Climate & courts: California AG William Tong led a coalition urging the Federal Judicial Center to reverse its removal of a peer-reviewed climate science guide from the federal “Reference Manual on Scientific Evidence,” warning that climate litigation is growing and judges still need reliable scientific context. Public health & biotech controversy: Google/Alphabet is facing backlash over plans to seek federal approval to release 32 million Wolbachia-treated mosquitoes annually in California and Florida—64 million total over two years—sparking fears of a massive open-air biological experiment. Wildfire health: UCLA and UC Davis reported lingering airborne chromium-6 nanoparticles months after the Eaton and Palisades fires, with particles potentially traveling miles downwind and raising cancer and respiratory concerns. Water tech: OceanWell’s offshore desalination trial near Malibu showed promising results in reducing plankton intake, aiming to cut desalination electricity use by up to 40%. Neuroscience push: The Allen Institute launched a Brain Health accelerator to map brain cells and circuits behind major neurodegenerative diseases and speed new treatments. STEM policy & education: UC STEM faculty renewed pressure for restoring SAT/ACT standards for STEM applicants amid concerns about student preparedness. California elections (tech-adjacent): Supporters defended California’s top-two open primary as voters head to polls, with the system advancing the top two vote-getters regardless of party.