College Sports: The U.S. Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act in a 77-22 vote, setting up major changes to NCAA rules on eligibility, transfers and pay, with an antitrust exemption and a higher revenue-sharing cap—next stop is the House after the Nov. 3 midterms. Clean Energy: A Rhode Island federal judge reversed the Trump administration’s shutdown of the $7 billion “Solar for All” program, potentially restoring help for more than 900,000 lower-income Americans; the EPA is weighing an appeal. Transit Costs: Rhode Island’s bus system is sliding deeper into the red as diesel prices have surged far above what RIPTA budgeted, threatening service stability. Local Economy & Space: A Newport-area chamber-backed report warns Newport and Bristol counties lack enough commercial and light industrial space for expected job growth, urging property conversions and zoning alignment. Green Bond Push: Rhode Island leaders kicked off the campaign for the 2026 Green Bond Question 5, seeking voter support for $55 million in clean water, resilience, recreation and land conservation. Education Funding: URI trustees approved a $20.3 million boost to the 2028 budget amid enrollment shortfalls and inflation pressures. School Safety: A Charlestown teen was referred to Family Court after a stabbing allegation during a welding class at Chariho High School. AI & Energy: New research ranks AI models by electricity use, finding big differences in energy intensity and raising pressure for transparency. Data Privacy: A multistate settlement targets Labcorp over a 2019 data breach tied to a debt collector, with stronger vendor security requirements.