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Va. sees nation’s second-largest drop in overdose deaths
Virginia had the second-largest drop in overdose deaths in the country last year, according to preliminary CDC data released last week. For over a decade, fatal drug overdoses have been the leading cause of unnatural deaths statewide. And Richmond has consistently had one of the highest overdose death rates in the state. But for the past few years, Virginia's fatal drug overdose rates have fallen faster than the U.S. average. Over 1,500 Virginians died from drug overdoses in 2024, per CDC estimates. That's a nearly 39% drop from 2023. The only state with a greater decline in overdose deaths was West Virginia (-44%).
Prosecutor Taylor, former Del. Jones vie for Democratic attorney general nomination
In a contest that pits prosecutorial vs. legislative experience, former Del. Jay Jones and Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor are vying for the Democratic nomination for attorney general. Both Democrats say they bring compelling résumés and hometown credibility, yet they draw clear contrasts between courtroom gravitas and the hustle of a political trailblazer. The winner in the June 17 primary will face Attorney General Jason Miyares, a Republican who is seeking reelection in November.
Earle-Sears calls for more school ‘options’ at Fishburne Military School graduation
Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears' admiration for her father is evident. Speaking with the News Virginian after delivering the commencement speech to the Fishburne Military School class of 2025 on Saturday, the Republican candidate for governor reflected on her father's journey from Jamaica to America and his journey, once stateside, to see his children educated. ... Earle-Sears said she wants to offer Virginia parents as many options as possible when it comes to their own children's education. That includes more charter schools.
Northern Virginia residents protest Dominion Energy’s transmission line
Residents of western Prince William gathered Thursday alongside lawmakers outside Patriot High School to protest Dominion Energy’s pending Morrisville–Wishing Star 500 kV and 230 kV transmission line as the utility provider simultaneously held a community meeting inside the Nokesville school. The Coalition to Protect Prince William County hosted the event, where around 35 residents were joined by state and local elected officials. Dominion’s proposed 36.5-mile transmission line would begin in southern Fauquier County and run through Prince William and Loudoun counties.
UVa professor defends academic freedom amid Trump attacks at Final Exercises
As nearly 8,000 soon-to-be graduates sat on the University of Virginia Lawn Saturday thinking of their futures, they were asked to consider the past. UVa English professor Michael Suarez delivered an impassioned keynote address Saturday hearkening to the university’s founding 206 years ago and its place in the future of an American republic on the precipice of its 250th birthday next year. . . . “Our ability to pursue the truth and communicate it freely is a national asset,” said Suarez. “The American university must compromise neither its moral provision nor its vision.” Suarez’s words come at a time when many in American academia feel as though they have been asked to compromise their values.
Harrisonburg declares state of emergency amid water issues
Harrisonburg has declared a state of emergency after heavy rains stirred up sediment in the city’s water supply, leading to decreased output from the city’s water treatment plant and lower water supply. In a unanimous vote during a specially called meeting on Friday, the council voted to declare a state of emergency. City manager Ande Banks said that although Rockingham County was helping to supply the city with its own water supply, the county would no longer be able to assist.
‘We are not broke’: Mount Jackson officials push back on financial concerns amid deficits
Facing questions from concerned residents, Mount Jackson officials defended the town’s financial position Monday night, insisting that despite back-to-back budget deficits and a shrinking reserve fund the town remains in good fiscal health. Mount Jackson’s general fund reserve balance is projected to drop from $2 million to $1.3 million by the end of fiscal year 2025 after covering an unexpected $700,000 shortfall. Another $737,000 gap looms for fiscal year 2026.
Hampton to consider banning camping on public property
Hampton is considering a ban on camping and storage on public property, a move that would allow the city to remove and clear homeless encampments. But city officials say the proposal is not specifically directed toward people experiencing homelessness. Senior Deputy City Attorney Brandi Law presented a proposed ordinance change during Wednesday’s City Council meeting, which would bar anyone from camping, sleeping or storing items on public property.
Hopewell city attorney on assault claim: Not his job to ‘get crossways’ with councilors
Hopewell’s city attorney says it is not his place “to get crossways” with anyone on City Council because they are all his clients, but he added that he plans to answer a charge of assault being brought against him by a councilor following a brief confrontation at a contentious meeting [last] week. In a telephone interview May 16 with The Progress-Index, Anthony Bessette said it was “on video and in clear view of the public” what transpired at the May 13 meeting between him and Ward 7 Councilor Dominic Holloway.
From VPAP New Episode: The Virginia Press Room Podcast
In the latest episode of the podcast from VaNews and VPM, Michael Pope is joined by Olivia Diaz of the Associated Press, Charlotte Rene Woods of the Virginia Mercury, and Brad Kutner of Radio IQ. They discuss the week's top headlines: DEI and the GOP, the House clerk vetoes the governor's vetoes, and nontraditional candidates. Tune in for insights and analysis on Virginia politics. Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts.