The Natchez Aquatic Center is open for the season with weekday hours from 1 to 6 p.m. Weekend hours are still being finalized. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and swim attire is required to enter the water. Bags are not allowed in the pool area, and the facility prohibits tobacco, vaping, alcohol, and illegal drugs. Ten certified lifeguards have been hired for the summer.
Although Louisiana’s law eliminating vehicle inspection stickers does not officially take effect until January 1, citations for expired inspections will cease on July 1 under a moratorium issued by Governor Jeff Landry. Representative Larry Bagley, author of House Bill 1085, has advised motorists not to renew expiring inspections. The traditional inspection sticker will be replaced by a QR code costing $6 annually, included in registration renewal. The code will measure about two inches by one inch and will be placed at the bottom of the passenger side of the windshield.
Mississippi lawmakers are reviewing possible consolidation within K–12 schools. The House Select Committee on Consolidation met with the Mississippi Department of Education, where State Superintendent Dr. Lance Sevens outlined two potential approaches: combining two or more school districts into one or consolidating schools or staff within an existing district.
A new Louisiana law aims to create a more family-friendly environment on college campuses by increasing penalties for marijuana use. House Bill 586 raises the penalty for smoking marijuana on or near college campuses and public schools to a maximum of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Supporters of the law say marijuana use has become a growing issue at college football games and on school campuses. It remains legal to consume alcohol on campuses where permitted.
The Mississippi River at Natchez-Vidalia is at 39.2 feet and rising.
