SUMMARY: Haylee Hines provides a midday update focusing on crime and weather in the Ark-La-Miss region. Louisiana State Police are investigating a murder in Rayville after a shooting occurred at a local intersection. The victim’s identity remains undisclosed, and authorities are seeking public assistance for information. In court news, former state trooper Kory York, involved in Ronald Greene’s 2019 death, received no jail time after a no contest plea, resulting in probation and community service, sparking protests from Greene’s family. Meanwhile, drought conditions persist due to low rainfall, with burn bans in effect, though some rain is forecasted for later in the week.

Midday Ark-La-Miss News Update: Oct. 29, 2024

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SUMMARY: The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education approved a contract for the state‘s new education savings account (ESA) program, aiming for a March launch. The Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity Scholarship Program will replace the existing voucher system and provide flexible funding for K-12 education, allowing families to use funds for private school tuition, tutoring, and other educational expenses. The 2024-2025 budget allocates $1.8 million for this initiative, focusing on students with special needs and low-income families. Board members stressed the urgency of timely implementation to ensure students’ educational opportunities, with a commitment to inform parents about the program.

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SUMMARY: Authorities are investigating early morning fires set in ballot drop boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. In Portland, only three ballots were damaged due to an incendiary device activating a fire suppression system. However, the drop box in Vancouver, which is located in a highly competitive congressional district, suffered significant damage as hundreds of ballots were destroyed when its fire suppression system failed. Clark County auditor Greg Kimsey noted the malfunction, leaving the cause unknown. These incidents occur during a critical period for the upcoming U.S. House elections, expected to be among the closest in the nation.

Fox 14 Your Morning News: Authorities open investigation after ballot drop boxes were set on fire

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