Higher Ed Budget Cuts: More universities are cutting jobs as state funding shortfalls, enrollment worries, and rising costs squeeze budgets, with some pointing to uncertainty around federal research funding and international student demand. Retirement Investment Fight: Oregon’s Dana Nessel joined a 24-state coalition challenging a Trump administration proposal that would steer more retirement money into riskier alternatives like crypto and private credit. Ocean Monitoring at Risk: Scientists warn that an ocean sensor network off the Oregon coast is being decommissioned under federal cuts, starting with a planned buoy retrieval on June 16. Workforce & Safety: Washington regulators opened a six-month workplace safety investigation into the Nippon Dynawave chemical tank implosion that killed 11 workers, as questions swirl over pay during shutdown. Construction Costs: Diesel prices in Oregon have surged, and contractors say the jump is forcing higher bids and threatening major roadwork budgets. State Transportation Leadership: Gov. Kotek tapped Chris Warner to temporarily lead ODOT as the agency faces long-term funding uncertainty after voters rejected gas tax hikes. Local Business Growth: Caring for Others, a Redmond-based in-home care provider, is expanding to new locations in Medford and Lincoln City. Portland Development: Portland State University selected Colas Development Group for exclusive talks on a $70M 150-room hotel and conference center near a future performing arts hub. Politics & Elections: Salem city officials declined to settle a challenge aimed at disqualifying City Council candidate Betsy Vega, with the race still extremely tight.