Higher fees for foreigners visiting US national parks stokes tourism concerns

A Louisiana man who spent nearly three decades on death row has been released on bail, marking a significant development in his long legal battle. This release comes after years of legal challenges and scrutiny surrounding his conviction.

The U.S. National Parks Service has announced a significant increase in entry fees for non-American visitors, particularly affecting Canadians, at popular sites including Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Everglades, and the Grand Canyon. This fee hike is part of a broader strategy to adjust pricing for international tourists at 11 key national parks.

The leader of a major labor union in Southern California has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge following an arrest during a protest against an immigration raid earlier this year. The trial is set to take place in January, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the region.

Wisconsin authorities have requested a state court to revoke the conditional release of Morgan Geyser, who gained notoriety for her involvement in the 2014 stabbing of a classmate linked to the fictional character Slender Man. Geyser escaped from a group home after cutting off her electronic monitoring device earlier this week.

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits decreased last week, indicating that layoffs remain low despite some high-profile job cuts announced by various companies. This decline suggests a resilient labor market as fewer individuals are seeking unemployment assistance.

Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has displayed impressive lava fountains for the 37th time since its eruption began last year, captivating both residents and visitors on the Big Island. This ongoing volcanic activity continues to draw attention due to its spectacular nature and geological significance.

An organization is monitoring the increasing number of arrests of individuals protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, raising alarms about the safety of these recipients despite their legal status. Recent reports indicate that arrests are occurring even during routine immigration check-ins, which are meant to be safe for DACA recipients.

At least two tornadoes struck the Houston area, causing significant damage to over 100 homes, with reports of torn roofs and smashed windows. The storms have raised concerns among residents as cleanup efforts begin amidst ongoing heavy rain in the South and snow in parts of the Midwest.