Local Tax Planning: Pownal’s Select Board is weighing whether to join Vermont’s Local Option Tax program, potentially adding a 1% sales tax to fund struggling emergency services, including the Rescue Squad and fire departments. Northern Border Funding: Upstate New York border communities are receiving millions through the Northern Border Regional Commission, including $1 million for Clayton sewer/water planning and grants for projects in Lewis and Franklin counties. Privacy Law Fight: The proposed federal SECURE Data Act is drawing pushback from state officials and attorneys general, including Hawaiʻi, which warns a federal “ceiling” could preempt stronger state privacy protections. Vermont Courts vs. Big Tech: The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Meta’s appeal in Vermont’s social media addiction lawsuit, letting the case proceed. Public Safety & Courts: A Burlington man accused of stalking Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak pleaded not guilty and faces conditions barring contact. Business & Infrastructure: Fairfax is starting a roughly 1,500-foot sidewalk extension on Main Street with new flashing crosswalk signs to improve walkability and support local businesses. Health & Consumer Watch: Target-linked organic baby formula Nara Organics is recalled nationwide after infant botulism cases. Crime & Sentencing: A Derby-area murder suspect in federal court was sentenced to 13 years on drug charges, with additional state homicide exposure.