Targeted News Service

MADISON, Wisconsin, Feb. 5 -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release on Feb. 4, 2026:

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Stewardship Friends Grants Approved For 32 DNR Improvement Projects

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced the approval of Stewardship funding for Friends Grants to 29 nonprofit organizations for improvements at DNR-managed properties across the state. The State Building Commission approved the funding for 32 projects totaling $499,144 in Stewardship grant dollars, leveraging $572,061 in matching contributions and $3 million in total ... Show Full Article

N.M. Economic Development Dept.: Technology and Innovation Office Awards Innovation Infrastructure Grants

SANTA FE, New Mexico, Feb. 5 -- The New Mexico Department of Economic Development issued the following news release on Feb. 4, 2026:

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Technology and Innovation Office awards innovation infrastructure grants

The New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) Technology and Innovation Office has awarded $2.7 million in grants to two organizations to develop and expand the physical infrastructure that supports innovation, entrepreneurship and technology commercialization across the state.

For this inaugural award cycle, Albuquerque-based New Mexico Venture Studios secured $2 million to ... Show Full Article SANTA FE, New Mexico, Feb. 5 -- The New Mexico Department of Economic Development issued the following news release on Feb. 4, 2026: * * * Technology and Innovation Office awards innovation infrastructure grants The New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) Technology and Innovation Office has awarded $2.7 million in grants to two organizations to develop and expand the physical infrastructure that supports innovation, entrepreneurship and technology commercialization across the state. For this inaugural award cycle, Albuquerque-based New Mexico Venture Studios secured $2 million tobuild a life-sciences lab, and the Santa Fe-based New Mexico Innovation Hub won $700,000 to develop an innovation campus in Santa Fe's emerging Midtown corridor.

With the Innovation Hubs Grant, New Mexico Venture Studios will transform an existing Albuquerque warehouse into a specialized wet lab, dry lab and office space. This investment addresses a critical infrastructure gap that often forces life science and deep tech startups to leave the state in search of suitable facilities.

The laboratory and workspace will be designed to support company formation and scale-up, enabling startups to commercialize research, retain intellectual property and generate economic impact within New Mexico.

With support from the Innovation Hubs Grant, New Mexico Innovation Hub will renovate Benildus Hall in Santa Fe Midtown as the home of a new state-of-the-art innovation campus. The 32,000-square-foot facility will provide essential infrastructure, including advanced prototyping equipment, a high-performance computing cluster, lab space, offices and event space.

These resources will support early-stage companies, workforce development and cross-sector collaboration, creating a center of gravity for New Mexico's innovation economy and attracting top talent and companies from around the world.

The awardees were selected through a competitive evaluation process that included their expected contributions to economic growth and diversification and their alignment with one or more of the division's priority sectors: advanced computing, advanced energy, aerospace and defense systems, and bioscience.

The New Mexico Innovation Hub Grant supports the creation and improvement of labs, offices, prototyping space and collaborative environments that provide the foundational resources companies need to start, scale and succeed in New Mexico. Launched in 2025 with new legislative funding, the program is designed to address gaps in entrepreneurial infrastructure as identified in the state's Science & Technology roadmap. Both workspaces will become operational within a year.

"This funding supports the building of spaces where ideas become innovations," said EDD Cabinet Secretary Rob Black. "By strengthening the physical infrastructure that supports and connects innovators, investors, scientists, and academics, we're ensuring New Mexico has the capacity to turn ideas into companies and companies into long-term economic drivers."

"New Mexico's innovation ecosystem doesn't just depend on our research depth and innovative spirit -- it also requires access to the right spaces and facilities," said Nora Meyers Sackett, director of the Technology and Innovation Office. "These new grants address critical infrastructure gaps and help ensure that companies can start, scale, and stay in New Mexico."

