Nick Gilmore
Everything you possibly could want to know about all things weather
Homepage: http://theweatherzone.wordpress.com
Marijuana Decriminalization May Soon Be a Reality in Virginia
Posted in Virginia's News on February 21, 2020
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Virginia is on the verge of decriminalizing marijuana, and bills to make that happen have already passed the House and Senate. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia May Soon Add Shield Law Protections for Journalists
Posted in Virginia's News on February 21, 2020
Delegate Danica Roem (Credit: Ted Eytan / Creative Commons)
Journalists in Virginia may soon be getting new protections against disclosing confidential sources. Michael Pope reports.
The General Assembly Sets its Sights on Behavioral Bills
Posted in Virginia's News on February 20, 2020
Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
Making laws isn’t always about balancing the budget and drawing political boundaries. Sometimes, it’s also about some of the most human of human behaviors. Michael Pope explains.
Bipartisan Push to Provide More Oversight of Utility Bills
Posted in Virginia's News on February 20, 2020
A bipartisan push to take back authority over Virginia’s utilities – including Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power – is making its way through the legislature. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
Gun Transfers Have Become a Sticking Point for Universal Background Checks
Posted in Virginia's News on February 19, 2020
A sweeping package of new restrictions on guns has been moving through the General Assembly. But, Democrats are divided about how universal background checks should be. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Religious Leaders Speak Out Against Regional Minimum Wage Approach
Posted in Virginia's News on February 19, 2020
Religious leaders from across Virginia gather for a prayer vigil outside the Capitol. They’re calling for a $15 minimum wage across Virginia instead of the regional approach favored by the Senate. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Faith leaders from across Virginia are pressing Senate Democrats to abandon their regional approach to raising the minimum wage. Michael Pope reports.
Should Virginia Establish a “Preclearance” Standard?
Posted in Virginia's News on February 18, 2020
Virginia has a long history of using election rules to disenfranchise black voters, and lawmakers in Richmond are considering a check to make sure that doesn’t happen again. Michael Pope has details.
A Look at the Faith-Based Arguments at the General Assembly
Posted in Virginia's News on February 18, 2020
Credit: Steven Coutts / Flickr
Lawmakers in Richmond hear lots of arguments about money and statistics. But they also hear arguments based in faith. Michael Pope reports.
VA House Weighs Possible Release for Sick and Disabled Prisoners
Posted in Virginia's News on February 18, 2020
Andre Daniels graduated from high school in Norfolk but found himself jobless and homeless at 21. (Credit: Johnay Hardy)
In most states prisoners with a terminal illness can be freed early, but Virginia only considers inmates with less than three months to live. Now, the legislature may change that, making several thousand prisoners eligible for compassionate release. Sandy Hausman reports.
There’s Bipartisan Support for Criminal Justice Reform in Richmond This Year
Posted in Virginia's News on February 17, 2020
Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
Criminal justice reform is one of the leading issues this year in the Virginia General Assembly, and it’s an issue that has advocates on both sides of the aisle. Michael Pope reports.
State Democrats Want Increased Protections for Undocumented Immigrants
Posted in Virginia's News on February 17, 2020
Undocumented immigrants in Virginia may be on the verge of getting new protections. Michael Pope reports.
Some Senate Democrats Block Assault Weapons Ban
Posted in Virginia's News on February 17, 2020
A controversial proposal to ban assault style weapons looks like it will not pass the legislature this year. The bill was a key part of Governor Ralph Northam’s gun control agenda. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Democrats Want to Raise the Minimum Wage, But Are Split Over the Details
Posted in Virginia's News on February 12, 2020
Democrats are united in their desire to raise the minimum wage. But, they’re divided on how to make it happen. Michael Pope reports.
State Republicans: Democratic Agenda is Too Expensive
Posted in Virginia's News on February 12, 2020
Democrats are plowing through a massive agenda, everything from raising the minimum wage to addressing climate change. But, Republicans are worried about the cost of all that. Michael Pope reports.
At the Halfway Point, What Has the New Democratic Majority Focused on in Richmond?
Posted in Virginia's News on February 11, 2020
Lawmakers are zooming through the busiest day of the General Assembly session, the final deadline for moving bills from one chamber to the other.
Michael Pope reports.
Among the legislation advancing before Tuesday’s crossover deadline: Authorizing local governments to move or remove Confederate monuments and war memorials.
Another bill advancing out of the House of Delegates would change the way Virginia’s Electoral College votes are allocated.
With Key Vote Looming on Predatory Lending Restrictions, Some Are Worried About New Loopholes
Posted in Virginia's News on February 10, 2020
Lawmakers in Richmond are trying to crack down on high-interest loans. But, advocates against predatory lending are concerned about new loopholes that might be created in the process. Michael Pope has details.
