Pope has this report about their last day in session.
(Credit: Craig Wright)For many people, gambling is simply an entertainment. But now, wagering is as close as the phone in the palm of your hand – and gambling is no longer confined to Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
Craig Wright looks into the impact as access to gambling continues to grow across the country and in the Commonwealth.
Credit: NPRMembers of the General Assembly usually hammer out a budget deal in February or March. As Michael Pope tells us, they finished action Wednesday, six months late.
There was another “winner” of the agreement — mental health initiatives, although advocates were hopeful the state would do more. Here’s reporter Michael Pope again:
Among line items baked into the new state budget is $250,000 for a study into the future of a new Washington Commanders football stadium in northern Virginia. But, how much should Virginians spend if the team decides to move south of the Potomac? Brad Kutner asked some legislators in Richmond.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQMembers of the Virginia General Assembly return to the Capitol Wednesday to finally adopt budget amendments. As Michael Pope reports, some details have become clearer.
Introduced in January of last year, House Bill 328 became the latest in a long line of efforts to privatize state liquor sales. It failed.
Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the industry that generated one-and-a-half billion dollars in sales last year – and why The Commonwealth is so reluctant to let go.
Credit: NPRLawmakers will return to Richmond September 6th to pass amendments to the budget. Michael Pope has this preview of one of the issues they’ll address.
The stage is set for an update to Virginia’s budget as well as the kickoff to the fall campaign.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Virus season is here. Yes, already.
Health experts say we can expect to see a rise in cases of RSV, COVID-19, and the flu over the next few months. Getting shots is not among most people’s favorite experiences, but vaccination is still one of the best way to protect yourself, and your family from getting viruses. And there are new vaccines available. Roxy Todd has this explainer.
Shenandoah National Park gets plenty of visitors each year – up to 1.8 million, but it’s not a very diverse crowd. That concerns the nonprofit that helps support the park. Sandy Hausman tells why and explains what the trust is doing to build popularity with different ethnic groups.
By the end of this calendar year, a court may determine if Virginia will remain a member of a multi-state environmental compact. Michael Pope reports.
Lawmakers will finally return to Richmond next week to pass amendments to a two-year budget that are already two months late. Michael Pope has the latest.
The slew of indictments against former President Donald Trump has demanded a lot of media attention lately. And, as Nick Gilmore reports, new polling from Roanoke College shows those criminal charges are on the minds of Virginia voters.
It was only back in May that Avelo Airlines launched flights from Charlottesville to Orlando. But, citing a lack of demand, they’ve announced those flights between those cities will cease on September 4th. Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright discuss one aspect of business that seems will always hold true: […]
The goal of universal broadband coverage across Virginia may be becoming a reality soon. Michael Pope reports.
Members of the General Assembly are heading back to the Capitol to pass overdue budget amendments. Michael Pope has the latest.
Trains are, generally, more fuel efficient than cars or trucks. But in the United States, trains use diesel fuel. A researcher at Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute has been researching different types of energy that could move them. Roxy Todd reports.
State lawmakers may finally have a deal on budget agreements. And Virginia’s attorney general has issued a legal opinion on the state’s new model guidance for transgender students. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, recap the week in state government and politics.
All of the seats in the General Assembly will be on the ballot this year. But as Michael Pope tells us, that does not mean a contested election in every district.
Doctors can prescribe effective treatments for heroin and opioid addiction, but there’s no medication to help cocaine addicts quit. That’s why doctors at the University of Virginia are trying a whole new approach – stimulating part of the brain that’s linked to addiction. Sandy Hausman has that story.
House and Senate leaders may be a step closer to finally getting an agreement on budget amendments. Michael Pope has the latest.
Dulles International Airport in northern Virginia is about to take a major step forward for renewable energy. Michael Pope has the story.
Concerns about a recession have tempered in recent months. But the latest economic headlines are providing even more mixed messages about where things may be headed. Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright ponder if the economy may be “coming due.”
Is the governor’s possible presidential campaign playing a role in the budget impasse? Michael Pope reports the answer isn’t so clear to political observers.
All 40 seats in the Virginia Senate are on the ballot this year. And as Michael Pope tells us, the next Senate will have a lot of new faces.
Local school divisions are starting to weigh in on new guidance from the Department of Education. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in state government and politics.
Lawmakers are still at odds over amendments to the state budget. Michael Pope reports, that’s causing problems for local governments across Virginia.
While his colleagues are talking about their summer vacations at the beach or in the mountains, one doctor at UVA Hospital is literally telling war stories. Connor Berlin took his neurosurgical skills to a large hospital caring for Ukrainian soldiers wounded in battle. Sandy Hausman has that story.
The budget impasse seems to have no sign of letting up any time soon, and as Michael Pope reports, that’s holding up a workforce redevelopment effort.
School boards across Virginia are reevaluating their approach to transgender students. Michael Pope has the latest.
Chronic wasting disease is fatal to deer, and it continues to spread in Virginia. Researchers are trying to learn why, and as Roxy Todd reports, they’re being aided by hunters.
Increasingly, the campaign trail is a place where secretly recorded audio is becoming part of elections. Michael Pope reports.
Seven years ago, the state settled a lawsuit filed by women at the Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women. They complained of inadequate medical care and reported being denied access to bathrooms. Cells at that prison do not contain toilets, so the state agreed to leave doors unlocked most of the time so prisoners could use the facilities. Now, an […]
Virginia’s governor is working to remove the Commonwealth from multistate organizations. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia’s budget surplus, and what to do with it, has been in the spotlight. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
The Virginia election may be looking to other states for inspiration. Michael Pope reports.
Labor issues have taken an increased role in politics in recent years now that employees of local governments have started unionizing. Michael Pope reports that labor issues are also taking a role on the campaign trail this year.
Abortion rights are a top topic this year as voters head to the polls to select candidates for the Virginia General Assembly. Michael Pope reports on how Republicans are hoping to use the issue in one toss-up race.
There has been plenty of news on what’s taught in schools– and how it’s taught. But what about money, debt, and planning for the future? Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the basics of personal finance’s place in the classroom.
Social media posts featuring bears encroaching on neighborhoods and wandering through city streets, could lead one to conclude that these occurrences are on the uptick. But are they? Craig Wright found an expert to lay out the “bear” facts.
On the campaign trail, Republicans are hoping the issue of parents’ rights will help them win control of the Virginia General Assembly. Michael Pope has more.
A new kind of tick has been spreading across the United States. It may have come from Australia or New Zealand, and it turned up in Virginia in 2018. Sandy Hausman reports on what makes the Asian longhorn especially scary and why a professor at Virginia Tech feels he was meant to help protect people […]
Voting in the election for the General Assembly starts later this month, and control of the House and Senate are at stake. Michael Pope reports on some new polling data on the election.
Dollars continue to draw discussion in Virginia’s political circles. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
The population of people incarcerated in Virginia is getting older. Michael Pope is taking a look at the data. You can find the report here.
Virginia is home to eight different kinds of owls – secretive creatures that have fascinated humans for centuries. Like other wild things, they face an uncertain future, but a Charlottesville author says there are things you can do to save owls. Sandy Hausman spoke with her and filed this report.
Scientists at the University of Virginia report an intriguing discovery with regard to Alzheimer’s disease. Sensitivity to light may throw off patients’ natural waking and sleeping cycles, making it more difficult for the brain to function. Sandy Hausman has that story.
The primary election that happened earlier this summer was historic in many ways. Michael Pope reports that it broke campaign finance records.
Now that an amended state budget is more than a month late, negotiators are running out of time to cut a deal. Michael Pope reports.
With the Federal Reserve continuing to bump up interest rates, and bank customers wondering if their money is safe in the wake of several notable bank failures – the climate for saving incentives is seeing a major shift. Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about what some are calling […]
Voters across Virginia will head to the polls this November to elect members of the General Assembly. And, as Michael Pope reports, they’ll have a much more diverse slate of candidates this year.
Child poverty fell to a historic low in Virginia last year. But, as Michael Pope reports, advocates are worried the numbers are about to spike.
Should the political donations of professors at a state university be tracked? That’s one of the topics Jeff Schapiro and Michael Pope are digging into as they recap the week in politics and state government.
How safe are electric scooters on college campuses? As Roxy Todd reports, a new study from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute looks at how some accidents could be avoided.
Voters across Virginia are hearing from candidates ahead of the November election. But voters in Suffolk are hearing from two candidates who have a close and potentially historic relationship. Michael Pope reports.
In 1738 a British slave trading ship arrived on the Potomac River. Onboard, 70 enslaved Africans for sale to nearby plantation owners. Some may have been purchased by Thomas Lee to build Stratford’s Great House and its dependencies. Today, the Stratford Hall Historic Preserve is paying homage to them and the unknown others who labored […]
Democrats have a slim majority in the state Senate, and they are hoping to keep control this year. Michael Pope tells us how party leaders are trying to outline the issues.
This election year is shaping up to be the most expensive legislative election cycle in Virginia history. Michael Pope is following the money.
The sharp spike in mortgage rates is keeping many homeowners from considering whether to put their homes on the market. As Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright note the current situation has analysts borrowing a term usually reserved for an employment tactic.
Virginia’s latest financial forecast shows a growing budget surplus. As Michael Pope reports, that’s changing the ongoing discussion about the budget impasse.
One of every 36 kids in this country has been diagnosed with some degree of autism – a developmental disability that affects communication, learning skills and behavior. As these children grow into young adults, many would like to drive, but teaching that complicated set of skills is a challenge. Now, a school working with kids in […]
Virginia and Maryland have been fighting to land a new FBI headquarters for more than a decade. But, as Michael Pope reports, recent developments might end up favoring Maryland.
Money made a lot of political headlines this week—money for campaigns and money for state revenue. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
The latest campaign finance disclosures show the record amounts of fundraising. Michael Pope is looking at the numbers.
Hellbender salamanders could be disappearing, and forests in southwest Virginia may be their best hope for survival. New research finds a surprising twist, as Roxy Todd reports.
School boards across Virginia are facing an important decision now that the Virginia Department of Education has issued a new model policy on transgender students. Michael Pope reports.
Internal documents obtained by the NAACP of Virginia show applicants who are requesting their voting rights be restored are getting denied without being given a reason why. Mallory Noe-Payne has the latest on an ongoing attempt by several voting rights groups to get answers about rights restoration under Governor Glenn Youngkin’s administration.
Virginia is hoping to become a leader in semiconductor manufacturing, and as Michael Pope reports it’s an issue that’s bringing together Republicans and Democrats.
Glenn Youngkin’s “Spirit of Virginia” political action committee pulled in more money in the second quarter of 2023 than any previous governor had raised in an entire year. With the full slate of General Assembly seats on the ballot across the state, Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about […]
Voters in one Virginia locality experimented with ranked-choice voting for the primary last month. Now, as Michael Pope reports, they are going back to a more traditional way of casting ballots in the fall.
Most of us use tape regularly, from the packages we get in the mail, to moving boxes or even Band-Aids. Now, researchers at Virginia Tech have found a way to make tape stay on longer, as Roxy Todd reports.
A lawsuit heading to the United States Supreme Court might make dramatic changes to the regulation of financial institutions. As Michael Pope reports, that might help so-called predatory lenders in Virginia.
Negotiations to amend the state’s two-year budget remain stalled, or even non-existent. It’s not the first stalemate. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope look back at some of the lessons from the last major impasse.
In recent elections, Democrats have benefited by encouraging voters to bank early votes and add their name to the permanent absentee list. Now, Michael Pope reports Republicans are trying to get a piece of the action.
State officials will soon have access to additional federal resources when it comes to weather and emergency preparedness. Nick Gilmore explains.
Drug overdoses are the leading cause of unnatural death in Virginia. And as Michael Pope reports, the state government continues to try new strategies to address the fentanyl crisis.
Bog turtles are the tiniest turtle in North America, and also the most endangered. Their habitats are disappearing. Roxy Todd went along with biologists who are researching how many of these rare turtles still exist.
The sheriff of Culpeper County remains in office even though he’s facing federal corruption charges. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia started down the road to legalizing marijuana. But as Michael Pope reports, the destination remains out of sight.
Virginia is trying to crack down on gang violence. But opinions are divided about the strategy. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia’s government is in a new fiscal year. But some old political standoffs are carrying on. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Republicans and Democrats have been using ranked-choice voting in mass meetings for years to select candidates. But last month saw the first primary election with ranked-choice voting. As Michael Pope reports, reviews are mixed.
Summer is a time when many families go on vacation or attend summer camp. But for kids who depend on school meals as their main source of nutrition, summer can be filled with hunger. Roxy Todd spoke with school cafeteria workers who are spending their summer preparing breakfast, lunch, and sometimes dinner.
Lawmakers are still deadlocked over budget amendments for a fiscal year that started on July 1st. And as Michael Pope reports, schools may be taking a hit because of the impasse.
Earlier this year, lawmakers agreed on a sweeping package to transform mental health services. Now, as Michael Pope reports, the proposal is on hold.
After a Supreme Court ruling on debt forgiveness, student loan repayments are set to resume in October and interest on those loans will also begin to accrue in September. Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the resumption of those payments after a more than 3-year pause, as well […]
Law enforcement officials across Virginia are converting their shotguns into less-lethal weapons. Michael Pope explains why.
There’s been plenty of talk about the lack of action on Virginia’s state budget. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Virginia is about to enter a new fiscal year Saturday in a state of uncertainty. Michael Pope has the latest on the budget standoff.
Miners in Southwest Virginia have high rates of advanced black lung disease. The largest cluster of cases ever reported was in Virginia in 2018. Now, federal regulators could be close to releasing new rules that will help protect miners, as Roxy Todd reports.
Healthcare in the United States is more expensive per person than anywhere else in the world. On the front lines of medicine, nurses sometimes see better, cheaper ways to do things. So the University of Virginia is training them on how to sell their ideas to management as Sandy Hausman reports.
The latest round of economic data from the Virginia Employment Commission illustrates a tale of two Commonwealths. Michael Pope explains.
For decades, scientists have known that physical movement is good for our brains. Now, researchers are looking at how some types of exercise—like dance—may have special benefits for brain development. Roxy Todd reports.
This week, justices on the United States Supreme Court agreed to hear a case filed by a Virginia veteran. Michael Pope reports the outcome could have sweeping consequences.
Now that the primary voting is over, attention turns to November’s General Election and some of the big donors funding the campaigns. Michael Pope has more.
It’s been two years since Virginia revised its rules for about 60,000 people who were sentenced to probation by Virginia courts. Sandy Hausman reports that the changes made by state lawmakers appear to be working well.
One of the big winners in the recent primary elections was a group known as the Progressive Prosecutors for Justice. Michael Pope reports.
Last year, doctors at the Salem VA Medical Center began something new to help veterans with chronic pain. Roxy Todd spoke with some of the veterans who went through the program, to learn how, and if, it helped.
Virginia held primary elections this week – with General Assembly hopefuls now turning their attention to November. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss the results from Tuesday’s elections.
Democrats were worried that Republican voters might influence the outcome of party primaries this week. But as Michael Pope tells us, those fears were unfounded.
This week we’ve been taking a road trip across the state. We’ve been hearing what local governments have done with their COVID relief dollars. There’s been a new community grocery store, a new elementary school, a new bus line. We wrap up today with a tour of Scottsville, south of Charlottesville, where the infusion of […]
Now that all the legislative candidates have been determined in conventions and primaries, both parties are looking ahead to November. Michael Pope reports.
Several incumbent senators will not be returning to Richmond next year. Michael Pope has more on the fallout from Tuesday’s primaries.
All this week we’ve been taking a road trip across Virginia — checking out what localities and state agencies are doing with their COVID relief dollars. One regional planner called it the largest investment from the federal government since the New Deal. Today, we’ll take a bus ride over Afton Mountain, as Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
We’re taking a road trip across Virginia — checking out what localities and state agencies are doing with their COVID relief dollars. Today, we go to far southwest Virginia, where officials in Bristol are building a new public school for the first time in more than half a century. More now from reporter Mallory Noe-Payne.
It’s been more than three years now since COVID-19 ground everything to a halt. Part of the government response to the pandemic were several massive spending measures – including the Coronavirus Air, Relief and Economic Security – or CARES – Act. There was also the American Rescue Plan, also known as ARPA. Much of that money flowed […]
Last week, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper signed legislation which will bring sports betting to his state by next year. There are now more states with legalized sports betting than without. Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the growth in acceptance of this once taboo activity, and the […]
Voters across much of Virginia are headed to the polls this week. As Michael Pope reports, several incumbents in the Senate are facing stiff primary challenges. Voters are going to the polls this week for legislative and some local primaries. And the way those primaries are structured worry some party officials.
It’s been more than three years now since COVID-19 ground everything to a halt. Part of the government response to the pandemic were several massive spending measures – including the Coronavirus Air, Relief and Economic Security – or CARES – Act. There was also the American Rescue Plan, also known as ARPA. Much of that […]
Virginia’s primary elections are next week. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss some historical examples of incumbents who have been unseated in primaries.
Researchers are hoping to learn more about what could help children exposed to opioids and other substances before they were born. As Roxy Todd reports, families across southwest Virginia will be included in a study that will follow children over several decades.
Last year, 171 pedestrians in Virginia were killed in traffic crashes, according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Researchers at Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute are trying to figure out if Artificial Intelligence might be able to prevent similar deaths. Roxy Todd reports.
When Congress raised the debt ceiling, it also approved a provision that cleared the way for construction of the Mountain Valley Pipeline. The measure told federal agencies like the National Forest Service to approve construction permits within 21 days and blocked federal courts from getting in the way. Builders of the MVP immediately asked judges […]
Last week, Governor Glenn Youngkin made good on his campaign pledge as the Virginia State Air Pollution Board voted to remove the commonwealth from RGGI – the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about what it means for energy providers, consumers — and the economics […]
Fears of rising crime might be widespread. But as Michael Pope tells us, long-term crime statistics tell a different story.
