Rhode Island

President Donald Trump personally intervened to block $227 million in federal disaster aid to New Jersey, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York following a record-breaking February blizzard, overriding recommendations from FEMA and NOAA that all four states met aid requirements. Politico reviewed emails and over 150 pages of documents confirming the agencies' approvals. Since George W. Bush's presidency, 69 snow assistance requests met FEMA standards, with only one prior denial (New Mexico in 2016 under investigation). The Trump administration denies political motivation, but earlier in July 2026, officials admitted in court to deliberately canceling clean energy funding to states that did not vote for Trump in 2024. The president has also withheld childcare funding from blue states. The article also notes planned cuts to Medicare Part D subsidies, potentially raising premiums for millions of seniors ahead of midterm elections.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 12:49 PM UTC

This article profiles Ruth McGinnis (1910-?), an American billiards prodigy who overcame gender barriers in the early 20th century. Born in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, she began playing in her father's barbershop at age seven, standing on a soapbox to reach the table. By age 10, she achieved a run of 47 balls in Straight Pool (14/1 endless). After earning a sports teaching degree in 1932, she couldn't find work and instead joined the 'Better Billiards' campaign, giving exhibitions and defeating local champions. In 1933, she decisively beat multi-sport star Babe Didrikson Zaharias 400-62 in a six-day match. In 1937, she defeated world champion Ralph Greenleaf. Despite her skill, she was barred from official tournaments and had to maintain decorum. In 1942, she became the first woman to compete in the New York State Championships, winning several matches. She later opened her own billiard academy in Rhode Island.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:14 PM UTC

A decade-long, $10 million conservation effort involving 35 organizations across 16 states has led to a 45% increase in American oystercatcher populations along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The birds, which were largely wiped out in New England by 1900 due to hunting and egg collecting, are now recovering through measures including fencing off nesting sites, trapping predators like skunks and raccoons, and educating beachgoers. Biologists recently banded chicks at Rhode Island's Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge as part of the nationwide restoration. The effort, led by Manomet Conservation Sciences and the American Oystercatcher Working Group, focused on improving chick survival rates. The recovery is notable given that most North American shorebird populations are declining, and demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted conservation before species become endangered.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 12:33 PM UTC

Hasbro raised its full-year 2026 financial outlook on July 21, 2026, after Magic: The Gathering surpassed $500 million in quarterly revenue for the first time, driving a 16% jump in overall company sales. The Pawtucket, Rhode Island-based company lifted its full-year revenue growth target to 5%-7% in constant currency, up from 3%-5%, and raised adjusted EBITDA guidance to $1.45-$1.50 billion. Second-quarter revenue reached $1.14 billion, beating analyst expectations of $1.07 billion, with adjusted earnings of $1.28 per share above the $1.14 consensus. The Wizards of the Coast and Digital Gaming segment led with 27% revenue growth to $663.8 million, fueled by the Marvel Super Heroes set debut. Consumer Products revenue grew 5% to $463 million, while Entertainment segment revenue fell 20%. The company recorded a net profit of $160.9 million, reversing a year-ago loss of $855.8 million. A cybersecurity breach identified in late March cut roughly $25 million from quarterly revenue and added $11 million in expenses. Hasbro returned $133 million to shareholders and paid down $55 million in debt during the quarter.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 12:18 PM UTC

The article reports that in February 2026, a historic bomb cyclone struck the northeastern US, dumping nearly 40 inches of snow on Providence, Rhode Island, and causing widespread damage across Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. Despite documented damages far exceeding federal thresholds, FEMA denied major disaster declaration requests from all four Democratic trifecta states. The Revolving Door Project found that under the Trump administration, 89% of Republican state requests were approved versus only 23% for Democratic states. The administration, guided by Project 2025 and the FEMA Review Council, aims to shift disaster response to state and local governments, reserving federal aid only for catastrophic events. Critics argue this transforms disaster relief into a political weapon against perceived adversaries.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 09:00 AM UTC

