Multiple senators and delegates talked about suspending the gas tax, removing grocery taxes, re-districting and getting a low fare carrier to ROA

The Supreme Court of Virginia has dismissed a challenge to Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s executive order allowing parents to opt their children out of school mask mandates.

The Supreme Court of Virginia has dismissed a challenge to Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s executive order allowing parents to opt their children out of school mask mandates.

On Saturday, Glenn Youngkin, Virginia’s 74th governor, will be inaugurated in Richmond.

Roanoke Mayor Sherman Lea is resigning from the Virginia Parole Board after eight years of service.

A South Boston man serving a life sentence for non-violent drug charges is getting a second chance from Governor Ralph Northam just weeks before he leaves office.

Governor Ralph Northam is proposing millions of dollars to help prevent a critical part of history from being erased.

More than 20 people have been tried for their actions during the May 31 riots.

Governor-Elect Glenn Youngkin was back in Southwest Virginia and doubling down on promises made on the campaign trail.

Every November 11, we honor our nations Veterans.

Gov. Northam is meeting with relatives and activists who are seeking a posthumous pardon for Martinsville Seven.

Dozens of parents packed the Bedford County School Board meeting Thursday to voice their concerns over the new mask mandate.

By 2024, Virginia plans to have universal broadband — expediting the Commonwealth’s original goal by four years.

By 2024, Virginia plans to have universal broadband — expediting the Commonwealth’s original goal by four years.

Money from the American Rescue Plan could help provide funding to bring more staff into Virginia’s mental health facilities.

The Virginia Military Institute is in the progress of adopting new changes following its investigation on equity and inclusion on post.

Here's a look at some of the stories we'll be following today as they make headlines across the country and Southwest Virginia.

As July 1 approaches, Virginia leaders are working to put several boards in place to regulate the marijuana industry.

If you live in Virginia and are 16 or older, you will be able to get their COVID-19 vaccine starting Sunday.

Governor Northam called a special session of the General Assembly to consider gun legislation in light of the Virginia Beach Shootings. Police in Virginia Beach cannot determine the motivation behind a city engineer's rampage in 2019 that killed 12 people in the municipal building where he worked, according to the city's final investigative report that was released Wednesday, March 24, 2021. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)Police in Virginia Beach cannot determine a motive for a city engineer's rampage in 2019 that killed 12 people in the municipal building where he worked, according to the city's final investigative report released Wednesday. AdThe report details the events of that day and profiles Craddock's work and personal life in the years leading up to the violence. “At times, the suspect referenced the belief he was being tasked with work outside of his pay grade,” the report said.

ROANOKE, Va. – Families and graduates will have the chance to celebrate the Class of 2021 in a more traditional way this year. Both of Roanoke’s high schools, Patrick Henry and William Fleming, will hold in-person graduation events, the school board announced during its meeting on Tuesday. This announcement follows the new guidelines from the Northam administration that allow for up to 5,000 people, or 30% capacity, whichever is less at outdoor graduation venues. For indoor ceremonies, the maximum number of attendees drops to 500, while the building capacity remains at 30%.

Northam is set to make a restoration of rights announcement on Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. This comes after lawmakers in Richmond weighed in on the restoration of voting rights for felons last month.

Northam and first lady Pamela Northam received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine this afternoon. They were scheduled to receive it at 1:30 p.m.Northam and the first lady both tested positive for COVID-19 in late September.

According to a report conducted by an independent law firm, racial slurs have been a "common experience" among cadets at Virginia Military Institute.

Blasting will begin today in Lynchburg for the Lakeside Drive Bridge project. Today is the last day to give your thoughts about the needs of students and school divisions as kids head back to class. Investigators say Merritt traveled from Texas to Virginia and then took off with his victim before being found 36-hours later. The man, accused of shooting two Wythe County deputies last summer, will be in court today. Students in Radford City School who opt for in person learning, will return to the classroom today, four days a week.

The Montgomery County School Board will meet tonight to talk about returning students to the classroom. The plan was unveiled last week, but the school board decided it needed more time to decide. The Franklin County School Board will hold a budget workshop tonight. AdThe Henry County Board of Supervisors and School Board will hold a joint meeting today to discuss the budget for schools for the next fiscal year. The Roanoke City School Board will hold a budget workshop today.

