The House Ways and Means Committee is hearing bills today that would raise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, Internet sales and car rentals. Jeremy Alford, publisher of la-politics.com, says the public is typically more receptive to raising these so-called “sin taxes” and even Republicans are starting warm to the idea that revenue has to be raised. He says passing any of the proposed bills will take compromise from both sides…:
CUT 15 (05) “to move”
The committee will reportedly not hear corporate and personal income tax bills until next week.

Shreveport Representative Barbara North is proposing a bill for the regular session that would require metal detectors in movie theaters…:
CUT 11 (05) “are safe”
She says the measure comes as a response to the deadly shootings that occur at movie theaters around the country, including one in Lafayette last year. The regular session convenes March 14th.

A new poll shows of 500 likely voters shows 72% of people are saying “no” to raising taxes and fees as a way to help state government solve its huge budget deficit this fiscal year. But Southern Media and Opinion Research pollster Bernie Pinsonat says over 60% are in favor of increasing taxes on cigarettes and alcohol…:
Cut 9 (04) “sin tax”
He says the public is wary of raising taxes on businesses because of concern about the economy.

Parents of athletes will appreciate a new mouth-guard created in Lake Charles that’s designed to keep players hydrated. Joseph Tucker invented the Hydra-Guard. He says it’s pressurized so the athlete can just push their tongue against the roof of their mouth to release a liquid — and it can be refilled quickly. He predicts this will be a big hit during games and practices in Louisiana’s sweltering heat:
CUT 6 (09) “healthy”
The mouth guard will retail for $34.99 and be available online starting February 25th.