Criminal justice reform measures go into effect Wednesday, and 14-hundred non-violent offenders will be released as a result of changes to the state’s sentencing laws. Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc says lowering the incarceration rate is estimated to save 262-million-dollars over ten years, with most of that going towards rehabilitation programs..:
Cut 12 (06) “these guys”
He says most of the inmates getting out Wednesday were nearing release anyway.

Governor John Bel Edwards and other top disaster recovery leaders are traveling to Puerto Rico to meet with officials and discuss Hurricane Maria aftermath and devastation. The Governor says Louisiana has a lot of experience in disaster management, and will be able to provide assistance as survivors recover. Edwards and the first lady are expected to arrive in San Juan this morning, and return tomorrow night. The governor has already sent GOHSEP personnel and more than 300 members of the national guard to the island to offer on the ground assistance in recovery and response.

State Fire Marshal Butch Browning reminds the public to watch out for potential hazards over Halloween. He says jack-o-lanterns, paper spiders and dried cornstalks are very common decorations but are highly flammable:
Cut 6 (10) “be controlled”
He says Halloween fires account for 83 million dollars in damages and losses every year.

The Louisiana Lottery says the Mega Millions game is changing to result in larger multi-state jackpots; but a ticket price now up to $2. Spokeswoman Kimberly Chopin…:
Cut 8 (11) “jackpots”
The first drawing for the revised Mega Millions game is tomorrow night.