Visa & Tourism: CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds and Guam Del. James Moylan introduced the Marianas Tourism Advancement Act of 2026 to expand the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program by adding the Philippines and opening eligibility to Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, India and Mongolia—aimed at boosting visitor arrivals while stressing it’s for travel, not work. Airport Funding: The U.S. House Transportation Committee unanimously advanced the Rural Airport Infrastructure Support Act of 2026, raising the federal share of eligible airport project costs to 95% for rural, remote and underserved areas, including CNMI and Guam—framed as a lifeline for medical access and tourism. Government Workforce Rules: CNMI’s Civil Service Commission submitted proposed regulatory amendments to modernize furlough rules, adding safeguards like documented fiscal triggers, critical-position screening, OPM oversight, and guaranteed notice and grievance timelines. Biosecurity at the Border: Customs and Biosecurity welcomed the transfer of CNMI’s Invasive Species Program under its command, creating a “one-stop shop” for inspections at ports of entry and training for invasive species enforcement. Disaster Recovery Support: FEMA approved nearly $8.2M in post-disaster funding for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation in Hawai’i, Nevada and CNMI, including $1.3M for CNMI under Public Assistance. Local Business & Community: SBA opened a new Disaster Loan Outreach Center on Saipan at the Koblerville Youth Center to help typhoon survivors with disaster loan applications, including addressing prior denials/withdrawals. Energy Costs: Diesel prices jumped after a 50-cent increase, pushing Mobil Oil Marianas diesel to $7.93/gallon, with higher impacts expected for power fuel adjustment charges. Regional Spotlight: Marianas Sports Ambassador BK Park won a major on the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association tour, putting the Marianas brand in front of Korea and beyond.