The Executive Board of the Center for Animal Care and Protection will meet today. The Virginia LEARNS Workgroup meets for the first time today. The committee will consider plans for eight apartments and four commercial units on Old Forest Road. AdThe Montgomery County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing about adding wetland mitigation banks to the county’s zoning ordinance. Wetland mitigation banks allow developers to offset negative impacts to streams or wetlands by buying credits from a mitigation bank.

Teachers across Virginia are getting COVID-19 vaccines in the hopes of getting more students back in the classroom. One person sick is too many people sick for me.”AdMeanwhile, others like Salem City Schools have a hybrid approach. “I think it makes sense that local health departments have some discretion so they can tailor their recommendations to their area but it does add to the difficulty when one health district’s doing one thing and one health district’s doing another thing,” said Seibert. In fact, we were basically where we were last year.”Talley says Martinsville City Schools is planning to bring pre-k, kindergarten, English learners and special needs students back by March 8. We have a list of what local schools are doing with the new guidance to get kids back in the classroom here.

CHRISTIANSBURG, Va. – While state leaders are working on some other projects for our region, folks in the New River Valley have been asking for passenger rail expansion and they are one step closer to getting it. As the trains continue rolling across the Commonwealth, the focus on passenger rail continues to grow. And Larry Hincker with the New River Valley Passenger Rail group is pleased with what he sees. Bills by Delegate Chris Hurst and Senator John Edwards to create a New River Valley Passenger Rail Authority have been received favorably. AdOn Wednesday, state lawmakers elected to keep $50 million in their budget earmarked for passenger rail expansion statewide.

The Virginia General Assembly will meet in Special Session starting today. Governor Northam is calling lawmakers back to lengthen this year’s session to 46 days, after Republic lawmakers tried to cut it short. GOP leaders said 30 days should have been enough time after last year’s lengthy special session. The project involved replacing some older equipment and installing additional equipment to increase electric reliability in the region. The Danville-Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce holds its annual membership meeting today.

With COVID-19 cases surging, Virginia Education Association President James J. Fedderman called for public schools, that have not already done so, to shift to all-virtual instruction until school staff members have been vaccinated. “Governor Northam this week said that getting Virginians vaccinated against COVID-19 is the best way to end this pandemic, rebuild our economy, and move the Commonwealth forward,” Fedderman said. “We commend Governor Northam for that, and we call upon the Governor, school boards, and school superintendents to keep all students and staff safe with virtual instruction until staff are vaccinated.”Some Giles County Public School employees got the vaccine last week and Pulaski County school staff will start getting the vaccine this week. Schools were shut down in March when Virginia as a whole averaged 80 new cases per day. View Dr. Fedderman’s video statement sent to VEA members: https://vimeo.com/498439915/b8ac9fc0a2

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 06: Protesters gather outside the U.S. Capitol Building on January 06, 2021 in Washington, DC. Pro-Trump protesters entered the U.S. Capitol building after mass demonstrations in the nation's capital during a joint session Congress to ratify President-elect Joe Biden's 306-232 Electoral College win over President Donald Trump. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2021[Gov. Northam sending Virginia National Guard and 200 state troopers to Washington, DC]Below is what the Associated Press is currently reporting:The U.S. Capitol locked down Wednesday with lawmakers inside as violent clashes broke out between supporters of President Donald Trump police. Protesters tore down metal barricades at the bottom of the Capitol’s steps and were met by officers in riot gear.

BEDFORD, Va. – Another large crowd of people packed into the Bedford County Board of Supervisors meeting Monday night as they continued to ask county leaders to push back against Governor Northam’s latest COVID-19 restrictions. And, going one step farther than a resolution recently passed in Campbell County, they want cops and other state agents detained for enforcing the rules. About a half dozen people spoke at the podium and about 50 people in total filled the room at Monday’s meeting. Isiah Knight is a standout in the group and said he doesn’t support pandemic restrictions, nor those enforcing them. Knight wants the county to pass their version of the resolution, following Campbell County’s lead, but with the ability to detain.

The Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission will meet today. The Elf on the Shelf Adventure in Downtown Roanoke kicks off today. Governor and First Lady Northam will take part in the 343rd Indian Tax Tribute Ceremony. Two Native American chiefs present the governor with a deer and other gifts. The ceremony also honors Native American Heritage Month.

BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. – Monday’s jam-packed boardroom in Bedford County – with no social distancing and hardly any masks -- is drawing mixed reaction across the state. They ought to be able to do what they want to,” said Jimmy Pendleton, a Bedford County resident. Governor Northam’s office thinks it was irresponsible, too, releasing a statement saying in part, “Governor Northam’s top priority is protecting the health and safety of Virginians, and he will continue to base his response on public health expertise. Smaller groups are expected to maintain at least six feet of social distancing, and those ages five and older should wear masks. I suggest you not wear your mask, because I never wear mine,” Sharp told the crowd.

Northam announced new coronavirus restrictions last week, organizers for 25 Days of Dickens had to make some changes. Performances in Elmwood Park have all been canceled, and all Kids Pass locations are limited to 25 people per time slot. You can make reservations for Kids Pass locations starting Friday at 10 a.m. Downtown Lights Bike Ride with Downshift Bikes has also been removed from the schedule. To learn more, click here.

DANVILLE, Va. – Danville Science Center is reopening Saturday, Nov. 14 after a multi-million dollar renovation. The science center has been around for 25 years, and Executive Director Adam Goebel said it was time for a change and a reimagination of the place. From design to installation it was a 15-month long process, and it’s only Phase Two to Danville Science Center’s reimagination plan. “Individuals can walk through a rain maze without getting wet, they can visualize water consumption on a 2,400 bottle water wall," said Goebel. Danville Science Center is operating at limited capacity and taking reservations to limit the spread of coronavirus.

Copyright 2020 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved. ROANOKE, Va. – Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam is in Roanoke on Tuesday, campaigning for the city’s mayor, Sherman Lea. If you need help with the Public File, call 540-512-1554.

Today is the last day to request an absentee ballot to vote in next month’s election. It’s holding an adoption special today and tomorrow. Governor Northam will attend a roundtable discussion with the United Way of Southwest Virginia. The United Way of the New River Valley holds a community yard sale today. The yard sale runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the United Way office in Christiansburg.

LYNCHBURG, Va. – A Lynchburg restaurant is back in business following controversy earlier this year. Fifth & Federal Station has been closed since May, when the restaurant supported a tweet from-then Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. showing a picture of a face mask with the blackface photo from Gov. The owner, Josh Read, declined to go on camera, but told 10 News they regret the tweet. One Lynchburg resident said Thursday it’s nice to have Fifth & Federal back in business. Some other passersby declined interviews, but called Fifth & Federal “racist.”The owner said they’re focusing on strengthening their relationships within the community and invite people to visit to see what they’re truly about.

Rumors have been rampant on social media Tuesday that Virginia’s public schools are closing again; however, schools are NOT closing. We have received phone calls and messages about this rumor, so we wanted to set the record straight. On Tuesday afternoon, a Virginia TV news station an old article on its website from the spring when Northam did close schools. The quote used in the station’s article came from Northam’s statement on March 13, 2020. In looking to counter this false information, Danville Public Schools took to its Facebook page to address it:

In a photo provided by the Michigan Office of the Governor, Michigan Gov. The governor delivered remarks addressing Michiganders after the Michigan Attorney General, Michigan State Police, U.S. Department of Justice, and FBI announced state and federal charges against 13 members of two militia groups who were preparing to kidnap and possibly kill the governor. She said she would rule at a later date on the bond status of the other two Michigan men, Adam Fox and Ty Garbin. A sixth defendant from Delaware, Barry Croft, was ordered Tuesday to be transferred to Michigan to face the charges. But Assistant U.S. Attorney Nils Kessler countered that it was a “serious plot” and argued that Franks should not be released.

ROANOKE, Va. Given spikes seen in parts of the country after Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, no coronavirus restrictions changes will be made ahead of the upcoming holiday weekend. Were seeing cases trend up, said Northam, when talking about the Southwest Virginia region. Virginia Department of Health map of regions and districts (Virginia Department of Health)On Tuesday, Radford reported 68 new cases. In the past two weeks, the city has seen an increase of about 577% in COVID-19 cases in the past two weeks, seeing 398 new cases in that time frame. As of Tuesday, there have been 121,615 coronavirus cases in Virginia, according to the Virginia Department of Health.

ROANOKE, Va. Roanoke Mayor Sherman Lea will deliver the State of the City address today. The League of Women Voters of the Roanoke Valley celebrates the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which gives women the right to vote. The President of the League of Women Voters of Virginia and President of the Roanoke Branch Chapter of the NAACP will speak. Lane closures in Lynchburg could impact your commute today. The closures will impact the 1700 to 2000 blocks of Langhorne Road from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as crews inspect a bridge.

