Ocean Observatories Fight: Rhode Island lawmakers joined a national push to stop the Trump administration from dismantling the $386M Ocean Observatories Initiative, a network of 900+ sensors that tracks ocean circulation, ecosystems, climate change and extreme weather. Tax Cap Pressure: A new RIPEC analysis says multiple cities and towns are exceeding Rhode Island’s 4% property tax levy cap in fiscal 2026, including Providence, Pawtucket, Woonsocket and Little Compton, raising concerns about shifting burdens onto property taxpayers. Clean Energy Deadline Backpedal: Rhode Island is moving to loosen its clean-energy timeline, with a proposed budget pushing the 100% clean energy goal from 2033 to 2050 amid rising ratepayer costs and federal headwinds. Child Abuse Claims Revival: Gov. Dan McKee signed a law creating a “revival window” from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028 for certain expired clergy sexual abuse claims, including potential liability for the Diocese of Providence. Sludge Plant Moratorium: The General Assembly passed a one-year moratorium on sewage sludge processing facilities and set up a special commission to study sludge management, as North Kingstown weighs legal action over a proposed pyrolysis plant. Avian Flu in Providence: More than 400 birds were euthanized after H5N1 was confirmed at a Providence poultry market; the facility will remain closed for cleanup under USDA rules. Millionaire Levy: Rhode Island adopted a new tax on incomes over $1 million, raising the top rate to 8.99% over three years to help close budget gaps.