University of Maine Budget Crunch: UMaine leaders say the Orono and Machias campuses face a projected $19M shortfall for FY2028, with layoffs and faculty retrenchments on the table as they respond to inflation, deferred maintenance, shifting federal funding, and enrollment pressures. Federal Rates & Maine Costs: The Federal Reserve raised interest rates to 4.00% to fight inflation, a move that could make borrowing tougher for households and employers already stretched. Heating Relief Urgency: Sen. Susan Collins is pushing for the immediate release of LIHEAP heating funds as Maine heating oil averages $5.77 a gallon—up 74% year over year—meaning tank fills cost about $675 more. Consumer Lending Settlement: Maine and other states reached a $694M multistate settlement with Credit Acceptance over predatory auto loans, requiring cash/debt relief and stronger consumer protections against dealer “packing” add-ons. Energy & Resilience Grants: Waldo County communities received $800K+ in Community Action Grants for storm readiness, harbor protection, energy efficiency, and resilience projects. Maine Governance & Food Security: Maine’s constitution printing is back in print with restored Native treaty obligations and a voter-approved “right to food” amendment. Infrastructure Work: MaineDOT will do overnight Route 1 pavement work in Woolwich with one-way alternating traffic. Public Safety: A first-of-its-kind federal prosecution in Maine targets the “764” online violent extremist network that allegedly exploited minors. Local Planning: Cape Elizabeth tabled a proposed $5M four-season arena plan over parking, lighting, and pedestrian safety concerns. Environmental Review: Maine’s environmental board delayed a final decision on the NECEC conservation plan, asking for more mitigation details.