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 Aug. 1, 2023:
Virginia's sales tax holiday likely won't happen this weekend
Reported by VPM News’ Connor Scribner
Every year since 2006, Virginia has waived the sales tax on certain back-to-school items and supplies during the first weekend in August. But this year’s sales tax holiday likely won’t happen since lawmakers failed to extend the provision that created it, leaving it to expire July 1 — though there’s still a chance.
While the program provided some relief to Virginians, the Virginia Poverty Law Center says other programs would better help low-income residents.
Where to find some of Virginia's greatest trees
Reported by WMRA’s Randi B. Hagi
The Virginia Big Tree Program, housed at Virginia Tech, keeps track of the largest specimens of more than 300 tree species across the state. Its database includes six national champions in the Shenandoah Valley and Central Virginia.
But what makes a big tree?
In other news:
- Senate to meet on budget, with Youngkin waiting in wings for deal (Richmond Times-Dispatch)*
- The National Flood Insurance Program got a makeover last year. Here’s how it works. (Virginia Mercury)
- Dairy Market developer said he is pausing plans for Phase 3 after hearing community outrage (Charlottesville Tomorrow)
In case you missed it:
- Big donors leave DeSantis, want Glenn Youngkin to run in 2024. Here's what Youngkin says (USA Today)*
- Virginia State Police loses Black troopers even after diversity focus (Richmond Times-Dispatch)*
*This outlet utilizes a paywall.