The article reports that the Trump administration denied major disaster declaration requests from four Democratic-controlled Northeastern states (New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island) following a historic February bomb cyclone that dumped record snowfall, caused two deaths, and left tens of thousands without power. Despite documented damages exceeding federal thresholds, FEMA rejected all four requests. Data from the Revolving Door Project shows that Republican states had 89% of their disaster requests approved, while Democratic states had only 23% approved. The administration's FEMA Review Council proposes shifting disaster response primarily to state and local governments, reserving federal aid only for catastrophic events. Critics argue this transforms disaster relief into a political weapon against perceived adversaries.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 09:00 AM UTC

Business Insider reports on consumer confusion and fear amid a Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce and Taylor Farms. Five salad enthusiasts describe their strategies, from avoiding bagged lettuce to cutting fresh produce entirely. The parasite causes cyclosporiasis, with symptoms including explosive diarrhea. While no deaths have been reported, the outbreak has disrupted eating habits, especially for those who rely on salads for convenience and nutrition. Some consumers have switched to cooked vegetables or local farm produce, while others express frustration over changing guidance. The article highlights the emotional and practical impact on lettuce lovers during the summer season.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:59 AM UTC

A decade-long, $10 million conservation effort involving 35 coastal organizations across 16 U.S. states has led to a significant recovery of the American Oystercatcher bird population. From 2008 to 2023, numbers increased by 45% along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, a notable success given that most North American shorebird populations are declining. The campaign focused on educating beachgoers, protecting ground nesting sites from predators and pets, and implementing tailored plans for different sites addressing threats like recreational disturbance, predators, and sea level rise. Key measures included seasonal fencing, signage, predator control, and leveraging federal protections for the threatened piping plover, which shares nesting habitats. The recovery demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated, sustained conservation partnerships.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:45 PM UTC

This article from The Week UK showcases six classic homes along the New England coast, ranging from a Scottish-baronial-style mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, to a well-priced condo near Boston. Properties include a shingled five-bedroom cottage in Harpswell, Maine, with ocean frontage and a wraparound porch; an updated colonial in Darien, Connecticut, with a guest cottage and dock; a modern cedar-shingle home in Marshfield, Massachusetts, featuring a yoga studio and pond; a condo in a historic Newport estate designed by Peabody and Stearns; a relocated 1800s barn in Penobscot, Maine, on 18 acres; and a renovated two-bedroom condo in Lynn, Massachusetts, with ocean views and nearby beach access. Prices range from $359,000 to $5,895,000, with contact information for each listing agent.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:21 PM UTC

This article from The Week UK showcases six classic coastal homes in New England, ranging from a Scottish-baronial-style mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, to a well-priced condo near Boston in Lynn, Massachusetts. Properties include a shingled 1896 cottage in Bailey Island, Maine ($2.5M), a 1947 colonial in Darien, Connecticut ($5.895M), a modern cedar-shingle home in Marshfield, Massachusetts ($3.475M), a condo in a historic Newport estate ($2.95M), a relocated 1800s barn in Penobscot, Maine ($2.375M), and a renovated two-bedroom condo in Lynn, Massachusetts ($359,000). Each listing includes key features, lot size, and real estate agent contact information.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:21 PM UTC

Brothers Kirk McKinney (22) and Jacob McKinney (21) transformed a teenage side hustle into Junk Teens, a junk-removal company projected to exceed $5 million in revenue in 2026. Starting in 2021 with a $4,000 Ford F-150 and a $100 couch-moving job, they reinvested earnings and grew through word-of-mouth and social media. By 2022, sales exceeded $200,000; by 2023, they approached $1 million. In 2025, revenue hit $3 million. The company now employs 25 people, operates five dump trucks, and serves Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The brothers advise aspiring entrepreneurs to set realistic goals, focus on steady compounding effort, and prioritize building relationships and people skills.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 01:30 PM UTC

This article from Yahoo Finance analyzes the best U.S. states for retirees seeking to minimize state taxes on retirement income. It highlights that 41 states do not tax Social Security income, 37 do not tax most military retirement pay, 16 exempt pension income, and 9 have no income tax (including Washington, which taxes only high earners' capital gains). The article profiles seven states offering significant tax breaks: Arkansas (exempts up to $6,000 in pension/IRA income, no Social Security or military tax), Illinois (exempts pensions, 401(k)/IRA withdrawals, Social Security, and military pay), Iowa (no tax on pension/annuity/IRA income for those over 55, flat 3.8% tax rate as of 2025, eliminated inheritance tax), Mississippi (exempts retirement plan distributions, pensions, annuities, Social Security, and military pay), and New Hampshire (partial profile). The piece provides practical guidance for retirees evaluating state tax burdens on various income sources including Social Security, pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs, and military retirement pay.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 09:05 PM UTC

