A House committee advances unemployment insurance legislation that includes an amendment offering a “hiring bonus” for people who return to work. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (28) “…Matt Doyle”

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A House committee unanimously approves legislation barring the use of handheld telecommunication devices while driving. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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Fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear face masks but will it entice more Louisianans to get vaccinated, one epidemiologist says probably not. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Legislation approved by a House Committee that would increase future state unemployment benefit amounts is amended to include a “hiring bonus” for people currently on unemployment.

Monroe Representative Mike Echol’s amendment creates a 1,000 dollar bonus for beneficiaries who return to work off of unemployment. But there’s a catch…

Cut 4 (11)“…24 weeks.”

Only those two take a job after the legislation is signed into law but before July 1^st would qualify. It’s unclear exactly when that bonus would be distributed.

Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews reluctantly supported the amendment. He says the only other option to get people to go back to work is to cut off federally enhanced benefits.

Cut 5 (11)”…valid alternative.”

Natchitoches Representative Kenny Cox says he’s concerned about the 24-week ban on accepting benefits for those who take the bonus.

Cut 6 (07) “…problem.”

There were other concerns raised by committee members over just how the bonuses would be administered, and whether or not unemployment funds can actually be used or restricted in this way.

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The House is set to consider legislation that would ban the use of handheld wireless telecommunications devices while driving.

It’s now several years in a row the Legislature has considered this type of bill, but Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval says we now have ample evidence to support passing it.

Cut 7 (08)  “…halfway.”

Fines would not begin until January 1^st 2022 and would begin at 100 dollars for a first offense.

Stop Distractions.org founder Jennifer Smith says Georgia passed a ban in 2018 and saw immediate results. She says phone tracking data showed major decreases in distracted driving.

Cut 8 (07) “…was passed.” 

Haughton Representative Doddie Horton says these days you can find cheap Bluetooth devices so you can use your phone without taking your hands off the wheel. She says texting and driving is dangerous…

Cut 9 (09) “..hit is.”

The bill was approved by House Transportation unanimously.

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It was social media that two women used to sell fraudulent Motor Vehicle Inspection stickers and it was also social media that helped them get caught. State Police Trooper Taylor Scrantz says they have arrested and charged Louvenia Allen of Baton Rouge and Yakeiva Hicks of New Orleans with forgery, computer fraud, and criminal conspiracy.

Cut 10 (10) “….catch up.”

Scrantz says the two sold the forged stickers under the screen names of “Kellz Goated” and “Big Kellz” and if you purchased stickers from them you’ll be surprised at how much you could end up paying trying to skirt the system.

Cut 11 (06) “….three-hundred-dollars.”

It was tips from the public in late April, Scrantz says that led to the arrest of the two suspects in under two weeks.

Cut 12 (09) “…license plates.”

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The CDC says those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, no longer need to wear face masks or social distance for each other. Tulane Epidemiologist Doctor Susan Hassig says the news comes following real-life evidence that the vaccines not only prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and subsequent death…

Cut 13 (07) “…really important.”

Hassig agrees with the new CDC’s recommendations for those who are fully vaccinated and says it should also reassure individuals who are inoculated.

Cut 14 (08) “…environment.”

As for how new recommendations will impact Louisiana, Hassig believes dropping the use of face masks for those who are fully vaccinated won’t necessarily encourage more individuals in the state to get vaccinated.

Cut 15 (07)“…for it.”

The most recent update from the Louisiana Department of Health indicates only 30-percent of residents are fully vaccinated in Louisiana.

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LSU baseball hosts Alabama in its final home weekend series of the year. The Tigers need a strong finish in order to receive a bid to the NCAA Tournament. Coach Paul Mainieri’s teams usually play well in May and tonight’s starting pitcher Landon Marceaux says they want to continue that tradition

Cut 16 (15) “…board now”

2011 was the last time LSU did not make the NCAA tournament and the projected NCAA Regionals does not show the Tigers playing beyond the SEC Tournament. So the pressure is on for the Bayou Bengals to at least win their final two SEC series. Marceaux on their mind-set

Cut 17 (20) “…of itself.”

LSU’s opponent this weekend, Alabama, is also on the NCAA Tournament bubble. LSU outfielder Gavin Dugas on facing the Crimson Tide…

Cut  18 (16)”…focused on.”

