Data Centers & Power Costs: The U.S. House passed the Ratepayer Protection Act by 417-3, aiming to stop households and small businesses from absorbing electricity infrastructure costs tied to huge data-center loads; it now heads to the Senate, with Virginia Rep. Morgan Griffith backing it. AI Hardware & Water Strain: Gradiant says it won $300M in new U.S. semiconductor contracts since early 2026, including sites in Virginia, promising ultrapure water and wastewater systems to reduce freshwater demand for chip fabs. Local Governance & Cameras: Henrico lawmakers say Virginia’s next General Assembly session will focus on data-center regulation and Flock Safety camera concerns raised by residents. State Policy & Elections: Virginia is rolling out new, more secure SNAP EBT cards with chip technology to reduce theft. Community & Culture: Ashburn is getting a new used bookstore—Twice Told Books—opening at 20691 Ashburn Road. Housing Innovation: Cavco will debut a HUD-code manufactured home built without a permanent steel chassis at the Innovative Housing Showcase in Washington, D.C. Public Safety & Faith: A 9/11 anniversary story highlights Catholic clergy and ministers who served first responders and victims in the aftermath.