Water Affordability: A new 10-year national study finds U.S. households are paying 62% more for drinking water than a decade ago, with water bills rising faster than inflation, groceries, and incomes—pressuring families and widening gaps between public and private water systems. Heating Costs in NH: As oil prices stay high, NH residents are falling behind on winter heating bills; advocates say LIHEAP and other assistance may not keep up with projected seasonal costs. NH Housing & Construction: WalletHub reports New Hampshire mortgage rates jumped about a full point in mid-2026, adding to housing strain. In Bedford, a construction worker died after being injured by a steamroller; OSHA and police are investigating. Energy & Grid: At a UNH forum, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen shifted left on energy policy, criticizing GOP-backed natural gas pipeline expansion and arguing for restoring wind/solar incentives. Regional Nuclear Push: New England governors and officials are aligning on a regional nuclear roadmap, with NH’s energy commissioner saying no single state can build new nuclear alone. Defense/Tech: Leidos completed a joint venture with Altaris, keeping a 41.5% stake, to run Analogic-branded airport and border security screening operations from Salem, NH. Healthcare Access: Dana-Farber joined US Family Health Plan of Southern New England, expanding in-network cancer care for TRICARE Prime beneficiaries in NH and nearby states. Politics & Cost of Living: Trump’s $500 ACA refund checks are going heavily to midterm battleground states, while SNAP benefit rules tighten and NH providers report rising food insecurity.