Virginia teachers returned to their classrooms in record numbers after the pandemic shutdown of 2020, but one year later they set a different record – leaving in droves. Sandy Hausman reports on research showing why so many left the classroom.
It’s been a busy week for environmental-related news in Virginia – with the state’s Air Pollution Control Board voting to remove the Commonwealth from a regional greenhouse gas program. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, recap the week in politics and state government.
Washington’s standoff over the debt ceiling may have ended. But as Michael Pope tells us, the debate over budget amendments in Virginia is still ongoing.
Voting is well underway across Virginia for primary elections later this month. Michael Pope has this look at the numbers so far. You can see the analysis from the Virginia Public Access Project here.
A shooting outside a high school graduation in Richmond has left a father and son dead, and five others injured. It’s a mass shooting, and police believe the shooter was targeting one person he knew. Mallory Noe-Payne spoke with community members about gun violence in the city and has this report. Mental health support is […]
Now that the Mountain Valley Pipeline has been given the green light as part of the debt ceiling deal, opponents are considering next steps. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia’s governor hopes to fulfill a campaign promise. Glenn Youngkin claimed joining with ten other states in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative was costing consumers’ money, and we should get out.
On Wednesday, the state’s Air Pollution Control Board will vote on that, as Sandy Hausman reports.
Last week, Glenn Youngkin announced that beginning July 1st, state agencies will no longer require degrees, or give preference to those who have them, from job candidates for 90% of state jobs.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the implications for potential employees – as well as colleges that are already experiencing dwindling enrollments.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQVirginia’s next fiscal year is fast approaching. And as Michael Pope tells us, it could start with some uncertainty.
Credit: NPRAs voters head to the polls in the June 20th primary, they’ll be casting ballots in new districts with new boundaries. As Michael Pope reports, those new districts will include people incarcerated somewhere else.
The debt ceiling legislation is creating some unusual splits in Virginia’s Congressional delegation.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Former Virginia Governor Bill TuckGovernor Glenn Youngkin is sending National Guard troops to the southern border in Texas next month, a move that critics say is politically motivated. Michael Pope tells us about a previous governor who used his powers as the commander-in-chief in a way that still invites controversy.
New numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a puzzling trend in Virginia’s economy. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPRMembers of Congress may be closer to resolving the conflict over the debt ceiling. But, as Michael Pope tells us, members of the Virginia General Assembly are still at a standstill with their budget amendments.
Warren Bickel is the director of the Addiction Recovery Research Center at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute in Roanoke (Credit: Virginia Tech photo)Think of something you’re looking forward to, say, in the next week. Or maybe some vacation plans later this summer.
New research is finding that the ability to think of events in the future may hold a key to helping people who struggle with alcohol and drug addiction.
Roxy Todd explains.
As streaming television services have gained acceptance and grown in popularity, smaller communication companies have fallen victim to the economics of providing cable TV to their customers.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the rapidly changing business of home entertainment.
A recent Supreme Court decision might have environmental impacts in Virginia for years to come.
Michael Pope reports.
Virginia’s 2023 election cycle is picking up steam, but the Commonwealth’s place in the 2024 election is also getting a lot of early attention.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope have more on the week in politics and state government.
Northern Virginia is the global hub of data centers. But Michael Pope tells us that notoriety is causing friction in some communities.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQVoters will go to the polls next month to choose candidates in dozens of races across Virginia. Michael Pope reports some of those races will be for prosecutors.
With so much going on during the annual meeting of Virginia’s General Assembly, it’s easy to miss some important and sometimes surprising legislation.
Sandy Hausman reports the state is now moving forward with a rare bipartisan effort to reform Virginia’s system of parole.
Credit: NPRMembers of school boards are elected in nonpartisan elections in Virginia. But, as Michael Pope reports, that doesn’t mean the elections lack partisanship.
A Richmond-based tobacco company is settling thousands of lawsuits related to the marketing and availability of vaping products.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about Altria and how the company moves forward.
Credit: PPIA new report calls attention to Virginia’s practice of incarcerating people even after their sentence has been completed. Michael Pope explains.
Credit: NPRAs the June 20th primary approaches, candidates are receiving a series of endorsements. Michael Pope takes a look at what they mean.
Sally Dickinson and her trained detection dog, Flint, search a vineyard in Winchester for spotted lanternfly egg masses. They are beginning to recruit other people with their dogs to do the same. It’s a four-year project funded by the USDA. (Credit: Luke Hayes/Virginia Tech)The invasive spotted lanternfly continues to spread throughout Virginia, threatening vineyards. Researchers are training dogs to help sniff them out, as Roxy Todd reports.
Count Virginia lawmakers among those worried about a potential default on the nation’s debt.
Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss the state budget and the week that was in Virginia politics.
Credit: NPRGovernor Glenn Youngkin is taking final action this week on a number of bills from the General Assembly. Michael Pope reports on one about power lines.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQNorth Carolina’s new abortion ban is changing the dynamic here in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
The governor is taking final actions this week on bills lawmakers sent him during the General Assembly session. Michael Pope has this story about one involving online pornography.
After several years of holding the line, most of Virginia’s public universities are raising tuition.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and All Things Considered host Craig Wright have more on what’s driving the new round of increases.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQVirginia is leaving a group of states that share information about voter lists. Michael Pope reports.
Ph.D. student Mecaila McClune (at left) has been working with Brandon Jutras to study a molecule that lingers in some people with Lyme disease. (Credit: Lee Friesland / Virginia Tech)Some people who get Lyme disease have symptoms long after they’ve received treatment. Scientists are trying to find out why. As Roxy Todd reports, their research could also lead doctors to be able to test for Lyme disease more quickly.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQVoters across Virginia will go to the polls on June 20th for General Assembly and local primaries. But, as Michael Pope reports, only a handful of those contests will be Republican primaries.
Who is watching the movement of your car on license plate readers in Virginia?
Michael Pope reports on the latest developments on the technology.
Primaries in General Assembly races are quickly approaching. But, some Republicans have already been picked to run this fall through conventions.
Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch – talk about that and the week that was in politics and state government.
Illustration of what scientists believe a supermassive black hole, known as M87, may look like. This illustration was created based on radio data collected by telescopes around the world working in tandem. (Credit: S. Dagnello/NRAO/AUI/NSF)The Green Bank observatory in West Virginia recently helped capture a new image of a supermassive black hole. As Roxy Todd explains, this image reveals new information about a mystery surrounding black holes.
President Biden and Congressional leaders are scheduled to meet Tuesday to discuss the looming debt ceiling standoff.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright dig into why we have a debt ceiling at all and the potential impact of a default.
Credit: NPROver the weekend, Republicans selected some candidates who will be on the ballot this November. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQVirginia has a red flag law that is supposed to help people alert authorities when someone may be a threat to themselves or others. Michael Pope reports that federal money is available to help spread awareness about the program in Virginia.
One of the problems for the growth of solar energy in Virginia has been finding a place to put all the solar panels. Michael Pope has this report on a potential solution to the problem.
Federal crime statistics show Virginia has a problem with gun trafficking.
Michael Pope has the details.
Governor Glenn Youngkin’s plans for diversity and his plans for next year have been making headlines.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
The Hatton Ferry can transport 11 people and two cars — or three Model-Ts. (Credit: Albemarle County Historical Society)One of Virginia’s beloved historic attractions will reopen this weekend after a two-year hiatus. Sandy Hausman paid a visit to the nation’s last poled ferry and filed this report.
UVA senior David Roselle set out to make events safer, greener and more fun with an app called DoorList. (Credit: Sandy Hausman)Great ideas in business often come from personal observation – seeing problems in need of solutions. And simple ideas can make entrepreneurs rich.
That could be the case for a UVA student who has attended plenty of events that required guests to wear wristbands.
Sandy Hausman has his story.
The ongoing debate over the budget has yet to be resolved. And as Michael Pope reports the latest disagreement is about public funds for private schools.
Authors Russ Ford (R), Todd Peppers and researcher Charles Peppers (L) (Credit: Sandy Hausman)It’s been nearly two years since Virginia abolished the death penalty, but some people are still dealing with its consequences.
Russell Ford was a minister who accompanied 28 men to the electric chair, and he’s written a memoir about that experience.
He sat down with Sandy Hausman to share some of his memories. And we should mention that some of those stories are graphic.
Credit: NPRCampaign finance numbers are revealing the state of some contested races heading into the June 20 primary. Michael Pope reports.
The tick rover picks up and kills 85-95% of the blood-sucking insects in treated areas. (Credit: VMI)Spring is high season for ticks, and Virginia has 17 different kinds. Because they can carry Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and other dangerous conditions, the engineering department at the Virginia Military Institute has declared war on the bugs – using a robot to do battle. Sandy Hausman has that story.
It’s becoming a lot more competitive to land, and especially to keep, a minor league baseball team. Case in point: Richmond and its ballpark.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright have more on the challenge.
Virginia Chief Diversity Officer Martin Brown. He has come under fire recently for stating “DEI is dead” during a talk at the Virginia Military Institute.Since he was elected, Governor Glenn Youngkin has tried to remove the term equity from the classroom and the code. Michael Pope reports on the latest developments.
Students at Emory and Henry College in Southwest Virginia have spent the past semester uncovering the names of hundreds of people who were enslaved at the college, before and during the Civil War.
As Roxy Todd reports, they produced a short video, meant as a memorial to those whose stories would otherwise have been overlooked.
Two high-profile primaries, one Republican and one Democratic, are heating up.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Hundreds of thousands of people in Virginia may be in danger of losing their health insurance. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQVirginia’s labor force participation rate is now back up to pre-pandemic levels. Michael Pope reports.
Northern Virginia is often seen as the economic powerhouse of the state. But as Michael Pope reports, the housing crunch is causing a problem.
Governor Glenn Youngkin has been raking in donations at a record clip in Virginia – and that was before his political action committee took in a million-dollar check last week.
Craig Wright and Roben Farzad – host of public radio’s Full Disclosure – talk about political contributions from the world’s wealthiest people.
City leaders in Richmond are considering an expansion of the Pulse bus rapid transit system. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQ)Local governments across Virginia are considering a variety of proposals to enhance bus service. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQThe latest round of campaign finance disclosures show the 2023 election is attracting record amounts of campaign cash. Michael Pope tells us Democrats have an edge in fundraising for the Senate.
Money is pouring in for the fall General Assembly campaigns.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRThe latest round of campaign finance disclosures are breaking records and revealing the shape of the 2023 election. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia’s Board of Education discusses the new standards. (Credit: Va. Dept. of Education livestream)After months of debate, hearings and contentious drafts, Virginia’s Board of Education adopted new K-through-12 history standards Thursday.
David Seidel has more.
Traps can be adjusted to keep cats from moving around so scientists can safely administer a sedative. (Credit: Nicole Gorman/Virginia Tech)One of the greatest threats to wildlife in Virginia is traffic. Thousands of animals are killed each year by cars and trucks in collisions that may also cost human lives or cause injuries.
In an effort to reduce the incidence of roadkill, Sandy Hausman reports on how scientists at Virginia Tech have been trapping, tagging and tracking the travel patterns of bobcats.
It’s been nearly six years since white supremacists shocked the world by marching on the University of Virginia campus, carrying torches and chanting racist and anti-Semitic slogans. Now some of those extremists are facing criminal charges, as Sandy Hausman reports.
A study by VTTI compared different types and colors of lighting along roadways, to see if they had different effects on melatonin suppression on pedestrians, drivers and those who sleep near roads. (Credit: Rajaram Bhagavathula / Virginia Tech)There have been several studies over the past decade that show blue lights, like the type in our phones and TVs, can negatively impact our sleep patterns. But what about lighting along our roads? A recent study from Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute looked at whether LED road lighting affects how well we fall asleep. Roxy Todd explains.
Former Governor Bill TuckThis week, members of the Virginia Board of Education are expected to take up controversial new history standards. And Michael Pope reports union leaders are hoping that labor history will be part of the curriculum.
Virginia is about to get a massive new offshore wind farm with 170 turbines. As Michael Pope reports, opinions are divided about how to go about making that happen.
Shopping malls once ruled the retail landscape. Now they’re reinventing themselves, or just trying to stay afloat.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about where they’re headed.
Credit: NPR20 members of the House of Delegates are retiring and saying goodbye to the General Assembly. And as Michael Pope tells us, another 12 delegates are hoping to move over to the Senate.
The General Assembly finished work on the governor’s amendments and vetoes this week, while a hot-button issue simmered in the background.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRLawmakers now have finished their one-day reconvene session and taken action on all the governor’s amendments and vetoes. But Michael Pope reports the budget remains a work in progress.
The entrance to the Virginia state capitol. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne)Governor Glenn Youngkin is now facing a choice of what to do with an internet safety bill.
Michael Pope reports members of the General Assembly rejected an amendment he suggested.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQMembers of the General Assembly are considering amendments from the governor. And as Michael Pope reports, they are giving a stamp of approval to some controversial changes to a bill about marijuana.
Ramps with Allium Leafminer eggs at tip of leaves. Photo taken outside Blacksburg, Va. (Credit: Derrek Hennen)Gardeners who grow onions and leeks, be on the lookout for a growing threat—a pesky little fly that’s spreading through Virginia. Roxy Todd explains.
As members of the General Assembly return to the Capitol for the reconvene session this week, the restoration of voting rights is expected to be a major topic of conversation. Michael Pope reports.
Democratic Senator Lionell Spruill of Chesapeake says he’ll be meet with the governor Wednesday morning to talk about the process.
Credit: NPRLawmakers are returning to Richmond Wednesday for a spring session of the General Assembly. Michael Pope has this preview.
The dengue virus mixes molecules from its RNA with saliva to suppress the human immune system and ease spread of the disease. (Credit: Emily Faith Morgan / UVA Communications)A team of scientists at the University of Virginia has made a discovery that could – eventually – save millions of lives. Sandy Hausman reports on what they’ve learned about a virus that threatens half the world’s population.
BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) has reached a critical milestone in the nation’s pursuit of space nuclear propulsion by delivering coated reactor fuels to NASA. The spherical fuel kernels contained in this vial are tiny – about the diameter of a human hair. Made of uranium, they have a special coating to ensure safety and reliability at the extreme temperatures required for nuclear thermal propulsion. Nuclear thermal propulsion is one of the technologies that is capable of propelling a spacecraft to Mars and back. BWXT has been able to leverage its decades of specialty and coated fuel manufacturing experience as well as its existing licensed production facilities to be the first private company to deliver relevant coated fuels to be used in NASA testing. This work was supported by NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) through the Space Nuclear Propulsion (SNP) project. (Credit: BWXT)There’s a manufacturing company on the cusp of big things in central Virginia. As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, they’re developing nuclear rocket fuel for NASA.
Credit: VPAPNew research shows Norfolk remains at the top of the list of East Coast cities facing the fastest rate of sea level rise. And Ferrum College in Franklin County will begin offering free tuition to qualifying students this fall.
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 and Edie Gross.
Lawmakers will be returning to Richmond next week to consider amendments from the governor. Michael Pope tells us about one of the amendments on internet safety.
Healthcare costs are high – not only for patients, but many rural hospitals are also facing financial strains. Nearly three in 10 rural hospitals in Virginia are at risk of closing, according to a recent report. Roxy Todd explains.
State lawmakers will be back in Richmond next week to discuss amendments from Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, discuss that and the week that was in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRA new poll from the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University shows Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin to be out of step with Virginia voters. Michael Pope reports.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is breaking out his veto pen and taking aim at a bill introduced to crack down on loud cars. Michael Pope reports.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is signing a bill that offers reparations for victims of a racist policy that shut down Virginia’s public schools. Michael Pope reports.
It appears a sale of the Washington Commanders could be imminent.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright discuss that and where the franchise’s value ranks among other professional sports teams.
Credit: NPRThis week will see some major news for the 2023 election in Virginia. Michael Pope has this preview.
Credit: VPAPA Virginia school superintendent’s mention of eliminating libraries to save money is getting some negative reviews, but a gun safety law passed by the General Assembly this year seems to be popular across the board.
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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQMembers of the General Assembly will be returning to the Capitol April 12th to consider amendments from the governor. Michael Pope reports that some of the amendments might influence your power bill.
Governor Glenn Youngkin has issued nearly 80 amendments to legislation and vetoed three bills.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss that and the week that was in politics and state government.
Credit: Virginia Tech AthleticsVirginia Tech’s women’s basketball team will play Friday in the national semifinals. This is the first time the team has made it to the final four, and fans are gearing up ahead of the game, as Roxy Todd reports.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is taking a different approach than previous governors when it comes to restoring the right to vote to people previously convicted of felonies. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia’s governor is signing legislation to crack down on tow truck drivers. Michael Pope reports.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is rolling out his amendments to legislation this week. And as Michael Pope reports, one set of amendments is aimed at products with THC currently available on store shelves.
Virginia’s housing market may be cooling off, but sale prices remain hot.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright have more on what’s influencing the market and what it might mean for the future.
A ski run at Massanutten (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne)Last week the world’s leading climate scientists released another grim report: climate change is worsening.
Mallory Noe-Payne has this look at how Virginia ski resorts are faring as they face an uncertain future.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQGovernor Glenn Youngkin has a new superintendent in charge of a school system facing budget challenges and rising demand for services. Michael Pope reports.
There’s been a big shakeup at the Department of Education while the governor has a big weekend ahead.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
(Credit: David Seidel)Election officials across Virginia say they are trying to do the best they can in very difficult circumstances.
And as Michael Pope reports, some of them are resigning.
A new federal report on earned-wage access is reopening a debate from the General Assembly session earlier this year.
Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Tech President Timothy Sands greets Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi. To the right is Kathleen Alexander, who leads the Centre for Conservation of African Resources: Animals, Communities, and Land Use, a nongovernmental organization in Botswana. (Credit: Clark DeHart/Virginia Tech)The President of Botswana visited Virginia Tech Tuesday.
