Monthly Archives: May 2020

05.12.20
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LRN AM Newscall *with lawsuit reform story update*

Senator Bill Cassidy is pushing legislation that could help address some of the state’s expected billion-dollar budget deficit resulting from the COVID economic collapse. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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When Casinos and gaming facilities reopen on Monday as part of Phase One across the state it won’t be business as usual. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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 Lawsuit reform advances to the House floor. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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State lawmakers are facing the prospect of having to implement deep cuts in the next budget unless the feds bail out Louisiana.

Senator Bill Cassidy is pushing to address some of Louisiana’s, and other states’, COVID-related deficits by directing 500 billion dollars to state and local governments over the next two years.

Cut 4 (7)_ “…tremendously”

The SMART Act has been introduced in partnership with New Jersey Democratic Senator Bob Menendez.

Cassidy says Louisiana isn’t the only state facing dire budget conditions but without funding key government services he says the economy will never recover.

Cut 5 (11)  “…months.”

Cassidy says Louisiana is owed at least some federal budget assistance because it was federal policies and recommendations that tanked the state’s economy in particular.

Cut 6 (11) “…tourism”

Louisiana legislators are facing the prospect of crafting a budget for the fiscal year starting July 1st with a billion-dollar shortfall compared to this fiscal year.

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Casinos and video poker facilities are waiting until Monday to welcome gamblers back. But Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Jones is not sure every casino will reopen. Jones says getting workers to return might be a challenge…

Cut 7 (08) “…right now.”

Louisiana has 20 casinos and nearly 200 video poker facilities. Each property will be required to limit occupancy to 25-percent and only 25-percent gaming positions can be in operation.

Jones says every casino is also required to submit a reopening plan to State Police that will feature a series of mitigation measures…

Cut 8 (11) “…on the floor.”

Patrons should expect temperature checks, be prepared to answer a series of health questions, and wear a mask while on the property. The casino will also have masks on hand and social distancing is a requirement on the gaming floor.

Jones says casino operators are not sure if a lot of their players are ready to return…

Cut 9 (12) “…wait awhile”__

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The session’s major lawsuit and insurance reform effort passes House and Senate Committees.

The legislation lowers the jury trial threshold from 50,000 to 5,000 dollars, and House bill sponsor, Chalmette Representative Ray Garofalo says auto insurers have promised rate reductions if it passes.

Cut 10 (05) “…this bill.”

Proponents believe the legislation will allow the Insurance Commissioner to require auto insurance companies that save money from the reforms to implement a minimum 10% rate reduction.

Garofalo says now is a great time to push for legislation that will put more money back in people’s pockets.

Cut 11 (11) “…rent.”

The legislation also extends the prescriptive period for allowing suits to be filed to two years.

Lawyer and former Congressman Don Cazayoux spoke in opposition. He says the changes will pressure victims into settling for less than they deserve by requiring lengthy jury trials.

Cut 12 (12) “…amount”

Shreveport Representative Sam Jenkins says now is not the right time to take on such impactful and controversial legislation due to travel and Capitol restrictions.

Cut 13 (11) “…the most.” 

The twin bills head to the full House and Senate.

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The longstanding tradition of the Louisiana Farm Bureau holding its annual convention in New Orleans is not happening this year.  Under normal circumstances, 1500 members and their families would congregate, but Farm Bureau spokesperson Avery Davidson says the 98th annual convention will be replaced by an event that looks much different.

Cut 14 (12) “…a physical location.”

This year, a new Farm Bureau president will be named as in February, outgoing president Ronnie Anderson announced his retirement after 31 years of leadership.

Davidson believes the only other disruption to the annual New Orleans convention’s near-century-long history happened in the 90’s.

Cut 15 (08)“…one day event.”

During the convention, farmers and ranchers get to discuss policy that impacts them on the state and federal levels.  Davidson says the Farm Bureau is ironing out the details of how that policy discussion will take place this year.

Cut 16 (11) “…how we’re doing.”

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Tonight the SEC Network airs a documentary covering LSU’s 2019 championship season.  Entitled “One for the Ages,” the 60-minute tribute showcases footage captured for other televisions programs from summer training camp through the National Championship victory.  Documentary producer Jim Jorden…

Cut 17  (16) “…of the season.” 

In all, LSU defeated seven teams ranked in the Top 10 in 2019.  While many may have been taken by surprise by the success of the season, Jorden says those on the team showed their confidence in their ability to be a championship squad early and the program showcases why.

Cut 18  (21) “…of the year.”   

There will be no shortage of Heisman Trophy winning QB Joe Burrow.  Jorden says having so many highlights from the Tigers made it tricky to select the ones to make the final cut.

cut 19 (14) “…in this show.”  

