A 15-year-old from Vidalia, Lucas Wade Mullins, died in a crash in East Feliciana Parish. Mullins was not wearing a seatbelt while riding in a tow truck traveling on Louisiana Highway 19. The vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned. The driver sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital. Louisiana State Police continue to investigate the incident.
Louisiana will receive $208 million in federal funding to improve health care in rural areas. According to the Louisiana Department of Health, the award is among the highest in the nation and ranks in the top three in the Southeast. The funds are intended to improve access to care, strengthen rural health systems, and support the implementation of new technology in underserved communities.
A new paid parental leave policy is now in effect for Mississippi state employees. Originating from the 2025 legislative session, the law provides up to six weeks of paid leave for primary caregivers following the birth or adoption of a child. Employees must have at least one year of service to qualify. The policy grants up to 240 hours of leave to eligible workers.
Louisiana’s ban on handheld cell phone use while driving is now fully enforceable as the grace period has ended. Drivers found holding a phone to their ear can face fines. State Police have emphasized the safety risks of handling a phone behind the wheel. For vehicles without built-in Bluetooth, officials recommend using FM transmitters or a phone’s speaker function.
The Mississippi River at Natchez–Vidalia is at 16.38 feet and falling.
