Retail Cannabis Deal: Gov. Abigail Spanberger and lawmakers unveiled a revamped plan for Virginia’s adult-use retail marijuana market, targeting sales to begin July 1, 2027, with a 6% tax at launch rising to 8% in 2029 and local add-ons possible. Data Center Politics: A Democratic split over how much to tax data centers is driving budget brinkmanship, with Senate leaders pressing for tighter limits amid public concerns about power, water, and costs. Energy Planning: Spanberger launched a statewide public input process for the 2026 Virginia Energy Plan, aiming to tackle high bills, grid reliability, and business competitiveness. Workforce Pipeline: Spanberger signed legislation creating a State Internship Coordinator to expand and coordinate government internship opportunities statewide. Roanoke Investment: Austrian skincare and nutrition firm RINGANA will invest $85M over five years to open its first U.S. HQ, production, and distribution in Roanoke, creating 435 jobs. Toll Payments: Dulles Greenway rolled out PayNearMe, letting drivers search and pay missed tolls online before violations. Business & Community: Mount Vernon opened a redesigned George Washington museum; Virginia’s legal community marked 20 years of Legal Food Frenzy; and Virginia State Police shared scam-avoidance tips for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.