Virginia

Legal Battle Brews in West Virginia Over Religious Exemptions to School Vaccination Rules

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A judge in Berkeley County is grappling with the intersection of religious freedoms and public health, following a hearing regarding school vaccination mandates. Judge Michael Lorensen indicated his hesitance to assert that West Virginia’s religious freedoms law has a direct bearing on compulsory vaccinations for schoolchildren. After a lengthy three-hour session, Lorensen opted against issuing a preliminary injunction that would require local school officials to accommodate requests for religious exemptions from nine families. While he scheduled a more comprehensive hearing for Nov. 12, he cautioned the families that their prospects did not … Read more

Virginia Lawmakers Begin Paving the Way for AI Regulation Ahead of 2026 Legislative Session

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Richmond, Virginia, is taking its first steps toward regulating artificial intelligence as state legislators prepare for the 2026 session. The rapidly evolving landscape of AI has prompted lawmakers and experts to consider various potential legal frameworks and ethical guidelines that could shape the technology’s use in Virginia. In recent discussions, several lawmakers showcased an interest in developing legislation that addresses the growing concerns surrounding AI, including issues of privacy, security, and ethical application. The legislative focus comes amid heightened awareness of how AI technologies impact various sectors, ranging from healthcare to education and beyond. The … Read more

Virginia Court Overturns Medical Malpractice Verdict Following Jury Missteps on ‘Habit Instruction’

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A Virginia appeals court has reversed a medical malpractice ruling that hinged on the jury’s use of a disputed “habit instruction.” The decision, issued recently, has significant implications for similar cases in the state. The case in question originated from a medical malpractice claim against a physician who allegedly failed to provide appropriate care. After a jury found in favor of the plaintiff, the trial court’s instructions to the jury were called into question. Specifically, one instruction suggested jurors could rely on the idea that a person generally acts in accordance with their established habits … Read more

Six Inmates Indicted on 66 Felony Counts Following Violent Attack on Virginia Prison Officers

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NORTON, Va. — Six inmates affiliated with gangs have been indicted in connection with a violent assault on three correctional officers at Wallen Ridge State Prison. The announcement was made by Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares along with Brett Hall, the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Wise County and Norton. The incident occurred on May 2, resulting in two officers being stabbed multiple times and a third officer facing physical assault. The group now faces 66 felony charges collectively, reflecting the severity of the attack and the ramifications for the individuals involved. The indictments detail specific charges … Read more