The article, written by a 20-year resident of Newport, Rhode Island, explores the dual nature of living in a top New England tourist destination. While the city offers stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and year-round events, the surge in tourism—over 3.5 million annual visitors—brings significant challenges. These include severe summer traffic congestion, long waits at popular cafes and restaurants, and exorbitant lodging rates for visiting friends and family. The author describes adapting by running errands early and avoiding peak dining times. Despite these drawbacks, the author expresses gratitude for Newport's lively, year-round atmosphere and the success of local businesses, emphasizing that the city remains a special place to live.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:20 PM UTC

This article is a weekly legal roundup from the Institute for Justice, summarizing nine notable rulings from U.S. federal courts of appeal. Key cases include: the D.C. Circuit ruling that challenges to USPS service changes must go through the Postal Regulatory Commission; the First Circuit striking down Rhode Island's extraterritorial dealership law under the Dormant Commerce Clause; the First Circuit affirming suppression of evidence from a wrong phone seized under a warrant; the First Circuit largely denying preliminary injunctions in a religious school funding case; the Second Circuit ordering temporary release for a Jamaican man needing kidney dialysis; the Second Circuit upholding New York City's congestion pricing toll; the Second Circuit upholding a ban on broker fees charged to tenants; the Second Circuit reversing exclusion of expert testimony in a prenatal acetaminophen lawsuit; and the Third Circuit addressing a doctor's critique of affirmative action policies.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 07:30 PM UTC

This weekly legal roundup from the Institute for Justice covers notable federal appeals court rulings. Cases include: the D.C. Circuit ruling that challenges to USPS service changes must go through the Postal Regulatory Commission; the First Circuit striking down Rhode Island's extraterritorial dealership law under the Dormant Commerce Clause; the First Circuit affirming suppression of evidence from a wrongly searched iPhone; the First Circuit largely denying preliminary injunctions in Maine religious school tuition cases; the Second Circuit ordering temporary release for a deportee needing kidney dialysis; the Second Circuit upholding New York City's congestion toll; the Second Circuit upholding NYC's broker fee ordinance; the Second Circuit reversing exclusion of expert testimony in acetaminophen/autism lawsuit; and a Third Circuit case about a doctor criticizing affirmative action policies.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 07:30 PM UTC

This week's edition of Short Circuit, a weekly feature from the Institute for Justice, summarizes nine notable rulings from U.S. federal courts of appeal. Cases include: the D.C. Circuit ruling that challenges to USPS service changes must go through the Postal Regulatory Commission; the First Circuit striking down Rhode Island's extraterritorial dealership law under the Dormant Commerce Clause; the First Circuit affirming suppression of evidence from a wrong phone seized under a warrant; the First Circuit largely denying preliminary injunctions in a religious school funding case; the Second Circuit ordering temporary release for a dialysis-needing deportee; the Second Circuit upholding New York City's congestion pricing toll; the Second Circuit upholding NYC's ban on broker fees from tenants; the Second Circuit reversing exclusion of expert witnesses in a prenatal acetaminophen lawsuit; and the Third Circuit addressing a doctor's critique of affirmative action.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 07:30 PM UTC

Kirk and Jacob McKinney, aged 22 and 21, started Junk Teens in 2021 with an $8,000 investment, primarily a $4,000 Ford F-150. The Massachusetts-based junk removal company is now on track to exceed $5 million in annual revenue, with 25 employees and operations across four regions. The brothers emphasize that the business has a low barrier to entry but requires speed, transparent pricing, and strong branding to stand out. They built their brand around being teenagers, initially called K&J Removal before rebranding to Junk Teens. The brothers saved money by being 'scrappy'—borrowing tools, using found items, and never buying basic supplies like trash barrels or shovels. They advise newcomers to focus on quick service, learn pricing by calling competitors, and build a trustworthy online presence.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 09:15 AM UTC

