Today marks one year in office for Governor John Bel Edwards. After such a tumultuous start, it begs the question as to what the coming year will hold. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says like his first year, one of the governor’s biggest challenges in year two is the budget…:
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Cross says some of the governor’s goals, like raising more revenue for transportation needs, will face tough pushback from the legislature.

A study from LSU Health New Orleans finds a parent’s concern about neighborhood safety will result in less play time outside. Research Professor Dr. Melinda Sothern says they questioned parents in neighborhoods with high crime rates and didn’t let their kids out often
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Researchers recommend if parents have safety concerns about letting their kids play outside, take them to a park or playground.

A new political party has been established in the Bayou State, as the official paperwork has been submitted by the Louisiana Independent Party. Party Treasurer Bill Bryan says this is more of a movement than a political action. He says often times, people vote for a party, not a person, and party affiliations can make it difficult for people to have open, honest discussions about candidates…:
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There are currently 56-thousand Independent voters registered in the party.

The Baker Police Department says a 16-year-old is in custody accused of shooting an 11-year-old in the hand. The suspect is charged with negligent injuring. The child was transported to the hospital and is in stable condition.