H-2B Hiring Update: USCIS says the first-half H-2B visa quota for jobs starting Oct. 1, 2026–Mar. 31, 2027 is already full, closing the regular application window for employers seeking temporary non-agricultural workers before April 1, 2027. CNMI Disaster & Recovery Jobs: FEMA hired 22 CNMI residents under its Sinlaku Local Hire initiative, creating a local-to-federal pathway for disaster response roles. Rota Recovery Deadlines: Rota Temporary Roofing Program registration closes today at 5 p.m.; FEMA Individual Assistance has no set deadline yet, but officials urge residents to apply now. SBA Missed-Deadline Help: SBA says Sinlaku aid exceptions are still possible for people who missed the deadline, but applicants must visit a recovery center and explain why they were late. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Conservation and community groups filed lawsuits to block Marianas deep-sea mining lease actions, while CNMI Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds backs a revenue-sharing bill that would route 50% of certain lease revenues to nearby territories. Local Government Moves: Gov. Apatang transferred the CNMI Invasive Species Program to the Department of Finance’s Customs and Biosecurity unit to streamline prevention and response. Energy & Infrastructure: CUC officials say Judge David O. Carter is satisfied with recovery progress but wants more funding as Tinian power plant repairs remain a major issue. Tourism & Business: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan announced its 2nd Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Nov. 14 to raise funds for local nonprofits. Fuel Costs: Diesel prices rose again in Saipan after a prior hike, with global oil price pressures cited as the driver.