The program airs tonight at 6:30 Central on the SEC Network.

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cut 20 (22) “  ordinarillyl”  

05.12.20
by

Legislative Report 5-13 AM

The session’s major lawsuit and insurance reform omnibus bill is headed to the House Floor. The legislation lowers the jury trial threshold and bill sponsor, Chalmette Representative Ray Garofalo says auto insurers have promised rate reductions if it passes.

Cut 10 (05) “…this bill.”

Lawyer and former Congressman Don Cazayoux says the changes will pressure victims into settling for less than they deserve by requiring lengthy jury trials.

Cut 12 (12) “…amount”

The author of a House resolution aimed at stopping the governor from enforcing the stay at home order will not move forward with the legislative measure. House GOP Caucus Chairman Blake Miguez warns if the Governor delays in continuing to reopening the economy he may revive the effort…

Cut 12 (10) “…his job.” PM

The state faces a billion-dollar deficit for the fiscal year starting July 1st with the possibility that deficit could rise if the economy continues to deteriorate. Governor Edwards says that unpredictability makes it likely any budget passed this session would have to be changed in the fall.

Cut 6 (10) “year.”

The Revenue Estimating Conference projects a 316 million dollar loss in sales tax, a 351 million dollar decline in severance taxes, and 172 million dollars in gaming revenue losses due to COVID-19.

Senator Bill Cassidy is pushing to address some of Louisiana’s, and other states’, COVID-related deficits by directing 500 billion dollars to state and local governments over the next two years.

Cut 4 (7)_ “…tremendously”

05.12.20
by

5:30 PM Newscast

The Revenue Estimating Conference projects a billion dollar decline in state revenues for the next fiscal year. That means state lawmakers will have to make significant reductions in state spending. Legislators will try to complete that task before the regular session ends on June 1st. Governor Edwards believes it can be done…
Cut 7 (08) “.budget”
There’s hope that federal dollars can help plug the budget deficit.

A resolution ending the Governor’s stay at home order was shelved upon news the state will enter Phase One Friday. House GOP Chairman Blake Miguez says his instrument isn’t going away and he will revive the effort if the Governor does not swiftly move the state through the federal reopening plan.

Cut 12 (10) “…his job.”

The resolution had cleared a House Committee as was headed to the House floor.

The University of Louisiana System says they are planning to have students on campus this fall. Nine schools make up the U-L system and President Jim Henderson talked about what it might look like on campuses…
Cut 3 (10)  “…and responsibly get.”  
Henderson says there will be temperature checks, increased testing and a heightened focus on sanitation on their campus.

One person is dead after fleeing from law enforcement following the discovery of apparent street racing activity in Shreveport.  Trooper Brent Hardy says around 2am Monday, State Police showed up to disperse the crowd and a pursuit ensued with a Chrysler 300 driven by 19-year-old Lakendrick O’Neal.

Cut 9 (09) “…struck a tree.”

O’Neal was pronounced dead at the scene and the vehicle’s five other passengers, ages 16 to 20, sustained a range of moderate to serious injuries and were sent to local hospitals.

05.12.20
by

4:30 PM Newscast

Based on projections of economists the state is facing a billion-dollar shortfall for the fiscal year that begins on July 1st because of the coronavirus outbreak. Governor John Bel Edwards warns we really don’t know the full extent of the shortfall…
Cut 6 (10) “year.”

Despite the uncertainty, Edwards does not believe a special session will be necessary to pass a budget.

The University of Louisiana System announces plans to resume in-person instruction this fall. A system-wide framework will be put in place, but each of the nine-member institutions will have the ability to optimize safety measures for their individual campus. UL System President Jim Henderson expects there will be modifications for incorporating mitigation efforts into the college setting.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…pinpoint our interventions.”

As the state moves towards a phase one reopening of the economy, the state health department reports a slight increase in the number of COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized. The number increased by ten to 1,320. The state also reported 235 additional coronavirus cases and 39 more deaths.

A legislative attempt to prevent the governor from enforcing his stay at home order is halted after the announcement that Louisiana will move to Phase One…
Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

05.12.20
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4:45 LRN Sportscast May 12

The Louisiana High School Athletic Association’s executive committee will meet via a conference call tomorrow to discuss what it means for high school sports that the stay at home order will be lifted on Friday. LHSAA executive director Eddie Bonine says he also plans to talk with state education officials tomorrow. The association does not govern summer activities, but they can give schools a list of dos and don’ts when it comes to offseason training and other issues.

ESPN reports the NBA Players Association has started polling players to find out where they stand on whether the league should return to play this season. The question being asked only requires a simple “yes” or “no” answer. Commissioner Adam Silver says a decision on resuming this season can wait until June and if games are played, they could behold in Orlando or Las Vegas. The Pelicans will reportedly begin individuals workouts on Monday at the training facility in Metairie. Only four players involved at a time.

