Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell said he is still undecided on whether he will sign legislation banning state and local agencies from using drones for two years.
The General Assembly already passed this bill with bipartisan support and if McDonnell signs the legislation, Virginia would be the first state to enact such a law.
“The governor will review these bills when they reach his desk and consult with the appropriate parties on both sides of this issue before making a decision on what action he will take,” McDonnell spokesman Paul Logan told POLITICO.
Back in May, McDonnell said on a WTOP radio show that he supported local police agencies using military-style drones for law enforcement, according to Politico.
But as legal questions surrounding drones move to the forefront of national discussion, many believe public opinion will ultimately influence McDonnell to sign the bill.
IN OTHER NEWS:
* Records obtained by Washington City Paper show a “highly unusual financial relationship” between David Wilmot and Jeff Thompson, two of the biggest powerbrokers in District politics. (Washington City Paper)
* The Virginian Republican caucus is apparently “livid” with Speaker Howell’s decision to kill the redistricting plan. (Bearing Drift)
* A new report from a D.C. nonprofit says that in most cases it is difficult for a homeless family to secure shelter unless a lawyer intervenes with the District’s human services department or its homeless services contractor, the Community Partnership. Mayor Gray, the report says, failed on his promise to house all families in urgent need of shelter. (Washington Post)
* Bolling says he will be making a big announcement March 14. Could he be making an independent gubernatorial run? (Associated Press)
* Anti-gun control supporters flooded the Maryland State House Wednesday to protest as Gov. O’Malley as Gov. O'Malley introduced his gun control bill to the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee. (NBC 4)
* Former D.C. Council member Michael Brown says he wants to get back on the dais so he can “continue to be the 'conscience of the council." (Washington Informer)
* Maryland lawmakers continue to debate over transportation funding as the legislation moved to the Senate budget committee, with some senators arguing for more spending on the project while other say we already have too much money allocated. (Maryland Reporter)
* After concerns were raised, D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson says he will hold a hearing to look into the legitimacy of a contract awarded to overhaul a troubled city-owned hospital before a Feb. 19 vote on the deal. (Washington Times)
* A new District auditor report identified continuing issues with computer systems in the CFO's office that could be easily accessed by an employee trying to obtain or change financial records. It also mentions ongoing issues with D.C. procurement practices. (Washington Post)
