NOAA is once again predicting an active hurricane season. Erik Picolli reports on how many storms we could see in 2021…

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Erik Piccoli.”  

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter received a phone call from President Biden and the two discussed Monday’s flooding and hurricane recovery. Biden visited Lake Charles on May 6^th in person and pledged to assist with long term recovery efforts from the 2020 hurricane season. Biden also spoke with the Mayor by phone on Wednesday. Hunter says Biden assured him help is on the way.

Lumber prices have more than tripled over the year amidst a pandemic-driven surge in new home construction and renovation. LSU Forestry Economist Joseph Chang says his sense is that the price will eventually decline, but the question is when…

Cut 8 (11) “…fall”

Last year lumber prices were clocked at around 354 dollars per thousand feet of lumber. As of May 18^th, that number is up to 1,264 dollars

Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s not looking to continue his political career after his term ends in 2024. Edwards says he’s also not considering running for any other office before this term ends, such as the US Senate race next year.

Cut 13 (12)“…term”

The governor made his comments on his monthly radio show Wednesday.

The NOAA Climate Prediction Center predicts another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Acting NOAA administrator Ben Friedman says between 13 to 20 named storms are expected to form and between six and ten will become hurricanes.

Cut 9 (8) “…miles per hour”

A record 30 named storms formed in 2020.

A bill prohibiting the handheld use of a cellphone when you’re driving makes passage out of the house. Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval’s bill allows for use of Bluetooth and speakerphone. Oil City Representative Danny McCormick feels the law would hurt criminal justice reform and create a negative interaction between the police and the public.

Cut 5  (11)  “…oppose the bill”

The vote was 76-21 and the bill now heads to the Senate.

Governor John Bel Edwards says he is not looking to continue his political career after his term ends in 2024. Edwards says he does not anticipate that he will continue in public life as an elected official once his second term ends.

Cut 12 (07)    “…sector” 

Edwards says he’s also not considering running for any other office before this term ends, such as the US Senate race next year.

Lumber prices have more than tripled over the year amidst a pandemic-driven surge in new home construction and renovation. LSU Forestry Economist Joseph Chang says prices last year clocked at around 354 dollars per thousand feet of lumber. As of May 18^th that number is up to 1,264 dollars. Chang says folks hoping to build or buy new homes are really feeling that lumber price increase…

Cut 7 (07) “…buying”

A bill prohibiting the handheld use of a cellphone when you’re behind the wheel makes passage out of the house. Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval has brought similar legislation in the past and Baton Rouge Representative Denice Marcelle says she supports the bill now because it prohibits police from pulling one for handheld phone use to search their vehicle.

Cut 4 (07) “..with me” 

The vote was 76-21 in favor and the bill now heads to the Senate.

Lumber prices have more than tripled over the year amidst a pandemic-driven surge in new home construction and renovation. LSU Forestry Economist Joseph Chang says new home construction is up about 30 percent from last year and there are more remodeling projects in the works as well.

Cut 6 (12) “…space”

Governor Edwards says he used to be staunchly against legalizing recreational marijuana, but like many Louisianans, his opinion is changing. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

A bill prohibiting the handheld use of a cellphone when you’re behind the wheel makes passage out of the House. Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval’s bill would impose a $25 fine for the first offense and $50 for a second violation.

Cut 3 (11)  “…make a call” 

The vote was 76-21 and the bill now heads to the Senate. 

After a surprisingly robust attempt to legalize marijuana ultimately failed to pass in the House Governor Edwards admits his personal views on the issue are changing. As recently as earlier this year he stated his opposition to legalization, but now admits it’s likely going to happen but before we do it here we need to study other state’s who have legalized it…

Cut 13 (06) “…benefits.”

Governor Edwards made the comments on this monthly talk show Ask the Governor.