Ralph Northams administration from removing an enormous statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee can proceed, a judge ruled Tuesday, clearing the way for a trial in the fall. Richmond Circuit Court Judge W. Reilly Marchant rejected much of the states motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a group of property owners along the residential boulevard where the statue is situated. He did narrow the claims that can proceed, dismissing one count entirely and dismissing two plaintiffs from another claim. Critics of the statues say they distastefully glorify people who fought to preserve slavery in the South. Four other prominent statues of Confederate leaders have been taken down from city property along the avenue this summer.

ROANOKE, Va. The Virginia Veterans and Military Affairs Conference gets underway today online. It brings together leaders from across the Commonwealth, looking to make Virginia and even better place for veterans to call home. A road closure in Roanoke could impact your commute today and tomorrow. Starting today you can get a pumpkin flavored coffee- and espresso- spiced drinks, as well as bite-sized bakery treats. The U. S. Department of Transportation, along with Mothers Against Drunk Driving will kicks off its Labor Day safety campaign today.

ROANOKE, Va. – The Virginia General Assembly will convene in special session today. The General Assembly will need finalize the state budget. If the commission’s plans are not approved by the General Assembly, the State Supreme Court would take over. The Department of Health will open a free COVID-19 testing site today in Buena Vista. If you have a child in Lynchburg City Schools, you can pick up a Chromebook for your child today.

RICHMOND, Va. Gov. Northam is trying to make voting easier for Virginians during the pandemic ahead of the election in November. The governor is presenting the following three proposals in hopes that all Virginians will be able to vote safely:Prepaid postage$2 million will be set aside for pre-paid return postage on all absentee ballots sent out for the general electionDrop off boxes, locationsThis would allow Virginians to vote via absentee ballot by using drop boxes or secure drop-off locations, which would be monitored by the state department of electionsAbsentee cure processAccording to the governors office, this will ensure Virginians voting rights are protected by allowing them to fix an error on their absentee ballot.

RICHMOND, Va. A judge heard arguments Tuesday but did not immediately rule on whether to dismiss a lawsuit challenging Virginia Gov. Ralph Northams plans to remove an enormous statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee along Richmonds famed Monument Avenue. An injunction currently prevents Northams administration from moving forward with plans to take down the bronze equestrian statue of Lee. Now cloaked in graffiti, the Lee statue and other nearby monuments have become a rallying point during ongoing social justice protests and occasional clashes with police. Critics of the statues say they distastefully glorify people who fought to preserve slavery in the South.

RICHMOND, Va. – There seems to be an app for everything, and now there’s one for tracking coronavirus cases. Virginia is the first state in the country to use the technology, created by Apple and Google. Norm Oliver, Virginia’s health commissioner. The health department’s interactive map]After downloading the app, users are prompted to opt-in to the notification system. The Virginia Department of Health has posted an FAQ page on its website to help answer them

RICHMOND, Va. – Wearing a mask in public buildings will continue to be mandatory in Virginia. A lawsuit filed in the state’s 20th Judicial Circuit challenging Governor Northam’s mandate issued last month lost in court Monday. The state attorney general's office argued in defense of the mandate. Attorney General Mark Herring said masks help keep people safe and show others you care about them. This is the tenth case the attorney general’s office has won in defense of the state’s coronavirus regulations.

HENRY COUNTY, Va. A company is expanding its operation in Henry County, investing $6.9 million and creating 30 new jobs in the process. Drake Extrusion, Inc., a high-performance fiber producer, is creating another manufacturing facility in a vacant building on Industrial Park Drive, Governor Northam announced Monday. The company currently has nearly 190 employees in Henry County, and this new project will add 30 more. The companys products serve a variety of sectors, including residential upholstery, home furnishings, automotive, floor covering and geotextiles. The company has been operating in Henry County since 1995.

ROANOKE, Va. Virginia Senator Tim Kaine will hold a virtual discussion with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Virginia today. Governor Northam made today a holiday for state workers. The governor plans to propose legislation to make it a permanent state holiday. Friendship Health and Rehab will hold a Fathers Day Parade today. Its a chance for loved ones to connect with their fathers in the age of COVID-19.

