Virginia holds an astonishing $3.8 billion in unclaimed property, much of which belongs to its residents. This amount includes various funds owed back to the public, and a portion may even belong to you. A recent investigation revealed that entities like WTKR and the city of Norfolk are among those owed money, with hundreds of claims pending across multiple departments. Thanks to legislative changes through the CASH NOW ACT, individuals entitled to $5,000 or less will automatically receive their unclaimed property without needing to file a claim. However, businesses and organizations must still submit manual requests. Treasurer David Richardson announced that notifications began in May, with checks expected to be mailed six weeks after each notice.
The new law simplifies the process for Virginians to reclaim lost funds while offering additional resources such as a national search tool provided by the National Association of State Treasurers for those who have lived in multiple states.
Revamped Legislation Streamlines Claims Process
Recent amendments to Virginia's laws via the CASH NOW ACT have significantly transformed how unclaimed property is handled. Individuals eligible for up to $5,000 no longer need to complete tedious paperwork; instead, they will automatically receive their funds following notification letters sent weekly since May. This initiative aims to return millions of dollars to rightful owners efficiently.
Under the revised regulations, Treasurer David Richardson spearheaded efforts to distribute these forgotten funds promptly. Starting in May, his office initiated a systematic approach where notices were dispatched regularly. Approximately six weeks after sending out each batch of letters, corresponding checks would follow. For instance, early distributions are projected to return around $2.5 million to recipients. While this streamlined process benefits individual claimants, larger entities like corporations and nonprofits must continue filing formal claims manually. These groups cannot bypass traditional procedures but can expect faster processing times due to enhanced administrative systems implemented alongside the new act.
Exploring Unclaimed Funds Across Virginia
A closer examination reveals substantial amounts awaiting retrieval within localities and institutions throughout Virginia. Notably, searches conducted on official platforms indicate significant sums owed to cities like Norfolk, which has over 200 outstanding claims spanning numerous departments. Such discoveries underscore the importance of utilizing available tools to identify potential entitlements.
To assist residents in locating possible assets, the Virginia Department of Treasury provides an accessible platform at vamoneysearch.gov. By entering relevant information, users can ascertain whether any monies remain unclaimed under their names. Furthermore, individuals who have resided in multiple states may utilize a broader resource offered by the National Association of State Treasurers for comprehensive inquiries. This expanded accessibility ensures that more people become aware of and recover their rightful shares. The combination of technological advancements and legislative improvements now makes it easier than ever before for Virginians to track down and reclaim long-lost funds.
A new survey reveals a mixed reception among U.S. adults regarding the military parade planned to honor the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Despite an estimated cost of tens of millions of taxpayer dollars, opinions vary significantly across political lines. While some view it as a tribute to service members, others criticize it as a misuse of government funds.
The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that about 4 in 10 adults approve of the parade, while 3 in 10 disapprove. The majority believe the event is not a prudent expenditure of public money. Political affiliations play a crucial role, with Republicans largely supporting the event and Democrats predominantly opposing it. This divide reflects broader perspectives on military spending and presidential approval ratings.
Polarized Perspectives on Parade Purpose
Diverse viewpoints emerge concerning the significance and justification of the military parade. Supporters emphasize its role in honoring service members, boosting morale, and celebrating national pride. Critics, however, argue that the spectacle represents wasteful spending and sends inappropriate messages about military power.
For instance, Carol Sue Quillen, a retiree from Florida, views the parade as a meaningful way to honor her late father, an Air Force test pilot, and her son-in-law in the special forces. She believes all branches should be celebrated for their contributions, enhancing military morale. In contrast, Matt Wheeler, a nonprofit fundraiser from Los Angeles, describes the event as "extremely wasteful" and compares it to displays from authoritarian regimes like the USSR or North Korea. His concerns highlight a perceived misalignment with American values. Sam Walters, a former conservative now leaning libertarian, appreciates Trump's consistency on campaign promises but questions the necessity of additional funding for military-related activities given existing defense budgets. These contrasting opinions underscore the complexity of public sentiment towards the parade.
