VPM Daily Newscast: Dec. 8, 2023

The VPM Daily Newscast contains all your Central Virginia news in just 5 to 10 minutes. Episodes are recorded the night before.

Listeners can subscribe through NPR One, Apple Podcasts, Megaphone, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of Dec. 8, 2023:   

Virginia abortion rights amendment can't hit ballots until 2026 — at the earliest
Reported by VPM News’ Ben Paviour

Virginia Democrats have introduced a constitutional amendment they argue will protect abortion access in the state. But the multiyear process means the debate over the medical procedure will persist. It’ll span at least one statewide election and two votes for Congressional offices.

Letters to Kaine, Warner call for ceasefire in Israel-Hamas war
Reported by VPM News’ Jahd Khalil

Dozens of protestors chanted outside the Richmond offices of Democratic Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine on Thursday. They were there to deliver letters — signed by members of 25 groups representing hundreds of people across the commonwealth — calling for a pause in the bombardment of Gaza.

In other news:

• Richmond rail to D.C., Raleigh bolstered by federal funds (DCist/WAMU)

• Student housing projects in limbo after UVA opposition (The Daily Progress)*

• Virginia AG backs call for news outlets to cut ties with alleged Hamas-affiliated freelancers (Virginia Mercury)

In case you missed it:

• VSP executes search warrant at Natural Bridge Zoo (WHSV)

• Richmond Sheriff said her jail followed proper procedures after inmates died. But the state found violations. (WTVR)

• Bear spotted in tree near Hull Street shopping center (NBC12)

*This outlet utilizes a paywall.