Governor Edwards agrees to withdraw Louisiana from the federally boosted unemployment program early in exchange for a small boost in state benefits next year. The business community is celebrating the news. National Federation of Independent Business State Director Dawn McVea says this will push more people into the workforce.
Louisiana will cease accepting the 300 dollar federally boosted payments on July 31st.
Governor Edwards announces 136-million dollars in federal hazard mitigation grant money will go to southwest Louisiana parishes impacted by Hurricanes Laura and Delta. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell says the money can go towards projects to reduce flood risk and help structures withstand hurricane-force winds.
The Legislature approved a study that will take a look at what happens to oyster shells after folks get done shucking and eating what’s inside them. Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana Policy director Emily Vuxton says the study will look at what happens to the shells that don’t participate in recycling programs.
The National Weather Service predicts a half-foot of rain could fall in the New Orleans area as a result of a disturbance that could turn into Tropical Storm Claudette. N-W-S forecaster Meghan Williams says once the disturbance gets better organized, they’ll have a better idea where the heaviest rain will fall.
The low-pressure system has been hanging out in the Bay of Campeche this week, but it’s expected to move towards Louisiana today and a tropical depression could form tonight or tomorrow morning.