Business groups are calling on Governor Edwards to stop enhanced unemployment benefits so more people will reenter the workforce. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

The Louisiana Department of Health was joined by a number of pediatricians from across the state in urging Louisiana parents to get their children vaccinated. Currently, kids 12 and older can receive the Pfizer vaccine and there are indications that could be extended to kids five and up in the near future. 

Business organizations are asking Governor John Bel Edwards to stop federally enhanced unemployment benefits. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says the state is very dependent on a service-based economy like hospitality, tourism, restaurants, and retail.

Cut 4 (11)“…(x2) to work..”

While neighboring states like Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi are opting out of federally enhanced unemployment, Governor Edwards says he does not want to react too quickly.

Cut 5 (11)”…we are.”

Governor Edwards says while the enhanced benefits are only temporary, the tourism industry has yet to rebound from pre-pandemic levels. The current enhanced $300 unemployment benefits are scheduled to end on September 6^th.

A House committee unanimously approves a resolution calling for the formation of a committee dedicated to studying the impacts of potentially legalizing marijuana in Louisiana. Thibodaux Representative Bryan Fontenot was one of the leading voices against legalization this year, saying this kind of study must be conducted before lawmakers can make an informed decision…

Cut 11 (07) “….those people”

17 states have legalized recreational marijuana so far.

During a Congressional hearing, Senator John Kennedy questioned an official with the US Housing and Urban Development on why the Biden administration has not formulated a disaster aid package to assist 2020 hurricane victims. Kennedy says it’s been nine months since Hurricane Laura nearly flattened southwest Louisiana…

Cut 8 (08) “…get an answer?” (2x)

Business groups are calling on Governor John Bel Edwards to end the extra 300-dollars in unemployment benefits jobless individuals are receiving. The federal government is providing this financial aid. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says hotels and restaurants need workers and the additional benefit is keeping vacant jobs unfilled…
cut 6 (06) “…in a call back”
Waguespack says 17 other states have already taken action to opt out of the additional funding. But the governor says Louisiana has an economy that’s dependant on tourism and the visitors are not there yet to say the industry has bounced back. Edwards says he wants to study LABI’s request…
cut 7 (06) “….net cost”
The extra $300 a week benefit from the federal government is set to end in September.

A Senate bill setting up the rules and regulations for sports betting passes in the Senate. Brooke Thorington has more.
Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter says he received an unexpected call from President Joe Biden yesterday and he says it was a candid conversation about the struggles and needs of the area in the wake of unprecedented natural disasters. Hunter says the President understands the great need and will do all he could do to help, but it will take a group effort.

Business groups are calling on Governor Edwards to stop enhanced unemployment benefits so more people will reenter the workforce. Brooke Thorington has more…
Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

House Republicans are pushing to pass a tax swap plan that would lower income tax rates in exchange for eliminating a popular tax break. But a bill that would give voters a chance to approve the tax reform proposal failed by four votes yesterday. House Ways and Means Chairman Stuart Bishop plans to bring the legislation up for another vote today.

The Louisiana Senate has approved a bill that sets up the regulation for sports betting for the 55 parishes that approved the activity last fall. Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns…
cut 16 (12) “…legally”
Lawmakers hope sports betting can be available on your phone, at casinos and kiosks at restaurants and bars that serve liquor by the start of the football season.

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter says he had a very candid conversation yesterday with President Joe Biden about the struggles and needs of his city in the wake of unprecedented natural disasters. Louisiana’s Congressional delegation has been pushing for a federal disaster aid package and Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to get it done..
cut 10 (07) “….need an answer”

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry and other business groups are asking Governor Edwards to stop the 300-dollar weekly federally enhanced unemployment benefits. LABI President Stephen Waguespack says at one time this additional benefit was needed, but now it’s making it difficult for employers to fully staff their businesses…
cut 4 (04) “…to work”
LABI says 17 other states have already opted out of the additional funding, but Governor Edwards wants to make sure that this would be the right move for Louisiana.

