The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices opened its two-day meeting today to discuss possible changes to its recommended childhood vaccination schedule. The long-standing recommendation for the Hepatitis B is in question after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. linked it to autism. Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician, says it has never been proven that vaccines cause autism, and any changes to the Hepatitis B vaccine recommendation would be very dangerous.

Cut 5 (06) “…of scientific fact.”

He says the vaccine is safe and effective.

Some notable people will be aboard Louisiana’s float in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, New Year’s Day. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says the people onboard are as diverse as the state itself.

Cut 6 (06) “…Commissioner Mike Strain.”

Nungesser says they will also help decorate the float and promote Louisiana through interviews.

Not one, but TWO jail breaks in South Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

A major meth bust in Calcasieu Parish leads to the arrest of three people. State Police Trooper Roy Jones says investigators stopped 48-year-old Brent Touchet of Lake Charles and found narcotics and contraband in the vehicle.

Cut 14 (10) “…more drug paraphernalia.”

Two people who with Touchet were also arrested – 45-year-old Jessica Robinson and 41-year-old Josh Reeves.