News Briefs

From elsewhere: Virginia Democrats sharpen focus on ICE limits after Spanberger’s State of the Union rebuttal. Squirrels claim Richmond owes them $6.5 million for ballpark costs. Woman found alive and well after vanishing on shopping trip to Martinsville taken into custody.

From elsewhere: Here’s how much money Virginia cities, counties made from speed cameras last year. Mecklenburg planners reject Turtle Cove zoning request. Pause on Virginia offshore wind farm cost Dominion more than $200 million — but turbines will power up soon.

From elsewhere: What do the Virginia Senate, House proposed spending plans mean for higher education? Acting mayor named for Martinsville as Jones suspension continues until trial. Highlighting Black history across Hampton Roads, new guidebook offers itinerary.

From elsewhere: Virginia Health Department defies Trump vaccine changes. New Kent proposes data center application process that omits public hearings. Woman who vanished 24 years ago while Christmas shopping in Martinsville found “alive and well,” authorities say.

From elsewhere: Virginia state senator pushes for water testing after 243 million-gallon sewage spill in Potomac River. Judges in Virginia name new U.S. attorney, then Justice Department fires him. Planning commission defers data center proposal near former Hanover County Tyson plant.

From elsewhere: Virginia Del. Barry Knight, a retired hog farmer from Virginia Beach, dies at 71. CoStar Group announces layoffs amid its shift to AI strategy. Mecklenburg County School Board seat filled.

From elsewhere: Martinsville mayor suspended from council until he appears in court over removal petition. Pittsylvania County supervisors censure Tim Dudley after alleged shoplifting incident. Lawsuit claims culture of sex discrimination in Franklin County Fire & EMS Department.

From elsewhere: Virginia lawmakers target teen AI chatbot use. Bedford County School Board discusses “reversion cliff” and other financial concerns. Virginia distilleries take their spirits to Paris.

From elsewhere: Paid sick leave bill passes Virginia House of Delegates. Public records show fugitive coach is still getting paid by Wise County Schools. Virginia Sports Hall of Fame is looking for a new home — but where?

From elsewhere: As advocates push for Chesapeake Bay-specific data, menhaden quota bill advances. State police assisted in 193 ICE arrests under 287(g) program. Patrick supervisors set solar ordinance hearing after lengthy debate over scope, legality.