Hemp Businesses Sue Virginia Over New Cannabis Rules — “A new Virginia law has prompted a group of Virginia hemp business owners to sue the state, arguing that the sudden restriction on their products could force them out of business. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of seven plaintiffs across Virginia, challenges a state budget amendment set to take effect on August 15. The change gives retailers just six weeks to stop selling any hemp products containing more than two milligrams of THC … Former Virginia State Senator Chap Petersen, the attorney representing the business owners, argues that this goes beyond standard regulation.” [WDBJ7]

Gov. Spanberger Intervenes in Proposed Dominion Energy Merger Case — “As a Virginian, I am deeply skeptical about whether selling our primary, state-regulated utility to an out-of-state company is good for the commonwealth. I have serious questions about what this deal would mean for us. And as governor, I intend to get answers and be a voice for Virginians in the process.” [Washington Post op-ed]

Drought Continues Despite Recent Rain — “The latest U.S. Drought Monitor update for Fairfax County, released [Thursday] and based on data through Aug. 4, shows some improvement statewide. The area of Virginia facing extreme drought was cut by more than half this week, dropping to about 4 percent of the state from nearly 8.5 percent the week before. Close to a third of Virginia now has no drought classification at all, up from about 28 percent last week.” [Fairfax County Emergency blog]

Fairfax County Man Indicted by Grand Jury for Illegal Reentry — “A federal grand jury in Alexandria has indicted a Fairfax County man on a charge of illegally reentering the United States after previously being deported following an aggravated felony conviction.” [Patch]

Taiwanese Company to Locate Headquarters in Fairfax — “MedVoyage Global Inc., a Taiwan-based company that offers telemedicine for the maritime industry, is opening its U.S. headquarters at the Mason Enterprise Center in Fairfax. The new office will house some U.S. sales, system engineering and regulatory compliance operations for the company. MedVoyage said it plans to scale its local workforce over the next two years.” [Washington Business Journal]

Lake Anne Cardboard Regatta in Reston Is Saturday — “A fun and unique event, the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta has quickly become a community favorite growing in size each year. The Regatta brings together residents, businesses, and visitors from across the Greater Washington, D.C. metro area. In this festive environment, Lake Anne Plaza swells with thousands of spectators who cheer on their favorite boats.” [Reston Museum]

Fairfax County Animal Shelter to Host Clear the Shelters — “Find your new best friend from Friday, August 21 to Sunday, August 23! We’re waiving adoption fees for all pets all weekend long. Whether you are looking for dogs, cats, or small animals like birds, reptiles, or guinea pigs, your perfect match is waiting. Help us clear our shelters!” [Fairfax County Animal Services]

Route 29 Lane Closures in Fairfax Start — “Weather permitting, lane closures will occur along part or all of Route 29 between Union Mill Road/Centreville Farms Drive (Route 8285) and Summit Drive/Buckleys Gate Drive (Route 1257) Thursday night, Aug. 6; Friday, Aug. 7; Sunday night, Aug. 9; Monday, Aug. 10, through Friday, Aug. 14, and Monday, Aug. 17, through Friday, Aug. 21, for Route 29 widening project work, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.” [VDOT]

It’s Friday — Expect mostly sunny conditions with a high of 91 and a heat index up to 102, with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 PM. Southwest winds will be light, increasing slightly in the morning. Friday night brings likely showers and thunderstorms before 8 PM, becoming mostly clear later, with a low of 73 and a 60% chance of precipitation. Rainfall may range from a tenth to a quarter of an inch, with heavier amounts in thunderstorms. [NWS]