Virginia Law Changes You Need to Know Before They Take Effect—Plus Roanoke Valley’s Top Stories

WFIR News Express brings you the latest headlines from Roanoke, Lynchburg, Vinton, Montgomery County, and across Virginia. The suspect in last week’s Danville police shooting has been charged with Attempted Capital Murder and will be extradited to Virginia. Meanwhile, authorities confirm the death of a missing Montgomery County man, though few details have been released.The Virginia General Assembly has wrapped up, passing key law changes that now await Governor Glenn Youngkin’s decision. Among them: A minimum wage increase to $15 by 2027 Expanded collective bargaining rights for teachers, firefighters & public employees A public referendum on abortion rights, same-sex marriage & voting protections Stronger penalties for displaying Nazi symbols to intimidate Legalized retail cannabis sales—likely to be vetoedIn crime news, Lynchburg residents were shaken after gunfire hit four townhomes early Saturday, while in Martinsville, police seized over a kilo of cocaine in a major drug bust, with one suspect still at large.For food lovers, Vinton’s Winter Restaurant Week kicks off Sunday, featuring local favorites like Smiley’s Grill and Pollard 107 South. In entertainment, Showtimers’ production of Almost, Maine debuts Thursday, bringing a mix of romance, humor, and magic to the stage.Stay informed with the latest updates from across the Roanoke Valley and Southwest Virginia with WFIR News Express.