HALIFAX COUNTY, Va. – A major hemp processing facility is coming to Halifax County. Blue Ribbon Extraction is investing $3.26 million to establish Virginia’s first large-scale industrial hemp processing and cannabidiol (CBD) oil extraction facility in South Boston. The facility will be located in the old Blue Ridge Beverage building in the Houghton Industrial Park. Blue Ribbon Extraction said it will source more than 90% of its hemp from Virginia growers, which will result in more than $70 million going back to Virginia farmers for the next three years. Company leaders said they expect to be to process up to 5,000 pounds of industrial hemp per day, primarily grown by local farmers, most of whom are current or former tobacco farmers.

RICHMOND, Va. – Those out of work and looking for a job have a new place to turn. On Friday, Virginia Gov. “This ongoing health crisis requires our government systems to respond faster and with more flexibility than ever before. This strategic investment in our workforce technology infrastructure puts the Commonwealth is in a stronger position to help Virginians get back on their feet and overcome these unprecedented challenges.”Along with the portal is a new Virginia Career Works Dashboard , which makes information about the state’s labor market and workforce system more accessible to workers, businesses and policymakers. A guide to navigating the Portal and creating an account can be found here.

ROANOKE, Va. Governor Northam is expected to address re-opening plans for colleges and universities at 2 p.m. during his regular coronavirus updates. We will carry that live here on wsls.com, the WSLS 10 News App and on air on 10 News. Each building has a slightly different protocol for reopening that has been developed by the department responsible for that building. The Town of Blacksburg will close Draper Road between College Avenue and Jackson Street to expand outdoor dining and create more public space downtown. Over the coming weeks picnic tables, planters and lights will be added to transform the space into an inviting area.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – With the announcement of Governor Northam’s plan to reopen K-12 public schools in Virginia, the VHSL staff will begin the process to align his Phase II & III Plan with the work the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) has already done, then share those guidelines with the Executive Committee. The VHSL will provide those guidelines to school divisions as local school boards develop plans for reopening. “Once we review the documents provided by the Governor to reopen schools, we will move as quickly as possible to develop guidelines that will align with his plans,” said VHSL Executive Director Dr. John W. “Billy” Haun. “It is important to say that these guidelines must also align with local school divisions and superintendents reopening plans under Phase II & III. There is still work to be done before these guidelines can be put in place to reopen athletic activities.”

RICHMOND, Va. – A judge has issued a 10-day injunction preventing the removal of Confederate monuments in Richmond. Ralph Northam’s historic announcement on Thursday of the decision to remove the Robert E. Lee statue from its prominent place in Richmond. Northam said he wants to remove the statue ‘as soon as possible’ and put it into storage, until its future can be decided. This is a breaking news story. Stay with 10 News for updates.

After Stoney spoke for a bit, he left the podium to Northam, who announced the decision to remove the Robert E. Lee statue from its prominent place in Richmond. Robert E. Lee statue in Richmond Shayne Dwyer is live at Richmond's Robert E. Lee statue where a crowd is growing following Gov. Posted by WSLS 10 / WSLS.com on Thursday, June 4, 2020On Thursday morning, Northam discussed Virginia’s history and the history of the statue of Robert E. Lee in Richmond. The department released this statement Thursday afternoon:“Governor Ralph Northam today directed the Department of General Services to remove the state-owned Robert E. Lee Monument in Richmond. Robert E. Lee IV, a distant nephew of the Confederate general, Robert Johns and Zyahna Bryant spoke during the news conference.

LYNCHBURG, Va. – Several officers are hurt and two people were arrested after peaceful protests turned violent Sunday night into Monday morning in Lynchburg. — Fifth & Federal (@Fifthandfederal) May 27, 2020The business has since issued a statement apologizing to anyone who thought they were supporting racism. Below is a transcription of the scanner audio embedded above:5:43: “I think we have shots fired. Shayne Dwyer WSLS 10 News is in Lynchburg as police are engaging with demonstrators who have turned violent. When those protests turn violent and threaten the safety of our community, we must take action, as we did tonight.

LYNCHBURG, Va. – A group of protesters showed up to a Lynchburg restaurant on Sunday. Later, however, the protesters used the opportunity to protest the police treatment of African Americans. People gathered outside Fifth and Federal Station after the restaurant responded to a tweet by Liberty University President Jerry Falwell. The restaurant supported Falwell’s tweet using the blackface photo from Northam’s medical school yearbook on a face covering, asking if it could have them for its employees. — Fifth & Federal (@Fifthandfederal) May 27, 2020The business has since issued a statement apologizing to anyone who thought they were supporting racism.

