Rural Health Funding Scrutiny (Montana): Montana halted a nearly $25M rural health award after concerns about a conflict of interest tied to a consultant’s prior role in drafting the state’s federal application. Mental Health Investment (Texas): Travis County approved a 6% Central Health tax rate increase to fund new mental health crisis services, including inpatient psychiatric beds and a crisis center. Public Health Alert (Bronx Legionnaires’): New York reported the Bronx outbreak rose to 11 confirmed Legionnaires’ cases, with one death and ongoing cooling-tower remediation and community outreach. Infectious Disease Updates (US/Local): Federal officials reported rising rabies cases; a hand, foot and mouth disease investigation is underway at a Kane County high school. Access to Care (Rural Clinics): Walmart launched a rural “health ambassador” pharmacist pilot, while a free mobile clinic in Topeka offered blood-pressure checks and screenings for uninsured residents. Health System Changes (Hospital Ops): Dartmouth Health cut 124 jobs and canceled 303 openings to improve financial sustainability, while Parkridge Valley Hospital named a new CEO. Policy & Rights (India): India’s health ministry told the Delhi High Court that same-sex partners can be nominated medical representatives, rejecting exclusion based on sexual orientation. Cardiovascular Disparities (US): An American Heart Association report found only 1 in 5 Hispanic adults has ideal heart health, with high rates of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity driving earlier heart failure.