As Roxy Todd reports, he focused on how conservation, democracy, and sustainable development are linked.
Last week, the Youngkin administration released a draft of a new state air, land and water permitting process that incorporates environmental justice.
Pamela D’Angelo has more on how that might impact Virginia’s native Tribes.
It’s been a nervous week in the banking world, both in the United States and abroad.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about what might come next.
The new lights on Virginia State Police vehicles will be both red and blue on the front and back
(Credit: Lee Friesland/Virginia Tech)Don’t be surprised if you begin seeing more state police cars with red, as well as blue, lights.
As Roxy Todd reports, police across Virginia have begun phasing in new lights, based on a study that showed they’ll help prevent crashes.
Virginia was among the top states for hate and extremist incidents in 2022.
Michael Pope reports.
Term limits may be on the way in Virginia, at least in one town. And even after 75 years the vinyl record refuses to disappear and a Virginia company is playing a major role in keeping it spinning.
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 and Edie Gross.
There are some signs of movement toward an updated state budget.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQCandidates across Virginia are preparing to snag a spot at the top of the ballot next week. Michael Pope explains.
The Fairfax County School Board recently approved a resolution allowing for collective bargaining among public school employees, and the Falls Church School Board is expected to follow suit sometime soon. As Michael Pope reports, school divisions across Virginia are starting to unionize.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQMembers of the General Assembly finished their legislative session without passing a budget, and they are expected to return to the Capitol soon to finish the job. But, as Michael Pope reports, all members of the legislature might not be able to participate.
A walking path through a forest in southwest Virginia. (Credit: Roxy Todd / Radio IQ)Across the Commonwealth, and the country, there have been many debates around monuments, and the stories they tell. A new project is underway to highlight stories in southwest Virginia that have often been overlooked. Roxy Todd reports.
The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank shocked both the banking and the tech sectors.
Roben Farzad, host of public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the longer-term repercussions.
Kia Williams and Taylor Emery are students at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in Blacksburg. They recently launched a local chapter of the National Association of Black Veterinarians (SNABV). Williams is the chapter’s president. (Credit: Roxy Todd)Nationally, only about three percent of all veterinarians are Black, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Students at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in Blacksburg are working to change those statistics, as Roxy Todd reports.
During a community forum, one resident urged Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis to organize a gun buyback program. (Credit: Sandy Hausman)Since September, 14 people have been killed and 22 wounded by gunfire in Charlottesville, prompting police to consider a gun buyback program.
Richmond and Roanoke have also offered rewards to those who surrender their firearms, but as Sandy Hausman reports, that may not be the best way to prevent gun violence.
Kia Williams and Taylor Emery are students at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in Blacksburg. They recently launched a local chapter of the National Association of Black Veterinarians (SNABV). Williams is the chapter’s President. (Credit: Roxy Todd / Radio IQ)Nationally, only about three percent of all veterinarians are Black, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Students at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in Blacksburg are working to change those statistics, as Roxy Todd reports.
Credit: VPAPSame-day registration and voting – used in Virginia for the first time last November – proved to be especially popular among college students. And, an archeological dig in downtown Charlottesville is producing artifacts by the hundreds.
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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
President Woodrow Wilson had a devastating stroke while in office and suffered from a deep depression.
(Credit: Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library)The approach of another presidential election in which one or both candidates might be over the age of 80 during their term has prompted more talk about the need for good mental and physical fitness in that job.
One expert on presidents and health says the nation should be using technology to scan candidates and presidents on a regular basis.
Sandy Hausman spoke with him.
Plenty of comings and goings at Virginia’s capitol and the nation’s capitol over the past week.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the changes.
Are payday loans about to make a comeback in Virginia? Michael Pope has more on the possibility.
Credit: First Street FoundationThe destructive force of wind from tropical weather systems poses an increasing risk to Virginia, according to a new report. Michael Pope has details.
You can see the shifting risk where you live here by typing in your street address.
Former House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn says she will not run for reelection. And state Senator Lynwood Lewis says he won’t either.
As Michael Pope reports, it’s the latest round of retirements in a historic election cycle.
Rep. Abigail SpanbergerVirginia’s congressional delegation is working across party lines to make whole milk available at your local public school.
Michael Pope explains why.
Cities all over the country wanted it. Northern Virginia won it. But now Amazon is pressing pause on its new second headquarters in Northern Virginia.
Roben Farzad, host of public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about what happened and its potential impact on the Commonwealth.
Jurors in Virginia can expect the state to show a little more appreciation for their civic service starting this summer. And Prince William County’s power bill will be more manageable if a solar project works out as expected.
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 and David Poole.
Virginia’s governor is now considering a number of bills aimed at the relationship between regulators and utilities. But, as Michael Pope reports, that’s happening during a time when some key positions remain vacant.
The 2023 General Assembly session is over, but that doesn’t mean this week wasn’t light on state government developments.
Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro – political columnist with the Richmond Times-Dispatch – discuss the week that was.
Virginia’s governor is enjoying some of his best poll numbers ever. Michael Pope has this report on a new survey from Roanoke College.
Credit: NPRAs leaders on the money committees of the General Assembly meet in private to nail down budget numbers, they will need to make a determination about how much money needs to go to schools to fix a math error from the Department of Education. Michael Pope reports.
Lawmakers are still haggling over the details of the budget. And advocates say they also still need to fix a $200 million mistake. Michael Pope explains.
More and more venues—from The Diamond ballpark in Richmond to Lane Stadium at Virginia Tech—are going cashless. And while it may be easier to pay for items electronically, it’s also more expensive in many cases.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright have more on this cashless trend.
Doctoral student Andrea Merchak and Lab Director Alban Gaultier study the impact of bile salts on laboratory mice with multiple sclerosis. (Credit: UVA)About a million people in this country suffer from a degenerative disease called multiple sclerosis. Treatments carry some potentially serious side effects, and there is no cure.
But scientists at the University of Virginia report a breakthrough that could someday mean recovery for people who have MS and other autoimmune disorders. From Charlottesville, Sandy Hausman reports.
Congressman Bobby ScottVirginia Congressman Bobby Scott is about to launch a new effort to protect the right to organize. And, as Michael Pope reports, it has Republican support.
Credit: VPAPA Black woman from Roanoke who died 70 years ago will be officially commemorated for her importance to medical research. And Loudon County is honoring the first Black man to fire a shot for the Union in the Civil War. 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 and Edie Gross.
Credit: NPRLawmakers ended their session without approving a budget. But as Michael Pope reports, they were able to claim some other accomplishments.
Lawmakers will wrap up their legislative session without passing a budget.
And as Michael Pope reports, the rest of the work will happen outside the public view.
Does poor sleep lead to dementia, or does dementia cause poor sleep? UVA hopes to find out. (Credit: UVA School of Nursing)It’s not unusual for older adults to experience problems related to sleep, and one in ten people over the age of 45 report memory problems getting worse.
At the University of Virginia’s School of Nursing, experts hope to learn how sleep and mental decline are related, and they’re looking for volunteers to take part in a study from the comfort of their own homes.
Sandy Hausman has that story.
The last few hours of the General Assembly session are ticking away. And the legislature will look remarkably different when it convenes next year.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
Democrats are trying to use a change to the rules of the House as a way to spotlight abortion protections. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPRMany members of the General Assembly will be ending their session for the last time this year. Michael Pope reports.
The Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine rehearsing before a performance at Radford University. (Credit: Roxy Todd)As the war in Ukraine reaches the one-year mark, an orchestra from that country has been performing in the U-S.
Roxy Todd reports the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance at Radford University this week was part of a two-month tour.
Credit: NPRLawmakers are wrapping up their General Assembly session this year. Michael Pope reports they are likely to leave town without taking action on creating a retail market for marijuana.
Virginia now has four casinos that are up and running or will be soon, and as Michael Pope reports, lawmakers in Richmond are debating where to put a fifth.
Jennifer McClellan, Virginia’s newest Congresswoman, hugs her daughter during an election night party. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne)For the first time ever, Virginians elected a Black woman to represent the state in Congress.
Mallory Noe-Payne was at the election night celebration in Richmond Tuesday night and filed this report.
Lawmakers are wrestling with the details of how electric regulation should work and what kind of profit the utility providers should make. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPRMembers of the General Assembly are expected to end their legislative session this weekend. But, as Michael Pope reports, they might end up leaving town without passing a budget.
Remember the old adage “membership has its privileges?”
Well, more and more often that privilege is access to content that used to be free as all sorts of services add paid memberships and subscriptions.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the business trend.
(Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne)It may not be November, but Tuesday is an election day in some parts of the state.
Mallory Noe-Payne reports on the special election in Virginia’s 4th Congressional District.
Lawmakers in Richmond often consider laws about concealed firearms.
Now, as Michael Pope reports, they are considering laws about concealed switchblades.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is considering legislation aimed to preventing foreign adversaries from purchasing farmland in Virginia.
Michael Pope has an update.
Dr. Bryce Nelson heads pediatric endocrinology at Children’s Hospital of Richmond. (Credit: VCU)Type One diabetes is rare, but it tends to run in families, and if you have a close relative with the disease your lifetime odds are 5 to 7%.
Now, doctors can offer a medication that prevents development for an average of two years. Children’s Hospital of Richmond is helping families to get tested and to come in for treatment, as Sandy Hausman reports.
The University of Virginia’s Student Council wants the university to make a financial commitment to help support housing and public education in Charlottesville. And high school students in Southwest Virginia soon will have access to college-level training.
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 and Edie Gross.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is considering a bill aimed at providing reparations for massive resistance. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPRLawmakers are considering a bill that would require new warning labels for kratom. Michael Pope reports.
Time is winding down on the General Assembly session – which is set to adjourn next week.
Michael Pope and Jeff Shcapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, discuss what is left on the agenda and the week that was in state politics.
Former staff and volunteers say the Charlottesville/Albemarle shelter puts dogs into closets and restrooms when space in kennels and crates runs out. (Credit: CASPCA Concerns)There are 155 animal shelters in Virginia, all of them regulated by the state. One is currently in the spotlight – the subject of an ongoing protest by former employees and volunteers. Sandy Hausman reports from Charlottesville.
Credit: NPRAn effort that would’ve required Virginia to acknowledge the unethical use of Black bodies by medical institutions is on hold for now. Michael Pope explains.
Credit: DEALawmakers in Richmond have legalized marijuana although they are still working on creating a retail market. Meanwhile, as Michael Pope tells us, they’re also debating the use of psychedelic mushrooms.
State leaders on both sides of the aisle came together Wednesday to make a pitch for Springfield, Virginia. (Credit: Senator Mark Warner’s office)On Wednesday, Virginia leaders from both sides of the aisle came together with one common goal – convincing the FBI to build its new headquarters in the Commonwealth. Nick Gilmore has details.
Credit: NPRLawmakers in Richmond are debating how automobiles and bicycles can share the road. Michael Pope reports.
Lawmakers in Richmond are considering bills aimed at transgender youth. Michael Pope reports.
Would you be willing to pay more for a better seat at a movie theater?
Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright have more on what might become standard operating procedure at some theaters.
Credit: NPRPhysicians and health providers may be about to get new protections against violence. Michael Pope explains.
Virginia’s governor may be one of the most powerful governors in the country. But, as Michael Pope reports, he still has to deal with a legislature that can derail his agenda.
U.S. Attorney Chris KavanaughAt the request of Attorney General Merrick Garland, the justice department is putting greater emphasis on prosecuting environmental crimes, and the U.S. Attorney for Virginia’s Western District says he’s ready.
Sandy Hausman reports on what that will mean for our national parks, forests and communities.
Credit: VPAPVirginia high school seniors are being warned to behave themselves if they plan to celebrate graduation on North Carolina’s Outer Banks this year. And alarming numbers of children in Virginia are getting sick after consuming THC edibles. 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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
Members of the General Assembly are debating a bill that would help people who are incarcerated stay connected to their families and their communities. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPRAs lawmakers move toward the end of their General Assembly session later this month, several key lawmakers will be focused on balancing the books. Michael Pope reports.
Jeff Anderson is a PhD student in Biological Sciences at Virginia Tech. He’s been working with researchers at the Socha Lab to study the mechanics of flying snakes. (Credit: Roxy Todd)Have you ever wondered how flying snakes do their thing and fly?
Scientists at Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia are working to uncover this mystery, and determine if the same technology could be applied to robots.
Roxy Todd explains.
This week saw the halfway point of the 2023 General Assembly session come and go. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, discuss what lawmakers will be working on the rest of the way.
Lawmakers in Richmond are debating what kind of books should be allowed in public school libraries. Michael Pope has the story.
Lawmakers are debating access to abortion.
But as Michael Pope tells us, neither side is expecting any success on the issue.
Lawmakers in Richmond are taking a look at what role parents should play in public education.
Michael Pope reports that even gets down to the level of guest speakers.
Irene Cox and colleagues at UVA’s Weldon Cooper Center produced a report on decommissioning solar farms (Credit: Weldon Cooper Center)The cost of solar panels has fallen by more than 50% over the last ten years, and Virginia is a national leader in new solar development.
That’s why a team at the University of Virginia is advising communities on how to plan for solar arrays as Sandy Hausman reports.
Credit: NPRRepublicans in the General Assembly are supporting two bills that transgender activists say could be dangerous. Michael Pope reports.
Lawmakers are struggling over where to locate Virginia’s next casino. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia could be a landing spot for a multi-billion dollar effort to create regional technology hubs.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about some of the potential locations and the impact.
The effort to ban solitary confinement in Virginia has run into some opposition.
Michael Pope explains.
The House of Delegates is now considering a bill that allows courts to modify prison sentences allowing for early release.
Michael Pope reports it passed the State Senate Monday.
The Chinese spy balloon may have been shot down over the weekend.
But it’s still hovering in the minds of lawmakers in Richmond. Michael Pope explains why.
Yang Chen is one of the researchers studying how to harvest electricity from trains. Inside the Railway Technologies Laboratory at Virginia Tech. (Credit: Alex Parrish/Virginia Tech)A new study shows that trains could be tapped as a potential source of electricity.
Roxy Todd explains.
Pickleball was once seen as an easygoing exercise opportunity for seniors but it’s gotten a little too loud for some people. And a Virginia high school basketball team had its season canceled after a coach took to the court.
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 and Edie Gross.
Credit: NPRMandatory minimum sentences have been controversial for years, and Democrats have tried to give judges more autonomy to make decisions about individual cases. But Michael Pope reports there’s at least one area where Democrats want mandatory minimum sentences.
News of an accounting error shortchanging Virginia’s public schools sent shockwaves through Richmond this week.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss and the week that was in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRRecent years have seen an explosion of legal gambling options in Virginia. And, as Michael Pope tells us, lawmakers are now talking about creating a gambling commission to oversee the industry.
The University of Virginia is out with another analysis of the state’s population – nearly 8.7 million people. As Sandy Hausman reports, many of them are leaving expensive, congested areas like northern Virginia and Hampton Roads for other states or for rural communities.
Thousands of people standing in opposition to abortion rights gathered at the Capitol today. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPRSenior members of the money committees and the House and Senate are working to fix a budgeting mistake that has lawmakers scrambling to balance the books. Michael Pope has the latest.
The recent shooting at a Newport News elementary school has some calling for safe storage requirements for firearms. Michael Pope reports on one piece of legislation at the General Assembly.
Also Tuesday, the Senate approved legislation banning the sale of assault-style weapons.
Lawmakers are preparing to release budget details this weekend, although as Michael Pope reports, they’re having a hard time balancing the books, especially for schools.
People are experimenting with AI chatbots in all sorts of situations– classrooms, writers’ rooms, even newsrooms.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the technology’s impact.
Lawmakers in Richmond are debating the presence of guns in public places.
Michael Pope reports the bills aren’t likely to make it to the governor’s desk.
Credit: VPAPThe latest private company to venture into space has launched a rocket from Virginia’s Wallops Island for the first time. And the Commonwealth is considering a new series of roadside historical markers to commemorate the iconic Green Book.
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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
Credit: NPROnce again, lawmakers in Richmond are talking about banning the practice of holding incarcerated people in solitary confinement. But, as Michael Pope reports, this year the effort has new momentum.
Lawmakers are about to roll the dice on casinos, and a bill to allow for a referendum in Petersburg has already cleared an early hurdle. Michael Pope has the story.
A divided General Assembly is proving to be a hurdle for two of the governor’s biggest legislative priorities.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: NPROpponents of payday lending are worried about a bill making its way through the House of Delegates. Michael Pope explains why.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQLawmakers will be on the ballot this year and, as Michael Pope tells us, they’ll also be making decisions about how the ballot is organized.
Public school libraries are the focus of several bills in the General Assembly this year. Michael Pope reports.
Avery Bruen and Weining Ding formed a group called EmpowerHer to supply fellow students with free tampons and pads. (Credit: Radio IQ)Three years ago, Virginia’s legislature voted to make free tampons and pads available to girls in middle and high school, but the measure did not provide money for that expense.
Now, young women in Albemarle County have mobilized to ensure access to period products, as Sandy Hausman reports.
Digital economies still require brick-and-mortar infrastructure. And a big new announcement from Amazon and the state is a good example.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright have more on the plans and the push-back.
Credit: NPRLawmakers in Richmond are not expected to pass any new legislation to crack down on gun violence this year. But, as Michael Pope tells us, that doesn’t mean they won’t try.
Albemarle County will use a new grant to try out what it hopes will be a better way of providing public transportation. And it seems quite a few college students who got used to remote education during the pandemic are less than enthusiastic about going class.
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 and David Poole.
The University of Virginia has announced plans for a new $300 million biotech center that will produce and test new treatments for many diseases.
The center could break ground in a matter of months and is already recruiting the first of 100 new scientists as Sandy Hausman reports.
Governor Glenn Youngkin campaigned on a platform of limiting abortions with a 15-week ban. But Democrats in the Senate are rejecting any new restrictions. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQDemocrats appear to be poised to reject Republican efforts to roll back access to voting. Michael Pope reports.
