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Joint Custody, Criminal Charges, and a System Under Strain
The Suffolk parental abduction case underscores the complexities arising from vague custody orders, which can lead to conflicts and enforcement issues. Breone’a Haskett Lee faced charges after taking her daughters to Texas without permission. This highlights the need for precise custody terms to prevent escalations that turn civil disputes into criminal matters.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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…
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.
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.
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.
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…
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 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.
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.
Henrico’s Data Center Boom Meets Growing Pressure for Affordable Housing: Can Both Be Achieved?
Henrico County is witnessing significant economic transformation due to data centers, driven by cloud computing and AI, resulting in substantial tax revenues. However, this growth raises concerns about housing affordability as land becomes more valuable for industrial use. County leaders emphasize strategic planning to balance tech growth and housing needs, aiming for sustainable development.
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,…
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 Considers Relaxing Emissions Rules for Data Center Backup Generators Amid Rapid Industry Expansion
Virginia regulators are considering a proposal to ease air-quality limits on diesel generators at data centers to support industry growth. Supporters argue it’s essential for grid reliability, while critics raise health concerns about increased emissions. Public comments are being collected, with potential implications for future data center development and environmental regulations.
Virginia Democrats Push Redistricting Amendment—A Preemptive Strike Against GOP Momentum Elsewhere
Virginia Democrats propose a constitutional amendment to change redistricting rules, framing it as a defense against Republican gerrymandering. Critics argue it benefits Democrats politically, as it allows the majority party to regain control in deadlock situations. The amendment seeks to ensure favorable outcomes amid shifting demographics, sparking a contentious political debate.
This Memorial Day, Let’s Remember All the Battles — Including the Ones Fought at Home
Memorial Day serves to honor service members who sacrificed their lives, yet many veterans face a hidden battle within the family court system, where biases often jeopardize their parental rights and mental health. Advocating for reform can help prevent the tragic losses of veterans navigating these disputes, ensuring their dignity and rights are upheld.
Weaponizing Allegations: Why Governor Youngkin Must Address False Domestic Violence Claims in Family Court
The article by Michael Phillips highlights the serious issue of false domestic violence allegations in Virginia’s family court, impacting many parents, particularly fathers. It discusses how these allegations are often used as manipulation tactics during custody battles, with dire consequences for the accused. The author calls for legal reforms to hold false accusers accountable.
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