The state is reporting eight deaths and 347 positive coronavirus cases an increase of 67 from yesterday. There are four new parishes reporting cases, West Baton Rouge, St. James, Plaquemines, and Lafayette. Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory called a press conference last night to announce their first positive cases…
Cut 6 (11) “…national leaders”
There are two cases in Lafayette Parish. New Orleans leads the state with 231 positive tests for coronavirus. Governor Edwards warns a shelter in place order may be necessary where community spread is significant…
Cut 13 (11) “place.”

Some say the Governor is overstepping his authority by closing some businesses and limiting public gatherings. But during a coronavirus media briefing, Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry said John Bel Edwards has the authority.
Cut 10 (14) “is yes.”
Congressman Clay Higgins has questioned whether Edwards’s order limiting public gatherings could be enforced.

The price of oil is hovering in the mid 20 dollars a barrel, prices not seen since the early 2000s. The price collapse is hammering the energy industry, and Louisiana Oil and Gas Association President Gifford Briggs says this will have a direct effect on industry workers.
Cut 3 (11) “…unsettling.”