Category: Politics
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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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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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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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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.
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Virginia Rolls Out New School Ratings: Transparency Replaces the “Honesty Gap” in Education Accountability
Virginia has introduced a new school performance rating system under the School Performance and Support Framework, replacing the previous accreditation model. Approximately two-thirds of public schools are now meeting expectations, with clearer data highlighting both successes and disparities. This approach aims to provide transparency, accountability, and targeted support, benefiting families and taxpayers.
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Virginia Democrats Move to Reopen Congressional Maps — Just Five Years After Voters Backed “Fair Maps” Reform
Virginia’s recent political discourse centers on House Joint Resolution 6007, which could allow legislators to redraw congressional districts mid-decade, countering aggressive Republican gerrymanders elsewhere. Critics argue this undermines 2020 reforms favoring bipartisan redistricting. The amendment’s fate hinges on 2026 voter approval, posing significant implications for representation and electoral fairness.
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Henrico County Approves Animal Cruelty Registry — What It Means for Public Safety and Why Citizens Should Pay Attention
Henrico County has become the first county in Central Virginia to launch a public animal cruelty registry, giving shelters and citizens a new tool to prevent convicted abusers from obtaining pets. Approved unanimously by the Board of Supervisors on December 2, the registry will list individuals convicted of felony-level animal cruelty offenses after July 1,…
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Virginia’s Cannabis Legalization Plan: A 2026 Retail Market Built on Promises — and Problems Conservatives Should Be Watching
Virginia lawmakers plan to implement a regulated cannabis retail market by November 2026 after years of delays. The proposal faces criticism for eliminating local control, underfunded enforcement, and potential new inequities. Supporters argue for economic benefits and safety compared to the black market, while skeptics question readiness and youth exposure risks.
Virginia Bay News 