Northam’s executive order requiring masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is now in effect. The governor’s mandate dictates customers have to wear masks inside of all brick-and-mortar stores for the foreseeable future. Some stores on Market Street, such as Chocolate Paper, had required masks inside before Gov. It’s an adjustment for our customers walking in the door, and it’s an adjustment for our employees." Masks are required:

ROANOKE, Va. Governor Northam is expected to unveil a facemask policy later today. If you have questions about COVID-19 or wish to request an appointment for testing, call the New River Health District's COVID-19 public health call center at 540-267-8240. On the agenda is continued discussion on the school budget. In its latest budget, the school board agreed to cut an additional $1 million from its pre-COVID-19 request of level funding. On the agenda is an update on the proposed city budget.

Published: May 20, 2020, 8:26 am Updated: May 20, 2020, 10:50 amVINTON, Va. – The town of Vinton has canceled its annual 4th of July fireworks due to coronavirus concerns. According to a post on the town’s Facebook page, permits for street closures or stage rentals for concerts of festivals during June will also not be granted. Officials say once the state enters Phase III of Gov. Northam’s’ reopening plan, when restrictions on large gatherings will be lifted, the town will consider future events scheduled for the summer and fall.

The only treatment the food and drug administration has approved to help hospitalized COVID-19 patients is in short supply in Virginia. The Virginia Health Department says who gets it is largely a matter of luck. According to state health commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver, the health department has set up a random selection process to determine which of the close to 1,500 currently in the hospital with COVID-19 will get remdesivir. The health department also says there are concerns about local testing in order to prevent future outbreaks. Northam is expected to address both the remdesivir shortage and increased testing during his news conference today.

ROANOKE, Va. Two months ago, as COVID-19 cases started to rise, the Fastest 40 Camp began taking safety measures to ensure their small group training could continue. It helps a lot because were still able to work out for the sport we play, said William Byrd senior Lexi Powell. Harrison made his outdoor workouts the safest environment possible, only training in small numbers or one-on-one and sanitizing everything. Make sure you dont rub your hands on your eyes or nose, when you get home, take a shower. I miss school, never thought Id say that I miss school, Powell said.

RICHMOND, Va. – After two months of being closed, starting Monday, some DMV customer services centers across Virginia will be allowed to reopen. Northam announced Wednesday that 11 DMV centers will reopen in seven of eight regions. No centers in Northern Virginia will be open. As part of the DMV’s reopening plan, appointments will be required for specific in-person services[Where are Virginia’s coronavirus cases? Click here for more information about the DMV Reopening Plan.

ROANOKE, Va. – Dozens of contact tracers may be needed in Southwest Virginia to help combat the coronavirus. Governor Northam announced the Virginia Department of Health plans to hire 1,000 contact tracers to work throughout the state. Contact tracers help track down who an infected person may have come in contact with. “For folks that work in state government, we can request agencies to transfer workers to help us with contact tracing if we want that,” O’Dell said. She added that a work group has also been created to look at alternatives to contact tracing.

Northam’s statewide ban on nonessential surgeries expired on Friday, and like other area hospitals, Carilion Clinic is getting ready to ramp up services. Hospital leaders said operating rooms were running at 25-30% of normal capacity during the statewide ban on nonessential procedures. Dr. Nussbaum is also leading the team responsible for restoring services. Patients who have upcoming surgeries at Carilion Clinic will be evaluated and then asked to isolate for five days prior to being test for COVID-19. Hospital leaders say upon receiving a negative test, patients can undergo their procedure.

ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. – Roanoke County police are urging people to slow down. “We do see an increased number in speed complaints in neighborhoods, just more people being at home," said Sgt. Northam’s stay-at-home order went into effect in March but the number of fatal and non-fatal speed-related crashes increased compared to 2019. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, there has been a “severe spike” in speeding nationwide as a result of so many people staying at home. The DMV campaign is also an opportunity to remind people about something that can be just as important as their speed.

