Constitutional Convention Ballot Crunch: The CNMI Election Commission voted to put the constitutional convention question on the Nov. 3 general election, but commissioners may need a charter flight from Guam to reprint and deliver revised ballots for early voting Sept. 18. Civil Service Furlough Rules: The Civil Service Commission advanced new furlough regulations, adding tighter OPM documentation requirements, critical-position screening, independent oversight, and guaranteed notice, response, grievance, and recall protections for workers. Federal Disaster Funding: FEMA approved about $8.2M in post-disaster support across Hawai‘i, Nevada, and the CNMI, including $1.3M for CNMI Public Assistance projects tied to repairs and safety needs after major storms. Deep-Sea Mining Push: Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said deep-sea mining permits could come within months, while CNMI lawmakers continue pressing for a 50-50 revenue split and stronger host-territory protections. Regional Governance & Security: CNMI leaders sought to maintain observer status in the Pacific Islands Forum as they look at associate membership, while U.S. Pacific Command and Joint Task Force-Micronesia met with CNMI stakeholders on recovery, construction, exercises, and biosecurity. Environment & Wildlife: Joint Region Marianas and the University of Guam launched “Båsta BTS” to stop the spread of the invasive brown treesnake, using workshops to help residents spot and report it. Tourism & Travel Access: Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds advanced the Marianas Tourism Advancement Act to expand the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, including adding the Philippines and other countries. Labor Services: The Philippine government’s new Migrant Workers Office in Guam is expected to bring labor document services closer to CNMI workers.