US Senator Bill Cassidy was in New Orleans this morning during a US House Natural Resources Committee field hearing to discuss how federal policies impact the oil and gas industry in the Gulf of Mexico. Cassidy says federal policies leave over 63 million acres in the Gulf unavailable for oil and gas production…:
CUT 4 (07) “sources of oil”
He says federal regulations need to ease up so that oil and gas production in the Gulf can keep thriving.

Republican gubernatorial candidate David Vitter keeps trying to avoid questions about his cloudy past, but they keep coming. During a forum last night in which just he and Republican Jay Dardenne were present, each were asked if they’ve ever violated any state laws. Dardenne responded no, and Vitter called the question a “gotcha” inquiry which was specifically targeted at him. Vitter says he’s already addressed his past and said he doesn’t appreciate questions planted on behalf of opponents. The forum was hosted by the Alliance for Good Government.

All Sulphur Police and Fire Department Vehicles will soon display “In God We Trust” decals. Emelie Gunn has more on how the community is divided over this addition…:
CUT 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

The American Automobile Association says the current statewide average for a gallon of regular gas is $2.05 and the US Department of Energy is forecasting the national average to hit $2 a gallon by December. AAA says historically, Louisiana’s price is about 20 cents cheaper than the national average so we could be looking at prices at about $1.80 before the end of the year.