Invasive Species Overhaul: Gov. David Apatang moved CNMI’s Invasive Species Program from Lands and Natural Resources to the Finance Department’s Division of Customs and Biosecurity, aiming for one chain of command from port interception to field response for threats like the coconut rhinoceros beetle (Rota), Mucuna vine (Saipan), and the little fire ant. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: CNMI groups sued the federal government in Hawaii to stop the proposed Mariana Islands deep-sea mining lease sale, arguing regulators didn’t properly consider impacts beyond the initial approval; meanwhile, leaders urged Apatang to formally oppose the sale and seek more time for public participation. Congressional Push for Protections: Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds introduced PACMESA to boost revenue sharing and strengthen environmental bonding and local consultation tied to any seabed mining near U.S. Pacific territories. Local Governance & Accountability: A CNMI audit raised questions about how procurement and monitoring problems survived until FY2023 audit findings, spotlighting gaps in internal controls. Federal Funding & Services: King-Hinds said CUC is positioned for millions in federal support for power generation and poles, while she also highlighted her office’s heavy casework load helping residents navigate federal agencies. Courts & Compliance: The court approved a $20,000 wage settlement for a former Shirley’s Coffee Shop dishwasher, and another case saw a show-cause filing over missed service deadlines in a deportation-related fight. Community & Security: A Saipan-born Army sergeant won the Soldier’s Medal for a Pearl Harbor rescue, and a new reciprocity agreement brought Guam lawyer Julian Aguon into CNMI practice. Weather & Public Health: El Niño is strengthening toward “very strong,” while NWS warned of wildfire smoke haze from Indonesia affecting Saipan and the region.