SUMMARY: Starting in April, the cost to play Mega Millions will increase from $2 to $5 per ticket. Lottery officials believe players will welcome this change due to expected larger prizes and improved jackpot odds. The aim is to attract more players and provide more funding for state lotteries, which support various government services. This change comes amid declining ticket sales and attempts to differentiate Mega Millions from Powerball while maintaining interest in both games. Officials noted that consumers are comfortable spending $5 on lottery tickets, as seen with scratch-off games. More details about these changes will be revealed soon.

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SUMMARY: The Gulf Coast of Florida is bracing for Hurricane Milton, a rapidly intensifying storm with winds of 165 mph, expected to make landfall near Tampa Bay on Wednesday. This region, still recovering from Hurricane Helene, faced evacuations and debris clearance to prevent projectiles from flying during the storm. Officials warned of unprecedented storm surges and heavy rainfall, with local infrastructure strained as residents evacuated. Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized the urgency of preparation, while federal assistance was mobilized. The intense conditions prompted widespread cancellations, affecting schools and airports in Florida and Mexico. Many families were overwhelmed by repeated evacuations and damage from previous storms.

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SUMMARY: More than a dozen states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits against TikTok, claiming the app harms youth mental health by being intentionally addictive. These lawsuits, stemming from a bipartisan investigation initiated in March 2022, focus on TikTok’s algorithm and design features that promote excessive usage among children, contributing to issues like anxiety and depression. The District of Columbia described the algorithm as “dopamine-inducing” and asserted that children can easily bypass age restrictions. Additionally, allegations of exploiting young users through financial transactions are raised. This legal action reflects growing concerns about social media‘s impact on youth.

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