A bill that would require businesses to pay men and women the same for similar work passed in the Senate with a 28-10 vote. Businesses groups oppose the bill, saying it could result in unnecessary litigation. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says he worked with business lobbyists to address those concerns…:
Cut 15 (06) “lawsuits”
The measure heads to the House, where it faces an uncertain fate.

The annual debate is underway in a Senate committee over whether raw milk should be sold in Louisiana. This bill has not been able to pass in previous years, because of safety issues. But Audry Salvador of Sulphur says the safety concerns have been exaggerated by the opposition…
cut 6 (10) “….the lies”
Supporters also say Louisiana is one of just eight states that make it illegal.

Legislation is heading to the Senate floor that give motorcyclists 21 and over the option of wearing a helmet. Currently, all motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. Randy Postlewait with a motorcycle group says motorcyclists should make the decision regarding helmets, not the government…
cut 8 (11) “…protected citizens”
Governor John Bel Edwards says he does not support this legislation.

The Senate has approved a bill to increase the fine for texting or using social media while driving from $175 to $500 for the first offense. The fine goes up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses. Baton Rouge Senator Yvonne Colomb says there will not be a fine for voice texting….
cut 3 (06) “…the wheel” (2x)
The bill also calls for the suspension of a minor’s driver license if they are convicted two or more times for this offense.