AI Policy: Sen. Chuck Schumer says AI legislation needs to be “balanced,” but admits the current Congress may not be able to pass it amid deep divides over whether to preempt state AI rules. Privacy & Surveillance: Maine Rep. David Boyer pushes a bill to bar municipalities and police from using AI license plate readers, arguing they enable warrantless tracking. Data Centers Backlash: A Reuters/Ipsos poll finds only 33% of Americans approve of rapid data-center growth for AI, and 57% would oppose one in their own community—fueling pressure for local limits. Maine Higher Ed: The University of Maine System Board begins the search for a new chancellor after Dannel Malloy’s contract extension runs to June 2028. UMaine Research & Farming: UMaine Extension schedules free workshops on innovative dairy technologies, including manure and milking robots and wearable monitoring. Health & Environment: A new national analysis reports mesothelioma deaths and diagnoses are still rising despite asbestos regulation, with uneven impacts across states and women. Outdoor Learning: A UMaine-led study highlights strategies to help schools build outdoor education into everyday curriculum and culture. Construction in Maine: PC Construction’s Shawn Walsh Hockey Center and Alfond Arena renovation earned a third major industry award, including CMAA’s New England Project of the Year.