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Original text here: https://edd.newmexico.gov/pr/tio-ih-awardees-26/

Mich. Health & Human Services Dept.: State Sealant Program Expands With Delta Dental Foundation Grant

LANSING, Michigan, Feb. 5 -- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued the following news release on Feb. 4, 2026:

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State sealant program expands with Delta Dental Foundation grant

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is celebrating National Children's Dental Health Month by announcing a $320,000 grant from the Delta Dental Foundation (DDF) to sustain and expand SEAL! Michigan. DDF has provided more than $3 million to support SEAL! Michigan and community water fluoridation since 2010.

"Good oral health starts early and prevention makes a lifelong ... Show Full Article LANSING, Michigan, Feb. 5 -- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued the following news release on Feb. 4, 2026: * * * State sealant program expands with Delta Dental Foundation grant The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is celebrating National Children's Dental Health Month by announcing a $320,000 grant from the Delta Dental Foundation (DDF) to sustain and expand SEAL! Michigan. DDF has provided more than $3 million to support SEAL! Michigan and community water fluoridation since 2010. "Good oral health starts early and prevention makes a lifelongdifference," said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. "This grant allows us to reach more students with screenings and sealants that can prevent cavities, reduce pain and missed school days, and support children's health and success both in and out of the classroom."

"Preventive care should be the backbone of our oral health delivery system," said Holli Seabury, EdD, executive director of the DDF. "Sealants can help prevent tooth decay and reduce the need for more complicated, costly treatment later in life."

This year, two additional local health departments -- District Health Department No. 2 and the Mid-Michigan District Health Department -- will join the SEAL! Michigan program, increasing the number of children receiving oral health screenings and sealant placement.

Oral health is an integral part of overall health, especially for children. Healthy teeth can help children eat nutritious foods, speak and smile, which in turn boosts confidence and self-esteem. Preventing pain from tooth decay can also help sustain focus on schoolwork.

During the last school year, SEAL! Michigan provided oral health screenings to 10,700 Michigan children, noting that almost one-third needed early dental care and 35% had untreated cavities. In total, SEAL! Michigan teams applied more than 41,000 sealants.

Dental sealants coat the dips and grooves on the surface of teeth, preventing bacteria and food from getting caught and causing cavities. SEAL! Michigan offers sealants, dental screenings, fluoride applications and oral health education to elementary and middle school students -- all during the school day.

For more information about SEAL! Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/OralHealth.

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Original text here: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/inside-mdhhs/newsroom/2026/02/04/state-sealant-program-expands-with-delta-dental-foundation-grant

Mass. Environmental Protection Dept.: Clean Water Trust Approves $41.8 Million in New Loans at Its February Meeting

BOSTON, Massachusetts, Feb. 5 -- The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Feb. 4, 2026:

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Clean Water Trust Approves $41.8 Million in New Loans at its February Meeting

The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust's (the Trust) Board of Trustees approved $41,780,305 in new low-interest loans at its meeting on February 4, 2026. Below is information on the loans approved at the meeting.

The Trust, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), helps communities build or replace water infrastructure that ... Show Full Article BOSTON, Massachusetts, Feb. 5 -- The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on Feb. 4, 2026: * * * Clean Water Trust Approves $41.8 Million in New Loans at its February Meeting The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust's (the Trust) Board of Trustees approved $41,780,305 in new low-interest loans at its meeting on February 4, 2026. Below is information on the loans approved at the meeting. The Trust, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), helps communities build or replace water infrastructure thatenhances ground and surface water resources, ensures the safety of drinking water, protects public health and develops resilient communities. It accomplishes these objectives by providing low-interest loans and grants to cities, towns and water utilities through the Massachusetts State Revolving Funds (SRFs). The SRF programs are partnerships between the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. SRFs function like an environmental infrastructure bank by financing water infrastructure projects in cities and towns across the Commonwealth.

[View table in the link at bottom.]

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For More Information

For more information on our different loan programs, please visit the SRF Programs page and our Loan Forgiveness Program page. For information on past meetings or to find project descriptions, please visit the Board of Trustees Meeting Information page. For information on how to apply for an SRF loan, please visit Mass DEP's State Revolving Fund Applications and Forms page.

