The House Ways and Means Committee is taking up several tax measures today for debate, but not yet vote. Republican Representative Chris Broadwater of Hammond says, in regards to the one cent sales tax, there is concern about whether or not it would be utilized short term or something that would stick…:
CUT 5 (10) “that need to be made”
Broadwater says it remains to be seen if lawmakers will decide to make this part of the solution to the budget crisis.

A federal judge in New Orleans did not accept the guilty plea put forth by former Saints player Darren Sharper in the drug and rape case. Last year Sharper said he was guilty of drugging and raping women in four states in exchange for a 9 year prison sentence, but today the judge said she didn’t think that the punishment reflected the seriousness of the alleged crime. Sharper must decide before a sentencing hearing next month whether he wants to withdraw his guilty plea.

Folks who are in the business of alcohol in Louisiana are not happy the state is considering an increase in the taxes on spirits. Alcohol taxes in Louisiana have not been raised since 1948. John Williams with the Beer Industry League of Louisiana says the tax increase in 1948 devastated the beer brewing industry in Louisiana. He says the state still has one of the highest alcohol taxes in the country…:
Cut 15 (05) “excise tax”
The measure to increase the tax on alcohol would go into effect beginning in April if it passes.

Attorney General Jeff Landry is expected to make a major policy change announcement this afternoon at the state capitol. In a release, Landry says the new guideline is aimed at ending the appearance of corruption as he’s committed to running an honest, ethical agency.

LSU Football coach Les Miles introduced two new additions to his coaching staff Wednesday. Jabbar Juluke is the new Tigers running backs coach while Dameyune Craig will be in charge of wide receivers.