CNMI Budget Crunch: House Ways and Means chair Rep. John Paul Sablan says CNMI finances “went from bad to worse” as the House unanimously passed a $100.73M FY2027 budget, citing low economic activity and damage from two super typhoons—while the Judiciary warned its funding shortfall could delay justice. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Gov. David Apatang says he won’t ask Interior to pause the CNMI deep-sea mining lease sale before the Oct. 19 deadline, pointing to pending lawsuits and planning separate public comments; meanwhile, the U.S. says deep-sea mining permits could come within months. Education Under Strain: Acting PSS Commissioner Jacqueline Che lays out a 5-day school week “Promise” plan to restore classes by Oct. 1 despite the PSS facing its deepest deficit in 30 years. Tourism & Visas: CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds’ Marianas Tourism Advancement Act would add the Philippines and expand visa-waiver eligibility to more countries, with projections of major visitor spending for Guam and the CNMI. Labor & Services: The Philippines’ Migrant Workers Office in Guam is expected to start serving the CNMI soon, bringing labor document processing closer to workers. Utilities Costs: Diesel prices jumped across Saipan, Tinian and Rota, raising expectations of higher power bills via fuel adjustment charges. Furlough Rules Update: CNMI Civil Service Commission advances proposed amendments to modernize furlough procedures, including a 90-day process framework and employee due-process protections. Business Spotlight: A new CNMI small-business guide highlights market size limits, infrastructure and shipping/energy costs, and labor/immigration constraints.