07/01/20 - New State Laws Go Into Effect Today

New laws, from guns to elections to decriminalization of marijuana, take effect across the state today, as most of Virginia also enters Phase Three of reopening amid concerns about COVID-19. A Richmond Circuit Court judge denied an ACLU request for a temporary restraining order to prevent Richmond police from using tear gas against protestors, while dozens of faith leaders met at the Robert E. Lee monument to call for an end to the use of rubber bullets and pepper spray. Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger introduced legislation to encourage farmers to engage in trading carbon credits, and the GRTC will provide free fare through this time next year under a newly-approved budget.