Deep-Sea Mining Push: U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum says deep-sea mining permits for federal Pacific waters could start within months, with lease sales and operational permits tied to scientific review. Public Safety Power Struggle: The CNMI Senate sued Gov. David Apatang and DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas, arguing Macaranas was legally disqualified after a 30-day advice-and-consent deadline was missed. Economy & Families: Seven distressed OFWs were repatriated from Saipan after the island’s economic downturn, with airfare and cremation costs covered by OWWA funds. Education Under Strain: Acting PSS Commissioner Jacqueline Che outlined a plan to restore a five-day school week by Oct. 1, including “Austerity Mondays” as tutoring/intervention days amid a 30-year-deep fiscal deficit. Utilities Enforcement: CUC authorized cooperation with local and federal law enforcement to investigate and prosecute water theft, aiming to speed up cases. Elections & Voters: A new look at what CNMI voters want in the Nov. 3 race: cost of living relief, reliable utilities, fair enforcement of labor/ethics rules, and a clearer economic path. Visa Waiver Expansion: A bill would expand the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program by adding the Philippines plus other countries, with tourism leaders projecting major visitor gains. Daylight Saving Time: Unless Congress acts, CNMI residents should still plan for DST to end Nov. 1, 2026. Crime Update: A fugitive was arrested at Saipan airport, and five men pleaded not guilty in a federal attempted sex-with-minors case tied to Operation Protekto Y Famagu’on.