The executive director of the Patrick Taylor Foundation says the uncertainty of TOPS funding could sway some college students to get their education out of state. Doctor James Caillier says that’s not good news for our economy when our best students are going elsewhere….
cut 15 (09) “…brain drain”
Lawmakers return to Baton Rouge next week to see if they can come up with a way to fully fund TOPS. House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says if extra revenues are needed, he’d like to see a gradual phase out of any sales tax bill approved in the upcoming special session…
cut 5 (09) “…dollar amount”
Legislation are expected to debate renewing a portion of an expiring one-cent sales tax.

Good news for low income parents waiting to take advantage of a taxpayer funded Child Care Assistance Program. Because of an increase in federal funding, an additional four-thousand children under the age of four can join the program. Louisiana Policy Institute for Children Executive Director Melanie Bronfin says helping working families figure out what to do with their children is not only good for the kids, but great for the economy.
Cut 9 (08) “great need”
About 15-thousand students are currently enrolled.

A study involving Tulane researchers finds three out of four pediatricians do not approve of hitting children for corrective purposes, because it can lead to more harm than good. Tulane associate professor Catherine Taylor says while spankings are not recommended, discpline is still crucial…
cut 8 (09) “…has been”
Taylor says talk with your pediatrician on what are the best disciplinary actions for your child.