State lawmakers have decided it’s not the right time to legalize recreational marijuana use, but a House committee has passed a resolution to set up a panel to study the issue. Louisiana Sheriff’s Association Executive Director Michael Ranatza supports this effort…
cut 12 (11) “….diligence”
17 states have legalized recreational marijuana.

On a 31-to-six vote, the Louisiana Senate approves legislation that establishes the regulations for sports betting to take place in Louisiana. The bill would allow sports betting at the state’s riverboat casinos, racetracks, and New Orleans Harrah’s Casino. Sports betting on your phone would also be possible in the 55 parishes that approved the activity last fall. Port Allen Senator Rick Ward says kiosks, where sports bets can be taken, can also be set up at restaurants and bars that serve liquor…
cut 15 (09) “….in place”
The measure heads to the House for more discussion.

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter says President Joe Biden called him to discuss the severe flooding this week and last year’s hurricanes. Also, HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary Arthur Jemison told Senator John Kennedy they are ready to support the residents of Louisiana struggling to recover from multiple hurricanes…
cut 9 (08) “….with every day”

Video obtained by the Associated Press shows State Police troopers punching, using a stun gun, and dragging a Black man during an arrest two years ago outside of Monroe. That 2019 arrest of Ronald Greene is the subject of a federal civil rights investigation as Greene died on his way to the hospital. During the video, Greene is heard saying I’m scared.

Governor John Bel Edwards says he was staunchly against legalizing recreational marijuana, but his opinion is changing like many Louisianans. Matt Doyle has the story.
Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

Sports betting is another step closer to becoming a reality in Louisiana as the Louisiana Senate overwhelmingly approved Senate President Page Cortez’s bill that would allow for sports bets to be taken at riverboat casinos, racetracks and Harrah’s New Orleans. There would be mobile sports betting and sports wagering kiosks can be set up at bars and restaurants that serve alcohol. Port Allen Senator Rick Ward says as far as he’s concerned 65-percent of voters approved the bill last fall.
Cut 14 (08) “…want to do.”
In 55 of the state’s 64 parishes, voters voted for a proposition to allow sports betting in their parish.

During a Congressional hearing, Senator John Kennedy questioned an official with the US Housing and Urban Development on why the Biden administration has not formulated a disaster aid package to assist 2020 hurricane victims. Kennedy says it’s been nine months since Hurricane Laura nearly flattened southwest Louisiana…
Cut 8 (08) “…get an answer?” (2x)
When the President visited Lake Charles two weeks he talked about the need for federal hurricane relief dollars.

Business groups are calling on Governor Edwards to stop enhanced unemployment benefits so more people will reenter the workforce. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

_______________________________

Governor Edwards says he used to be staunchly against legalizing recreational marijuana, but like many Louisianans, his opinion is changing. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

____________________________

A Senate bill setting up the rules and regulations for sports betting passes in the Senate. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

____________________________

Business organizations are asking Governor John Bel Edwards to stop federally enhanced unemployment benefits. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says the state is very dependent on a service-based economy like hospitality, tourism, restaurants, and retail.

Cut 4 (11)“…(x2) to work..”

While neighboring states like Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi are opting out of federally enhanced unemployment, Governor Edwards says he does not want to react too quickly.

Cut 5 (11)”…we are.”

Waguespack says the enhanced benefits are why people are not returning to the workforce and the evidence it there when you talk to employers on Main Street.

Cut 6 (10) “…call back.”

Governor Edwards says while the enhanced benefits are only temporary, the tourism industry has yet to rebound from pre-pandemic levels.

Cut 7 (09)  “…net costs.”

The current enhanced $300 unemployment benefits are scheduled to end on September 6^th.