An about-face on a potential economic development win and a tabloid-style scandal are making headlines at the capital.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRLast year, members of the General Assembly got rid of the state portion of the grocery tax. Now, as Michael Pope reports, lawmakers are considering several bills to get rid of the rest of it.
Loudoun County is known throughout the world for its concentration of data centers, although as Michael Pope reports several lawmakers are trying to prevent them from spreading out into new areas.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQIn the last few years, Virginia has made many changes to how elections work. Michael Pope has this report on efforts to roll back some of those changes.
We’re used to tipping for certain services like meals or haircuts. But more and more digital checkout screens are now suggesting a tip.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the growing trend.
Credit: NPRThe governor wants to crack down on dealers who supply drugs that result in fatal overdoses. But, Michael Pope reports some recovery advocates fear that might backfire.
Credit: VPAPHospitals in rural Virginia are facing an uncertain financial future. And, a 10-cent postage stamp made in Virginia is expected to sell for quite a bit more than that at auction in New York.
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 and Edie Gross.
State Senator Joe MorrisseyLawmakers in Richmond are considering a bill that would prohibit people who are incarcerated from being held in solitary confinement. Michael Pope has the story.
The first few days of the 2023 General Assembly session are in the books.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap what’s happened so far and what might come next.
U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia Christ KavanaughThe drug war continues in Virginia, with the U.S. Attorney for the Western District declaring two victories, but conceding fentanyl and other narcotics are still a major threat to public health. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Governor Glenn Youngkin lays out his 2023 agenda during his annual State of the Commonwealth address. (Credit: Michael Pope)Abortion is likely to be one of the hottest topics the General Assembly will consider this year. But, as Michael Pope tells us, don’t expect much to happen as a result.
Gov. Glenn YoungkinGovernor Glenn Youngkin says Virginia needs to catch up.
David Seidel has details from Youngkin’s State of the Commonwealth address,
Governor Glenn Youngkin’s State of the Commonwealth address touched on a number of areas.
But, as Michael Pope reports, one part of the speech had lawmakers buzzing.
Credit: NPRLawmakers are back in Richmond for the 2023 General Assembly session. And as Michael Pope reports, sparks are already flying.
Lawmakers will return to Richmond Wednesday, where they will be debating hundreds of bills. As Michael Pope tells us, one issue that is likely to be central to the General Assembly session is transforming Virginia’s behavioral health system.
Virginia’s governor says the Commonwealth is not keeping pace with its peers. And he’s proposed a number of changes he says will make the state more competitive.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright talk about the high-stakes competition of recruiting businesses to Virginia.
Credit: NPRVoters in three parts of Virginia will be heading to the polls Tuesday to select new members of the General Assembly. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / Radio IQKids who were in kindergarten when the pandemic hit will enter fourth grade next year, and many still struggle with reading. Sandy Hausman reports that lawmakers in Richmond will consider a bill to help those students catch up.
A lawmaker from Virginia Beach is attacking the requirement that more electric cars be sold here because he says a component of their batteries is mined by slave labor. Sandy Hausman reports.
Former Gov. Douglas WilderThe General Assembly session begins Wednesday, with a State of the Commonwealth speech from the governor.
Michael Pope has this insight on the moment from a former governor.
A Roanoke County delegate wants to find out more about how switching to Daylight Saving Time every spring impacts Virginians and whether that should continue. And some of the nation’s oldest historical documents may be at risk of damage from material that was meant to protect them.
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 and Edie Gross.
At the Children’s Hospital of Richmond Dr. John Phillips is working with schools to win certification from Project Adam. (Credit: Children’s Hospital of Richmond)When an NFL player collapsed on national TV, it raised public awareness about cardiac arrest.
A hospital in Richmond is helping schools to prepare for a similar event as Sandy Hausman reports.
State lawmakers were already looking at a busy session when one member of the State Corporation Commission announced her resignation.
That will leave just one person on an essential regulatory board, and as Sandy Hausman reports, making new appointments through the legislature could be a challenge.
Virginia’s General Assembly gets down to work on Wednesday. But before that a couple of new members will be elected.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope have more on what’s at stake.
Lawmakers are about to return to Richmond for the General Assembly session, and one of the items they’ll be talking about is expanding the stock of new housing. Michael Pope has this preview.
Governor Youngkin, flanked by Carter officials and legislative leaders, talks up his “Compete to Win” strategy. (Credit: Nick Gilmore / Radio IQ)Governor Glenn Youngkin is pushing for an additional one billion dollars in tax relief. He touted his plan during a stop in Salem earlier today/Thursday. Nick Gilmore reports.
By law, employers in Virginia don’t have to pay workers if they are called to serve on a jury, and compensation to serve on one is low.
One lawmaker hopes to change that when the General Assembly convenes later this month. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Several Republican delegates stand with their backs to Tom Moss as he is sworn in as Speaker of the House of Delegates in 1998. (Credit: Virginia House of Delegates)Congress doesn’t have a stranglehold on drama when it comes to electing a speaker. Back in 1998, the Virginia House of Delegates had a tense standoff that lasted several hours. Michael Pope has this look back.
Lawmakers are about to make an important decision about the future of casinos in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
The calendar now says 2023. What will this year look like for the housing market? Roben Farzad – host of public radio’s Full Disclosure – and Craig Wright discuss.
Lawmakers are about to consider massive new changes to Virginia’s mental health system. But, as Michael Pope reports, part of the discussion will be about isolating the problem.
Stephanie Johnson started a Facebook page in support of saving Northern Neck Ginger Ale. (Credit: Stephanie Johnson)In Virginia’s Northern Neck, thousands have come together in support of one thing – ginger ale. Coca Cola purchased a beloved, local brand in 2001, but stopped producing it 20 years later. Now, the locals want it back, as Sandy Hausman reports.
One Virginia city is looking to slow the alarming decline in honeybee populations. And there are still plenty of people who use the public library even if they don’t go there.
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 and Edie Gross.
The first day of the new year will see some changes to Virginia law, including one very important change at the grocery store.
Michael Pope explains.
2022 is nearly over. And political observers are looking to campaigns in 2023 and far beyond.
Jeff Schapiro, of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
On January 1st Virginia’s minimum wage will move from 11 to 12 dollars an hour.
Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin announces his Right Help Right Now plan. (Credit: Governor’s Office livestream)Lawmakers are preparing to return to Richmond and gavel into session next month.
And as Michael Pope reports, one issue they’ll be discussing has widespread support on both sides of the aisle.
To develop the ratings for equestrian helmet ratings, researchers from the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab conducted testing under real-world conditions at the Alphin Stuart Livestock Area on Virginia Tech’s Blacksburg campus. (Credit: Eleanor Nelsen/Virginia Tech)Horseback riders are at a high risk of getting a brain injury.
The first study that tests equestrian helmets for their ability to protect riders has just been released by Virginia Tech’s helmet laboratory.
Roxy Todd has more.
2022 is quickly drawing to a close.
Roben Farzad – host of public radio’s Full Disclosure – and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright discuss the events of the year that was, their economic impact and what lies ahead in 2023.
(Credit: Virginia Health Care Association)2021 was not a good year to work in a nursing home. But it turns out 2022 was worse.
According to a recent survey, 4 in 5 nursing home facility directors say they’re still facing difficulty in filling jobs and shifts. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Credit: CDCThe Virginia General Assembly is about to go to the dogs. Michael Pope has this preview.
Credit: VPAPThe historic bathhouse at Warm Springs is finally open again after more than a year of renovation work. And, a llama-at-large in Fairfax County provided quite a challenge for police before they finally got her back home.
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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
Jefferson Davis monument as displayed at the Valentine Museum in Richmond. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / Radio IQ)Richmond removed the last of its Confederate monuments earlier this year. Heading into 2023, Mallory Noe-Payne has this look at what the future holds for all of the city’s statues now that they’ve come down.
Voters in the 4th Congressional District have given a gift to one state Senator.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week that was in politics and state government.
Credit: NPRRecent changes to voting might also have an influence over the outcome in close races. Michael Pope reports.
For hundreds of years, Europeans systematically tried to wipe out Indigenous cultures. On the frontline were tribal members who held a sacred status because they had both feminine and masculine qualities. Today, they call themselves Two-Spirits.
VCU professor Gregory Smithers has written about the history of gender and sexual fluidity in Native American history and culture in his new book, “Reclaiming Two-Spirits.”
Pamela D’Angelo reports.
New economic numbers are showing a rising number of people in Virginia quitting their jobs. Michael Pope reports that the Great Resignation is still underway in the Commonwealth.
Lawmakers in Virginia are about to return to the Capitol and consider new laws and constitutional amendments.
Michael Pope reports one of those constitutional amendments could be about marriage.
A train shed in Shockoe Bottom, Richmond, Virginia will be used to memorialize and commemorate the history of slavery. (Credit: City of Richmond)Richmond’s efforts to commemorate and educate about the city’s role in the domestic slave trade have received a large financial boost: 16 million dollars from the Mellon Foundation’s Monuments Project. As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, the largest chunk will go towards the creation of a new interpretive center.
Credit: NPRLawmakers in Virginia are about to return to the Capitol and consider new laws and constitutional amendments. Michael Pope reports one of those constitutional amendments could be about marriage.
While unemployment numbers are low, there are several industries that are having a hard time getting employees back into their workplaces.
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright discuss how employers are feeling about that.
Democrats in Virginia’s 4th District – which includes part of the Richmond area – will head to the polls Tuesday to select a candidate for the special election to replace former Congressman Donald McEachin, who died last month. Michael Pope has a preview.
Artist Bryce Cobbs stands next to his life-size drawing of Henrietta Lacks. (Credit: Joe Staniunas)The story of Henrietta Lacks became a best-selling book and a film. Now, the African American woman, whose cancer cells have been used in medical research for 70 years, will soon have a statue in her hometown. The design was unveiled Monday in downtown Roanoke.
Joe Staniunas reports.
Credit: Data for ProgressA new poll shows voters support recent changes to criminal justice in Virginia. Michael Pope has the details.
Credit: VPAPA Virginia-made soft drink that achieved icon status among its followers has now been out of production for more than two years, but its fans are still working to bring it back. And, recent issues involving exotic animals have one Virginia county looking to change its pet ownership laws.
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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
Virginia’s political machines are not coasting into the holiday season.
Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap a fast-moving week in politics and state government.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin speaks to the General Assembly money committees Thursday. (Credit: General Assembly livestream)Governor Glenn Youngkin is kicking off the budget process.
During a presentation to the House and Senate money committees Thursday, Youngkin said he wants to transform behavioral health services, invest in site readiness to attract economic development and cut taxes for individuals and businesses.
Michael Pope has some of the details and reaction.
Virginia spends big money to run its prison system.
The state provides many of the necessities to incarcerated people. But those inmates and their families have to spend sizeable sums for snacks, hygiene products and even phone calls.
The charges have gotten so big, the General Assembly is now trying to review contracts and price lists.
Sandy Hausman begins a series of reports on the issue with this story about conditions at the Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women.
When state lawmakers met in Richmond nearly a year ago, prisoner advocates asked them to regulate the price of goods and services offered behind bars.
They complained of high costs for food from the canteen and noted Virginia prisoners pay four times as much as inmates in another state to make phone calls.
Legislators were concerned and decided to set up a committee that could investigate.
Sandy Hausman reports on their findings.
People locked up in local and regional jails also have to pay similar fees for phone calls and other items.
And Michael Pope reports it’s been even harder for a General Assembly work group to get a clear picture of costs.
Gov. Glenn YoungkinVirginia’s governor will outline his proposal for the state budget Thursday morning.
Michael Pope has this preview.
(Credit: Jahd Khalil)Last school year almost 50,000 Virginia students took one or more college courses while still in high school.
Dual enrollment is a way for those students to get ahead before even starting college.
Now lawmakers are considering how to make access more equitable.
Mallory Noe-Payne has more.
Governor Glenn Youngkin announces his new mental health plan at Parham Doctor’s Hospital in Richmond. (Credit: Governor’s office livestream)Governor Glenn Youngkin is hoping to transform Virginia’s behavioral health system.
Michael Pope has the details on his plan.
Virginia’s unemployment rate has now returned to pre-pandemic levels.
And as Michael Pope reports, the rate is so low it’s raising concern among some economists.
Virginia’s Air Pollution Control Board took another step last week toward pulling Virginia out of a Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. And while a lot of the debate has become political, there are also business considerations involved.
Roben Farzad, host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure, and host Craig Wright have more on that.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is creating a new task force aimed at addressing the mental health crisis in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia is about to receive another infusion of money to help expand access to the internet. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: VPAPThe Coast Guard says the pilot of a ship that ran aground in the Chesapeake Bay was distracted by his phone just before the accident. And, thousands of Virginians by-passed the candidates on the ballots in the recent mid-term elections – writing in alternative choices, human and otherwise.
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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
Credit: UVA Weldon Cooper Center for Public ServiceNew research from the University of Virginia is shining a light on aging in place. Michael Pope has the details.
A climate change lawsuit on behalf of 13 young people in Virginia was recently dismissed, but lawyers and plaintiffs say, they will appeal that decision. Roxy Todd has more.
A new outline to fight antisemitism in Virginia and changes to COVID policies top this week’s action in Richmond.
Jeff Schapiro, of the Richmond Times Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Isaac Julien: Lessons of the Hour—Frederick Douglass, a new exhibit at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
(Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne)Abolitionist Frederick Douglass was known for his captivating physical presence and compelling public speaking. He was the most photographed person of the 19th century.
Now an immersive exhibit at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts uses actors, screens, and sounds to bring his presence to the 21st century.
Mallory Noe-Payne got a sneak peek and filed this report.
Mariella Kern learns to scale an electrical pole. (Credit: Sandy Hausman)With the approach of winter, some jobs clearly have more appeal than others. Utility linemen, for example, will be on call through the winter – ready to battle ice and snowstorms to keep the power on.
It’s not for everyone, and demand is high.
That’s why the Central Virginia Electric Cooperative held a special event this month called Girl Power.
Sandy Hausman was there and filed this report.
(Credit: Meghan Marchetti/Va. Department of Wildlife Resources)Deer hunting season is in full swing for much of Virginia. This year, hunters are being called on to help reduce the spread of a fatal deer disease, called Chronic Wasting Disease.
The hunting season has been extended to late March in counties where the disease is spreading, as Roxy Todd reports.
Many workers in Virginia are making more money. But, as Michael Pope reports, that’s only if they can keep their jobs.
Inflation has changed the financial equation in many parts of life. But how is it impacting holiday shopping?
Roben Farzad, host of public radio’s Full Disclosure, and Craig Wright have more on the early indicators.
Virginia’s Board of Elections certified the state’s Congressional midterm and local November elections Monday. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Lawmakers are about to consider tripling the state budget line-item for prepping economic development sites. Michael Pope has those details.
Credit: VPAPPrince Edward County has revised its official seal to recognize a landmark event in its history. And, a neighborhood in Newport News will soon have a food forest open to the entire community.
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 and Edie Gross with VPAP.
The death of Congressman Donald McEachin opens up a seat in the House of Representatives, and voters will choose a replacement in a special election. Michael Pope has some of the background.
Voters in Virginia could be considering a constitutional amendment allowing 16-year-olds to cast a ballot in local elections. Michael Pope has more on the proposal.
Virginia’s political world was shaken by the sudden death of Congressman Donald McEachin this week. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist with the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss McEachin’s legacy and what might happen next.
Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom was once the epicenter of the Virginia slave trade, the second largest site of human trafficking in North America. Experts estimate the majority of Black Americans can trace their ancestry to this spot. Today politicians and local leaders have thrown their support behind a memorial park and museum here. But two decades […]
The two recent mass shootings in Virginia are re-energizing the debate over preventing gun violence. And as Michael Pope reports, that’s once again raising talk about banning assault-style weapons.
Friends and colleagues of the late Richmond-area Congressman Donald McEachin are mourning the loss of their friend and reflecting on his legacy. Michael Pope reports.
The latest mass shootings in Virginia are prompting yet another round of soul searching. And, as Michael Pope reports, they’ve renewed calls for action.
Food banks often get added attention around holidays. And they, like all of us, are dealing with the impact of inflation. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on that.
Two of Virginia’s indigenous tribes are working to reacquire and preserve more than a thousand acres of their ancestral lands with the help of grant money from the state. And, one of the few U.S. school systems with an ombudsman’s office says community complaints were up in the most recent school year. Those have been […]
When Republicans take control of Congress, one Virginia lawmaker will lose a key leadership position. Michael Pope reports.
The holiday season is here, and for many people that means more time with family, but one Charlottesville woman says she can’t go home. Instead, she’s trying to fulfil her mother’s dying wish, as Sandy Hausman reports.
After two deadly shooting incidents in Virginia, State Senator Louise Lucas is attacking the governor and lieutenant governor for failing to support stronger gun controls in the Commonwealth. Meanwhile, Senator Adam Ebbin is drafting legislation he’ll introduce when lawmakers meet in less than two months. Sandy Hausman has that story.
There’s an old adage that in Virginia, you’re never more than a few months away from the next election. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope have more on the upcoming primary season that’s been shaken up by redistricting.
Regulators in Virginia are about to make an important determination about a potential new wind power operation off the coast of Virginia Beach. Michael Pope reports.
Looking for something to do over the holiday weekend? As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, many museums around the state offer free or reduced admissions to guests who get federal food assistance.
As many people hit the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, Virginians are taking advantage of the state’s inner-city bus service in record numbers. In less than a year of service, a new line along I-81 from Bristol to D.C. is already exceeding expectations. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
Affordable housing might take a bigger role in the upcoming General Assembly session. Michael Pope reports on the new plan proposed by the governor.
Many of us are putting the finishing touches on holiday menus today. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright explain how inflation is hitting the Thanksgiving table this year.
A new watchdog report says the federal government should do a better job inspecting pipelines and investigating accidents. Michael Pope reports.
A teenager who wasn’t on the ballot has been elected to the Timberville Town Council. And DNA research has produced some stunning news for a Fredericksburg man. 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 and Edie […]
Members of the General Assembly are getting ready for another session. Michael Pope says one of the issues on the agenda this year is what to do about the potential mining of precious metals.
Virginia’s Board and Department of Education continues to struggle through a divisive and confusing process of re-writing the state’s history and social studies SOL standards. Mallory Noe-Payne was at an hours-long meeting of the Board of Education today and has this report.
Last year, Virginia spent well over a billion dollars on corrections – keeping nearly 24,000 people in prison. And the bill is about to get much bigger as that population ages. Sandy Hausman reports on what we can expect in the years to come and how the state is preparing to care for elderly inmates […]
The fallout from the November election was quickly overshadowed by the shooting at the University of Virginia. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Next month, Governor Glenn Youngkin will present his budget to the General Assembly. Michael Pope has this preview of one potential income tax issue.
The November election may be over, but voters aren’t done yet. Michael Pope has this preview of two special elections in northern Virginia and Hampton Roads.
After a stunning election cycle that saw Republican hopes of a red wave dashed, Michael Pope reports that the party is trying to figure out its future as another election cycle begins.
The three students who were killed at the University of Virginia Sunday night were all football players. Mallory Noe-Payne spoke to someone who knew the victims.
The Virginia General Assembly will consider a bill to make de-clawing of cats illegal. And Election Day brought a surprise for some Virginia voters when they learned they’d been registered in the wrong county for decades. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. […]
Removal of Indigenous children from their families and Tribes was stopped by Congress in 1978. But advocates say a challenge before the U.S. Supreme Court threatens the law and the sovereignty of Virginia’s tribal nations. Pamela D’Angelo reports.
The outcome of the 2022 election is settled, at least in Virginia. So what does that mean for the future? Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
As more people have become vaccinated against COVID-19, testing for the virus isn’t as frequent. But, at the height of the pandemic it was vital. Mallory Noe-Payne visited a lab in southwest Virginia that played a crucial role in making testing accessible. As COVID vaccines and at-home tests have become more accessible, labs across the […]
Although most of the attention goes to close races, Michael Pope reports that most of Virginia’s congressional seats are seeing a lopsided result.
All but one of Virginia’s members of Congress are heading back to Washington for another term in office. Michael Pope has more from some of the winners.
Republicans and Democrats alike are savoring victories in Virginia this morning. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope have more on the outcome of the state’s highest-profile races.
Election Day used to be the first opportunity to cast a ballot. Now, with early voting, it’s the last chance for Virginians to vote in the races for their representatives in Congress as well as some town and city councils. As people across the state headed to the polls Tuesday, Joe Staniunas found that many […]
Economic concerns are never far from the minds of voters as they head to the polls. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about the potential impact.
Election officials are gearing up for Election Day with some new rules. Michael Pope has this preview.
A new report says it will take time to reverse the learning loss fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic. As David Seidel reports, lawmakers have a number of recommendations that could help the recovery.
A new survey suggests Virginians may not fully recognize the risks of driving under the influence of marijuana. And, northern Virginia is finally getting its long-awaited extension of the DC Metro. Those have been among the most read stories during the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link. More now from […]
Early vote counts will work a bit differently this year. Michael Pope has this preview about what to expect after the polls close.
The clock is ticking down to Election Day. And that means candidates and election officials alike are in high gear. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope have more from the week in politics and state government.
The craft brewing industry is driving up demand for barley- which can be used to make malt, one of the main ingredients to make beer. As Roxy Todd reports, a new effort is underway to help more farmers grow malt barley in southwest Virginia.
There are more than 2,000 voting locations across Virginia. And each one is staffed by a handful of dedicated poll workers. These folks don’t work in elections year round but choose each year to spend a day helping make democracy run. Mallory Noe-Payne spoke with one man in Roanoke who’s been doing it for almost […]
Early voting locations across the country have been the scene of armed poll watchers, prompting concerns about voter intimidation. Michael Pope has this report about what voters need to know if they see someone armed outside a polling place.
When a Canadian company started looking for gold in Buckingham County, area residents were alarmed. They knew that activity could threaten their water supply, and they asked the state legislature to step in. Lawmakers asked the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine to do a report on the possible impacts of gold mining here. […]
As the final day of voting approaches, Republicans and Democrats are clashing over Social Security and Medicare. Michael Pope reports.
The Federal Reserve seems headed toward another big interest rate hike this week. But inflation has remained stubbornly high and the economy keeps creating new jobs. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright talk about the tightrope regulators have been walking.
When approaching an election location, voters might be presented with a sample ballot. Michael Pope reports that they’re often the product of party advertising.
Volunteer acorn collectors are playing a major role in supporting Virginia’s forests. And, VCU has decided to delay distribution of a craft beer carrying the school’s logo. Those have been among the most read stories during the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link.
In some other states, voters at early polling locations have been confronted by campaign workers or poll watchers holding a camera and asking questions. As Michael Pope reports, that’s not necessarily illegal.
One of Virginia’s high profile Congressional races may be getting closer. And another can’t get any tighter. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap a busy week in state politics and the General Assembly.
Early votes are not counted early. But as Michael Pope explains, they are processed early.
More than a million Virginia families have septic systems at home. State officials estimate about half those systems are so old they pose health risks. The same goes for thousands of drinking water systems. Now, as Mallory Noe-Payne reports, a new grant program to help families get safe water and septic has been so popular […]
Voters aren’t just determining the future of Congress in this election. As Michael Pope reports, many local elections will determine important land-use questions.
The area around Charlottesville has grown dramatically in the last decade, and so has the traffic. Now, with a $2 million grant from Washington, local leaders are planning one way to take cars off the road and put people on bikes. The Three Notched Trail will stretch 25 miles from the city to the Blue […]
As more and more people choose to vote early, the pace of campaigns is changing. Michael Pope reports.
Last week, the Nansemond Indian Nation was given back 504 acres of their ancestral lands in Suffolk County. For the seven federally recognized Tribes in Virginia, getting back ancestral lands for conservation is key to their sovereignty. Pamela D’Angelo reports.
A new federal student loan forgiveness program is up and running. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright talk through some of the financial and policy implications.
Numbers released Monday by the Department of Education show unprecedented declines nationwide in math and reading for American 4 and 8th grade students. As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, the numbers show academic setbacks throughout the pandemic, including here in Virginia. And, as Michael Pope reports, the scores are creating a new discussion about what’s happening in […]
If you missed the voter registration deadline in Virginia you still have a chance to cast a ballot. And grassland birds are disappearing from the Commonwealth but there’s a new effort underway to help them. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News […]
Several Virginia cities are about to receive new funding to crack down on gang violence. Michael Pope explains the project.
Virginia saw a small decrease in overdose deaths during the first quarter of this year, but the opioid epidemic is still taking a heavy toll. Last year, more than 2,600 people died – most from an overdose of fentanyl. And now doctors warn there’s an even more potent form of the drug being sold. Sandy […]
Debates… and lack of debates… are among the political headlines over the past week. Jeff Schapiro, of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
In less than a month voters head to the polls for the Congressional midterms and municipal elections. Talk to local officials running those elections and they’ll tell you their job has become busier in the past few years and complicated by the fight against misinformation. Mallory Noe-Payne has this look at how local registrars are turning […]
Members of the General Assembly are starting to consider what kind of bills they’ll consider next year. And as Michael Pope reports, many people are calling on them to find a way to increase affordable housing.
Virginia’s income tax hasn’t been updated since 1990. As Michael Pope reports, that means low-income people shoulder a disproportionate burden.
Virginia is still tracking cases of COVID-19, but other viruses are popping up earlier than usual. Sandy Hausman reports on one which puts about 58,000 children and three times as many elderly patients in the hospital each year.
It’s college football season, with all its pageantry and prognostications. But there’s even more at play. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and host Craig Wright talk about the big business of college football.
Virginia may be about to roll the dice on casino gambling. But who will benefit the most? Michael Pope has more on a new state report.
Chesterfield County says federal law blocks it from approving a marijuana dispensary even though Virginia law allows it. And, a reward is being offered for the return of a giant squash that went missing after winning a Blue Ribbon at the Virginia State Fair. Those have been among the most read stories during the past […]
What should happen to a school that doubles test scores but still does not make the grade? Michael Pope reports.
Early votes are already being cast for this year’s Congressional election. And Election Day is less than a month away. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope bring us up to speed on developments in some of Virginia’s most contested races.
Fuel and utilities are leading the items that are more expensive now than a year ago in Virginia. Michael Pope explains some of the details.
Abortion is one of the hottest issues on the campaign trail this year, and a new poll from Christopher Newport University shows voters have conflicted opinions. Michael Pope explains.
Monkeypox is affecting a very small portion of Virginians – but officials are still taking the virus seriously. As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, Virginia’s Department of Health has learned some lessons from early on in the monkeypox outbreak and is now adjusting outreach strategies.
A new report takes aim at an industry that makes money by promising to return defendants to court. But, as Michael Pope reports, it’s often law enforcement agencies that end up doing the work.
Autumn Olive, an Asian plant originally prized for its ability to control erosion and thrive in harsh environments, is quickly choking out native East Coast species. While it’s likely too late to eradicate it, there are ways to help manage it— one small bite at a time. Christine Kueter reports.
Governor Glenn Youngkin has been in office for less than a year, but his national campaigning has put him in the spotlight ahead of this year’s midterm elections. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright discuss Youngkin’s national profile.
As the race for Congress heats up, one prominent Republican is throwing his support behind a Democrat. Michael Pope reports.
People opposed to the demolition of a Potomac River bridge have taken the issue to federal court. And, one of Virginia’s busiest malls wants to add alcohol to its list of attractions. Those have been among the most read stories during the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link. More now […]
Environmentalists are taking issue with the governor’s new energy plan that keeps fossil fuels in the mix, while also growing alternative sources like nuclear. Michael Pope reports.
Campaigns in Virginia and beyond made headlines over the past few days. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope have more on the week in politics and state government.
Educators across Virginia are pushing for better wages and working conditions. Michael Pope reports that in some places that could mean collective bargaining. Click here for the findings from the Commonwealth Institute.
A warmer climate means rainfall events can be more intense – creating a greater risk for flash floods. Now, the Natural Resources Defense Council is advising people considering a home purchase to try and find out if the property has been swamped in the past. Sandy Hausman has that story.
The Virginia Tourism Corporation has a new ad campaign featuring Governor Glenn Youngkin. Michael Pope tells us the ad agency doing the spots helped the governor get elected last year.
The war in Ukraine is creating a humanitarian crisis in Europe. But it’s also creating demand for defense industries in Virginia, as Michael Pope reports.
Can a Virginia-based company re-ignite the e-cigarette market? Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on the business ramifications for Altria Group.
Candidates for Congress in Virginia are debating everything from abortion and the economy to transgender students and gun violence. Michael Pope reports that they’re also being asked about threats to democracy.
Election season has begun, and voters can either mail in their ballots or deposit them in a drop box. Michael Pope explains some of the steps taken to ensure security.
Over the past two years several thousand Virginians have received non-binary driver’s licenses. And the City of Winchester has seen parts of its gun ordinance suspended by a judge pending a lawsuit. Those have been among the most read stories during the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link. More now […]
The state spends more than $10 million a year to attract television shows and motion pictures to Virginia. Is it worth it? Michael Pope reports.
The Youngkin administration’s guidelines for transgender students led to classroom walkouts across Virginia this week. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope discuss that and the week that was in state politics.
Virginia came under a national spotlight this week as kids marched out of schools across the state – protesting a proposed change in how transgender youth are treated in public schools. Mallory Noe-Payne has this look at the possible health implications of the policy shift.
The federal government is about to start making huge amounts of money available to help encourage domestic semiconductor manufacturing. Michael Pope reports that Virginia higher ed programs will be part of that effort.
A recent study found that negligent landlords are a significant predictor of violence in Richmond neighborhoods. Caitlin Pierce has more on the research and how it might be used in other areas struggling to reverse trends of increasing violence.
As the stock market continues to slide and high inflation seems to hang on, a lot of investors are wondering where to turn. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on the concerns and the outlook for the future.
This year will be a vibrant season to see fall foliage here in Virginia, according to forest researchers. Roxy Todd spoke with one expert who says trees are very healthy because of steady rainfall we had this summer.
At the Chickahominy Tribe’s 70th Annual Fall Festival and Pow-Wow, the President of William & Mary announced a new tuition initiative to help students most of whom have families earning less than $60,000 a year. But for Indigenous communities that once inhabited university lands here, is it enough? Pamela D’Angelo has more.
Many Virginians look forward to fall – a time when the air is cool and trees change color. One student at the University of Virginia is a special fan of the season. He started a non-profit to plant more trees and has won a national award for his work as Sandy Hausman reports.
Research is underway to make sure planned wind turbines will be safe for birds…and Virginia lawmakers will have to wait a bit longer for new offices and meeting space in Richmond. 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 […]
New school guidelines and new oversight of elections top the political headlines this week. Jeff Schapiro, of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and the General Assembly.
Polls are open Friday for the November election. Michael Pope reports there’s still a debate about how much early voting is enough.
One Virginia senator is hoping to increase financial transparency for state and local governments. Michael Pope explains how.
If you’re one of the millions of Americans who go whitewater rafting or kayaking— you may want to check your helmet. Researchers at Virginia Tech just released their findings after testing thousands of whitewater helmets. And, as Roxy Todd reports, they found only a handful offer enough protection against brain injury.
For a second year, Virginia’s seven federally-recognized Tribes came together as sovereign nations. This year the focus was Indigenous-led conservation and reacquiring lands. Pamela D’Angelo reports.
Opponents of the governor’s new guidelines for transgender students are trying to figure out next steps. Michael Pope reports that might be a lawsuit.
If you’ve been considering buying a house in the last few months, you know the impact of inflation and rising interest rates. Roben Farzad, host the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about the increasing cost of a mortgage.
Schools across Virginia may be about to take another look at policies regarding transgender students. Michael Pope reports.
The battle over Confederate statues and memorials is not over. Michael Pope reports on the latest developments.
As the November election draws closer, abortion is becoming a bigger issue in some key Congressional races. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government.
Pandemic-era relief for families may end up pulling many children out of poverty in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
For many car buyers, finding an electric vehicle can be difficult. But a new Virginia law is about to dramatically transform the landscape of automobile sales, as Michael Pope reports.
As we reported last week, Virginia’s Attorney General recently announced the formation of an Election Integrity Unit – a group, he says, that will provide legal advice to the Department of Elections and investigate violations of state elections law. Reporter Mallory Noe-Payne recently spoke with some local election officials, and has this look at what […]
Biotech is big business. And Virginia is trying to strengthen its position and bring more research and manufacturing back onshore. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright have more on how that plan is coming together.
Congress may soon take action to allow a pipeline to carry fracked natural gas from West Virginia into Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
A plan by Norfolk police to use drones as first as responders is drawing some objections. And elk are thriving again in Virginia. 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 and Edie Gross.
The General Assembly was supposed to deal with vacancies when it met Wednesday. But some big ones remain. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
Nikki Giovanni is known around the world for her writing and activism. Her writing touches on social issues, like race and gender. She recently retired from teaching at Virginia Tech after 35 years. Giovanni sat down with reporter Roxy Todd, who asked about her advice to students.
There are at least 63 large scale solar facilities generating power in Virginia and about twenty more are in the works, but it turns out only a quarter of counties in the state have laws that govern what will happen to those arrays once solar panels stop working. Now they’ll be getting some guidance, as […]
Virginia is currently part of a cap and trade program to reduce carbon emissions. But the governor and new members of the Air Board are hoping to get Virginia out of the initiative. Michael Pope has more.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing underwater robots, to be able to map the ocean and study the impacts of microplastics in the water. They recently tested one beneath the surface of Claytor Lake, in the New River Valley. Roxy Todd joined them and filed this story.
The number of young people detained in Virginia’s juvenile justice system has gone down dramatically over the last few years, which is leading to a potential reorganization of the system. Michael Pope reports.
Amtrak says Virginians are boarding trains in record numbers. Roben Farzad – host of the Full Disclosure podcast – and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright discuss that and what it could mean for the future of passenger rail in the Commonwealth.
Self-defense kits are being offered to transgender people in Richmond who don’t feel safe on the street. And engineers have reinvented the dog to make nuclear power plants safer. 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 […]
The cost of child care continues to be a barrier for many people struggling to make ends meet. Michael Pope reports. You can find the full report here.
As Americans prepare to celebrate Labor Day, organized labor in Virginia is working hard for better pay and working conditions. Michael Pope reports.
The fall campaign season is about to kick into high gear, here in Virginia and in other states. Jeff Schapiro, of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope talk about that that means for the candidates and the governor.
The Afghan Girls’ Robotics Team has been internationally recognized. They’ve won numerous awards for their skills in engineering and robotics. Now, a year has passed since the Taliban took over the country. And because most education for girls has stopped, so has the robotics team. Many of the former team members have dispersed to other […]
As Labor Day approaches, new research shows how parts of Virginia’s labor force are struggling to make ends meet. Michael Pope reports.
School boards across Virginia are struggling with how to handle transgender students and bathrooms. Michael Pope reports on the latest development.
The pandemic drove some companies out of business. But for three brothers in Hampton Roads, COVID created the opportunity for a whole new enterprise. Sandy Hausman reports on First Landing Seafood – a company claiming it brings better water quality to the Lynnhaven River and better oysters to restaurants from Williamsburg and Richmond to Blacksburg […]
Virginia’s railroad system is seeing a record number of passengers, and as Michael Pope reports that could lead to future expansion of service.
It’s migration season for hawks and other raptors, and thousands will be passing through the Rockfish Gap in Virginia – among them a small bird that mystified the experts here. Sandy Hausman reports on why this creature caused confusion and where he’ll be headed next.
