Today was the second day of confirmation hearings for Health and Human Services Secretary nominee Robert F Kennedy, Jr. Kennedy appeared in front of the Senate Health Committee, chaired by Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy. Cassidy questioned Kennedy about his stance on vaccines, asking him if he thought measles and Hepatitis B vaccines caused autism…
Cut 3 (14) “…that really is a yes or no.”
In preparation for the Superbowl and Mardi Gras, GOHSEP Director Jacques Thibodeaux outlined a comprehensive plan to protect the French Quarter from potential threats. He says increased law enforcement presence, surveillance upgrades, and infrastructure improvements, including reinforced barriers and upgraded lighting, are part of the strategy to deter criminal activity and ensure a secure environment for residents and tourists.
Cut 7 (09) “…entertainment venue.”
DOTD is planning to replace road reflectors damaged by out of state snowplows brought in to clear major highways after the heaviest snowfall in over a century. Louisiana borrowed 16 snowplows and 70 workers from the Arkansas Department of Transportation. Spokesperson Rodney Mallett says reflectors are not federally required but the added safety benefit is worth the cost to replace them.
Cut 10 (14) “…money on reflectors.”
A full assessment is still pending, but thousands likely need repairs or replacement.
New Orleans city officials and the contractors performing construction work in the French Quarter are facing a second lawsuit over the New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street that left 14 dead and several injured. The lawsuit claims the 40-million dollars in security upgrades were mismanaged leaving Bourbon Street unprotected from a vehicle-based attack. Plaintiffs’ attorney Antonio Romanucci…