The University of Louisiana System says they are planning to have students on campus this fall. Nine schools make up the U-L system and President Jim Henderson talked about what it might look like on campuses during the week and Saturday afternoons…
cut 3 (10) “…and responsibly get”
Henderson says there will be temperature checks, increased testing and a heightened focus on sanitation on their campus.

In recruiting news, LSU has landed a commitment from four-star running back Corey Kiner of Cincinnati. He’s the first running back to give his verbal pledge for the class of 2021, which is currently ranked as the 12th best by 24-7 sports.

And Louisiana Tech has received a verbal pledge from Ruston High running back Ke’Travion “Bull” Hargrove. Hargrove also had scholarship offers from Boston College, Michigan State, Houston, and S-M-U.

05.12.20
by

3:30 LRN Newscast May 12

The University of Louisiana System plans to resume in-person instruction this fall at all nine member institutions.  UL System President Jim Henderson says there are hurdles obtaining resources for temperature checks, increased testing, and a heightened focus on sanitation.

Cut 5 (07)  “…are in place.”

The author of a House resolution aimed at stopping the governor from enforcing the stay at home order will not move forward with the measure. House GOP Caucus Chairman Blake Miguez says he’ll only revive the effort if Governor Edwards does not swiftly move the state through the federal reopening plan and if it does lead to a spike in cases it should not result in the entire state being put back on lockdown.

Cut 14 (10) “…Phase Two”

Edwards said if a strict stay at home order is needed again, he’ll use a regional approach, instead of statewide.

 

The state faces a billion-dollar deficit for the fiscal year starting July 1st with the possibility that deficit could rise if the economy continues to deteriorate. Governor Edwards says the unpredictability makes it likely any budget passed this session could be changed in the fall. But Edwards says if the feds bail out state and local governments it’s possible the deficit could shrink significantly…

Cut 8 (10) “…to it”

Senator Bill Cassidy is spearheading a federal effort to get 500 billion dollars sent to local and state governments.

State Police is investigating the death of a 19-year-old Lakendrick O’Neal, who died during a police chase early Monday morning. L-S-P spokesperson Brent Hardy says the chase in Shreveport started after police were called to investigate reports of a street race…Hardy says street racing is a problem on the national level and is never a good idea.

Cut 11 (05) “…safe.”

05.12.20
by

2:30 LRN Newscast

As the state moves towards a phase one reopening of the economy, the state health department reports a slight increase in the number of COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized. The number increased by ten to 1,320. The state also reported 235 additional coronavirus cases and 39 more deaths.

A legislative attempt to prevent the governor from enforcing his stay at home order is halted after the announcement that Louisiana will move to Phase One…
Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

The Revenue Estimating Conference projects a billion dollar decline in state revenues for the next fiscal year. That means state lawmakers will have to make significant reductions in state spending. Legislators will try to complete that task before the regular session ends on June 1st. Governor Edwards believes it can be done…
cut 7 (08) “…a budget”
There’s hope that federal dollars can help plug the budget deficit.

State Police is investigating the death of a 19-year-old, who died during a police chase early Monday morning. L-S-P spokesperson Brent Hardy says the chase started at the fairgrounds in Shreveport after law enforcement was called to investigate reports of a street race…
cut 10 (12) “…impairment was involved”
Lakendrick O’ Neal died at the scene, while five other passengers in his vehicle were injured.

05.12.20
by

LRN PM Newscall May 12

Plans are now in place for students to be in the classroom this fall throughout the University of Louisiana System. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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A legislative attempt to prevent the governor from enforcing his statewide stay at home order is halted after the annoucement that Louisiana will move to Phase One starting Friday. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

The University of Louisiana System announces plans to resume in-person instruction this fall at all nine member institutions.  UL System President Jim Henderson expects things to look much different from what students and faculty have been accustomed to in the past.

Cut 3 (10)  “…and responsibly get.”  

A system-wide framework will be put in place, but each institution will have the ability to optimize safety measures to work best for each community.

Henderson says exact plans are not set in stone, indicating as more information becomes available, there will be modifications made to incorporating mitigation efforts into the college setting.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…pinpoint our interventions.”

Henderson says there are hurdles in the logistics of obtaining resources for temperature checks, increased testing, and a heightened focus on sanitation.

Cut 5 (07)  “…are in place.”

_________________________________________________

The state faces a billion-dollar deficit for the fiscal year starting July 1st with the possibility that deficit could rise if the economy continues to deteriorate.

Governor Edwards says that unpredictability makes it likely any budget passed this session would have to be changed in the fall.

