Hemp & Consumer Protection: South Dakota AG Jackley joined a 34-state coalition urging Congress to keep the November 2025 federal hemp definition in place, warning reopening loopholes could boost youth access to intoxicating hemp products. Utility & Energy Oversight: The S.C. Public Service Commission adopted a procedural schedule for the Dominion Energy–NextEra merger review, with a Dec. 8 hearing and a final decision expected by late January 2027. Elections & Voting Rules: S.C. House Bill 958 cleared the House on a party-line vote, shortening early voting for primaries/special elections and allowing use of federal databases to screen voter rolls, while critics warn about due process. Public Safety & Ports: The U.S. Coast Guard completed salvage of a collapsed crane in Charleston’s Cooper River, lifting the final submerged section and reopening normal vessel traffic. Workforce & Training: The Technical College of the Lowcountry received a $5.9M federal grant to finish the Arthur E. Brown Regional Workforce Training Center in Bluffton, targeting advanced manufacturing careers. Broadband Expansion: Wire 3 announced a $36M fiber build into Anderson, aiming to connect first customers this fall and expand to other Upstate communities. School Bus Safety: The S.C. Highway Patrol reminded drivers to stop for school buses with flashing red lights and stop arms as classes resume. Local Business Growth: River Horse Digital Marketing marked 20 years in the Lowcountry, while Minuteman Press franchise owner Ken Holloway earned President’s Club status for both Columbia and Myrtle Beach locations.