Data Centers & Virginia Budget: Virginia’s budget stalemate is still tied to a promised sales-and-use tax break for data centers through 2035, with House Speaker Don Scott warning that removing it would break faith with the “golden goose,” while Senate Democrats push to redirect the exemption toward teacher pay and child-care programs. Energy Policy: Maryland and Virginia are rolling out new rules letting residents install plug-in balcony solar capped at 1,200 watts, with Virginia’s version starting Jan. 1, 2027—aimed at lowering costs for renters and homeowners without full rooftop options. Legal & Public Safety: The DOJ is suing cities and states to dismantle gun laws, and Virginia could be next after Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed an assault weapon ban; separately, the Justice Department says it may still pay Jan. 6 rioters via the Judgment Fund even without the “anti-weaponization” fund. Local Economy & Housing: As short-term rentals expand around the Obama Presidential Center, housing advocates warn affordable units are disappearing as licenses surge in Chicago’s 20th Ward. Health & Care: CMS ownership and rating updates spotlight Virginia nursing homes, including Williamsburg Post Acute & Rehabilitation (Q1 rating 3) and Alexandria Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center (Q1 rating 3). Transportation Safety: A deadly Virginia charter bus crash is renewing scrutiny of driver licensing and bus-company safety practices as the NTSB investigation begins.