So what happens now that the legislature wasn’t able to come to any agreement on solving the fiscal cliff? Governor John Bel Edwards doubts legislators can pass a budget for next fiscal year in the regular session, so another special session is likely, But Republican House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry is optimistic they can pass a budget in the regular session, because the state can do more to reduce its spending.

Cut 11 (12) “they want.”

Higher Education Commissioner Joe Rallo is concerned if funding for Higher Education and TOPS is wiped out, it will hurt more than just the students, their families and faculty. It could cripple the state’s economy…

Cut 9 (12) “it deserves.”

Livingston Parish deputies have charged 27-year-old Chad Horsley with a hate crime. The Denham Springs man is accused of targeting a Muslim owned convenience store, while impersonating an East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputy. He allegedly caused thousands of dollars of damage by attempting to steal the store’s ATM machine. Sheriff Jason Ard says Horsley also accused the owner of engaging in illegal activities.

Cut 13 (10) “search warrant”

Four people are in custody in connection with the murders of Reagan Day and Dustin Hartline. The victims were found in a submerged car near the East Pearl River Boat Launch on Highway 90. Jason Landry, Brittney Savell and Steven Olivieri all of Slidell and Derrion Lemoine of Lacombe are charged with two counts of first degree murder. Sheriff Randy Smith is holding a news conference tomorrow at 10am.