Political Divisions and Presidential Approval
Political divisions are evident in attitudes toward the parade, reflecting broader trends in military spending and presidential performance evaluations. Republicans generally support the event, viewing it as a commendable use of funds, while Democrats and independents predominantly oppose it, citing financial imprudence.
Data indicates that approximately two-thirds of Republicans approve of the parade and consider it a good investment of public money. Conversely, Democrats overwhelmingly oppose the parade as a misuse of funds, with half disapproving outright. Independents exhibit more ambivalence, with many lacking strong feelings or awareness about the event. This division mirrors opinions on overall military spending, where about 3 in 10 believe the government spends too much, another 3 in 10 think it spends too little, and 4 in 10 feel the amount is appropriate. Additionally, President Trump's approval rating remains steady at around 4 in 10, with higher approval for his handling of immigration compared to the economy or trade negotiations. Andrew Thomsen, an educator from Oklahoma City, exemplifies this nuanced perspective by supporting Trump generally yet expressing reservations about showcasing military might through parades. Such complexities illustrate the multifaceted nature of public opinion surrounding the celebration and its implications for national priorities.
Empower Your Home with Smart Energy Choices
Amid rising utility prices, homeowners are searching for effective methods to reduce their energy bills while maintaining a comfortable living environment. By implementing simple yet impactful changes, you can significantly lower your expenses and prepare for the scorching months ahead.
Optimize Your Cooling System
Maintaining an efficient air conditioning unit is one of the most critical steps in controlling energy costs. Scheduling regular maintenance ensures that your system operates at peak performance, reducing wear and tear as well as unnecessary energy usage. During these sessions, technicians inspect various components, including refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and ductwork, addressing potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs.
In addition to annual tune-ups, routinely checking your AC filter plays a vital role in preserving efficiency. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing the compressor to work harder and consume more electricity. Replacing or cleaning the filter every few months guarantees optimal airflow, extending the lifespan of your equipment while minimizing operational expenses.
Revamp Lighting Solutions
Transitioning from traditional incandescent bulbs to modern LED alternatives offers substantial savings over time. Unlike older models, LEDs convert nearly all consumed energy into illumination rather than heat, making them far more economical. Furthermore, their extended lifespans mean fewer replacements and reduced long-term costs. Upgrading lighting fixtures throughout your home not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes meaningfully to lowering monthly bills.
Consider strategic placement of lights to maximize natural daylight during daytime hours. Opening curtains strategically allows sunlight to illuminate interiors without overheating spaces. However, when direct sunlight becomes excessive, closing blinds or curtains helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures, further diminishing reliance on artificial cooling mechanisms.
Minimize Heat-Generating Appliances
On particularly warm days, avoiding activities involving high-energy appliances such as ovens can prevent additional heating within your home. Instead, opt for alternative cooking methods like microwaves, slow cookers, or even outdoor grilling. These options generate less internal warmth, keeping your space cooler and alleviating pressure on your HVAC system.
Beyond culinary habits, consider timing other major appliance usages carefully. Running dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers late at night when temperatures naturally drop reduces the need for supplemental cooling efforts. Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation around these devices prevents trapped heat buildup, enhancing overall household thermal management.
Invest in Long-Term Efficiency Measures
For those willing to take proactive steps towards sustainable energy practices, investing in insulation upgrades or smart thermostats provides lasting benefits. Properly insulated attics and walls act as barriers against external temperature fluctuations, stabilizing interior climates year-round. Meanwhile, programmable thermostats enable precise control over cooling schedules, allowing users to tailor settings based on daily routines and preferences.
Such investments may carry initial expenses; however, their return on investment materializes quickly through consistent reductions in energy expenditures. Moreover, adopting eco-friendly measures aligns with broader environmental goals, positioning households as responsible stewards of resources amidst global climate challenges.