An Effort to Repeal Virginia’s “Right to Work” Law Has Been Shelved
Posted in Virginia's News on February 10, 2020
The effort to repeal Virginia’s right to work law has failed, at least for now. Michael Pope reports.
When Should Polls Close on Election Day?
Posted in Virginia's News on February 7, 2020
Democrats are taking up a number of initiatives to make voting easier, and one of those may be extending polling hours. Michael Pope reports.
New Local Government Exchange Program Pairs Communities Across the State
Posted in Virginia's News on February 6, 2020
Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson, left, chats with Norton Mayor Joseph Fawbush at the Executive Mansion. The two cities have been paired as part of Gov. Ralph Northam’s Local Government Exchange Program. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Governor Ralph Northam is launching an effort aimed at forging new lines of communication across local governments in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
One State Lawmaker Wants to Establish an Office of New Americans
Posted in Virginia's News on February 5, 2020
Lawmakers are considering an effort aimed at helping immigrants who move to Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
Should Virginia Consider a Regional Minimum Wage?
Posted in Virginia's News on February 5, 2020
Lawmakers in Richmond are moving forward with increasing the minimum wage. But, some are pressing for regional variation. Michael Pope reports.
House of Delegates Poised for Key Vote on Non-Discrimination Policies
Posted in Virginia's News on February 4, 2020
Lawmakers are about to vote Wednesday on a bill that would create new protections for sexual orientation and gender identity. Michael Pope reports.
The Push for SLAPP Lawsuit Protections in Virginia
Posted in Virginia's News on February 4, 2020
Credit: MBandman / Creative Commons
Lawmakers are considering bills aimed at preventing frivolous lawsuits designed to silence political opponents. Michael Pope reports.
Legislative Panel Backs Local Control Over Monuments
Posted in Virginia's News on February 3, 2020
A group of Charlottesville residents advocate for local control of war memorials, including Confederate monuments, during a Virginia Senate committee meeting. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / RADIO IQ)
Localities in Virginia are one step closer to having control over Confederate monuments in their region. A bill ceding that power passed out of a key committee for the first time time Monday. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
Shopping Carts Are a Problem in Northern Virginia, and One Lawmaker Wants to Fix That
Posted in Virginia's News on February 3, 2020
Credit: Travis Wise / Flickr
Lawmakers are taking action aimed at removing abandoned shopping carts from creeks in Northern Virginia. Although, it could end up allowing a local government near you to take action. Michael Pope reports.
Virginia Monuments Prove to Be a Topic of Debate for Lawmakers in Richmond
Posted in Virginia's News on January 31, 2020
A statue of segregationist Harry Byrd stands at Virginia’s capitol.
Statues of Robert E. Lee and Harry Byrd have become flashpoints for lawmakers this year. Michael Pope reports.
Should Localities Be Able to Tax Plastic Bags?
Posted in Virginia's News on January 31, 2020
Local governments across Virginia may be getting the ability to impose taxes on plastic bags. Michael Pope reports.
An Effort to Bring Ranked Choice Voting to Virginia Elections is Gaining Traction
Posted in Virginia's News on January 30, 2020
Lawmakers are considering a number of bills aimed at making Virginia elections more efficient and effective. Michael Pope reports that one of those efforts, ranked choice voting, is moving forward.
Will Virginia Lawmakers Implement Another Tuition Freeze This Year?
Posted in Virginia's News on January 30, 2020
Credit: Taber Andrew Bain / Creative Commons
For two decades, tuition at Virginia’s universities was on the rise. That ended last year after a massive new investment in higher education was available only to schools who agreed to cap their tuition rates. But, as Mallory Noe-Payne reports, it’s unclear whether lawmakers will make the same move this year.
What Exactly is “Milk?”
Posted in Virginia's News on January 29, 2020
Credit: Mike Mozart / Flickr
Lawmakers are currently weighing in on a bill that would create a legal definition for milk. Michael Pope reports.
Workplace Protections Haven’t Always Included Domestic Workers, Some Lawmakers Want to Change That
Posted in Virginia's News on January 29, 2020
Democrats in Richmond are pushing a hike in the minimum wage, hoping to make life easier for low-income working Virginians. But without another change in the law, that increase won’t apply to domestic workers. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Full Virginia House and Senate to Soon Consider Reigning In Car Title and Payday Lenders
Posted in Virginia's News on January 28, 2020
Virginia may be on the verge of losing car-title lenders and payday lenders. But, as Michael Pope reports, several other low-interest lending companies may be moving in to take their place — if lawmakers take action to prevent high-interest lending.
The Push for Paid Family Leave in Virginia is Drawing Flak From Small Businesses
Posted in Virginia's News on January 28, 2020
Democrats are pressing for paid family medical leave legislation. But, as Michael Pope reports, business groups are pushing back.