The relationship between citizens and law enforcement officials has become one of the hottest issues on the campaign trail this year. And, as Michael Pope reports, it’s become a topic of conversation in the 7th Congressional District.
It’s never been easy to be successful in the restaurant business. But it’s been even harder during the last few years. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about the challenges.
When he took office, Governor Glenn Youngkin rolled back an executive order restricting the purchase of single-use plastic by state agencies, colleges and universities. But one campus is pressing ahead, and when students arrive this week, they’ll find it impossible to buy bottled water. Sandy Hausman has that story.
The future of a massive wind project is in doubt, and state regulators are about to weigh how much risk should be assumed by utility customers. Michael Pope reports.
Senator Tim Kaine and the U.S. Secretary of Energy were in Lexington this week to talk-up the Inflation Reduction Act. They promised it would be a good deal for consumers and businesses selling solar, wind and other energy sources… that don’t contribute to climate change. Sandy Hausman spoke with them and filed this report.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is again stumping for candidates in this year’s mid-term elections. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
As students across Virginia head back to school, Michael Pope reports those schools are not receiving the same amount of financial support from the state. You can find the Commonwealth Institute analysis here.
Virginia winemakers are under a new threat. An insect called the Spotted Lanternfly is spreading throughout Virginia. In July, the state Department of Agriculture issued a quarantine for 12 counties and 10 cities. The insect originated from China, and has wreaked havoc for some vineyards in Pennsylvania. There is a silver lining, however: people can […]
Environmental groups are raising the alarm after federal regulators granted another extension to a natural gas pipeline. Michael Pope reports.
A delay in Virginia’s overhaul of state standards for history and social studies learning standards has some concerned, but one minority group is confident changes they’ve made will stick. Pamela D’Angelo reports.
A new survey shows consumer sentiment in Virginia is on the upswing. Michael Pope reports. You can see the rest of the poll’s findings here.
High inflation and several factors – like the war in Ukraine – make for uncertain economic times. Roben Farzad – host of the Full Disclosure podcast – and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright discuss what all that means for investors.
Immigration is likely to be an issue on the campaign trail this year. And, as Michael Pope reports, the Republican candidates will have their own immigration stories to tell.
The names Lewis and Clark are famous in U. S. history. But only a few people have heard the name of one of their most important companions. And invasive plant species are serious problems in Virginia, especially where they’re being locally sold. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at […]
Virginia is flush with cash, which means you might be getting a check in the mail. Michael Pope explains why.
Abortion is becoming a prime topic in two Virginia Congressional races. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
Across Virginia, schools are struggling to find enough teachers for the upcoming fall semester. Michael Pope explains why.
Student performance on Virginia Standards of Learning tests rebounded in the last school year. But it’s still well-behind the performance logged before the pandemic. David Seidel has a snapshot of the result.
State regulators are not barring medical professionals who want to perform what’s known as conversion therapy from doing so. Michael Pope has details.
When the Virginia Department of Transportation started work on the Hampton Bridge and Tunnel Project, construction equipment displaced sea birds that had been nesting there for years. The situation alarmed bird lovers who lobbied the state to create a new place for terns and gulls. Experts identified a piece of land nearby and turned it […]
Incarcerated people across Virginia are hoping a new lawsuit from the ACLU might help them get out of prison when they expected to instead of unexpectedly serving more time. Michael Pope explains why.
After covering the nation’s opioid crisis in the book and streaming series ‘Dopesick,’ Roanoke journalist and author Beth Macy has checked in with a second book on the issue. ‘Raising Lazarus’ updates efforts to treat people struggling with addiction rather than send them to jail, and seek justice against drug manufacturers. Macy talked with Jeff […]
We’ve all felt the sting of high inflation over the past few months. So can federal legislation slow the climb of consumer prices? Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on one recent effort.
Police are hoping the public will provide more than just information to help solve a Centerville cold case from the 90’s. And, Stafford County school division leaders are apologizing for holding an outdoor event in weather that left many people struggling in the heat. Those have been among the most read stories over the past […]
Until last summer, nearly 5 million Virginians lacked dental insurance. Expansions to Medicaid in the past year have helped, but as Roxy Todd reports, there’s still a shortage of dentists in parts of the Commonwealth who are willing to accept low-income patients.
Five years after neo-Nazis and other white supremacists marched in Charlottesville, the city is still reflecting on what happened. Several residents shared their stories and their conclusions with Sandy Hausman.
Many Republicans are encouraging Glenn Youngkin to run for president, but he’s not the first Virginia governor to consider a campaign for the White House. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope take a look at governor’s who have considered hitting the campaign trail for national office.
As Charlottesville observes the fifth anniversary of Unite the Right, a photographer who documented the Summer of Hate five years ago presents a show in the trees along the city’s downtown mall. Rather than focus on right-wing extremists, it features those who stood up to them. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Newly released data shows that about 1 in 10 Virginia children are experiencing mental health problems. As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, those numbers are on par with the national average.
State regulators have now approved plans for the largest offshore wind farm in the nation. Already, Dominion Energy has completed testing of two turbines off the coast of Virginia Beach. Sandy Hausman joined other journalists on a trip to see how those windmills are working, when we can expect to see more, and how […]
The market for coffee shops is highly competitive, but a Virginia couple may have an edge at their new café. It’s called Cups and Claws, and allows customers to hang out with cats. Sandy Hausman has that story.
In the dictionary of economic terms, “misery index” sounds particularly menacing. So what exactly is it? Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright explain it and its impact.
Virginia Beach police will no longer allow the public to listen in on radio communications. And, Charlottesville has joined the effort to reduce plastic bag pollution with a targeted tax. 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 […]
Several electric bike and scooter sharing programs across Virginia have stopped abruptly after the company, Bolt Mobility, has seemingly stopped operations. Roxy Todd reports that it’s caught local officials in the New River Valley off guard, and without a plan to move forward.
What impacts could the Kansas abortion vote have here in Virginia? Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope discuss that and all of this week’s political happenings.
Attorney General Jason Miyares is working with a bipartisan group of AGs from across the country to crack down on robocalls. Michael Pope reports.
As concern over school shootings increases, some say teachers should be able to bring guns to the classroom. Michael Pope reports.
Sometimes the path between an idea and a law takes years of effort as advocates try and fail multiple times before they achieve success. Michael Pope reports on the six-year effort to remove Virginia’s tax on menstrual products.
In 1954, the Supreme Court did away with legal segregation of schools in Brown versus the Board of Education. Today, there’s a national park in Kansas celebrating that case, but there were other places involved in the lawsuit – one here in Virginia – and Congress has now made it part of the park, as […]
Last week, JetBlue and Spirit announced plans to merge. The new company would become the country’s fifth largest airline – if federal regulators approve. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and host Craig Wright discuss the potential merger and what it could mean for Virginia travelers.
The Mountain Valley Pipeline has encountered a number of setbacks from courts and regulators throughout the permitting process. Michael Pope reports environmentalists are worried Congress may soon take action to weaken that process.
The imminent closing of a historic Virginia flour mill has caused a run on its products. And, the state is gearing up to deal with an invasion of South American rodents. 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 […]
Cameras are used to monitor security in many schools. But what about cameras to monitor what’s being taught? As Michael Pope reports, that’s become a topic of discussion in a congressional race.
An old, alleged scandal is back in the news. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and the General Assembly.
Virginia already has one manufacturing facility for semiconductors. It’s in Prince William County in northern Virginia. But, as Michael Pope reports, new federal money to encourage fabrication plants could be coming to Virginia.
Staff at the Virginia Aquarium are keeping a watchful eye on over a dozen white eggs expected to hatch this summer. It will be cause for celebration since they were laid by an animal that’s threatened worldwide, but the rest of us might feel a little nervous as 14 baby tomistomas arrive. Sandy Hausman has […]
The Blue Ridge Poison Center at UVA Health is fielding a significant influx of calls over adverse reactions to a substance derived from hemp and marijuana plants. Nick Gilmore reports. You can reach the Blue Ridge Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Recent flooding in Southwest Virginia is reopening debate about Virginia’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. Michael Pope reports.
Communities across Virginia are about to launch new tourism initiatives. As Michael Pope reports, they’ll be encouraging people to drive to destinations in Virginia rather than flying out of state for vacations.
For more than a decade, environmentalists and sportsmen have asked the state to ban industrial fishing for menhaden – a tiny, oil-rich fish that feeds striped bass, bluefish, marine birds and mammals. This year, a company that uses menhaden in fish oil supplements gave some $2,700 dollars in campaign contributions to Democrats — and ten […]
Virginia saw a big drop in unemployment in June. But the Now-Hiring signs are still out for all sorts of businesses and industries. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright explore the work force squeeze.
The economy may be on the threshold of recession, depending on what metric you want to use to define recession. But, as Michael Pope tells us, Virginia’s economy is showing strong signs of growth.
Imagine being told the government needed your land and you had a few weeks or months to move. This happened to thousands of people, to make room for national parks, and hydroelectric dams. Roxy Todd spoke with the editor of a new book, called “Lost in Transition,” about those who were forced to leave home.
A new program in southwest Virginia will test ways to make childcare more available for working families. And, you’ll soon have a chance to bid at auction on an estate once owned by George Washington’s cousin, but it won’t come cheap. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the […]
The state of Virginia has 41 parks where visitors can hike, fish and camp. But only one allows people to cross a river 125 feet in the air. Sandy Hausman reports on the longest recreational bridge in Virginia – a structure that’s open day and night to those in search of adventure.
Schools across Virginia are struggling to find teachers for classrooms this fall. And, as Michael Pope reports, part of the problem is teacher pay. You can read the entire analysis here.
Virginia’s approach to climate change and coastal flooding continued to be updated this year. Jahd Khalil briefs us on the General Assembly’s latest updates to coastal management that went into effect this summer.
The House of Representatives voted in favor of a bill that would safeguard gay marriage and interracial marriage. But, as Michael Pope reports, it was a party-line vote among Virginia’s delegation.
Ever wanted to have the grip of an octopus? A team of researchers at Virginia Tech has developed an underwater glove designed to do just that. Roxy Todd has more.
Schools across Virginia are dealing with a major teacher shortage. Michael Pope reports.
You’ve probably heard plenty of stories about the ups and downs of gas prices, inflation, interest rates. But are we missing the forest for the trees? Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright take a step back to get a look at the bigger economic picture.
New fundraising numbers show a lopsided advantage for Democrats running in some key Congressional races in Virginia. But, as Michael Pope reports, Republicans have time to make up lost ground.
In a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, one in five Americans reported they sometimes or often felt lonely. The surgeon general blames a world in which technology and convenience have edged out real relationships. Whatever the reason, a psychologist at the University of Virginia is planning to study thousands of people – to determine […]
Chesterfield County has the answer for people wondering where they can safely fly their drones. And a flower that was on the verge of extinction is making a comeback. 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’s prison population is on the decline. Michael Pope has this look at the numbers.
It makes sense that Virginia’s more populous localities have more people in prisons or jails. But a new study shows smaller cities and counties have lost an even bigger percentage of their populations as Sandy Hausman reports.
Fallout from the Supreme Court’s abortion decision and a business poll provided plenty of political chatter. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
As other states take steps to ban abortions, Virginia may soon become a destination for the procedure. But as Michael Pope reports, that’s only if it’s legal to travel across state lines to get one.
The number of abortions performed in Virginia had been trending down. Michael Pope takes a look at the data and some recent upticks.
Abortion is now illegal in at least one of Virginia’s bordering states, and more could follow. That means more women might need to make a potentially costly trip to Virginia for care. Reporter Jahd Khalil spoke with one organization that helps women with those bills.
New data from the Census Bureau reveals a portrait of a changing Virginia. Michael Pope takes a look at the numbers.
As prices for solar panels have come down, more and more people are putting them up. But those panels have a limited lifespan of 20 to 30 years. Experts now estimate that by 2050 the planet could be stuck with 78 million tons of used solar panels. Recycling is not cost-effective, but a University […]
It’s been a tumultuous first half of the year economically with high inflation, high gas and housing prices and drops in the stock market. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright take a look at where we stand now and what we might see in the second half of the year.
The Supreme Court has largely done away with the constitutional right to abortion. Now advocates are worried marriage equality may be next. Michael Pope explains why.
Mobile phones can be distractions for students in the classroom. But one local school board in Virginia believes it has the solution to that problem. And, Fredericksburg’s plastic bag tax is bringing in more revenue than the city expected or wanted. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the […]
Children caught up in the court system are often harmed by fines and fees that can be extremely damaging to people struggling to make ends meet. And, as Michael Pope reports, minority children are disproportionately at risk.
Some of the governor’s administrative moves and a trip out of state raised eyebrows this week. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope discuss the week in politics and state government.
Across Virginia, some Commonwealth’s Attorneys are already saying they will not prosecute abortion cases if it becomes illegal. But, as Michael Pope reports, lawmakers opposed to abortion could find ways around that.
Recent mass shootings are bringing more attention to red flag laws as a tool to prevent violent incidents. Michael Pope reports some communities are trying to increase awareness of Virginia’s law.
Advocates for abortion rights are trying to figure out how Virginia might end up providing the procedure to women from prohibition states. Michael Pope reports.
Crypto was hailed as the currency of the future. But it’s struggled lately as an investment. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about some of its supporters and critics.
Virginia doesn’t have enough contractors to handle snow removal this winter. And, in the current housing market people are finding themselves in bidding wars for rental properties. 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 and Edie […]
Governor Glenn Youngkin is creating a new office aimed at reducing regulatory requirements in Virginia. Michael Pope reports he’s tapped a controversial figure to lead it.
Get ready to hear a lot more about abortion in Virginia over the next year and a half. Jeff Schapiro, political columnist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope explain why.
The recent Supreme Court decision on abortion is setting the stage for a General Assembly session where reproductive rights will be on the agenda. Michael Pope reports.
Scientists say Virginia and other states around the Chesapeake Bay may once have been home to 3,000 breeding pairs of bald eagles, nourished by a rich supply of fish. Their numbers fell dramatically, rebounded and could now be in danger again, as Sandy Hausman reports.
The conversation about abortion may end up being a major campaign issue this year. Michael Pope reports it’s already taking center stage in one of Virginia’s most competitive House races.
One of the many things that the pandemic changed was the approach doctors take to consulting with patients. As Michael Pope reports, that will play an important role in the upcoming debate over abortion.
Virginia legislators turned away a short-term break on the gasoline tax. But now President Biden and some others are considering a similar federal gas tax holiday. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright talk about the potential impacts.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin is calling on lawmakers to ban abortion in Virginia after 15 weeks of pregnancy. But, as Michael Pope reports, that might be a bit more complicated than it seems.
Virginia police are hoping a new online database will help them solve some of their most difficult cases. And a team from the University of Virginia will be looking to shine in a national solar car competition. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s […]
The January 6 Committee may end up influencing one of Virginia’s congressional races this year. Michael Pope explains why.
Friday’s Supreme Court decision that ended federal protections for abortion is setting up a political battle in Virginia. Jahd Khalil tells us what’s coming next.
The stage is now set for this fall’s mid-term Congressional elections. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have more on that and other news from the General Assembly.
Virginia’s lax campaign finance laws are once again in the spotlight for opening the door to corruption. Michael Pope explains why. You can find the report here.
Prince William County Supervisor Yesli Vega is now the Republican candidate to run against Democrat Abigail Spanberger in the 7th Congressional District. Michael Pope has this look at her campaign.
Voters in five Congressional districts selected candidates yesterday in primary elections, setting up the races for this fall. Michael Pope reports.
After months of debate, negotiation and legislation, Governor Glenn Youngkin has put his signature on the state budget. As Jahd Khalil reports, the ceremonial signing Tuesday was held at a venue where Youngkin recorded ads during his bid for governor.
As Washington considers a holiday for the federal gas tax, here in Virginia the effort to temporarily suspend the state gas tax has reached the end of the road. Michael Pope reports.
Toy company LEGO is bringing its first U.S. manufacturing facility to Chesterfield County. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about the company’s massive investment and what it means for the Commonwealth.
Tuesday is Election Day in Virginia. Michael Pope has this preview of what you’ll see on the ballot. Polling places will be open from 6am to 7pm. Anyone in line at 7 will be allowed to cast a ballot. You can find more information here.
Virginia’s red flag law has been used hundreds of times in the past two years, but not everyone is happy about it. And, Chesterfield County will soon be the only place in the U.S. where LEGOs are made. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access […]
As the country awaits a U. S. Supreme Court decision, abortion remains a divisive topic in Richmond. Late Friday, lawmakers rejected an amendment from the governor to block state funding for the procedure, as Michael Pope reports. Lawmakers narrowly approved a budget amendment from the governor that redirects money for financial assistance for college students. […]
Friday, state legislators had 38 budget amendments to go through. Budgets in Virginia don’t only mean more or less money. They could even mean a new felony, as Jahd Khalil reports from the Capitol.
The General Assembly takes up Governor Glenn Youngkin’s budget amendments later today. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and Michael Pope have more on that and a look at next week’s Congressional primaries.
Lawmakers will return to Richmond Friday to consider a number of budget amendments from the governor. Michael Pope has this report on two that focus on historically Black colleges and universities.
When Democrats were in control of the General Assembly, they passed a number of measures designed to reduce gun violence. But, as Michael Pope reports, one part of the agenda they were unable to accomplish was banning assault weapons.
LEGO is coming to Virginia. The classic children’s toy company has announced plans to build its second North American manufacturing factory in Chesterfield County, outside Richmond. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
A new study could make predicting future pandemics more accurate – by combining math with research on human behavior. Roxy Todd has more.
House Republicans and Senate Democrats struck a deal on a possible budget that did not include a gas tax holiday. But that’s not the end of the story. As Michael Pope reports, the governor will get a chance to weigh in.
