Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations

VPM Daily Newscast: General Assembly considers invasive species, tax cuts

A young woman listening to her phone next to the VPM Daily Newscast logo in shades of blue
VPM Daily Newscast

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 Jan. 28, 2024:

RPS superintendent says he’ll ‘protect any student’ from ICE
Reported by VPM News’ Keyris Manzanares

Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras recently addressed the “uncertainty and anxiety” immigrant families are experiencing under the administration of President Donald Trump.

“I will stand at the schoolhouse door to protect any student of ours,” Kamras told VPM News. “My message to [students] is — you are safe with us. We love you. We will protect you, and so please come to school.”

The superintendent said immigration status is not a precondition to education or any service offered by RPS.

A Department of Justice memo issued last week threatens state and local officials with prosecution, if cooperation with immigration enforcement isn’t offered.


Seibold, Salim revisit invasive species legislation
Reported by VPM News’ Patrick Larsen

An invasive species bill that was approved last year by the General Assembly, but vetoed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, is again being considered by lawmakers.

In its updated form, the proposal would require signage to be posted on or near displays of 39 different invasive plant species at retail stores, explaining the dangers they pose to the environment and providing information on noninvasive alternatives.

Del. Holly Seibold (D–Fairfax) and Sen. Saddam Salim (D–Fairfax) are carrying the measures in their chambers.

“These plants are readily available for sale to residents, many of whom are unaware of the harm that they can cause when introduced to local environments,” Seibold said.


News you might have missed from around the commonwealth

*This outlet utilizes a paywall.

VPM News is the staff byline for articles and podcasts written and produced by multiple reporters and editors.