Deep-Sea Mining Fight: CNMI Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds introduced the Pacific Minerals Economic Security Act (PACMESA), proposing a 50% revenue share from seabed mining bonuses, rentals and royalties to qualifying Pacific territories, alongside stronger bonding and environmental mitigation. Legal Challenge: Conservation and community groups filed a lawsuit to block the Trump administration’s Marianas deep-sea mining push, arguing the federal review wrongly concluded the lease sale won’t harm endangered species and critical habitat. Local Politics & Economy: The Saipan Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2026 Delegate debate, where King-Hinds defended her first-term record while challenger Galvin Deleon Guerrero called for a political reset and faster results for the CNMI economy and workforce. Disaster Recovery & Small Business: FEMA hired 22 CNMI residents under its Sinlaku Local Hire initiative, while SBA said Sinlaku applicants who missed deadlines may still request exceptions at recovery centers with a written explanation. Public Safety Appointments: Acting Gov. Karl R. King-Nabors nominated Aniceto T. Ogumoro to be CNMI Department of Public Safety commissioner, sending the nomination to the Senate for confirmation. Utilities Funding: CUC executive director Kevin Watson said Judge David O. Carter is pleased with recovery work after two typhoons but wants more funding for rebuilding, including major Tinian power plant repairs. Aviation & Infrastructure: FAA is seeking public comment on a draft environmental assessment for a long-range radar facility on Saipan’s Mount Petosukara to close a north-facing radar coverage gap. Government Travel Costs: DOD raised Guam/NMI per diem meals and incidentals effective Sept. 1, a change that local hotel and tourism groups say matters for federal travel demand.