Today and tomorrow members of the public will have a chance to lobby before the House Appropriations Committee about what they would like to see funded in next fiscal year’s budget. Because of a $1.6 billion dollar shortfall, money is tight and several government services are facing massive cuts. Jan Moller, director of the Louisiana Budget Project, expects the public will make sure their voice is heard…:

cut 7 (10) “everyday”

Moller says public testimony on the budget is one of the most important parts of the legislative session.

The House Democratic Caucus says Medicaid expansion and state funding for higher ed are their top priorities in this legislative session. Baton Rouge Representative Ted James, says democrats will not approve a budget for next fiscal year, if the legislature doesn’t pass a bill that allows the state to receive federal dollars so more low-income residents can receive Medicaid…:

cut 10 (08) “presidential ambition”

As it stands now, higher education is looking at a massive reduction in state funding.

In his last state of the state address to the legislature, Governor Bobby Jindal took a break from politics to show a sentimental side during portions of his speech. The Governor began by joking that there may be some lawmakers happy that it would be his final time speaking in chambers to kick off the session..

cut 13 (12) “appreciate your restraint”

Jindal also said he wanted to acknowledge what he said everyone already knew and that is that he hasn’t done everything perfectly.