Drinking Water Funding: The U.S. EPA announced $25M+ in grants to help small and rural systems upgrade drinking water and tackle PFAS, lead, and other local contaminants. Ocean Research Boost: URI cut the ribbon on its new Ocean Robotics Laboratory at the Narragansett Bay Campus, backed by $145M in bond funding and aimed at strengthening Rhode Island’s blue economy. Coastal Development: CRMC approved phase-two work for Pawtucket’s Tidewater Landing, including riverwalk paths, stormwater upgrades, and a plaza tied to future pedestrian-bridge planning. Wildlife & Public Health: Rhode Island’s tick season concerns are rising as New England sees a sharp jump in tick bites and Lyme risk, with local experts pointing to expanding tick ranges. Water Shortages: Drought conditions are tightening water restrictions in parts of South County as temperatures and low rainfall strain aquifers and stream flows. Local Odor Complaints: North Kingstown residents say chemical smells—especially a rotten-egg odor—are worsening around an asphalt plant, pushing calls for stronger state action. Recycling & Waste: A Rhode Island food waste reduction and recycling network is gaining momentum, while move-out dumping remains a persistent problem. Jobs & Grocery Theft: Rhode Island became the first state to require staffing ratios for self-checkout lanes, aiming to protect workers, improve accessibility, and curb theft.