Lawmakers Push to Impose Stricter Regulations on Student Loan Servicers
Posted in Virginia's News on January 27, 2020
Senator Janet Howell is pushing a bill she calls the Borrowers Bill of Rights, which she says will protect borrowers from shady practices by having state regulators crack down on egregious practices. (Credit: Michael Pope)
From car-title loans to student debt, lawmakers are hoping this will be the year when the General Assembly takes on predatory lenders. Michael Pope has this report on an effort to regulate student loan servicing companies.
“And We’re Not Paying Them for That” Educators Flock to Richmond Requesting More Funding, Better Pay
Posted in Virginia's News on January 27, 2020
Educators from across Virginia join hands in massive “Red4Ed” rally in Capitol Square, calling on lawmakers to fully fund request from the Virginia Board of Education. They say educators are overworked and short staffed. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Educators from across Virginia are in Richmond today, pressing lawmakers to fully fund education this year. Michael Pope reports from Capitol Square.
Could This Be the Year Virginia Lawmakers Crack Down on Predatory Lenders?
Posted in Virginia's News on January 24, 2020
Delegate Lamont Bagby of Henrico County has legislation that would drastically reduce the interest limit on car title and payday loans. (Credit: Creative Commons)
Legislation aimed at reigning in high-interest loans will get attention in the state Senate Monday. Michael Pope reports.
Efforts to Ease Access to Abortion Find Success in House and Senate
Posted in Virginia's News on January 23, 2020
Now that Democrats have the majority they’re looking to make it easier for women to access abortions. This week, committees in both Virginia’s House and Senate have given their stamp of approval to legislation that would roll back abortion restrictions put in place under Republicans. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Along Party-Line Vote, Virginia Senate Passes Red Flag Law
Posted in Virginia's News on January 22, 2020
Credit: NPR
A controversial measure that would make it possible for police to temporarily take guns from someone deemed a danger to themselves or others passed Virginia’s Senate Wednesday. Mallory Noe-Payne reports.
Governor Northam Weighs In On Paid Sick Days Debate
Posted in Virginia's News on January 22, 2020
Lawmakers are debating a proposal to require businesses offer paid sick days to their employees. But, Democrats are divided over which businesses would be required to do that. Michael Pope has details.
The Effort to Remove Virginia’s Outdated Laws
Posted in Virginia's News on January 22, 2020
The Virginia General Assembly is celebrating its 401st year. It has plenty of relics, including many old and outdated laws. As Michael Pope reports, lawmakers are hard at work updating some of them.
State Republicans Are Now the Ones Seeing Their Gun-Related Legislation Killed
Posted in Virginia's News on January 21, 2020
Credit: NPR
Firearms are becoming one of the hottest issues of the General Assembly session this year, although Republicans aren’t having much luck with their bills. Michael Pope has more details.
Advocates Press Lawmakers to Raise the Minimum Wage, Support Home Healthcare Workers
Posted in Virginia's News on January 21, 2020
Labor unions and their supporters rally Tuesday for raising the minimum wage and passing a homecare workers bill of rights. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Labor unions didn’t have much luck when Republicans were in power. But now that Democrats are in control of the legislature, groups that support workers are excited about having their agenda moving through the General Assembly. Michael Pope reports.
“We’re Here to Represent the 2nd Amendment” Pro-Gun Rally in Richmond Ends Without Violence
Posted in Virginia's News on January 20, 2020
Thousands of pro-gun advocates flocked to the streets of Richmond Monday. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Some 22,000 supporters of gun rights voiced their opposition today/Monday to legislation being considered by the General Assembly.
And, though they were less conspicuous, people calling for more restrictions on guns were also there.
Michael Pope and Mallory Noe-Payne share some of the voices around today’s/Monday’s rally at the state capitol.
Legislation Making Menstrual Products Available to Virginia Students Moves on to Full Senate
Posted in Virginia's News on January 17, 2020
Senator Jennifer Boysko has introduced a bill that would require school boards across Virginia to make pads and tampons available at all times at no cost to students. (Credit: Senate of Virginia)
Lawmakers are considering a bill to make menstrual products available at all schools in Virginia. Michael Pope reports.
Some Groups Will Stay Away, as the Capitol Prepares for a Busy “Lobby Day”
Posted in Virginia's News on January 17, 2020
Credit: NPR
Richmond, state and capitol police are all preparing for a busy day Monday, as thousands are expected to descend on the state capitol.
Just outside the Capitol building, fencing has already been put in place around a specific area. There will be one point of entry. Anyone who enters this space will have to go through a metal detector, and per an emergency order from the governor, guns will not be allowed.
