New Hampshire
- Governor Kelly Ayotte delivers State of the State address focusing on nuclear power, housing, and child care priorities: In her first such address, Ayotte emphasized the state’s strengths and outlined ambitions for economic and family support initiatives. Link (Source: NHPR)
- State doubles down on ending vehicle emissions testing despite judge’s order: New Hampshire officials are proceeding with plans to eliminate emissions checks for vehicle inspections, defying a federal ruling requiring their continuation. Link (Source: New Hampshire Bulletin)
- House debates funding for child care workforce: Lawmakers heard arguments on both sides regarding additional state support for child care workers amid workforce shortages and cost concerns. Link (Source: New Hampshire Bulletin)
- College students urge lawmakers to improve affordability to retain young residents: Students testified for measures on housing, tuition, and child care to make staying in New Hampshire viable after graduation. Link(Source: NHPR)
Maine
- Governor Janet Mills proposes tapping rainy day fund in final budget: Mills’ budget plan draws over $300 million from reserves to boost K-12 education, MaineCare, reproductive health services, and veterans’ support. Link (Source: Maine Public)
- Mills administration reviews Portland’s request for statewide eviction moratorium: The governor is considering an emergency order for a 60-day eviction freeze amid Portland’s housing crisis concerns. Link (Source: The Maine Wire)
- Man pleads guilty in hit-and-run deaths of twin toddlers: Benjamin Lancaster entered guilty pleas for the fatal hit-and-run involving two young children in Albion. Link (Source: Bangor Daily News)
- High demand persists for heating assistance during cold snap: Maine residents continue seeking aid for home heating costs as frigid temperatures drive up needs. Link (Source: Maine Public)
Vermont
- Governor Phil Scott calls for Windsor County Sheriff to resign: Scott urged Sheriff Ryan Palmer’s resignation the same day regulators revoked his law enforcement certification. Link (Source: VTDigger)
- Ongoing overhaul of Act 250 eases housing development in some areas: New maps loosen building rules in designated zones while increasing protections for environmentally sensitive lands. Link (Source: VTDigger)
- Lawmaker proposes consolidating school districts from 119 to 27: A House proposal aims to merge Vermont’s many districts into fewer larger ones to improve efficiency, sparking discussion. Link (Source: VTDigger)
- Rutland hospital removes cancer patient who dies hours later: Police were called to eject a patient from the facility, leading to his death shortly afterward, raising concerns. Link (Source: Vermont Public)
