Extreme Heat Watch: A heat dome is pushing dangerous weekend temperatures across the Plains, with heat index values climbing above 100°F and higher humidity raising the risk of heat illness for North Dakotans and travelers. SNAP Changes in ND: USDA approved North Dakota’s Healthy Choice Waiver, limiting SNAP purchases of items like candy, soda, and energy drinks starting Sept. 1 for two years, with possible extensions. Foodborne Parasite Update: Cyclosporiasis linked to recalled lettuce has spread to 41 states, with North Dakota reporting first cases this summer; CDC says thousands are sick and many cases are still being confirmed. Medicaid Work Requirements: ND HHS is preparing to implement federal work requirements for Medicaid Expansion adults ages 19–64 starting Jan. 1, 2027, affecting an estimated 5,000–7,000 people, with possible “medically frail” exclusions. Substance Use Treatment Access: ND HHS marked a decade of its SUD Voucher program, with 11,690 North Dakotans approved since 2015 to help remove cost barriers to treatment. Local Care Shifts: Altru Health System will close its eye-care department after July 31, prompting patients to find new providers. Chronic Pain Research Push: U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer joined a bipartisan bill to improve chronic pain research and build a centralized information hub for better non-opioid care. Public Health in Action: U.S. Air Force Reserve conducted aerial mosquito control over Watford City to reduce adult mosquitoes and lower risk of mosquito-borne illness. Medicare Milestone: Noridian is celebrating 60 years supporting Medicare administration in North Dakota and nationwide. Baby-Swap Lawsuit: Two men sued a North Dakota hospital after DNA tests allegedly showed they were switched at birth 38 years ago.