Data Centers & State Policy: Virginia’s data-center fight is still driving the budget debate, with lawmakers floating a “skinny budget” approach and a new commission concept as House and Senate negotiators try to move past tax-break disputes and accountability questions. Local Regulation: Warren County approved data-center rules on a first reading, including siting limits near homes and property lines and a closed-loop water cooling requirement—aimed at reducing community impacts without a blanket moratorium. Energy & Grid Pressure: A heat-driven power emergency is stressing the East Coast grid, with officials warning of higher demand and storm risk that could push prices and raise blackout concerns. Healthcare Tech: GE HealthCare is expanding its equipment management partnership with Carilion Clinic, adding asset management and real-time tracking tools across the Virginia health system. Marijuana Market Talks: A tentative agreement between Virginia lawmakers and Gov. Abigail Spanberger could eventually expand legal recreational cannabis access for Danville and Pittsylvania County under a new framework. Science & Industry: Jefferson Lab broke ground on the Jefferson Lab Data Center in Newport News to house the DOE’s High Performance Data Facility, signaling more Virginia investment tied to AI and advanced computing. Storm Disruptions: Fairfax County reported widespread outages after thunderstorms, with thousands losing power as gusts and storm lines moved through the region. Food Assistance: Virginia’s AG Ford joined a coalition urging Congress to restore SNAP benefits and protect food assistance in the Farm Bill.