The Chariho Chargers softball team moved within one victory of a perfect regular season after defeating St. Raphael 4-1 on Senior Day. Pitcher Adriana Jeannenot delivered a dominant performance, striking out 13 batters and allowing only two hits and one earned run over seven innings. The Chargers' offense provided sufficient support through small ball tactics, including a wild pitch, a bunt single, and key extra-base hits from Norah Downing, Ella Alves, and senior shortstop Anna Tretton. Although St. Raphael’s Izzy Sousa hit a solo home run, her team could not generate further offense against Chariho’s flawless defense. The win improves Chariho’s record to 19-0 as they prepare for their final regular-season game against Cumberland before entering the playoffs. St. Raphael, last season's Division II champions, falls to 11-5 but remains a potential threat in the postseason. Players expressed confidence in their team's depth and momentum heading into the championship bracket.

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Ares Management, a leading private credit firm, significantly expanded its portfolio in the first quarter of 2026, having raised a record $30 billion during the period. According to its quarterly 13-F filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the firm initiated a new $53.3 million position in medical device manufacturer Integer Holdings. Additionally, Ares made initial investments in business development companies (BDCs) BlackRock TCP Capital and Carlyle Secured Lending. The asset manager also increased its stakes in 17 existing holdings, including Golub Capital BDC, Blue Owl Technology Finance, and its own BDC, Ares Capital Corp. This expansion occurs despite broader market pressures on the BDC sector due to concerns over lending standards and potential AI disruptions in software industries. In contrast to its aggressive buying strategy, Ares liquidated its entire stake in New Mountain Finance, which had recently sold a significant asset portfolio. The moves highlight Ares' continued dominance and strategic positioning in the alternative credit market.

1 reports · 1 sources

Roger Williams University (RWU) held its commencement ceremony for the Class of 2026 in Bristol, Rhode Island, celebrating 1,127 graduates from undergraduate, graduate, and law programs. The event marked the university's 70th anniversary. Dick Sullivan, former CEO of PGA TOUR Superstore and an RWU alumnus, delivered the keynote address and was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters for his leadership and support of students. Sullivan urged graduates to prioritize mentorship, describing it as trust and guidance that helps individuals believe in themselves before they are ready. He shared five key lessons from his career: work ethic, trust, the power of mentorship, core values, and lifelong learning. Drawing from his experiences at TJX Corporation, The Home Depot, and the Atlanta Falcons, Sullivan emphasized that hard work attracts mentors and that trust is foundational to professional growth. He encouraged graduates to both seek and become mentors, noting that changing one person's path can have a profound impact. Provost Margaret Everett highlighted the milestone anniversary, reflecting on decades of academic excellence. Over 72 percent of undergraduate graduates completed double majors or minors, showcasing the diverse academic achievements of the class.

1 reports · 1 sources

Dick Sullivan, former Executive Chairman and CEO of PGA TOUR Superstore and a 1979 alumnus of Roger Williams University (RWU), delivered the commencement address to the Class of 2026 in Bristol, Rhode Island. During the ceremony, Sullivan was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters for his leadership and support of students. He urged the 1,127 graduates to prioritize mentorship, describing it as the foundation of professional growth and personal development. Sullivan shared five key lessons derived from his career in retail and sports: work ethic, trust, the power of mentorship, core values, and lifelong learning. He illustrated these points with anecdotes from his early career at TJX Corporation and his tenure at The Home Depot, where he worked closely with co-founder Arthur Blank. Sullivan emphasized that hard work attracts mentors who invest in self-driven individuals and stated that trust is essential for all relationships. He encouraged graduates to use their education to open doors for others and to maintain a strong value system in both their professional and personal lives.