Northam announced that he is extending parts of his public health emergency. He extended the current ban on elective surgeries by one week, until May 1, and the closure of DMV public-facing offices by two weeks, until May 11. The ban on elective surgeries will continue while Northam and State Health Commissioner Dr. “We have increased our supply of PPE, but before we allow elective surgeries to resume, we must first be assured that the doctors, nurses, and medical staff who are fighting this virus or conducting emergency surgeries have the necessary supplies. Click here to see the answers to some frequently asked questions regarding Public Health Emergency Order Two.

Northam’s amendment to delay the increase to Virginia’s minimum wage has passed in the Senate. The state senate voted 20-20 and Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax provided the tie breaking vote in favor of delaying the minimum wage increase. During the legislative session, the General Assembly sent a bill to Northam that would increase Virginia’s minimum wage to $9.50 an hour beginning January 1, 2021. On April 12, the governor announced he had not signed the bill, rather he wanted it amended to delay that increase until May 1.

RICHMOND, Va. – Government employees have had Lee-Jackson Day off for the final time. Northam announced that among the voting-related bills he signed, House Bill 108 and Senate Bill 601 will make Election Day a state holiday while stripping Lee-Jackson Day of that status, to maintain the same number of state holidays. The governor also signed House Bill 1 and Senate Bill 111, which allows Virginians to vote 45 days prior to an election without a stated excuse. Currently voters who wish to vote absentee must provide a reason, from an approved list, why they are unable to vote on Election Day. Here are some of the other bills the governor signed related to expanding access to voting:

RICHMOND, Va. – Nearly 2,000 prisoners with a year or less remaining on their sentences could be eligible for early release under a proposal from Virginia Gov. Northam said only inmates who exhibited good behavior and do not pose a threat to the public would be released. But state and federal authorities have expressed concern that the D.C. metropolitan area, including the northern Virginia suburbs, could become a national hotspot for COVID-19 cases. Indeed, northern Virginia accounts for more than 40% of Virginia cases, a share disproportionately higher than its population. Still, northern Virginia lags in cases compared to the District of Columbia itself and the Maryland suburbs.

ROANOKE, Va. – A local indoor gun range and retail store with several locations is suing Gov. Northam for closing down indoor gun ranges via executive order. SafeSide Tactical ownership told 10 News that their company filed a lawsuit against Northam on Thursday, as well as an injunction to have indoor gun ranges reopen. According to the lawsuit, EO 53 mandated the “complete and categorical closure of all indoor shooting ranges.” Under the order, indoor gun ranges are classified as “recreation and entertainment businesses,” and therefore non-essential. The lawsuit argues that indoor shooting ranges “cannot be properly placed” into the recreation and entertainment category.

ROANOKE, Va. – Roanoke’s Valley View Mall plans to temporarily close its doors starting Wednesday at 7 p.m. in order to comply with Governor Northam’s executive order 53. Mall officials say certain restaurants may stay open for take-out, curbside pick-up or delivery services. They recommend calling ahead. What’s open right now? A list of what’s ‘essential’ vs. ‘non-essential’The mall will be closed until further notice.

RICHMOND, Va. – Those living with diabetes will likely soon be able to pay less for needed insulin if Gov. Northam signs a bill passed Thursday in the General AssemblyOn Thursday, an amended version of House Bill 66, which would limit the insurance copay for insulin at $50 for a 30-day supply, passed in both chambers. It passed in the Senate 24-16 and in the House, 88-4. Delegate Lee Carter, who represents District 50, is the bill’s chief patron. He represents part of Prince William County, as well as all of the city of Manassas.

ROANOKE, Va. – Tensions are looming ahead of a massive pro-gun rally in Richmond on Monday, sparking fear in gun control and gun rights advocates alike. “I am afraid that something bad is going to happen,” said Charlie Nave, the chairman of the Roanoke City Republican Committee. “If you’re going, you’re associated.”Roanoke City Republican Chairman Charlie Nave disagreed. Northam’s ban on weapons on Capitol grounds has caused hysteria and gun rights supporters are respectful, law-abiding citizens. "And that’s not what I want.”“I’ve been encouraging everyone I know that’s going, to be on guard, to be careful, and to not be provoked," Nave said.

