Virginia’s sales tax covers almost everything you buy, from athletic socks to zippers. But it doesn’t apply to medicine, contact lenses and certain other personal health items. Now, the General Assembly is considering adding feminine hygiene products to the list of exemptions.
Del. Mark Keam (Fairfax County) introduced House Bill 952, which seeks to remove the sales tax on tampons and sanitary napkins in Virginia. Currently these items are taxed at the standard rate, like most other items: 6 percent in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads, and 5.3 percent in the rest of the state.
“I think that most people, Republican and Democrats, would agree that this is an unfair tax,” Keam said Wednesday in an interview in his office at Capital Square. “It’s not equitable for women to have to pay a tax on something that guys don’t have to spend money on.”
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Police are investigating a serious crash on Route 234 (Dumfries Road) near Purcell Road just before 9 a.m. today.
The Prince William County Police Department responded to a multi-vehicle crash that initially closed all southbound and northbound lanes of Dumfries Road. Motorists were advised to find alternate routes as police worked to investigate and clear the scene.
Police reported that one lane in each direction had been reopened. Police continue investigating the crash, and drivers are urged to exercise caution while traveling through the area and follow police directions.
The extent of the injuries remains unknown at this time. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
Virginia Mercury: “Virginia lawmakers are moving forward with a bill to crack down on the misuse of the “homeless” designation by school officials to recruit student athletes. House Bill 1656, introduced by Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax, also prohibits officials from accepting money or gifts intended to influence a student’s decision to transfer schools for athletic purposes.
The legislation narrowly advanced to the full House on an 11-10 party-line vote in the House Education Committee. No lawmakers spoke on the bill ahead of the vote.
The bill comes in the wake of multiple controversies involving high school sports programs. In November, the Virginia High School League (VHSL) found Hayfield Secondary School in Alexandria violated its eligibility rules for transferring by allowing multiple students to play on its football team.”
From left to right: NOVEC’s Jake Till, Caleb Barton, Ben Williams, Hunter Partlowe, Connor Jost and Jeremy Jenkins helped lineworkers at Southside Electric Cooperative restore electricity for residents. [Photo courtesy…
Students in Stafford and King George counties will start school later than usual today due to extreme cold weather conditions.
In Stafford County, all schools will open on a two-hour delay to ensure the safety of students and staff during the frigid morning temperatures.
Similarly, King George County Schools announced a two-hour delay due to cold and inclement weather.
Families are encouraged to monitor updates from their respective school systems for any further changes. Stay warm and safe.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
