The VPM Daily Newscast contains all your Central Virginia news in just 5 to 10 minutes. Episodes are recorded the night before.
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Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of Feb. 14, 2023:
Lawmakers scramble to address statewide educator shortage
Reported by VPM News’ Megan Pauly
This year, Virginia lawmakers introduced numerous bills seeking to address the state’s teacher and support staff shortage, which has been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Del. David Reid (D–Loudoun) is sponsoring a bill to establish the Teacher Reengagement Program, which would allow school districts to bring back retired teachers for part-time work — as long as districts provide the same health care benefits available to full-time teachers.
Towing companies ignite passions in General Assembly
Reported by VPM News’ Ben Paviour
Towing industry representatives are pushing lawmakers to raise fees they’re allowed to charge drivers across the commonwealth. They argue the industry has been hit hard by inflation, and are backing legislation that would allow them to add a $30 fuel surcharge to their fees.
Meanwhile, an Arlington delegate reintroduced legislation designed to help increase consumer protections for trespass towing. The bill failed in a House subcommittee and met the same fate this year.
In other news:
- City of Richmond helps fund new affordable childcare center (WTVR)
- Charlottesville-area wineries win big at Virginia Governor’s Cup competition (The Daily Progress)
- Telling the story: The all-Black Buffalo Soldiers & Westmoreland County (News on the Neck)
In case you missed it:
- Pollution-reduction projects run behind as GA considers relief for farmers (VPM News)
- VMHC event shared challenges and triumphs of the Black Deaf community (Richmond Times-Dispatch)