East Feliciana Parish Representative Kenny Havard says he’s not going to apologize for the joke amendment about skinny young strippers. It was tacked onto a bill targeting human trafficking requiring exotic dancers to be at least 21. The remarks have been called sexist, disrespectful and disgusting. But Havard says the amendment didn’t mention female strippers specifically…:
cut 14 (08) “160 pounds”
New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno says, combined with the failure of the Equal Pay Act bill, it’s been a terrible week for women at the Capitol and she’s launched an #ItsNoJoke campaign on social media to raise awareness on women’s issues.

Nearly 30,000 Entergy customers are without power this morning following a line of storms that moved through south Louisiana last night with strong winds, lightning and heavy rain. Crews are out assessing damage right now including downed trees and power lines.

A measure that would let universities lower their out of state tuition is nearing final legislative passage. It’s an effort to attract more students from across the country. UL-System Vice President for External Affairs, Rachel Kincaid, says this would also help colleges bring in more international students…:
Cut 8 (08) “resident students”
The House approved measure heads to the full Senate.

Lots of kids are getting out of school today, and summertime means pool and beach time. But sadly, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional fatalities in kids 14 and under. Baton Rouge General family practitioner Dr. Kristen Ducote says if you’re at the beach, your children should swim with a buddy, never alone…:
Cut 5 (07) “and under”
Ducote says it’s important to always keep an eye out on your kids even if they’re swimming in shallow water.

Governor Edwards has signed a bill into law that extends the waiting period for and abortion from 24 to 72 hours. This is the longest waiting period for an abortion in the country.