Of Sessions, Special and Otherwise

First, the bad news: it looks like both the General Assembly and the chattering classes alike will be headed back to Richmond for a second special session this year in addition to the current overtime period that's focused on bonds.

Democratic Gov. Timothy M. Kaine confirmed Thursday night that he's planning to call the rolling legislative roadshow back to the River City for another crack at transportation, and that he's looking toward tax hikes to fix the state's road and rail system.

Legislators duked it out for months over transportation in 2007 before the two camps arrived at House Bill 3202, the compromise package that brought us "abuser fees" and the now unconstitutional regional taxing authorities. Democratic leaders in the Senate have indicated that they're also on board for a package of higher taxes and fees to pay for new roads, while the Republican leadership in the House of Delegates has said they want no part of it.

The good news: Richmond is lovely in the springtime, particularly the walk down Grace Street in front of St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

See you on the square.