Social Security recipients got the largest cost of living adjustment in decades this year. But the long-term future of the system is still in trouble. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on a new proposal to shore it up.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is considering a budget proposal that some fear might harm scholarships for low-income students. Michael Pope explains why.
A bill championed in the General Assembly by the UVA Innocence Project would increase compensation paid to people wrongly imprisoned by the state. And, a Virginia community college will be the first in the Commonwealth to provide housing for students. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia […]
This spring’s leadership change in House Democratic Caucus was dramatic, but it wasn’t without precedent. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope discuss some of the more notable House of Delegates leadership coups of the past few decades.
Virginia has not offered parole to people convicted of crimes since 1995. But about 2,500 men and women were convicted of breaking the law before then, and they could still win early release if the parole board feels they pose no threat to society. Many of those people feared they would have to wait another four […]
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how and where many people work. Add in the pressure of inflation, and you have the recipe for spiking housing costs in metro areas like Richmond. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright talk about the impacts.
Last month, Governor Youngkin cited a violent crime crisis in Virginia and announced the appointment of a task force to address it. That might seem like a solid political move. After all, who is in favor of violent crime? But critics are coming forward as Sandy Hausman reports.
Fire ants are thriving in Virginia and it seems they’re here to stay. And, new technology is being used to protect whales from lethal collisions with ships. 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 and Edie […]
Governor Glenn Youngkin is now considering an investment that would bring a program aimed at reducing violent crime to Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
After months of delay, Virginia’s legislature has passed a budget. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have more on that and new Democratic leadership in the House of Delegates.
Marijuana is now legal in Virginia in small amounts. But, as Michael Pope reports, new penalties could be on the horizon.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is now considering his first budget since taking office. Michael Pope has details.
It’s nesting season for many songbirds including those that live on farmland. As Sandy Hausman reports, the population of grassland birds has fallen dramatically in Virginia, and a coalition is hoping to bring them back.
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares is convening a work group to take a look at organized retail crime in Virginia, a problem he says is harming businesses across the Commonwealth. Michael Pope reports.
The Washington Commanders have been making news off the field, as parts of the team’s proposals for a new stadium come to light. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on the potential impact for Virginia.
A new report says Virginia’s zoning laws have sustained racial segregation in Virginia. And as Michael Pope reports, the authors also make suggestions for fixing the problem.
Virginia’s wood turtle population is still declining despite efforts to preserve the species. And the city of Alexandria is facing a lawsuit over accusations that it dumps toxic chemicals into the Potomac River. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link. More […]
House and Senate leaders may be on the verge of cutting a deal on the budget. Michael Pope reports.
It isn’t just COVID-19 that’s made it difficult to find referees for youth sports. Many older refs have quit, and, as Christine Kueter reports, it’s even harder to find replacements willing to put up with rowdy spectators.
As often happens, tragedies in other parts of the country can force Virginia to look inward at its own laws and communities. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have more on the impact of the Texas shooting, as well as new movement on a state budget.
A significant number of workers in Virginia are still working from home. And as Michael Pope reports, that’s creating challenges and opportunities for local governments. 40% percent of days are worked from home in Virginia, according to Census data compiled by the Pew Charitable Trusts.
Lawmakers ended the General Assembly session without passing a budget, and a final deal has yet to be struck. Michael Pope has this report on the history of budget standoffs
Lawmakers have yet to finalize an agreement on the budget. But as Michael Pope reports, they might be on the verge of cutting a deal.
It’s been a brutal spring for the stock markets. They’ve recorded seven straight weeks of declines. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright offer some context for worried investors.
Republicans are now heading into the fall campaign season with two new candidates. As Michael Pope reports, the candidates secured the nominations in conventions over the weekend.
Fredericksburg has joined a multi-state program designed to help local governments switch over to clean energy vehicles. And the Virginia court case that ended bans on interracial marriage will be commemorated with an opera. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link. […]
Thursday’s report from the state education superintendent painted a dire picture of Virginia’s schools. Michael Pope reports it’s opened a debate about past decisions and the future. Editor’s Note: The Virginia Education Association is a financial supporter of Virginia Public Radio.
Virginia Opera and the Richmond Symphony have announced plans to create an original opera. As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, the project will tell the real-life story of the Virginia couple whose relationship paved the legal pathway for inter-racial and same-sex marriage.
Virginia’s state budget is weeks past due. But there are some signs an agreement may be coming. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have more on the week in politics and state government.
A new report on the state of Virginia schools shows that gaps are widening and scores are dropping. Michael Pope reports.
Republicans in several parts of Virginia will be choosing their congressional candidates this weekend. Michael Pope has this preview.
184 years ago, James Lindsey Smith, an enslaved man in Northumberland County on Virginia’s Northern Neck, made his way to freedom and eventually to Norwich, Connecticut. Inspired by that journey and Smith’s determination, a group of men from a Norwich church attempted to retrace his steps. Pamela D’Angelo went with them for part of the […]
There’s new intrigue in the tobacco business, and it connects back to Virginia. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on this merger news.
Virginia’s governor is clashing with leaders in Fairfax County about security precautions at the home of several Supreme Court justices. Michael Pope reports.
A growing elk population is creating some challenges in Southwestern Virginia. And students at Virginia Tech are using hip-hop to promote learning. 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 and Edie Gross.
The World Wide Web can be a fraught place, especially for people looking for quick cash. As Michael Pope reports, all kinds of companies are trying to skirt Virginia’s law against predatory lending.
There were some surprises this week for state workers and for one potential state employee. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have more about the week in politics and the General Assembly.
Before the pandemic, Virginia had one of the highest rates for evictions in the country. Now, as Michael Pope reports, some are concerned about a coming crisis.
While African Americans fought in every American war from the revolution on, aspiring Black soldiers could not study at the Virginia Military Institute until 1968. Still one student – this year’s valedictorian — says they made an important contribution to the school. Sandy Hausman talked with him and filed this report.
Local governments across Virginia are trying to figure out how to handle the rising value of used cars. As Michael Pope reports, what they decide will influence how much tax you pay.
Four years ago the Upper Mattaponi Tribe received federal recognition. Since then it has built a health clinic and purchased lands that were recently accepted into federal trust. Pamela D’Angelo reports on the significance for the Tribe and nearby communities.
In 1973, the landmark ruling in Roe versus Wade overturned existing laws that restricted abortions to certain kinds of cases. But as Michael Pope reports, the origin of Virginia’s law prohibiting abortion goes back much further.
Seeing fields full of corn, wheat, or tobacco on a drive through Virginia is not unusual. But the vistas might increasingly begin to include solar farms. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on solar’s present and future.
Virginia’s congressional primary is not until June. But as Michael Pope reports, the polls are already open.
If your area code is 540 get ready to do some additional tapping on the keypad when you make a phone call. And some creative Virginia high school students went to New York and came back with a six-figure cash prize from a national tech competition. Those have been among the most read stories over […]
School boards across Virginia are dealing with sometimes hostile parents and potentially dangerous situations. But as Michael Pope reports, they also have to manage the legal requirements for open meetings.
The future of abortion access has dominated the political discussions in Washington and beyond this week. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have more on where Virginia stands.
Some lawmakers are starting to rethink the way regulators approach environmental issues. Michael Pope reports.
The politics of abortion are becoming increasingly intense. But as Michael Pope reports, they don’t always play out as expected.
As the United States Supreme Court appears ready to overturn Roe v. Wade, advocates on both sides of the issue are preparing for how to handle state law on abortion. Michael Pope reports.
Menthol accounts for more than a third of cigarettes sold in the U.S. And the Food and Drug administration now has a plan to phase out production and sale of the mint flavored cigarettes. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on the health and business implications of the […]
A new institute at the College of William & Mary is teaching students to solve conservation challenges around the world. This year, Indigenous people were invited to share their knowledge, including the head of the National Park Service Chuck Sams. Pamela D’Angelo reports.
Advocates for reforming juvenile justice are regrouping after a veto from the governor. Michael Pope explains why.
While boating accidents are down across Virginia this year there’s an opposite trend at Smith Mountain Lake. And a celebrity civil trial in Northern Virginia has taken on a circus-like appearance, complete with animals. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link. […]
Democrats in Virginia’s House of Delegates are currently without a leader, leaving open a question about how the divided caucus will forge a path forward. Michael Pope reports.
There was plenty of political intrigue packed into this year’s one-day reconvene session. Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and David Seidel, sitting in for Michael Pope, have more on the fallout.
Virginia has started giving prison inmates their own tablets so they can download music, watch TV, take classes and send e-mails. But there’s one feature missing from their device – a service that could save lives. Sandy Hausman has that story.
The U.S. Attorney’s office for the western district of Virginia is pleading with parents to spread the word. China is sending chemicals to Mexico, and Mexican cartels are mixing them up to make powerful, and sometimes deadly, pills that look just like what you might get from an American pharmacy. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Losers and winners both like to say that elections have consequences. But sometimes they’re delayed. Jahd Khalil reports on the latest fallout from the Democrats’ losses last November.
Legislators were back in Richmond to deal with vetoes and amendments. But they also took a key action on a proposed gas tax holiday. Jahd Khalil was at the capitol and has this report.
Lawmakers will return to the Capitol Wednesday to consider a host of amendments. And as Michael Pope reports, one of the most controversial amendments is about marijuana.
With inflation at levels not seen in decades, a lot of families are facing some tough pocketbook decisions. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about some of the options.
Lawmakers will be returning to Richmond Wednesday to finish up some unfinished business. Michael Pope has this preview.
A new high school in Chesterfield County is specifically designed to support students recovering from substance abuse. And people in Warrenton, Virginia now have the opportunity to grade local police officers. 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 […]
Virginia’s attorney general is calling for greater transparency on the bench. Michael Pope reports.
For 309 years citizens of the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe of Southampton County in Virginia have marked a treaty with the English Crown with a tribute. Jahd Khalil was at the executive mansion for this year’s.
The General Assembly will be back in Richmond next week for the reconvene session – weighing amendments and vetoes from Governor Glenn Youngkin. Michael Pope and Jeff Schapiro with the Richmond Times-Dispatch preview what to expect from the session.
Lawmakers will be back in Richmond next week to consider several amendments from the governor. Michael Pope has this story about a controversial amendment on religious expression.
In May of 1996, two young women were murdered in Shenandoah National Park. The crime scene was just half a mile from the popular Skyland Lodge, and the park was crowded with holiday hikers, but to this day the deaths of Lollie Winans and Julie Williams remain a mystery. A new book on the case […]
The American Lung Association has released its annual report on air quality. And, as Nick Gilmore reports, a few Virginia cities have some of the cleanest air in the entire country.
Virginia’s attorney general is using a new law to help free an innocent man from prison. Michael Pope reports.
One of the hottest debates between legislators right now is whether to suspend the gas tax this summer. Jahd Khalil sat in on a meeting in Richmond Tuesday afternoon.
Scientists have learned a lot about the virus that causes COVID, and they’re getting new information about how best to prevent it. At the University of Virginia, one study tracked 114 people who’d gotten the Pfizer shot and an equal number who were vaccinated with the product developed by Moderna. Sandy Hausman reports on what they […]
Lawmakers will return to Richmond next week to consider several amendments from the governor to legislation from the General Assembly. Michael Pope has this report on one of those amendments to a bill aimed at limiting the use of solitary confinement in Virginia prisons.
Computers are everywhere, even in your car. And a shortage of computer chips is having a big impact on the auto industry. Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright have more on that challenge.
Lawmakers are about to consider a bill to determine the exact dollar amount to pay someone who was wrongfully convicted and spent 22 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. As Michael Pope reports, the governor wants to reduce the amount of money by one dollar.
Something new – and big – is in the works at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. And a significant Civil War battlefield will not become a new housing development, at least not now. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link. More now […]
State-mandated racial segregation ended decades ago. But as Michael Pope reports, many parts of Virginia will be segregated forever: cemeteries.
Governor Glenn Youngkin set off political fireworks with the stroke of his veto pen earlier this week. What lies ahead for state lawmakers with the veto session on the horizon later this month? Jeff Schapiro with the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope take a closer look.
The idea that medical debt collectors might come after people having a hard time making ends meet is concerning to a lot of Republicans and Democrats, who worked together during the General Assembly session to protect Virginians. As Michael Pope reports, now the governor is using his veto pen on two of those bills.
Governor Glenn Youngkin has vetoed 26 bills lawmakers put on his desk this year. Michael Pope has this report on one of those vetoes for a bill aimed at cracking down on slumlords.
Governor Youngkin’s vetoes of 26 pieces of legislation are the most since 1998. They would’ve meant some new policies for the Commonwealth. Jahd Khalil has this report on the politics of the move.
With spring weather finally coming around, you may be tempted to enjoy Happy Hour outside. But unlike Bourbon Street drinking in public is not legal throughout Virginia. However, as Mallory Noe-Payne reports, that is set to change for at least one Virginia city.
Lawmakers are not done debating whether police should be able to use facial recognition technology. As Michael Pope reports, an amendment from the governor will keep this issue on the docket for weeks.
Virginia is among a handful of states across the country that has direct control of alcohol sales. But now with an extension of to-go beverages, could privatization be on the horizon? Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on the state of alcohol sales in Virginia.
Lawmakers will be returning to the Capitol Monday to finish balancing the books and finalizing a budget. But, as Michael Pope reports, serious divisions remain.
Credit: RADIO IQ State lawmakers return to Richmond on Monday. They’ll be there to start a special session focusing on the Budget. Jahd Khalil reports on another item they’ll have to address: money for an expanded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps.
The Virginia Poverty Law Center has a SNAP calculator that can calculate whether a person qualifies for SNAP.
Credit: JLARC Lawmakers are about to return to Richmond in an effort to balance the books. But, as Michael Pope reports, they’re divided over how much money to invest in affordable housing.
Lawmakers are returning to Richmond for a special session on the budget, as teachers voice their support for equity programs and the attorney general voices his opposition to wind power.
Richmond Times-Dispatch political columnist Jeff Schapiro joins Michael Pope to break it down.
Lawmakers will be returning to Richmond next week for a special session. And, as Michael Pope reports, one of the things they’ll be considering is a gas tax holiday.
Education was a hot topic on the campaign trail last year. And, as Michael Pope reports, the issue remains at the forefront of a debate over what students should be learning in classrooms.
Agricultural industry figures gathered in Richmond Tuesday for the Governor’s Conference on Agricultural Trade. Jahd Khalil reports that even as they highlighted Virginia’s farm exports, the war in Europe cast its shadow on an important import.
The war between Russia and Ukraine is impacting much more than gas prices.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on the potential effect on agriculture here in Virginia and around the world.
Lawmakers left the Capitol earlier this month without passing a budget, and House and Senate leaders remain divided on a number of issues. Michael Pope has this look at how education spending is a major budget debate heading into the special session.
Spartanburg Community College welding instructor Teresa Elder (left) grades Harris during class. One of former Governor Ralph Northam’s signature policy proposals is known as G3 — that’s an investment in community colleges that helps low-income students get in-demand work credentials at little or no cost to them.
This past fall was the first full semester of the program. And as Mallory Noe-Payne reports it bucked the trend of low-enrollment.
College campuses are emerging as prime destinations for refugee families. And new building designs are being developed to help save birds.
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 and Edie Gross.
Credit: CDC Over 72% of Virginians are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. That number is even higher for Adults – 82%. Efforts to vaccinate the rest are continuing. Jahd Khalil tells us about a new program in Richmond.
Credit: Jahd Khalil The General Assembly session may be over, but the process of a bill moving from just an idea to becoming a law is far from over. Governor Glenn Youngkin still has hundreds of bills to consider, as Michael Pope reports.
The negotiations to set Virginia’s budget have entered a new, rather public, phase.
Richmond Times-Dispatch political columnist Jeff Schapiro and Michael Pope have more on that.
The dynamics of how solar energy will work in Virginia is far from settled. Michael Pope has this report on a debate over how much people should be charged for it.
Credit: NPR Governor Youngkin is urging lawmakers back to the Capitol to finish work on Virginia’s two-year budget. One item still on their to-do list is deciding the most effective way to spend millions earmarked to help reduce gun violence.
As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, Republicans and Democrats don’t agree on which state agency should oversee the funds.
Credit: CDC One of Governor Glenn Youngkin’s first moves in office was to weaken school mask mandates. Some parents and administrators quickly challenged that move in court. Reporter Jahd Khalil has this update on one lawsuit that stood out from the others.
Police departments across Virginia may soon be using your Facebook photo to see if you are a suspect in a crime. Michael Pope reports.
Students work in the auto shop at Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Ed Center. (Credit: Christine Kueter) With four-year and community college enrollments on a two-year decline, technical education is emerging as a bright spot for students interested in skilled trades like carpentry, car repair, energy, and electrical work.
Christine Kueter has that story.
The Shockoe Hill African Burial Ground as it appears today (Credit: Ryan Smith) What may be the country’s largest burial ground for enslaved and free African-Americans is one step closer to federal recognition.
As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, the site in Richmond recently earned a spot on the Virginia Landmarks Register.
Last year, Virginia made a significant reform that prevented defendants from being automatically held in detention. Michael Pope has this report on how the reform is working.
Interest rates are starting to move higher as federal regulators try to bring inflation under control.
But will it be enough?
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about the impact and the potential outcomes.
Credit: Jahd Khalil / RADIO IQ Virginia has a new elections commissioner who will oversee voting in the Commonwealth. Michael Pope reports the appointment comes with some controversy.
Students are asking for more of a voice in decisions made by a Virginia school board. And Charlottesville is looking for ways to restore its tree canopy.
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 and Edie Gross.
Lawmakers ended their General Assembly session without any major accomplishments. Michael Pope has this report on why.
Governor Glenn Youngkin and Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick speak at a Women Business Leaders Forum on Friday March 18, 2022 in Richmond. (Credit: Jahd Khalil) Virginia’s search for a new head of the state’s community college system ended Thursday. Jahd Khalil reports that Governor Youngkin was not pleased with the process.