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About the Clean Water Trust

Since its establishment in 1989, the Trust has loaned roughly $10.4 billion to improve and maintain the quality of water in the Commonwealth. An estimated 97 percent of Massachusetts' residents have benefited from the financial assistance of the Trust.

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Original text here: https://www.mass.gov/news/clean-water-trust-approves-418-million-in-new-loans-at-its-february-meeting

LDH Expands the Louisiana Carrot Initiative to East Baton Rouge and Orleans Parishes

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, Feb. 5 -- The Louisiana Department of Health issued the following news on Feb. 4, 2026:

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LDH expands the Louisiana Carrot Initiative to East Baton Rouge and Orleans parishes

Project encourages more fresh fruit and vegetable purchases among SNAP recipients

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The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) expanded the Louisiana Carrot Initiative to Walmart stores in East Baton Rouge and Orleans parishes on February 4.

The initiative, formerly known as the produce bonus project or eHIP, provides Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients with a 30-cent ... Show Full Article BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, Feb. 5 -- The Louisiana Department of Health issued the following news on Feb. 4, 2026: * * * LDH expands the Louisiana Carrot Initiative to East Baton Rouge and Orleans parishes Project encourages more fresh fruit and vegetable purchases among SNAP recipients * The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) expanded the Louisiana Carrot Initiative to Walmart stores in East Baton Rouge and Orleans parishes on February 4. The initiative, formerly known as the produce bonus project or eHIP, provides Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients with a 30-centbonus for every dollar spent on fresh produce at participating retailers. Participants can earn up to $25 in bonus benefits each month, which are automatically credited to their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to purchase SNAP-eligible groceries at any retailer accepting SNAP benefits.

"Expanding the Louisiana Carrot Initiative into East Baton Rouge and Orleans parishes means roughly 135,000 Louisianans will have access to this innovative project. By incenting purchases of fresh produce, we are encouraging SNAP recipients to eat healthier, which leads to long-term health outcomes for Louisiana's most vulnerable populations. From improved childhood nutrition to reduced risk of chronic disease in adults, this incentive makes the healthy choice the easy choice," said LDH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein.

Since the initiative's launch in April 2025, Louisiana SNAP shoppers have received nearly $884,000 in bonus benefits through the Louisiana Carrot Initiative. Research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service shows that participants in Healthy Incentive Projects consume 26% more fruits and vegetables than non-participants.

East Baton Rouge and Orleans parishes join Ascension, Calcasieu, Jackson, Lafayette, LaSalle, Rapides, Sabine, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Webster, and West Carroll parishes already taking part in the project.

LDH is actively engaging additional retailers throughout the state to expand the Louisiana Carrot Initiative to all 64 parishes.

For more information and a complete list of participating retailers, visit ldh.la.gov/page/ehip.

Non-Discrimination Statement

In accordance with federal civil rights law and USDA civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the state or local agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call 866-632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

Mail: USDA Food and Nutrition Service, 1320 Braddock Place, Room 334, Alexandria, VA 22314

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Original text here: https://ldh.la.gov/news/la-carrot-initiative

Committee Supports Maine State Sen. Ingwersen Bill to Promote Mental Health and Wellness in Heritage Industries

AUGUSTA, Maine, Feb. 5 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel:

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Committee supports Sen. Ingwersen bill to promote mental health and wellness in heritage industries

On Tuesday, Feb. 3, the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee gave its unanimous, bipartisan support to a bill from Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel. LD 2144, "Resolve, to Establish a Working Group to Prioritize Wellness and Mental Health Resources for Heritage Industries," seeks to promote mental health and wellness in heritage industries. It ... Show Full Article AUGUSTA, Maine, Feb. 5 -- The Maine Senate Democrats issued the following news on behalf of Maine State Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel: * * * Committee supports Sen. Ingwersen bill to promote mental health and wellness in heritage industries On Tuesday, Feb. 3, the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee gave its unanimous, bipartisan support to a bill from Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel. LD 2144, "Resolve, to Establish a Working Group to Prioritize Wellness and Mental Health Resources for Heritage Industries," seeks to promote mental health and wellness in heritage industries. Itwould create a working group that will convene and produce policy recommendations to address the mental health needs of Maine's farmers, fishermen and loggers.

