Could lawmakers be getting closer to agreeing on a deal that would close the state’s $304 million dollar budget deficit? The special session must end tomorrow at midnight, but both House and Senate leaders have said they are almost there, though nobody likes it. At issue is how much to use of the state’s Rainy Day Fund. A plan is on the table that would use between $90-99 million in the savings account; and cuts to agencies range between about $80-90 million.

State Representative Paul Hollis has a plan to make it easier to recall a politician, and he plans to bring it up in the regular session. Jeff Palermo has more…:
Cut 3 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

If you want transportation projects to kick off in Louisiana, the state needs and extra $700 million dollars. That’s according to DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson. Speaking before the Baton Rouge Press Club Monday, Wilson says Louisiana hasn’t adjusted its transportation revenue stream in nearly 30 years…:
CUT 4 (11) “due to inflation”
He says one of the ways recommended to come up with the money is to raise the gas tax, but lawmakers seem to have an appetite to invest in roads, but none to raise taxes.

A 30-day ban on crabbing is in effect throughout the state, so what does this mean for Louisiana’s seafood industry? LDWF is hoping to raise the blue crab population. Chalin Delaune (Shal-in Duh-lawn) with the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board says there are other options out there…:
CUT 15 (05) “pretty strong”
He says crabbers may not be happy about this, but it will be good for the industry in the long run.