Louisiana has its first presumptive case of coronavirus and an email to VA employees indicates the patient has been hospitalized at the VA Medical Center in New Orleans since Friday. Governor John Bel Edwards says now is not the time to panic, instead, get prepared.
Cut 7 (09) “…them to do.”
The state health department has asked people who came in contact with the patient to self-isolate for 14 days.

Meanwhile, gas prices are dropping and Gas Buddy-dot-com petroleum analyst Allison Mac says the price drop can be directly attributed to coronavirus fears…
cut 5 (11) “…out to eat”
Louisiana’s average regular gasoline price is $2.07.

Governor John Bel Edwards tells legislators on the opening day of the session that it’s unacceptable for Louisiana to continue to have the largest gender pay gap in the country. Edwards is asking lawmakers to pass a pay transparency bill that would prevent anyone from losing their job for discussing their salaries
Cut 10 (08) “…more equity.”
Edwards is also urging lawmakers to set the state minimum wage at ten-dollars an hour.

National Federation of Independent Business state director Dawn Starns says it’s disappointing to hear Governor Edwards double down on pressing forward with minimum wage increases and equal pay legislation. Starns says the Governor’s attempt to fulfill a campaign promise will only result in lost jobs.
Cut 12 (07) “…next ten years.”
Edwards’ minimum wage proposal faces long odds in the Republican-led Legislature.