Energy & Costs: North Dakota Rep. Julie Fedorchak backed the U.S. approach of using economic and financial pressure on Iran to curb its nuclear and military capabilities, aiming to avoid a costly direct conflict. Gas Prices: A Reuters report says Labor Day weekend could bring record-high U.S. gasoline prices, with the national average projected to hit about $4.03 a gallon. State Economy: North Dakota Tax Commissioner Brian Kroshus reported Q2 2026 taxable sales and purchases rose 3.86% year over year to $7.39 billion, led by retail trade (+4.4%) and real estate/accommodations (+4.7% and +1.4%), while oil, gas and mining fell (-8.8%). Workforce & Growth: ND Next, a rural economic development conference, is set for Sept. 30–Oct. 1 in Carrington, bringing entrepreneurs and community leaders together across multiple venues. Business & Community: Grand Forks Central’s marketing program earned the state’s top CTE Director’s Award of Excellence, highlighting work-based learning for students. Policy Watch: North Dakota lawmakers wrapped a special session push that kept natural kratom regulated while targeting synthetic kratom derivatives, with the American Kratom Association praising the final bill.