Pollution Expected From D.C. Fireworks — “Fireworks for this year’s July Fourth celebration are expected to cause hazardous levels of pollution around the National Mall and ‘very unhealthy’ conditions in central D.C., according to internal National Park Service documents.” The show will feature approximately 850,000 fireworks and start later than usual, at around 10:30 or 11 p.m. [Washington Post]
Va. ICE Mask Ban Blocked — “Virginia cannot enforce a newly passed law prohibiting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement from wearing masks, a federal judge ruled less than 12 hours before it would have taken effect. Senior U.S. District Judge Robert Payne held the Justice Department was likely to succeed in its argument” that the U.S. Constitution bars the commonwealth from regulating federal officers’ conduct. [Courthouse News Service]
Va. Rejoins Emissions Marketplace — Virginia officially rejoined the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative yesterday (Wednesday) after Gov. Abigail Spanberger ceremonially signed into law House Majority Leader Charniele Herring’s bill requiring the state to establish a “market-based trading program” to incentivize carbon emission reductions. Former Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s withdrawal from the pact was ruled illegal by a court in 2024. [VPM News]
Herndon Summer Youth Program Offered — “Cornerstones will offer an eight-week summer youth program for students in the Reston and Herndon area beginning July 6, even as families continue to question the future of one of the nonprofit’s longtime after-school programs.” The new program at the Herndon Neighborhood Resource Center will be open to students entering second through 12th grade. [Patch]
Dulles Greenway Toll Increase Opposed — “Local elected officials testified against potential Dulles Greenway toll hikes June 29 at a State Corporation Commission hearing in Ashburn.” The owner of the 14-mile roadway from Leesburg to Dulles International Airport filed an SCC application in December seeking to raise tolls to $6.75 during peak hours and $5.60 during off-times. [Loudoun Times-Mirror]
Funding for Firefighter Cancer Screenings — “Virginia’s new two-year budget earmarks millions to help offset current and forthcoming federal funding changes to healthcare and social services. It also accomplished a bipartisan multi-year effort to fund cancer screenings for firefighters.” [Virginia Mercury]
Tips for Safe Fourth of July — “The Fairfax County Police Department encourages residents to celebrate safely while enjoying fireworks, barbecues, outdoor events, and time with family and friends. With large crowds, increased travel, and heightened activity expected across the region, planning ahead and staying alert will help ensure a safe and memorable celebration.” [FCPD]
Free Ice Cream at RTC Family Night — “Kick off Fourth of July weekend in style at Reston Town Center’s Stars & Stripes Family Night! Join us in the Pavilion from 4-8PM for an action-packed evening of all-ages fun, featuring field games, face painting, live DJ, and more. Celebrate America’s 250th with a sweet treat — FREE Ben & Jerry’s ice cream from the truck, including the fan-favorite Americone Dream (while supplies last)!” [Reston Town Center]
It’s Thursday — Expect sunny and hot conditions with temperatures reaching around 102 degrees and heat index values climbing to 109. A gentle west wind will blow at 3 to 5 mph. Night will be clear with temperatures dropping to about 80 degrees. [NWS]
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