Data Center Cost Fight: The U.S. House passed the Ratepayer Protection Act (417-3), pushing states to require large data centers to cover power and grid upgrade costs instead of shifting bills onto households and small businesses. Energy & Affordability: The vote spotlights AI-driven electricity demand as lawmakers argue for corporate accountability while keeping infrastructure investment moving. Consumer Protection vs. Regulation: The House also advanced a resolution to overturn an EPA waiver letting California enforce new emissions rules for commercial harbor craft—aimed at preventing added operating costs from spreading through U.S. supply chains. Cybersecurity for SMBs: The House Small Business Committee advanced two bipartisan bills by Rep. Tony Wied, including a Cybersecurity for Small Businesses Act to expand SBA guidance and best practices. Disaster Relief Access: Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers requested an SBA Rapid Disaster Declaration for Winnebago County tornado damage, which could unlock SBA disaster loans for businesses and residents. Fraud Crackdown: Two women tied to COVID-era PPP relief fraud in West Virginia pleaded guilty/sentenced, including a scheme using false business ownership claims. Tech & Competition: A federal judge ordered Google to change ad-tech practices and add an internal compliance monitor, stopping certain lock-in behaviors that limit publishers’ ability to use competing platforms. SMB Funding Update: NIH opened new construction grant eligibility for for-profit companies and small businesses starting with applications due on/after Jan. 25, 2027.