1A/B/C (Southbound): from Broad St., buses turn right on 5th St., left on Cary St., right on 14th St. and resume regular routing. 1A/B/C (Northbound): from 14th St., buses turn left on Broad St., right on 11th St., left on Leigh St. and resume regular routing. 2A/B/C (Southbound): from Broad St., buses turn right on 5th St., left on Cary St., right on 8th St. and resume regular routing. 12 (Eastbound): from Marshall St., buses turn left on 7th St., right on Jackson St., right on 8th St., left on Leigh St. and serve Bay M on Leigh St. at the Temporary Transfer Plaza. 14 (Westbound): from Main St., buses turn left on 14th St., right on Canal St., right on 4th St. and resume regular routing.

Northam said that he believes in the right to assemble and the right to bear arms but that there have been threats of violence made on the Virginia Capitol. And if that is your group or your intention on Monday, then you are not welcome," said Col. Gary Settle, the superintendent of Virginia State Police. Streets immediately surrounding Capitol grounds will be closed and there’s going to be additional fencing around the Capitol building. “It makes no sense to ban every other weapon and allow firearms, when intelligence shows a threat of armed militia groups storming our Capitol," Northam said. The public can sign up to get weather, traffic and emergency incident email or text alerts through the Virginia State Capitol Alert Network.

Stephen Maturen/Getty ImagesRepublicans in the Commonwealth are reacting after last night's losses. That is a role senate republicans have excelled at before, and one for which we are fully prepared now." Northam released a statement saying, "I am proud of my fellow Democrats and inspired by our shared victory. Since I took office two years ago, we have made historic progress as a commonwealth. Tonight, Virginians made it clear they want us to continue building on that progress."

Stephen Maturen/Getty ImagesRepublicans in the Commonwealth are reacting after last night's losses. That is a role senate republicans have excelled at before, and one for which we are fully prepared now." Northam released a statement saying, "I am proud of my fellow Democrats and inspired by our shared victory. Since I took office two years ago, we have made historic progress as a commonwealth. Tonight, Virginians made it clear they want us to continue building on that progress."

In this NOAA GOES-East satellite handout image, Hurricane Dorian, seen here as a Category 4 storm, moves slowly past Grand Bahama Island on Sept. 2, 2019, in the Atlantic Ocean. Dorian stalled over the Bahamas, dropping torrential rain forROANOKE, Va. - As Hurricane Dorian, now back up to a Category 3 storm, heads up the coast, the Commonwealth is preparing for the potential impacts. The eye of Dorian will be offshore, but these impacts stretch miles from the eye. The U.S. Navy has ordered ships based at Naval Station Norfolk to head out to sea to avoid Hurricane Dorian. 36 helicopters at Naval Station Norfolk will be going to Tennessee, Kentucky and Florida.

Here's a look at some of the stories we'll be following today as they make headlines across the country and Southwest Virginia. Governor Northam travels to Southside today for a driver's license reinstatement event. The campus store at Central Virginia Community College will will accept donations of school supplies. Pay it forward as you clear your library fines in Danville. We will learn more today about the combination of the Gretna Volunteer Fire Station and the Volunteer Rescue Squad.

Here's a look at some of the stories we'll be following today as they make headlines across the country and Southwest Virginia. Governor Northam will be in Farmville today, delivering the keynote address at the Virginia ABC's 2019 Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project. A group of students, biking across the country will travel through Southwest Virginia today. The Salem-Roanoke County Chamber hosts Restaurant Week starting today. Restaurant week runs through Sunday.

Here's a look at some of the stories we'll be following today as they make headlines across the country and Southwest Virginia. The Virginia General Assembly will meet in special session today. The Averett University School of Nursing will unveil its new Masters Level programs today. Part of 12th Street in Lynchburg will be closed today. The eastbound lane between Federal Street and Harrison Street will be closed as crews remove gas service there.

Here's a look at some of the stories we'll be following today as they make headlines across the country and Southwest Virginia. The Lynchburg Humane Society will waive the adoption fee for cats and kittens today. The man, convicted of federal hate crimes for plowing his car into a crowd of anti-racism protesters at a 2017 white nationalist rally, will be sentenced today in federal court. Just Dance Roanoke holds its last dance today. The carnival is open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.God's Storehouse holds its annual golf tournament today.

10 News Political Analyst Ed Lynch says while the calls for Gov. Northam's resignation continue, they likely won't be enough to impede his work as governor. Copyright 2019 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved.

The law firm investigating the matter was not able to determine if Gov. Northam was either of the men in the photoCopyright 2019 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved.

We're expected to learn how a racist photo ended up on Gov. Northam's yearbook page. Copyright 2019 by WSLS 10 - All rights reserved.