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AI bills faced a logjam in the General Assembly due to a Trump executive order, but Congress is working to fill the gap
The chairman of the committee that hears most technology-related legislation in the House of Delegates said it was important to protect federal broadband funds, which Trump threatened if states make “onerous AI laws.”
Politics
State election board unable to certify redistricting referendum
The Virginia Supreme Court has yet to rule on the legal challenge to the constitutionality of the election. Until then, the state board is bound by an injunction in the Tazewell County Circuit Court from certifying the results of the April 21 redistricting referendum.
Local
Fire closes Blacksburg childcare center, man charged with arson
The Valley Interfaith Child Care Center in Blacksburg experienced fire damage on Easter.
Culture
At nearly 50 years old, the Danville Model Railroad Club is more than just chugging along
Many in Danville don’t know about the club. That’s why it’s working to attract new members and increase its presence in the city.
education
Settlement reached in pastor’s lawsuit against Roanoke County parent following altercation at school board meeting
Thomas McCracken, a former school board member, accused a parent of defaming him following a contentious meeting in August 2023.
eCONOMY
Lynchburg transit company takes stock as driver shortages, inflation and budget uncertainties persist
A temporary stop of Sunday transit service takes effect this weekend. More service cuts are being considered.
OPinion
Low turnout in Southwest and Southside helped cost ‘no’ the election. Here are the numbers.
Republicans missed an opportunity to win the special election. Turnout in Democratic areas was down, while turnout in some Republican areas was up. Not all of them, though. Two key Republican areas, Southwest and Southside, posted some of the lowest turnout rates in the state.
Health Care
The Pulse: Primary care practice set to open in Martinsville, maternal health grants awarded, Virginia Tech gets research funding
Catch up on the week’s health news.
news briefs
Headlines from across the state: Future power demand for Virginia data centers enough to power 12.75 million homes, Dominion says; more …
From elsewhere: Spanberger signs rideshare safety bills tightening driver-checks, in-app protections. Jim Ducibella, acclaimed Virginia sports writer, dies at 73. Salem judge dismisses skill game charges against two store owners.
Sports
‘Martinsville Missile’ sets a new land speed record for a stock car
With a Henry County driver behind the wheel, the car designed and built in Martinsville broke the record of 244.9 mph with a top speed of 253 mph.
WEATHER
Drops in the bucket: Showers dampen dry soil, but soaking drought relief remains elusive
Southwest and Southside Virginia need nearly a foot of rain in a month to end drought, but more moderate rain spread out over a few months would be preferable.
Cardinal 250
Who declared for independence first — North Carolina, or this Virginia county?
Cumberland County claims the honor by one day over Charlotte County, and says its resolution was more definitive than an earlier one from North Carolina.
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