Nuclear Tech in Utah: Valar Atomics’ Ward 250 small modular reactor hit zero-power fueled criticality in Orangeville, moving it closer to operational status under a DOE pilot program, with the company aiming to ramp up by the July 4 deadline. AI + Policy: A new report tracks how U.S. AI regulation is tightening—more state laws, more compliance pressure, and more lawsuits—while Utah universities keep investing in AI and cybersecurity leadership. Elections + Deepfakes: Utah Valley University research finds deepfake videos can sway voter opinion, and the work highlights why election security now includes media authenticity. Cyber/Privacy: UK policymakers are debating tighter rules for kids online, but VPNs are caught in the crossfire as both a privacy tool and a way to bypass restrictions. Public Health + Cannabis: University of Utah Health and CU Boulder study explores why adults over 60 use cannabis edibles—often for sleep, mental health, or pain—after other options didn’t help. Community Mental Health: Utah’s Parents Anonymous helpline study reports callers leave feeling more solution-oriented after a 30-minute intervention, with rural areas needing extra referral support. Wildfire Response: Cedar City’s air tanker base broke fire retardant dispatch records twice this week, showing how Southern Great Basin operations are gearing up for a busy season. Local Tech Governance: Utah Valley University’s Herbert Institute says Utah’s mail-in voting system is secure, while Weber County election rules add required ID digits on return envelopes. Data Centers Backlash: A broader look at data center fights shows political left and right activists increasingly unite over water, power, and trust issues—an argument that’s resonating in Utah’s tech growth debates.