The Louisiana Department of Health has issued a “do not use” water advisory for residents in Madison Parish. The advisory warns residents not to consume or bathe in the water due to potential contamination. Louisiana Surgeon General, Dr. Ralph Abraham, says the advisory comes after a significant drop in water pressure, which raises concerns about paraquat, a toxic herbicide entering the water supply.
Cut 3 (11) “…got into the system”
LDH officials are working with the Walnut Bayou Water district to conduct tests to ensure the water’s safety.
On Thursday, Federal Judge Brian Jackson reinforced orders for officials at Angola, to protect prisoners working on the “farm line” from extreme heat. His latest order says 50 inmates reported illnesses from July 2 to August 5 related to working the “farm line.” He ordered more and some form of seating be made available as well as fifteen-minute breaks be given every 45 minutes when heat alerts are in effect. Lydia Wright with Promise of Justice Initiative says because the “farm line” is cruel and replicates slavery…
Cut 7 (05) “…break their spirit.”
The Louisiana Workforce Commission reports the state’s unemployment rate for July dropped below four-percent to three-point-nine percent. Director of Research and Economic Analysis, Emily Dipalma, says when the unemployment rate is this low, it’s a sign that most people who end up on unemployment do not last long
The state added 24-hundred jobs from June to July putting the number of people employed in Louisiana just below two-million.
LSU saw its largest Summer Commencement in the school’s history, today. 1061 graduates received their degrees. The youngest graduate is 19 years old and the oldest is 69. Students came from 36 countries, 47 states, and 41 Louisiana parishes. LSU President, Dr. William F. Tate IV said, “No matter if you live in Lafayette, Lake Charles, Los Angels, or London, we need you to go out with great pride in all that you accomplish.”