6:30 LRN Newscast December 23

Louisiana’s unemployment rate has fallen slightly over the year to 4.7 percent as the state as a whole continues to add jobs…
Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

The federal legal age to buy tobacco and vaping products is set to increase to 21-years-old as a result of legislation approved by Congress. Louisiana Health Secretary Rebekah Gee says any hurdle to keep tobacco products out of the hands of teens could prevent them from becoming smokers and save the state money in future medical care.
Cut 8 (05) “…these products.”

Gilead Sciences awards 245,000 dollars in grants to four Louisiana organizations to help combat HIV as part of 2.3 million dollars in grants administered across the south. Corporate Contributions Director Arun Skaria says HIV is still a serious problem in America, but we’re near epidemic levels in the south…
Cut 10 (10) “…right now”

The Saints rallied from a 14-0 deficit to beat the Titans 38 to 28 and Michael Thomas set the NFL record for catches in a single season. A record number of tickets have been bought for Saturday’s Peach Bowl between LSU and Oklahoma. Peach Bowl CEO Gary Stokan says fans are really excited about the matchups in the college football playoff…
cut 15 (11) “….two betters”
The winners will meet in New Orleans on January 15th in the national championship game.