School & Connectivity: AASA says FCC E-Rate reforms could gut the program that funds internet for schools and libraries, warning it may mean staff cuts if the federal support shrinks. Mental Health Funding Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to stop planned cuts to a $1 billion school mental health grant program tied to post-Parkland safety efforts. Alaska Politics & Ballot Measure: Gov. Mike Dunleavy vetoed campaign contribution limits, but an identical measure will still go to voters in the Aug. 18 primary. Marijuana Records: A new law lets people with low-level marijuana possession convictions apply to keep those records confidential on background checks starting in 2027. Ferries & Winter Service: Alaska Marine Highway’s draft fall/winter schedule shows longer gaps as ships go into maintenance and crew shortages persist. Rural Animal Care: AFN and Alaska Native Rural Veterinary launched a program to bring vet services, spay/neuter, and vaccines to remote villages. Cost of Living: Alaska’s biggest cities remain pricey—Anchorage is 25.5% above the national urban average, driven largely by health care and groceries. King Salmon Research: New work links the Bering Sea marine heat wave to the collapse of Yukon River king salmon runs. Housing Market Snapshot: A WalletHub ranking puts Anchorage in the bottom 10 for first-time homebuyers. King Cove Road: The state cleared a major federal hurdle for the project, with construction expected to move ahead as lawsuits loom. Wildlife & Safety: Researchers warn invasive predators are worsening salmon impacts, while Alaska’s meat-salvage rules and hunting practices remain a focus for outdoors safety.