__________________________________

During a Congressional hearing, Senator John Kennedy questioned an official with the US Housing and Urban Development on why the Biden administration has not formulated a disaster aid package to assist 2020 hurricane victims. Kennedy says it’s been nine months since Hurricane Laura nearly flattened southwest Louisiana…

Cut 8 (08) “…get an answer?” (2x)

HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary Arthur Jemison says he sympathizes with Kennedy and HUD is ready to support the residents of Louisiana struggling to recover from the multiple hurricanes that hit the state.

Cut 9 (08) “…with every day” 

Kennedy concluded by asking if HUD would recommend providing disaster assistance and who would be the best person to speak within the white house to settle the matter.

Cut 10 (07) “…an answer”

__________________________________

A House committee unanimously approves a resolution calling for the formation of a committee dedicated to studying the impacts of potentially legalizing marijuana in Louisiana.

Thibodaux Representative Bryan Fontenot was one of the leading voices against legalization this year, saying this kind of study must be conducted before lawmakers can make an informed decision…

Cut 11 (07) “….those people”

The committee will be made up of legislative leaders, DAs, Sheriffs, the state medical marijuana industry, LSU and Southern Ag, and criminal justice reform advocates. The committee must report its findings no less than 14 days prior to the start of the 2022 Regular Legislative Session.

Despite widespread public support the legislation could not overcome strong opposition by the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association, but Executive Director Mike Ranatza backs this resolution…

Cut 12 (11) “…diligence.”

17 states have legalized recreational marijuana so far.

Governor Edwards says like many Louisianans his opinion on legalization has changed over time. He says legalization is likely going to happen within the next few years, but…

Cut 13 (06) “…benefits.”

Governor Edwards made the comments on this monthly talk show Ask the Governor.

__________________________________

Sports betting is another step closer to becoming a reality in Louisiana. Senate President Page Cortez’s bill passed in the Senate and now heads to the House. Port Allen Senator Rick Ward says as far as he’s concerned 65-percent of voters approved the bill last fall.

Cut 14 (08) “…want to do.”

The bill creates 20 licenses for sportsbook operators with the current land-based and riverboat casinos in the state along with racetracks. Ward says the operators can also have windows and kiosks to place bets along with a website and mobile app.

Cut 15 (09)“…in place.”

If the existing casinos and racetracks do not seek all 20 licenses by January 1^st then fantasy sports betting operators and video poker establishments in the 55 approved parishes where sports betting is legal can apply for a license.

Sports wagering would be overseen by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board and they would provide the rules and regulations.

Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns says it’s time to catch up with other states and approve the measure.

Cut 16 (12) “…legally.”

It passed on a 31-6 vote and now heads to the House.  A separate bill to levy taxes and fees on sports betting will be heard in House Ways and Means and a bill to allowing the Louisiana Lottery to conduct sports wagering awaits final passage in the Senate.

_____________________________

The LSU baseball team begins an important series tonight in College Station against the Texas A-and-M Aggies. The Tigers need one win in order to qualify for the SEC Tournament and the Bayou Bengals need a series victory over the Aggies to keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive. Coach Paul Mainieri says Texas A-and-M’s best weapon on offense is Will Frizell…

Cut 17 (17) “..hard throwing guys.”

Landon Marceaux will start on the mound for the Tigers. Marceaux says if they win, they will get into the NCAA Tournament…

Cut  18 (12)”…to be.”

_____________________________________________

For the Ragin Cajuns to get in the NCAA Tournament they need to win next week’s Sun Belt Tournament. But this weekend the Cajuns have a chance at winning the Sun Belt West if they have a good weekend against Troy and U-T-A falters at Georgia Southern. Louisiana Coach Matt Deggs

Cut 19 (18) “…of the league.” 

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14th ranked Louisiana Tech will conclude its regular season by hosting Conference USA rival Old Dominion tonight and tomorrow at the Love Shack. The two games will not count toward the league standings. The Monarchs are 36-14 overall, 22-and-10 in league play. Bulldogs Coach Lane Burroughs says they are a good hitting team…

Cut 20 (20) “…this weekend.”