1 reports · 1 sources

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first to be hosted on American soil since 1994, Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. in Rhode Island has launched a new beer named "It's Called Soccer." The American Golden Ale, packaged in a red, white, and blue can, draws its name from the longstanding chant used by American fans to assert the sport's identity against global norms. The product highlights the historical and linguistic debate surrounding the terms "soccer" and "football." Originally coined at Oxford University in the 1880s as a abbreviation for "association football," the term was common in British English before becoming distinctly associated with American usage. Brendan O’Donnell, the brewery’s CEO, inspired the brand by his childhood memories of the 1994 World Cup. The beer is designed to be approachable and shared, reflecting the collective spirit of fandom. This launch occurs amidst declining alcohol consumption rates in the US, leveraging the World Cup's massive platform to connect cultural history with modern craft brewing.

1 reports · 1 sources

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first to be hosted in the United States since 1994, Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. in Rhode Island has launched a new beer named "It’s Called Soccer." The American Golden Ale serves as a tribute to the decades-long chant used by American fans to distinguish their sport from American football. The article explores the linguistic origins of the term "soccer," noting it was coined at Oxford University in the 1880s as a abbreviation of "association football." While the term was once common in British English, its usage declined there as it became strongly associated with American vernacular. Brendan O’Donnell, CEO of the brewery, drew inspiration from his childhood memories of the 1994 World Cup. This launch occurs amidst a challenging market for the beer industry, with consumption at near ninety-year lows. Major competitors like Michelob Ultra and Budweiser are also leveraging the tournament for marketing, highlighting the World Cup as a critical cultural and commercial moment for brewers in 2026.

1 reports · 1 sources

During the first quarter of 2026, institutional investors significantly increased their holdings in companies central to artificial intelligence infrastructure, according to an analysis of SEC 13-F filings by Reuters. Over 4,000 asset managers, including hedge funds and pension funds, added to or initiated positions in nine key AI infrastructure firms such as Oracle, Arista Networks, and Vertiv. In contrast, only 2.5% of these investors sold stakes in this sector. The data also highlights strong demand for data center operators like Digital Realty and utility stocks, with nearly 3,500 filers reporting net buys and no reported sellers in the utilities category. Conversely, institutions displayed caution toward the "Magnificent Seven" tech giants, with sellers slightly outnumbering buyers amid concerns over sustainable AI spending growth. Notable individual moves included Mubadala Capital initiating positions in Palantir and Shopify, despite broader selling pressure in the software-as-a-service sector due to fears of AI-driven business model disruption. This trend indicates a strategic shift by major investors toward the foundational hardware and energy components of the AI ecosystem rather than solely focusing on established tech platforms.

1 reports · 1 sources

During the first quarter of 2026, institutional investors significantly increased their holdings in companies central to artificial intelligence infrastructure. An analysis of nearly 6,000 SEC 13-F filings by Reuters reveals that over 4,000 asset managers, including hedge funds and pension funds, added to or initiated positions in nine key AI infrastructure firms such as Oracle, Arista Networks, and Vertiv. Conversely, only 2.5% of these investors sold holdings in this sector. The data also highlights strong interest in data center companies like Digital Realty and utilities, with no reported sellers for utility stocks. In contrast, institutional activity regarding the "Magnificent Seven" tech giants was more cautious, with sellers slightly outnumbering buyers amid concerns over sustained AI spending growth. While some high-profile entities like Mubadala Capital initiated positions in Palantir and Shopify, the broader software-as-a-service sector faced net selling pressure. Meanwhile, the semiconductor segment remained attractive, with over 4,100 investors increasing their exposure despite rising share prices. This trend underscores a strategic shift toward foundational AI hardware and power infrastructure rather than solely focusing on major tech platform providers.

1 reports · 1 sources

Campbell University has officially hired Ali Jaques as its new women's basketball head coach, the announcement was made on Friday, May 15, 2026. Jaques joins Campbell after serving as the associate head coach at the University of Rhode Island, where she played a pivotal role in helping the team achieve a program-record 28 wins during the previous season. At Rhode Island, she worked under head coach Tammi Reiss, who recently moved to Florida. Jaques brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served as the head coach at Siena for nine seasons, as well as holding coaching positions at George Washington, Seton Hall, Northwestern, Dayton, Furman, Sacred Heart, and Rider. Her background also includes a distinguished career as a student-athlete at New York University, where she won a Division III basketball title in 1997. Campbell's athletic department expressed strong confidence in Jaques, with Reiss stating that Jaques is ready to lead her own program and transform Campbell into a championship contender. The team finished the prior season with a 20-12 overall record and 13-5 in the Colonial Athletic Association.