"Heritage industries are the backbone of Maine's economy and culture," said Sen. Ingwersen. "These jobs are physically and emotionally demanding over long, hard hours. They also can result in isolation. The lack of physical and mental health resources in rural communities, along with the stigma of seeking help, adds to the complications. My hope is that this working group can dig into these challenges, eventually giving more proactive support to these workers themselves."

As proposed, the working group would include members from the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry; the Department of Health and Human Services; the Department of Marine Resources; the University of Maine Cooperative Extension; the agriculture industry, the fishing industry; the forestry or logging industry; a statewide mental health services organization; an occupational health and safety organization; an expert in rural public health services; and a statewide organization that delivers community services.

During the work session, the Committee agreed on an additional duty: To examine the impact of a lack of access to primary care services in rural areas, which is where heritage industries are mostly located.

If approved, the working group would produce a report by Dec. 1, 2026. It would authorize the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry; the Committee on Health and Human Services; and the Committee on Marine Resources to submit legislation to the 133rd Maine Legislature in 2027.

Recently, the Extension conducted a survey, revealing that 61% of respondents from agriculture, aquaculture, and wild-harvest fisheries identified the need for increased public education to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health. Suicide rates remain higher for agriculture, fishing and forestry occupation groups.

In the coming weeks, LD 2144 will face votes in the full Senate and House.

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Original text here: https://www.mainesenate.org/committee-supports-sen-ingwersen-bill-to-promote-mental-health-and-wellness-in-heritage-industries/

Commission on Judicial Selection Recommends Fifth Judicial District Candidates to Minn. Gov. Walz

ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Feb. 5 -- Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minnesota, issued the following news release:

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Commission on Judicial Selection Recommends Fifth Judicial District Candidates to Governor Walz

The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota's Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista J. Jass. This seat will be chambered in Mankato in Blue Earth County.

Susan DeVos: Susan DeVos is an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney's ... Show Full Article ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Feb. 5 -- Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minnesota, issued the following news release: * * * Commission on Judicial Selection Recommends Fifth Judicial District Candidates to Governor Walz The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota's Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista J. Jass. This seat will be chambered in Mankato in Blue Earth County. Susan DeVos: Susan DeVos is an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney'sOffice, where she represents the county in numerous areas, including child protection, civil commitment, postconviction, and appeals. She is a member of the Blue Earth County Family Dependency Treatment Court, Blue Earth County Child Protection Team, Children's Justice Initiative, and Yellow Line Project. DeVos was previously an associate attorney at Meagher & Geer and a law clerk to the Honorable R.A. (Jim) Randall on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes volunteering backstage for Mankato Ballet Company productions and as a judge for the McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court.

Stephen Lindee: Stephen Lindee is an assistant public defender in the Fifth Judicial District Public Defender's Office in Fairmont, where he represents clients charged with felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors. He was previously the county attorney in the Watonwan County Attorney's Office, where he prosecuted criminal matters ranging from serious felonies to speeding tickets, as well as child protection and juvenile cases. Lindee was previously a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Jeffrey L. Flynn in Minnesota's Fifth Judicial District. His community involvement includes serving on the St. James City Council, the church council for St. Paul's Lutheran, and coaching baseball for the St. James Youth Baseball Association.

Julianna Passe: Julianna Passe is an assistant county attorney in the Lyon County Attorney's Office, where she focuses on criminal prosecution, appeals, and child support. She previously served as an assistant county attorney in the Kandiyohi County Attorney's Office and as an assistant attorney general with the Minnesota Attorney General's Office, where she represented the State of Minnesota in employment, tort, and constitutional litigation. Passe also clerked for the Honorable Carol A. Hooten on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes playing with a community band, volunteering as a high school mock trial judge, and serving on the appellate committee of the Minnesota County Attorneys Association.

For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the Governor's Judicial Appointments webpage (https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/).

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Original text here: https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/722772

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