But step outside Capitol Square and anything goes because the city of Richmond isn’t allowed to ban guns. Several roads will be blocked from traffic and a heavy police presence is to be expected.
In addition to the gun rallies, Monday is expected to be business as usual for the legislature. Both the House and the Senate will be gaveling in and meeting.
Dueling gun control rallies in Virginia’s capitol Monday are garnering national attention, but there are plenty of other groups that normally lobby Monday and now have to rethink their plans. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence has announced they will be cancelling their planned rally on Monday. In a statement, the group’s state director Lori Haas says they refuses to engage with those who would harm them.
Some Former Journalists in the General Assembly Are Working to Protect Freedom of Press
Posted in Virginia's News on January 17, 2020
Chris Hurst, a former anchor at WDBJ, has a bill that would give new protections to student journalists to protect them from administrators who want to suppress reporting. (Credit: Virginia General Assembly)
Press freedom and access to information are issues that might get more traction this year now that Democrats have taken control of the General Assembly. Michael Pope reports.
This Year’s Lee-Jackson Day Might Be the Last
Posted in Virginia's News on January 16, 2020
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Friday is a state holiday, Lee-Jackson Day, honoring Confederate leaders. But, this year may be the last one it’s on the calendar. Michael Pope reports.
“Credible Threats” Lead to Emergency Declaration, Weapons Ban Ahead of Rally
Posted in Virginia's News on January 15, 2020
Governor Ralph Northam, along with Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and other state officials, announce security the security plans. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Governor Ralph Northam is declaring a state of emergency in advance of rallies planned for the state capitol Monday.
Michael Pope reports.
Virginia General Assembly Ratifies Equal Rights Amendment
Posted in Virginia's News on January 15, 2020
Advocates and lawmakers celebrate passage of the ERA outside the House of Delegates Chamber. (Credit: Mallory Noe-Payne / RADIO IQ)
In a series of votes Wednesday, Virginia approved resolutions to become the 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment.
That means enough states have now approved the measure guaranteeing gender equality to enshrine it in the U. S. Constitution. But more legal battles are likely ahead. Mallory Noe-Payne has details.
Business Groups Are Lining Up Against Democratic Efforts to Help Virginia Workers
Posted in Virginia's News on January 15, 2020
Business leaders from across Virginia appear at a press conference announcing united opposition to raising the minimum wage, mandating paid family leave and overturning the right-to-work law. (Credit: Michael Pope)
Democrats in the General Assembly are planning to move forward with a number of bills designed to help workers. But, those efforts will have serious opposition. Michael Pope reports.
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From NPR News- Julian Assange Extradition Hearing Begins In London February 24, 2020The U.S. government wants the WikiLeaks co-founder to face 18 charges related to illegally obtaining and disclosing classified data. Assange's lawyers argue that the case is politically motivated.
- 'Supreme Inequality' Argues That America's Top Court Has Become Right-Wing February 24, 2020In a new book, lawyer/journalist Adam Cohen makes the case that the Supreme Court has been "a right-wing court for 50 years," siding with corporations and the wealthy — and against the poor.
- Coronavirus Has 'Pandemic Potential' But Isn't There Yet, WHO Says February 24, 2020"Does this virus have pandemic potential?" Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Monday. "Absolutely, it has. Are we there yet? From our assessment, not yet."
- Thousands Expected To Attend Kobe Bryant Memorial In Los Angeles February 24, 2020Some 20,000 people got tickets to say farewell to NBA great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. People without tickets were being urged to watch at home.
- Latin America's Militaries Emerge As Power Brokers, Riot Police And Border Forces February 24, 2020El Salvador's troops deployed in congress. Bolivia's army advised the president to step down. Brazil's leader surrounds himself with top brass. The armed forces have made a comeback across the region.
- Julian Assange Extradition Hearing Begins In London February 24, 2020
- From BBC News
- Harvey Weinstein guilty over sexual assaults February 24, 2020The ex-movie mogul is handcuffed and led from court as a judge orders him to jail immediately.
- Coronavirus: World should prepare for pandemic, says WHO February 24, 2020But the UN health body says the coronavirus outbreak does not yet meet the criteria for a pandemic.
- Coronavirus: UK 'well prepared' to deal with cases, says government February 24, 2020The number of UK cases rose to 13 after cruise ship passengers returned to Britain on Saturday.
- Coronavirus: Drone captures massive queue for masks in South Korea February 24, 2020Hundreds queued at a supermarket in Daegu, one of the South Korean epicentres of the virus outbreak.
- Car drives into carnival crowd in German town Volkmarsen February 24, 2020Police say 30 people were injured after a car was driven into a crowd in the town of Volkmarsen.
- Harvey Weinstein guilty over sexual assaults February 24, 2020
