Bottle Bill Shake-Up: Vermont’s new bottle bill law (HB 915) kicks in July 1, raising handling fees paid to redemption centers and retailers—pushing back against claims from small businesses and distributors that it could add about $2 million in costs passed to drink prices. Maine Senate Fallout: Graham Platner’s campaign is roiled after a woman accused him of drunken sexual assault; Platner denies it and says he’s “reflecting on the best path forward,” while prominent Democrats pull endorsements and party leaders say they won’t fund the race unless he withdraws. Healthcare Access in Rural Vermont: Copley Hospital will open the Copley Express Lab in Morrisville on Aug. 3, aiming to keep testing local and avoid routing services out of state. Education Freedom Tax Credit Limits: Vermont enacted H.933 to restrict how EFTC scholarships can be used, narrowing eligibility for independent schools and limiting scholarship purposes. Microfiber Rules Proposed: A Vermont lawmaker proposes phased microfiber filtration requirements for washing machines sold in the state and for commercial laundry. Local Business Watch: Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak says the city is “back,” but downtown leaders warn it may be a temporary blip amid ongoing cost and homelessness concerns.