The ACLU of Louisiana is suing the City of Slidell to block an ordinance that requires panhandlers to have a permit. Executive Director Marjorie Esman says Slidell residents have a constitutional right to ask for money, without being forced to get a free permit…:
cut 11 (12) “to speak”
Slidell has yet to enforce the ordinance, which was passed in October. A spokesperson says they are waiting for the newly elected police chief and mayor to decide how to proceed.

Governor John Bel Edwards met with Senator-elect John Kennedy, along with Congressmen-elect Mike Johnson and Clay Higgins to discuss flood recovery efforts. Edwards says he’s asked the entire Louisiana Congressional delegation to press the Housing and Urban Development department to publish guidelines on how the second round of federal dollars can be used by the state.

Nearly $277 million in cuts go into effect today across state agencies. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says they were glad that this round higher ed was spared a dramatic cut…:
CUT 9 (10) “very painful”
The full budget picture will be known when the Revenue Estimating Conference meets again next month.

A man from Walker is facing attempted murder charges after he allegedly shot several times at a man in a road rage incident. Walker Police Captain John Sharp says 35-year-old Johnny Franz shot at 31-year-old Bradley Deville’s vehicle. He says cops noticed bullet holes in Franz’ vehicle after both men were pulled over..:
CUT 4 (10) “open container”
Deville faces several charges including attempted 2nd degree murder, illegal use of a firearm, and possession of an open container.