Cut 6 (10) “year.”

The Revenue Estimating Conference projects a 316 million dollar loss in sales tax, a 351 million dollar decline in severance taxes, and 172 million dollars in gaming revenue losses due to COVID-19. Another 150 million in lost taxes and fees are also expected.

Despite the uncertainty, Edwards does not believe a special session will be necessary to pass a budget, because we won’t have a much clearer picture in June than we have now.

Cut 7 (08) “.budget”

But Edwards says if the feds bail out state and local governments it’s possible the deficit could shrink significantly by fall…

Cut 8 (10) “…to it”

Senator Bill Cassidy is spearheading a federal effort to get 500 billion dollars sent to local and state governments.

_______________________

One person is dead after fleeing from law enforcement following the discovery of apparent street racing activity in Shreveport.  Trooper Brent Hardy says around 2am Monday, State Police showed up to disperse the crowd and a pursuit ensued with a Chrysler 300 driven by 19-year-old Lakendrick O’Neal.

Cut 9 (09) “…struck a tree.”

O’Neal was pronounced dead at the scene and the vehicle’s five other passengers, ages 16 to 20, sustained a range of moderate to serious injuries and were sent to local hospitals.

Hardy says the search for answers continues as the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 10 (12) “…impairment was involved.”

It is unknown if the driver or passengers were buckled up.  Hardy says street racing is a problem on the national level and is never a good idea.

Cut 11 (11) “…a safe idea.”

_____________________________

The author of a House resolution aimed at stopping the governor from enforcing the stay at home order will not move forward with the legislative measure. House GOP Caucus Chairman Blake Miguez says he will only revive the effort if Governor Edwards does not swiftly move the state through the federal reopening plan.

Cut 12 (10) “…his job.”

The resolution cleared a House committee last week and was scheduled for full House debate on Wednesday.

Miguez believes protests, letter-writing campaigns, social media posts, and his resolution pressured Edwards into loosening restrictions.

Cut 13 (12) “legislators”  

Edwards says he moved the state into Phase One only after the numbers, and his medical experts, indicated it was safe to do so.

Miguez says if the reopening does lead to a spike in cases it should not result in the entire state being put back on lockdown.

Cut 14 (10) “…Phase Two”

Governor Edwards said if a strict stay at home order is needed again, he’ll use a regional approach, instead of statewide.

05.12.20
by

1:30 LRN Newscast May 12

Plans are now in place for students to be in the classroom this fall throughout the University of Louisiana System. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

Casinos in the state will be allowed to reopen Monday but with new rules and regulations as part of the Phase One reopening plan. Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie James says gaming venues will only be able to operate at 25-percent capacity and they will have to incorporate screening guidelines of patrons to enter their facility.

The author of a House resolution aimed at stopping the governor from enforcing the stay at home order will not move forward with the legislative measure. House GOP Caucus Chairman Blake Miguez believes protests, letter-writing campaigns, social media posts, and his resolution pressured Edwards into loosening restrictions.

Cut 13 (12) “legislators”  

Edwards says he moved the state into Phase One only after the numbers, and his medical experts, indicated it was safe to do so.

One person is dead after fleeing from law enforcement following the discovery of apparent street racing activity in Shreveport.  Trooper Brent Hardy says around 2am Monday, State Police showed up to disperse the crowd and a pursuit ensued with a Chrysler 300 driven by 19-year-old Lakendrick O’Neal.

Cut 9 (09) “…struck a tree.”

O’Neal was pronounced dead at the scene and the vehicle’s five other passengers, ages 16 to 20, sustained a range of moderate to serious injuries and were sent to local hospitals.

05.12.20
by

12:30 LRN Newscast May 12

The newest COVID-19 numbers released from the state show an increase in case numbers by 235 for a total of 32,050 and fatalities increased by 39 to 2,281. Hospitalizations increased by 10 from the previous day to 1,320 and vent usage decreased by 11 to 146.

Louisiana’s business lobbyists are cautiously optimistic about moving into phase one of economic reopening but believes more needs to be done. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (28)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

The University of Louisiana System announces plans to resume in-person instruction this fall. A system-wide framework will be put in place, but each of the nine-member institutions will have the ability to optimize safety measures for their individual campus. UL System President Jim Henderson expects there will be modifications for incorporating mitigation efforts into the college setting.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…pinpoint our interventions.”

A resolution ending the Governor’s stay at home order was shelved upon news the state will enter Phase One Friday. House GOP Chairman Blake Miguez says his instrument isn’t going away and he will revive the effort if the Governor does not swiftly move the state through the federal reopening plan.

Cut 12 (10) “…his job.”

The resolution had cleared a House Committee as was headed to the House floor.