Virginia s General Assembly has approved legislation to develop small modular nuclear reactors. The bills passed both chambers despite concerns about how this affects ratepayers. Senate Bill 454 allows utility companies to begin billing customers during a research and development phase, which means ratepayers can be billed for engineering, site development and other costs before utility companies get a power plant permit. .
Many people with persistent mental illness find it difficult, or even impossible, to participate in common activities like work or friendships. A unique clubhouse model at work in Greeley has been helping restore those lost social connections since 1990. Ashlyn McMillan, a member of Frontier House Clubhouse, said when you have a mental illness, disconnecting is one of the easiest things to do but when you re all alone, she noted your mind can be your worst enemy. .
Oregon officials are considering providing additional protections to orcas in the region. The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission will decide on Friday if Southern Resident orcas should be listed as endangered in the state. Kathleen Callaghy is the Northwest representative for Defenders of Wildlife. .
Wisconsin is closer to adopting political maps for legislative seats advocates insist would reverse years of gerrymandered districts. One coalition said despite some skepticism, the latest move offers hope in restoring the will of voters. This week, the Republican-led Legislature approved maps submitted by Democratic Gov. .
An advocacy group is calling on the U.S. Senate to pass a tax bill to expand the Child Tax Credit for more than 100,000 children in Iowa. It is part of a broader tax bill which has already passed the House. .