Medicaid & Health Policy: Arkansas is starting a “soft launch” of Medicaid work requirements ahead of next year, aiming to test eligibility checks while the state’s healthcare system stays under heavy strain. Water Quality & Agriculture: A decade-long USGS study finds pesticide pollution in Midwest and Great Plains rivers is widespread, with scientists monitoring 80 chemicals across 81 sites and warning sampling can miss spikes after runoff. Conservation: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated about 3,814 river miles of critical habitat across 17 states for four endangered freshwater mussels, including waterways in Arkansas. STEM Education in Arkansas: Lyon College’s new dental school completed its first year, reaching all 75 Arkansas counties through outreach and preventive care. Local Science & Research: The Arkansas Archeological Survey received a $150,000 federal grant to support repatriation of ancestral remains and related items, with hands-on work for University of Arkansas students. Public Health & Safety: Arkansas SNAP benefits will no longer cover sodas, candy, and other unhealthy items starting July 1, shifting those purchases to private funds. Space/Defense Tech (Global): Rafael plans to produce Iron Dome interceptor missiles in India to strengthen supply chains and reduce vulnerability during regional conflict.