By Ben Burstein
Capital News Service
RICHMONDÂ — Over 5,000 child care facilities around the state must start testing their drinking water for lead or use bottled water under a bill approved by the Virginia Senate.
SB 1622, introduced by Sen. Jeremy McPike, D-Prince William, would require licensed child care facilities and other programs that serve preschoolers to implement a plan to test their potable water to ensure lead levels do not exceed 15 parts per billion.
The bill passed the Senate unanimously on Tuesday and has been sent to the House Committee on Health, Welfare and Institutions.
The high priority sources of lead come from drinking fountains and various sinks and faucets, according to the bill.
Older infrastructure has a higher risk of lead contamination due to lead pipes that were used until the 1980s. The bill also outlines the testing and follow-up process, in addition to establishing a method of reporting information to parents and state authorities.
Facilities would be required to test every six months in accordance with state and federal standards. They could opt out by using an alternate water source that meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration standards, such as bottled water. Child care centers are required to notify parents of children if they decide not to perform testing.
Facilities would have to notify the commissioner of the Virginia Department of Social Services and the Department of Health’s Office of Drinking Water if they went that route.
Initial testing results and proof of remediation would be reported to the same departments. According to the bill, once lead is brought under 15 parts per billion, facilities continue to test the water every six months.
More than 5,850 child care facilities statewide could be impacted by the legislation, state officials said. The Virginia Department of Health estimated that each facility has three to 15 water sources to test. The VDH also estimated that 50 percent of facilities would choose not to test and instead use an alternate source, such as bottled water.
Water containing lead can be especially harmful to developing children. High levels of lead in blood or prolonged exposure can affect the nervous system and cause developmental problems and learning disabilities, according to the VDH.
State outreach has cranked up in recent years to help raise awareness about lead in drinking water. The VDH created the “3Ts for Reducing Lead in Drinking Water in Schools and Child Care Facilities” to guide school officials to “train, test, and take action” if lead is detected in the water.
Maribeth Brewster, director of the office of communications for VDH, declined to provide comment on the story, citing the ongoing legislative process.
A bill introduced by McPike was signed into law in 2017, requiring Virginia schools — with special emphasis on schools built before 1986 — to test potable water.
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The proposed meal tax (also called the food and beverage tax) for Prince William County in FY2025 is projected to generate $42 million in revenue. This represents a $10 million increase from the previous year, reflecting a significant rise of 31.25%.
The tax has drawn strong reactions from the restaurant industry, where owners have repeatedly called for its abolition, arguing that it places additional strain on their already tight margins. Restaurant owners have pointed to the increased costs they’ve faced over the past few years, compounded by inflation and staffing shortages, making the meals tax particularly burdensome.
A new gym is set to open in Dumfries, bringing 24/7 fitness access to the community. Workout Anytime will celebrate its grand opening on February 13 at 18069 Triangle Shopping Plaza (Suite C&D), offering state-of-the-art equipment, personalized training, and a commitment to fostering a healthier lifestyle.
At the helm of the new gym is Gary Wortham Jr., a former James Madison University football player and recruiter, taking on the general manager role. Wortham, a longtime Dumfries resident, is excited to bring his passion for fitness and community building to this new venture.
“We’re thrilled to be opening a full 24-hour fitness facility right in the heart of Dumfries,” Wortham said. “This town hasn’t had anything like this before, and I’m excited to provide a space where people of all ages can work toward their health and wellness goals.”
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Linda Kathleen Williams (Green), 76, found peace on February 6, 2025 surrounded by the love of family and friends. Linda was a beautiful person both inside and out. She grew up in South Charleston, West Virginia with her parents, Charles and Mary M. Green and her 13 siblings.
From her parents, Linda learned the value of working hard, loving others and laughing often. Linda graduated from Charleston Catholic High School in 1966. As the second born and eldest daughter of a large family, Linda’s love for children and caring for others came naturally. She completed a degree in Early Childhood Education in Athens, West Virginia at Concord College in 1970.
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.
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
