A bill that would provide Louisiana with hundreds of millions of dollars in flood protection is near final legislative passage in Congress. Baton Rouge Republican Congressman Garret Graves says the Water Resources Development Act focuses on safeguarding south Louisiana from hurricanes and flooding.

Cut 7 (10) “…Ascension Parish.”

For the second consecutive year, Louisiana leads the nation in early-season flu cases. Last week, Louisiana reported the highest flu activity nearing the ‘very high’ range. State Epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says over 11-percent of flu tests in Louisiana returned positive, compared to the national average of 3.5-percent.

Cut 10 (09) “…the southern states.”

Louisiana recorded its hottest November ever this year. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30)“…I’m Sean Richardson.”

A federal judge hears arguments from several news organizations challenging a new state law requiring a 25-foot buffer zone. The law went into effect August 1st and requires people to stay 25 feet from police officers while they’re performing official duties. News organizations argue that the law violates the 1st and 14th amendments to the constitution and the language is too vague to enforce. The state argues that it’s designed to keep officers safe while they’re investigating.