Utility Ownership & Oversight: Over 50 NM groups and 1,400 residents are urging state leaders to invest $400 million in TXNM Energy (PNM’s parent) instead of letting private equity take control, after PRC findings said a prior deal violated state law—raising fresh questions about how the Public Regulation Commission will protect ratepayers. Public Health & Wildlife: New Mexico reported another plague case in wildlife after a wild rat tested positive in Santa Fe County, following multiple dog cases earlier this year; officials say it’s a warning, not evidence of a widespread outbreak. Mining & Water: Sierra County residents can weigh in at a Sept. 17 hearing on the Copper Flat Mine’s revised permit, including a proposed dry-stack tailings design aimed at cutting freshwater demand by about 84%. Climate & Fire Risk: A national wildfire roundup notes 2026 has already burned far more land than last year, driven by hotter extremes, drier conditions, and wind. Weather: Labor Day Monday isn’t a washout, but expect scattered storms and possible burn-scar flooding, with daily shower chances continuing into the week. Health Research: UNM researchers in Taos are studying hantavirus in deer mice to better understand spread and treatments. Pollution Innovation: A Hawaii science fair winner used coconut-based fungi to help filter plastic and sunscreen pollutants from ocean water.