Credit: NPR The General Assembly session is done and dusted. But as Michael Pope reports, lawmakers are still negotiating on the budget.
The scheduled General Assembly session may be over, but there’s still major work to be done by legislators.
Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope talk about the new normal of overtime budget negotiations.
The University of Richmond upset Iowa in the NCAA tournament Thursday.
And Virginia Tech hopes to do the same in its first-round game Friday afternoon.
Greg Echlin has more from Milwaukee.
Credit: NPR Gas prices across Virginia are more than four dollars a gallon. As Michael Pope reports, that has consequences for lawmakers trying to balance the budget.
Credit: Jahd Khalil There are three big players in Virginia’s budget negotiations. On one side are Republicans who control the House and Governor Glenn Youngkin. On the other are Senate Democrats who held up much of the Governor’s agenda. Jahd Khalil reports on one signal about how those discussions are going.
Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / RADIO IQ Members of the Monacan Indian Nation declared victory Wednesday in a years-long battle to prevent construction on a sacred spot along the James River.
As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, local officials have agreed to an alternative path for a water pipeline; one that archeologists say won’t impact native burial grounds.
Credit: NPR Governor Glenn Youngkin’s controversial pick for Cabinet secretary was rejected by lawmakers, although he’ll be sticking around as an advisor. Michael Pope reports that this has happened only one other time in Virginia history.
Crude oil prices dipped a bit this week, though gas prices are still at record highs in the US.
Roben Farzad, host the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright talk about what’s driving those prices and the potential for some relief.
Public school students across Virginia may soon be getting more input into education policy. Michael Pope reports.
Members of the General Assembly concluded their session without passing a budget. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: VPAP Efforts are underway to preserve a school built to educate Black children a century ago. And a high-tech vegetable farm will be producing its first crop near Danville later this year. 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 and Edie Gross.
Lawmakers ended the General Assembly session Saturday.
But as Michael Pope reports, they left town without passing a budget.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is considering a bill that would allow police departments to use facial recognition technology. Michael Pope reports.
The final act of this General Assembly session will likely be an agreement on Virginia’s budget.
But Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond-Times Dispatch, and Michael Pope say there’s likely to be more action even after adjournment.
During the pandemic, many local governments started conducting business virtually. Now as Michael Pope reports, some of that is about to continue into the future.
Professor Ken Ono confers with Olympic medal-winner Emma Weyant about how to get faster. (Credit: RADIO IQ) Later this month, college swim teams will take part in the NCAA Championship. The University of Virginia is favored to win many races thanks to high-tech training and advice from one of the world’s leading mathematicians. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Governor Glenn Youngkin is now considering legislation that’s passed the House and the Senate. As Michael Pope reports, one of those bills is about school lunch debt.
Members of the Virginia state Senate are considering a bill that would expedite the approval process for prescription drugs and medical devices. Michael Pope reports that some senators have concerns.
Virginia has a new law that finally makes some police documents available to the public after the case has been closed. As Michael Pope reports, lawmakers are trying to roll that back.
Lawmakers are debating how much power your local government has to prohibit fossil fuels. Michael Pope has more from Richmond.
One of several story quilts made by Denise Lowe Walters (Nottaway) that tell the history of her Tribe. (Credit: Pamela D’Angelo) It’s not often we have the chance to experience some of the more personal cultural treasures of Indigenous communities in Virginia.
Pamela D’Angelo reports the exhibit of them at the Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg is open for just a few more weeks.
The company that puts on the Kentucky Derby is now a player in Virginia. In a multi-billion dollar deal, Churchill Downs will acquire the parent company of Colonial Downs and its Rosie’s Gaming locations.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright discuss the race for gambling entertainment dollars.
Last year, Republicans campaigned on cleaning up the Virginia Parole Board. Now, as Michael Pope reports, they’re making some changes.
Credit: NPR Lawmakers are trying to balance the books before heading out of town Saturday. Michael Pope reports.
The Senate is rejecting a bill that would allow some active duty military to vote in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: VPAP Some drivers in the Richmond area have been traveling over recycled plastic since last fall but most would never know. And the pandemic has brought much more work for the staff of a state sponsored helpline.
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 and Edie Gross.
Credit: Wellness GM / Flickr, Creative Commons: flickr.com/photos/130100316@N04/15728773073/ As the pandemic continues to claim lives, lawmakers in Richmond are talking about taking steps to prompt medical innovation. Michael Pope reports.
Time is running out on this year’s General Assembly session. And that means some high-profile issues are likely out of time as well.
Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times Dispatch and Michael Pope have this update from the state capitol.
Governor Glenn Youngkin was elected on a platform of giving parents more choice. But as Michael Pope reports, homeschool students will not be joining public school sports anytime soon.
Two significant changes to Virginia’s Constitution are being considered by the General Assembly. But it’s an uphill battle, as Jahd Khalil reports. He has this update on a last-ditch effort by Democrat legislators.
Credit: Wellness GM / Flickr, Creative Commons; flickr.com/photos/130100316@N04/15728773073/ Governor Glenn Youngkin may soon consider a bill that would create a statute of limitations for medical debt. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPR Candidates for some offices in Virginia are identified by party affiliation and some are not. Michael Pope has this report on an unsuccessful attempt to add more party affiliation.
Governor Glenn Youngkin will soon be considering a bill allowing local police departments to use controversial facial recognition technology. Michael Pope has details.
Voters will not have an opportunity to reject Virginia’s unconstitutional ban on gay marriage. Michael Pope explains why.
The same House subcommittee also killed a proposed referendum on the automatic restoration of voting rights of former felons.
Western governments have been steadily tightening the economic sanctions on Russia, targeting everything from banks to airline flights to Russian-made liquor on the shelves of Virginia ABC stores.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright discuss some of the economic side-effects that might be felt here.
Credit: NPR Virginia has a red-flag law designed to combat gun violence. As Michael Pope reports, a Republican effort to overturn the law has failed.
The effort to create a regulated marijuana marketplace is going nowhere, at least for this year. Michael Pope has more from the General Assembly.
Credit: VPAP Almost four dozen police officers have been decertified in Virginia since a new law took effect last year. And wildlife officers are having success finding foster moms for orphaned bear cubs.
Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s Va. News link.
Senator Siobhan Dunnavant says she wants the box around her desk removed by Monday, vowing to remove it herself if it’s not gone by the beginning of next week. (Credit: Virginia Senate livestream) Mask mandates are being lifted in schools across Virginia. And as Michael Pope reports, COVID-19 protocols may also be changing in the state Senate.
Governor Glenn Youngkin campaigned on eliminating the grocery tax. Now lawmakers are debating how much of it they want to eliminate. Michael Pope reports.
It’s been a little over six months since Virginians with Medicaid also began receiving dental insurance. Virginia’s Department of Medical Assistance Services estimates that in that time more than 100,000 people have gotten dental care.
As Mallory Noe-Payne reports, the next hurdle is getting more dentists to accept Medicaid.
The battle over Virginia’s budget is creating fireworks at the state capitol.
Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Time-Dispatch and Michael Pope bring us up to speed on some of the big story lines at the General Assembly this week.
Lawmakers are rejecting an effort to end solitary confinement. As Michael Pope reports, they’re moving forward with a study instead.
Last year lawmakers opened up public access to some police documents in closed cases.
Now, as Michael Pope reports, they’re considering rolling that back.
The House of Delegates is considering a Senate bill that would strip permitting authority from two citizen boards. Michael Pope reports.
Cooperative Extension began, more than 100 years ago, as a service to farm families. (Credit: Virginia Tech) In the age of climate change, this country’s land grant universities are working overtime to assure that farmers can feed a growing world population. For Virginia State and Virginia Tech, that means reaching out to cities and to countries around the world. Sandy Hausman has that story.
Credit: Jahd Khalil House Republicans began the session hoping to roll back some of the new voter access laws Democrats put in place over the last two years. As Michael Pope reports, they have been unable to make any of those changes.
Members of the General Assembly are debating the need for tax cuts, and it’s a conversation that is getting heated. Michael Pope reports on the latest flare up.
The Washington Commanders’ contract at FedEx Field in Maryland expires after the 2026-27 season. And an effort to lure the football team to a new stadium in Virginia is working its way through the General Assembly.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright have more on the proposal that comes with a whole lot of strings attached.
Lawmakers are trying to balance the books for the coming year. One part of the budget is a top priority for both parties: education. Michael Pope has more on the newly-released proposals.
Senate Democrats are standing in the way of House Republicans who want to expand access to guns. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: VPAP A Virginia town will have a water park thanks to pandemic relief money. And some Albemarle County teens are trying to make winter a little easier for elderly residents. 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 and Edie Gross.
There have been a few wins, a few losses and plenty of draws so far for Governor Glenn Youngkin’s agenda in the first half of the General Assembly session.
Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have more on what’s been done and what’s still to be decided.
Credit: Dominion Energy The growth of solar energy in Virginia is creating concern among many people about solar farms, potentially putting green space in conflict with green energy. Michael Pope reports.
Controversial cabinet pick Andrew Wheeler testifies before the Senate Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources Committee last month. (Credit: Michael Pope) Governor Glenn Youngkin is dealing with a major setback. The state Senate rejected one of his key cabinet nominees Wednesday. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: NPR One of the governor’s top priorities for cutting taxes may be in trouble. Michael Pope explains why.
It’s been a volatile couple of weeks for the stock market, highlighted by a big loss for the company formerly known as Facebook.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright have more on Meta and where the markets might be heading.
Key pieces of Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Charter School agenda have been voted down by the state Senate, which is controlled by Democrats. Jahd Khalil has this update on where things stand on the House side.
Now that Republicans are in control of the House of Delegates, they’re taking a different approach to environmental issues. Michael Pope has this report about potential new rules around natural gas.
Lawmakers are considering a bill that would crack down on cyber-flashing, unsolicited pictures that often pop up on smartphones. Michael Pope explains.
Credit: Jahd Khalil The pandemic has upended much of modern life. And as Michael Pope reports, it’s also created havoc with election returns.
Credit: VPAP The U.S. Civil Rights Trail will now feature a third stop in Virginia with the addition of a site in Danville. And a new app will help drivers in Norfolk avoid flooded streets. 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 and Edie Gross.
Governor Glenn Youngkin’s getting plenty of help for his agenda in one chamber of the General Assembly, while he’s finding plenty of roadblocks in the other.
Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope have a rundown of where those efforts stand as well as the court fight over masks in schools.
Lawmakers are considering a bill that would create new limitations on how long inmates can be held in solitary confinement in Virginia prisons. Michael Pope reports the bill is facing a tough time in the House.
Members of the General Assembly are considering a bill that would change how colleges and universities handle transcripts. Michael Pope reports.
The cover of the 1940 edition of the Green Book. Lawmakers are considering a bill that would add historic markers on sites listed in African American travel guides. Michael Pope reports.
Credit: Jahd Khalil Virginia now has early voting. But lawmakers are divided about how early people should be able to vote. Michael Pope reports.
Last week, controversial cabinet pick Andrew Wheeler testified before the Senate Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources Committee. (Credit: Michael Pope) Members of the General Assembly rarely reject a nominee for the governor’s Cabinet. But, as Michael Pope reports, lawmakers may be poised to say no to a controversial pick.
Since November, hedge fund Alden Global Capital has been attempting to buy out Lee Enterprises, one of the nation’s largest newspaper chains. Lee’s properties include The Richmond Times-Dispatch, The Roanoke Times, The News & Advance in Lynchburg and The Daily Progress in Charlottesville, among others.
Lee rejected an initial bid, but Alden Global persists.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Morning Edition host Craig Wright have more on that.
The minimum wage in Virginia is now $11 an hour. It’s supposed to go up to $12 next year, unless a Republican bill passes. Jahd Khalil has this report from the Capitol.
Credit: NPR Lawmakers are considering a bill that would regulate a currently unregulated set of business loans that some say are predatory. Michael Pope reports.
The decline of the Virginia coalfields will apparently bring an end to a century-old town. And Northern Virginia commuters may one day be able to get to work in Washington DC by water.
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 and Edie Gross.
One of the bills would repeal a same day voter registration measure set to go into effect October 1, 2022. (Credit: Jahd Khalil / RADIO IQ) Democrats touted expanding voting access during their time in power in the General Assembly. Jahd Khalil reports the Republicans now in control of the House of Delegates have introduced bills to restrict voting access.
Members of the General Assembly are divided on what constitutes being divisive. Michael Pope explains.
Glenn Youngkin has been facing a slew of self-made controversies in the first weeks of his governorship.
Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope bring us up to speed on what’s been happening at the state capitol.
Education was a top issue on the campaign trail last year, especially how schools address the issue of race. Michael Pope reports it’s now at the top of the agenda for the new administration in Richmond.
Governor Glenn Youngkin, in an address to a joint session of the General Assembly, on January 17th, outlined his vision for charter schools and other legislative priorities. (Credit: Michael Pope) Virginia’s new governor wants to do some new things with public schools. One proposal involves the state’s universities. Reporter Jahd Khalil has more.
Credit: NPR Gun rights are on the agenda at the Virginia General Assembly, although efforts to weaken recent laws aimed at preventing gun violence don’t seem to be going anywhere. Michael Pope is at the Capitol with the latest.
Members of the General Assembly are considering a bill that would help an industry that’s increasingly endangered: local newspapers. Michael Pope reports.
Controversial cabinet pick Andrew Wheeler testifies before the Senate Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources Committee. (Credit: Michael Pope) Governor Glenn Youngkin’s controversial pick for environmental secretary is making his case to members of the General Assembly, who must approve his nomination. Michael Pope is at the Capitol with the latest.
Public defender offices are often stretched thin, although that may change soon. Michael Pope reports on a bill that might help level the playing field and increase their salaries.
Starbucks has grown exponentially in 50 years to more than 15,000 stores in the U.S. All of this growth and success without union employees.
But now two stores in New York have unionized and petitions for unions have been filed at two stores in Richmond.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Craig Wright discuss what’s driving the effort and how it might impact the company.
Governor Glenn Youngkin during his inaugural address earlier this month. (Credit: governor.virginia.gov) Members of the Virginia General Assembly are already hard at work balancing the books for the budget this year. And as Michael Pope reports, one of the top agenda items for the new Republican governor is fulfilling a campaign promise about veterans.
Politics and religion are two subjects that don’t usually mix in polite company. But as Michael Pope reports, both are topics of debate at the General Assembly.
Credit: VPAP Virginia will soon be home to a new digital archive dedicated to the work of Black poets. And supply chain issues are causing serious shortages for school lunch programs. 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 and Edie Gross.
Credit: NPR Members of the state Senate are debating a bill that would change how local candidates appear on the ballot. Michael Pope is at the Capitol with the latest.
Members of the General Assembly are considering a number of bills that would change how utilities operate. Michael Pope is at the Capitol with the latest.
Members of the General Assembly are fighting back against medical misinformation. Michael Pope reports.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin speaks to reporters outside Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. (Credit: David Seidel) After his inauguration, Governor Glenn Youngkin removed requirements for masks in schools and vaccination of state employees.
Thursday, he rolled out a new plan to address the state’s vaccination rate and surge in hospitalizations.
David Seidel has more.
During the legislative session, representatives of Virginians head to Richmond to make their case for new legislation or funding. Wednesday advocates for refugees headed to the Capitol to represent new Virginians and Americans. Jahd Khalil reports.
Credit: NPR Last year, the General Assembly legalized small amounts of marijuana. This year, as Michael Pope reports, they are debating decriminalizing psilocybin. Michael Pope reports.
A school in Hopewell notifies visitors they will need a mask to enter the building. (Credit: Jahd Khalil / RADIO IQ) School administrators and politicians are pushing back against Governor Glenn Youngkin’s executive order that would allow parents to opt their children out of school mask requirements, saying masking is the best way to keep schools open and the order doesn’t override a law on the subject. Jahd Khalil reports.
The future of the automobile industry may end up being electric cars, which means that the future of parking spots might involve charging stations. Michael Pope reports on a bill under consideration in the General Assembly that would address that issue.
Members of the state Senate are rejecting limits to campaign contributions. Michael Pope is at the Capitol with the latest.
Members of the General Assembly are considering a bill to simplify how students are tested in public schools. Michael Pope reports.
Glenn Youngkin took the oath of office as Virginia’s 74th Governor on Saturday.
Roben Farzad, host of the Full Disclosure podcast, and Weekend Edition host Craig Wright discuss Youngkin’s business background and the role that might play in his term as governor.
A Black woman who unknowingly made a major contribution to cancer research is finally receiving public recognition. And Virginia hospitals are struggling to provide care as more COVID-19 patients are admitted.
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 and Edie Gross.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin address the General Assembly Monday afternoon. (Credit: Michael Pope) Virginia’s new governor has asked lawmakers to introduce 59 bills, and he’s submitted 25 budget amendments.
But as Michael Pope reports, one issue is dominating his first few days in office.
As a candidate, Glenn Youngkin spoke about schools and race.
Jahd Khalil reports that in his first few days as Governor, Youngkin and his pick for education secretary are looking to minimize race’s role in developing education policy.
Senator Chap Petersen, left, and Delegate Lee Ware appear at a press conference to announce their bill banning campaign contributions from public utilities. (Credit: Michael Pope) Members of the General Assembly are prohibited from taking campaign contributions during the General Assembly.
And as Michael Pope reports, some would like to see even more restrictions on where lawmakers are able to get their money.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin delivers his inaugural address. (Credit: Michael Pope) Glenn Youngkin is starting his first week as governor.
And he outlined a wide-ranging agenda during his inaugural address over the weekend, as Michael Pope reports.
Members of the General Assembly are considering a bill that would limit how long Virginia prisons can hold inmates in solitary confinement. Michael Pope has the latest from the Capitol.
It’s an eventful week at Virginia’s state capitol as one administration ends and a new one begins.
Jeff Schapiro of the Richmond Times-Dispatch and Michael Pope got together in the halls of the capitol to talk about what those changes mean.