On July 1, Virginia pets will see more protection as a new tethering law goes into effect.
The new tethering law, titled SB272, seeks to address tethering by expanding the definition of “adequate shelter” for pets. It was passed by the Virginia House and Senate and signed by Governor Ralph Northam in April.
SB272 makes it illegal to tether a pet outdoors if temperatures are above 85 degrees Fahrenheit or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It will also be illegal to keep them tethered outside during a heat advisory or severe weather warning. Finally, tethering an animal overnight or when the owner is not home is prohibited.
In addition, the minimum tether length will be increased to 15 feet in length or four times the animal’s length. Previously, the minimum required tether length was at least 10 feet or 3 times the animal’s length.
An exception to these requirements is if an animal control officer inspects each individual animal’s circumstances and determines that they are well-equipped to tolerate their environment. A tether can also be 10 feet or shorter if it is determined to be more beneficial to the dog. Â
This new law has received positive reactions from animal-rights groups such as the Prince William SPCA.Â
“We applaud this new state legislation since it will positively affect the lives of companion animals in our local community. The bill gives the county more tools needed to protect companion animals and, when necessary, address animal cruelty. This is a huge win for the dogs who spend their lives outside,” says Angie Craddock, Board Member of the Prince William SPCA.Â
The Prince William SPCA believes that this new law, along with more education and community outreach, is needed to provide alternatives to tethering. To further address it, they are coming out with a new publication to better inform citizens on properly tethering their pets. The publication is set to come out late summer.
“The hope is that the community will embrace the new law leading to more responsible, thoughtful, and safe care of our dogs. The goal is to create a future where tethering would never be a permanent restraint solution, but used only temporarily when other options aren’t available,” said the Prince William SPCA’s Board of Directors.
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Virginia’s General Assembly convened on January 8 for the start of its 30-day session. To keep readers informed on their local representatives’ efforts, we’ve reviewed some of their bills and votes.
Manassas continues to make strides in its commitment to fostering a business environment, with the Manassas Business Council (NBC) and the Economic Development Authority (EDA) reflecting on the city’s ongoing growth and vision for future projects. Both organizations presented their annual reports during the city council meeting on January 27, 2025, highlighting key initiatives, business growth, and revitalization efforts. The Manassas Business Council’s efforts to connect with local businesses have paid off with a year of meetings, presentations, and discussions. Key highlights from their year include monthly meetings with industry experts, discussions about economic development in the city, and presentations on projects such as the façade and landscape improvement grants. Notably, the city’s economic development initiatives were discussed, including the work to support small businesses and increase community engagement. Council members were also informed about the successes of local restaurants and the efforts to make Historic Downtown Manassas a business district.
Amid heightened immigration enforcement under President Trump’s executive orders, local communities are grappling with confusion and fear sparked by social media posts warning of ICE raids and undercover operations.
The president issued numerous Executive Orders, some of which reinforced the enforcement of U.S. immigration laws. In addition to targeted raids on known criminals across the country, the Trump administration has mobilized troops at the U.S.-Mexico border and reinstated the previous “Remain in Mexico” policy. This policy requires individuals seeking asylum to stay outside the U.S. while awaiting a decision on their applications.
These enforcement measures have sparked concern among those residing in the country illegally. Despite the Trump administration’s assurances that it is focusing on illegal immigrants with criminal convictions, certain groups have seized on the uncertainty, pushing political agendas that confuse the undocumented community, causing fear and confusion. Numerous social media posts, in both English and Spanish, warn people to avoid common locations like grocery stores and shopping centers to prevent encounters with ICE.
(The Center Square) — Despite budget increases in the hundreds of millions and multiple statewide education initiatives, Virginia students still aren’t showing a definitive recovery from pandemic learning lows.
Their test scores from January 2024 declined from their 2022 scores – the scores that caused Gov. Glenn Youngkin to call for major education reforms – in several areas.
The National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the “nation’s report card,” measures several subjects but is most known for its 4th and 8th grade math and reading tests.
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.
