The Senate approved a bill that would renew the state’s contract with Harrah’s New Orleans for at least 20 more years, contribute an additional 20 million dollars a year to the state’s coffers, and they would provide an upfront payment of 40-million dollars, which would be divided between the state and the city. Harrah’s would also agree to build a 350-million dollar hotel, with new restaurants and entertainment space. New Orleans Senator Karen Carter Peterson says if Harrah’s agrees, it’d be a huge investment in the state.
Cut 13 (10) “twenty years”
The measure heads back to the House to see if they agree to Senate changes with the legislation.

Lake Charles-based food delivery service Waitr has been purchased for 308-million dollars by Texas billionaire Tilman Fertitta, who also owns the Golden Nugget Casino, Landry’s Restaurant and the Houston Rockets.

The Louisiana legislature has approved legislation that would ban abortions once a woman reaches 15 weeks into her pregnancy. Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s pro-life and intends to sign it…
cut 4 (08) “…with me”
The Center for Reproductive Rights says the legislation is a flat-out violation of Roe versus Wade and they expect the proposal will never become law.

State Representative Julie Stokes is the first person to announce her candidacy to become the next Secretary of State. A special election will take place this fall, because of the resignation of Tom Schedler. The accountant from Kenner believes she’s qualified to be Louisiana’s next election chief…
Cut 7 (09) “larger scale”
Stokes says as Secretary of State she will encourage voter participation and protect Louisiana elections.