1 reports · 1 sources

Bally’s Corporation has been selected by the Rhode Island Lottery to become the state’s second approved online sports betting operator, ending the monopoly held by IGT-powered Sportsbook Rhode Island since 2019. The decision follows a licensing application window that closed in February, during which only Bally’s and Rush Street Gaming’s BetRivers applied. State officials cited the need to increase tax revenue and retain local customers who might otherwise bet in neighboring Massachusetts as key drivers for expanding the market. Under the new arrangement, expected to launch in November upon the expiration of IGT’s exclusivity contract, Bally’s will retain 49% of online revenue while paying the state’s high 51% gaming tax. This contrasts with its current 17% share from physical casino operations. The move aims to revitalize a market where March betting handle fell nearly 28% year-over-year, despite a rise in revenue. Bally’s has committed to a minimum five-year presence, with an option to extend, signaling confidence in the state’s regulated gambling sector despite the high tax burden that has deterred other major competitors like FanDuel and DraftKings.

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This article provides a comprehensive review of Noel Acciari's 2024-25 NHL season with the Pittsburgh Penguins. At 34 years old, the undrafted right winger demonstrated significant value as an "honest player," characterized by his hard work, reliability, and disciplined play. Acciari appeared in 67 games, recording 13 goals and 12 assists for 25 points, along with one assist in six playoff games. Beyond scoring, he contributed physically with 65 hits and 62 blocked shots while maintaining the lowest giveaway rate on the team. His versatility was highlighted by his role in taking 594 faceoffs, third-highest on the roster, including a team-leading 205 shorthanded draws with a 52.0% success rate. As an impending free agent following a three-year, $6 million contract, Acciari's performance underscores his importance as a rugged, defensive-minded forward who also stepped up offensively. The analysis emphasizes his integrity and fundamental soundness, positioning him as a key asset for the Penguins despite his age and undrafted status.

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The Moses Brown girls lacrosse team, known as the Quakers, delivered a commanding performance against the previously undefeated East Greenwich Avengers on Thursday, May 14, 2026. In a decisive 17-5 victory, Moses Brown demonstrated superior execution and teamwork, solidifying their status as the favorite for the state title. The game, held in East Greenwich, saw the Quakers dominate every aspect of play, effectively neutralizing East Greenwich's potent offense by controlling possession and limiting scoring opportunities. Key to this success was Jane Belsito, recognized as the state's top player in the draw circle, who secured crucial possessions that led to five goals in the first twelve minutes alone. All-Stater Goose Brousseau highlighted the team's humble yet confident approach, emphasizing the collective effort of every player as the defining factor in their success. This win not only ended East Greenwich's undefeated streak but also served as a clear statement of intent from Moses Brown, showcasing their depth and strategic discipline. The comprehensive nature of the victory leaves little doubt about their competitiveness in Division I, marking them as the team to beat in the upcoming state championships.

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A new report from Verisk indicates that reconstruction cost inflation in the United States decelerated during the second quarter of 2026, providing some relief to insurers and businesses. The Q2 2026 360Value Quarterly Reconstruction Cost Analysis reveals that total reconstruction costs, encompassing materials and retail labor, increased by 3.6% year-over-year. This represents a significant slowdown from the 5.2% growth recorded in the same period the previous year. Quarter-over-quarter growth also moderated to 0.8%. Residential reconstruction costs rose by 3.2% nationally, while commercial costs increased by 4.1%. Although wholesale prices showed their highest annual increase in over three years, specific construction material costs like lumber, concrete, and roofing saw slight declines. However, skilled-trade wage growth, driven by infrastructure spending and limited contractor availability, continued to exert upward pressure on overall costs, with hourly billable labor costs rising 3.63% year-over-year. States such as Rhode Island, Oklahoma, Iowa, Indiana, and Kansas experienced steep cost increases, whereas Georgia and Louisiana noted notable slowdowns. This data offers critical insights for the insurance industry and broader economic stakeholders monitoring inflation trends in the construction sector.

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