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Virginia Democrats Move Four Constitutional Amendments on Opening Day, Drawing Sharp Republican Backlash
On January 14, 2026, Virginia Democrats advanced four constitutional amendments in the House of Delegates, eliciting criticism from Republicans. Key measures include reproductive rights, automatic voting rights restoration for felons, repealing the ban on same-sex marriage, and mid-decade congressional redistricting, setting the stage for contentious legislative debates ahead.
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North Carolina Brewery Scandal Highlights Business, Legal, and Accountability Questions
A high-profile case involving Justin Tawse Brigham, co-founder of Sycamore Brewing, accused of serious sexual crimes against a minor, has prompted his wife, Sarah Taylor, to file for divorce and sever business ties. The brewery has since rebranded as Club West Brewing, as Taylor seeks to restore trust amid reputational damage.
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Affordability Rhetoric Meets Reality: Senate Democrats Push Local Sales Tax Option in Early 2026
Senate Democrats are advancing SB66, a bill that allows local governments to raise sales taxes for school construction through voter referendums—raising questions about affordability, permanence, and early priorities as Virginia’s new administration takes shape.
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Virginia Democrats Move to Mandate January 6 Narrative in Public Schools
A new bill in the Virginia General Assembly would allow schools to teach January 6—but only if they adopt a state-mandated political framing. Critics warn it crosses a line into compelled speech and politicized education.
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Virginia Lawsuit Targets Drake, Online Gambling Platform Over Alleged Illegal Betting Scheme
A federal lawsuit in Virginia targets Stake.us, Drake, and Adin Ross, alleging illegal online gambling disguised as a “social casino.” Plaintiffs argue the platform violates state laws by promoting real-money gambling through virtual coins. The case highlights challenges in enforcing gambling regulations amid evolving consumer protections in Virginia.
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From Harrisonburg to the National Stage: How James Madison University Shapes the 2026 CFP Title Game
James Madison University (JMU) significantly influenced the upcoming College Football Playoff National Championship between Indiana and Miami. Key figures, including Indiana’s head coach Curt Cignetti and several players and coaches, have JMU connections, showcasing how the university’s culture and coaching systems impacted both teams’ successes, establishing JMU’s prominent legacy in college football.
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Virginia’s 2026 Legislative Session Begins Under Full Democratic Control
The Virginia General Assembly’s 2026 Regular Session begins January 14, with Democrats holding full control. Key issues include proposed constitutional amendments, an “Affordable Virginia” economic agenda, and contentious debates on criminal justice and gun laws. Lawmakers face challenges in balancing budget pressures while addressing their priorities before the 2026 elections.
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Virginia Lawmakers Quietly Re-Seal Judicial Misconduct Records After Brief Transparency Window
Virginia lawmakers have re-enacted restrictions on judicial discipline records, reversing a 2023 reform that improved transparency about judges’ misconduct. The 2025 legislation limits public access to information about disciplined judges, raising concerns about accountability and trust in the judicial system, as Virginia becomes increasingly opaque compared to other states.
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Power Grab or Defensive Move? Virginia Democrats Fast-Track Constitutional Amendments
Virginia’s Democratic leadership aims to advance constitutional amendments during the 2026 General Assembly, including a contentious proposal to redraw congressional districts disregarding a 2020 voter-approved commission. Critics, including Republicans, warn of undermining voter intent and minimizing public debate, while supporters argue it’s a necessary defense against national gerrymandering trends.
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Virginia Lawmakers Revisit FOIA Fee Caps as Transparency Debate Returns to Richmond
As Virginia’s General Assembly convenes, State Sen. Danica Roem reintroduces Senate Bill 56, addressing high fees under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The bill proposes capping labor costs, improving fee transparency, and allowing courts to extend compliance deadlines. This legislation aims to balance government accountability with administrative burdens.
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