The Smile: 10/1

Senate passes mental health protections for aviation workers, the Fat Bear winner is announced, and more!

October 01, 2026

Hi friend,

Happy Thursday! The Senate has unanimously passed two bipartisan bills aimed at reducing barriers to mental health care for pilots and air traffic controllers. The measures would require the FAA to provide guidance encouraging aviation professionals to seek mental health treatment, strengthen training for aviation medical examiners, and provide clearer information about medications that pilots and controllers can safely take!

There’s even more good news today: A voting-rights group is preparing hundreds of volunteers to monitor voting in Texas, EPA workers have filed a lawsuit seeking to restore their collective bargaining agreement and workplace protections, and Backpack has officially lumbered his way to the 2026 Fat Bear Week crown.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Cindi B., who shared this beautiful photo below! If you want the chance to have your photo featured, reply to this email 😄

Thank you for reading, and we hope these articles shine a light on your day.

In solidarity,

Emily from The Smile

P.S. Know someone who could use a dose of good news? Forward this email and encourage them to subscribe to The Smile. Let’s spread the positivity together. 🌟

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