Author: Michael Phillips
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Virginia Moves to Put Parents Back in Charge of Teen Social Media Use
Virginia is set to implement a new law targeting excessive social media use by children under 16, effective January 1, 2026. Senate Bill 854 establishes daily time limits, requires parental consent for adjustments, and enforces age verification. Supporters view it as a necessary protective measure, while critics argue it infringes on free speech.
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PFAS Lawsuit Raises Questions About EPA Enforcement, State Caution, and Who Pays the Cleanup in Virginia
A lawsuit filed by Wild Virginia against the EPA over “forever chemicals” in Virginia waterways challenges regulatory delays and accountability regarding PFAS contamination. The case raises questions about cleanup costs, responsibilities among government entities, and how to balance environmental protection with financial implications for communities. Clean water remains a critical yet contentious goal.
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Staunton Opens New Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court — A Needed Upgrade With Real Costs for Taxpayers
Staunton has inaugurated its own Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, a significant step following the closure of a shared, non-compliant facility. While the $20-$25 million project enhances security and dignity for legal cases, concerns arise over taxpayer burdens and Virginia’s practice of unfunded local mandates.
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Federal Lawsuit Seeks Court Oversight of Virginia Prisons After Officer’s Death
A federal lawsuit filed after the killing of a Virginia correctional officer is calling for court-ordered oversight of the state’s prison system, citing chronic understaffing, ignored safety warnings, and alleged retaliation against officers. The case is raising urgent questions about accountability, public safety, and whether state leaders failed to act before tragedy struck.
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Special Elections Republicans Can’t Win: Virginia Democrats Tighten Their Grip on Safe Seats
Two January 2026 special elections for House Districts 11 and 23 in Virginia reflect a significant challenge for Republicans, who face deeply Democratic strongholds. With incumbents resigning for cabinet posts, Democrats are expected to maintain control. These elections reveal the GOP’s struggles in Northern Virginia as they lack resources and voter appeal, rendering the contests…
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Fairfax County Schools Settle Jane Doe Lawsuit: What the $50 Judgment Really Means
A lawsuit challenging Fairfax County Public Schools’ transgender-related policies ended with a modest settlement accepting $50 in damages and covering attorney’s fees. The case highlighted tensions between gender-identity policies and religious freedoms, indicating ongoing legal uncertainty as courts navigate diverging federal and state rulings on such issues.
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What JMU’s College Football Playoff Run Means for the University — Even After the Oregon Loss
James Madison University’s 2025 football season marked a milestone, as the Dukes became the first Sun Belt and Virginia school to reach the College Football Playoff. Despite a loss to Oregon, the season elevated JMU’s national profile, enhanced recruiting, and secured a $4 million payout, establishing a new standard for the program’s future.
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Abigail Spanberger’s Affordability Agenda: A Pragmatic Test for Virginia’s New Governor
Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger, commencing her term on January 17, 2026, prioritizes affordability in her Affordable Virginia Agenda. This initiative aims to address housing, healthcare, and energy costs while maintaining a pragmatic, bipartisan approach. Her focus on controlled reforms, local solutions, and public investment positions her as a centrist Democrat, balancing diverse voter concerns.
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Fairfax County’s Immigration Policies Under Scrutiny After Deadly Release
A deadly Reston shooting has placed Fairfax County’s justice and immigration policies under intense scrutiny after an illegal immigrant with a lengthy local criminal record was released from custody—despite an ICE detainer—only to be charged with homicide the next day. Federal officials say the tragedy was preventable, while county leaders defend their decisions as lawful…
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New Virginia Laws Taking Effect January 1, 2026: What Residents Need to Know—and What’s Not Being Said
As of January 1, 2026, Virginia will implement several new laws impacting consumer protection, health insurance, labor, and social media use. While laws on baby food safety and cancer screenings expand protections, social media restrictions face constitutional scrutiny. These changes aim to balance consumer benefits with potential economic strains on families and businesses.
Virginia Bay News 