Health Care & Disability Employment: UVM Health’s Project SEARCH wrapped up with eight graduates, including Juno (Down syndrome and Type 1 diabetes), showing how structured workplace rotations can build independence and job-ready skills. Legislative Health Policy: Vermont lawmakers advanced a bill to speed up “reference-based” pricing tied to Medicare benchmarks, aiming to cut health costs, as Gov. Phil Scott faces pressure over whether to veto. Public Safety & Environment: Vermont State Police reported VT Route 100 shut down in Hyde Park due to a fire incident, while the Village of Barton secured permits to replace a damaged Pageant Park Road culvert this summer to better handle extreme flooding. Housing & Consumer Costs: A national report highlights renters paying non-refundable application and screening fees that don’t follow them if they’re rejected—adding friction to an already tight market. Politics & Accountability: Burlington officials defended police actions during an ICE operation after a review found alleged use-of-force violations “exonerated” or “unfounded,” with complaints still under scrutiny. Sports: UVM men’s lacrosse coach Chris Feifs stepped down after 10 years to become Virginia’s defensive coordinator/associate head coach. Agriculture & Community: Vermont’s Agricultural Hall of Fame named 2026 inductees, including Emerging Leader Courtney Banach and Innovator Heather Darby, to be honored at the Champlain Valley Fair.