State Budget Watch: Rhode Island’s FY27 budget proposal would rise by about $523 million to $14.34 billion, with healthcare and human services taking 45% of spending and a $600 million bond package for capital projects, while critics warn growth is outpacing inflation. Workforce & Community Investment: Citizens Financial Group is putting $1.65 million into Rhode Island workforce development and financial education, including a tuition-free banking micro-pathway with CCRI and a paid information security apprenticeship. Nonprofit Support: Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation awarded $562,000 in grants across RI and CT, including emergency food delivery for homebound seniors after the 2026 winter storm. Banking in Action: Bristol County Savings Bank closed branches for an employee volunteer day, sending 300+ staff to 18 nonprofits and municipal sites in southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Lottery Revenue: Rhode Island Lottery sales fell 7% year-over-year in April to $24.7 million, driven by weaker instant game sales. Hospitality & Local Economy: Gov. Dan McKee signed a law letting towns extend bar and restaurant hours during the World Cup, with alcohol service until 3 a.m. and closing until 4 a.m. Workplace Health Policy: Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson signed an order pushing state agencies to standardize menopause and perimenopause accommodations, aiming to retain experienced workers. Public Safety & Accountability: The Rhode Island Senate is set to vote on an amended clergy sex abuse “revival window” bill, which would reopen expired claims from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028.