The Louisiana government accepts its first cryptocurrency payment, signaling a step toward modernizing the state’s financial systems. State Treasurer Dr. John Fleming says by adopting such technologies, Louisiana could set a precedent for other states looking to innovate within government operations.

Cut 12 (10) “…government-controlled digital currency.”

The first purchase was a hunting license using Bitcoin Lightning.

The Memphis Zoo successfully breeds the first Louisiana Pine Snake using artificial insemination. Conservation and Research Director Steve Reichling says this opens new possibilities for breeding programs aimed at species which are difficult to breed naturally.

Cut 5 (12) “…probably declining.”

The Louisiana Pine Snake is a federally threatened species.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill clarifies some points of a new law that makes abortion-inducing drugs mifepristone and misoprostol Schedule Four controlled substances on October 1st. Murrill says it is NOT an outright ban.

Cut 8 (13) “…for emergency purposes.”

Lawmakers passed the law after the ex-husband of a state senator’s daughter unsuccessfully tried inducing an abortion by lacing her drink with an abortion-inducing drug.

Two people are under arrest and one remains on the loose in connection with the murder of a 12-year-old Alexandria girl. 38-year-old Kayla Wooten and 31-year-old Deroyce May are each charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder in the shooting death earlier this month of Hope Alexandria. Police are still looking for 32-year-old Latraykus May.