Governor Edwards lobbied the Biden Administration to end the moratorium on new oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico today. The governor requests that the pause be lifted in the third quarter to help an industry that employs 250-thousand Louisiana…

Cut 4 (10) “…and their families 

Edwards made the comments to the Senate Energy Committee.

A bill by Abita Springs Representative Larry Frieman is headed to the House floor that would allow either chamber of the Legislature to end or modify a governor’s emergency declaration. Opponents took issue with the fact that only one chamber would have these sweeping powers during an emergency. Frieman says requiring both chambers would make the bill pointless.

Cut 7 (06) “…anything.”

The bill would take effect in 2024.

Louisianans ages 12 and up can now receive Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine as a result of the CDC approving the use of the vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says this is a step in the right direction.

Cut 12 (12)   “…semester” 

For a person younger than 18, parental consent is needed to get the shot.

The second Louisiana-themed episode of Restaurant Recovery airs on Discovery Plus today The show is the brainchild of Raising Cane’s CEO Todd Graves who assisted ten eateries impacted by the pandemic. Graves helps Domilise’s in New Orleans and Baton Rouge staple Poor Boy Lloyd’s, who’s owners went into credit card debt to pay their own employees.

Cut 10 (09) “…felt good.” 

The series will also air on the Cooking Channel Tuesday nights in June.

Louisianans ages 12 and up can now receive Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine as a result of the CDC approving the use of the vaccine for 12 to 15 year-olds. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says vaccine hesitancy is a major issue but hopes expansion of the Pfizer vaccine can help show this vaccine is proven to be safe and effective in reducing cases, hospitalizations, and deaths…

Cut 14 (08) “..to be” 

Governor Edwards asked the Biden Administration to lift the moratorium on new oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico and also wants the federal government to increase the tax revenue Louisiana receives for offshore production. Edwards told the Senate Energy Committee the oil royalties are used on coastal restoration…

Cut 3 (12)  “…single year” 

A House committee approves legislation that would allow either chamber to fully terminate or modify an emergency declaration by the Governor on a majority vote. Abita Springs Representative Larry Freimen says the legislation is not an attack on Governor Edwards’ current powers but sets the stage for future pandemic responses…

Cut 6 (12) “…we’ve had”

The second Louisiana-themed episode of “Restaurant” Recovery is now airing on Discovery Plus. It’s the brainchild of Raising Cane’s CEO Todd Graves who assisted ten eateries with the pandemic downturn. Graves along with Saints Wide Receiver Michael Thomas lend a helping hand at New Orleans’s legendary Domilise’s Po-Boys.

Cut 9 (09) “…same thing”

The series will begin airing on Tuesday nights on the Cooking Channel in June.

The state health department says as a result of new CDC guidance, anyone 12 years of age and up can receive Pfizer’s Covid vaccine. Taylor Sharp has more.

Cut 2 (30) …I’mTaylor Sharp.”  

In New Iberia, there’s now a historical marker honoring the late Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco. The marker to honor the state’s first female governor in her hometown was unveiled Wednesday. Blanco died in 2019 after a lengthy bout with cancer. She was 76.

A House committee approves legislation that would allow either chamber of the Legislature to fully terminate or modify an emergency declaration by the Governor on a majority vote. New Orleans Representative Candace Newell opposed the bill. She says the Legislature is not equipped to respond to disasters in the same way the Governor is.

Cut 8 (11) “…here”

The final vote was 7-5, if passed the legislation would take effect in 2024.

The second Louisiana-themed episode of Restaurant Recovery airs on Discovery Plus today The show is the brainchild of Raising Cane’s CEO Todd Graves who assisted ten eateries impacted by the pandemic. Graves helps Domilise’s in New Orleans and Baton Rouge staple Poor Boy Lloyd’s, who’s owners went into credit card debt to pay their own employees.

Cut 10 (09) “…felt good.” 

Governor Edwards asked the Biden Administration to lift the moratorium on new oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico and also wants the federal government to increase the tax revenue Louisiana receives for offshore production. Edwards told the Senate Energy Committee the oil royalties are used on coastal restoration…

Cut 3 (12)  “…single year” 

A House committee approves legislation that would allow either chamber to fully terminate or modify an emergency declaration by the Governor on a majority vote. Abita Springs Representative Larry Freimen says the legislation is not an attack on Governor Edwards’ current powers but sets the stage for future pandemic responses…

Cut 6 (12) “…we’ve had”

The legislation would take effect in 2024.

Legislation requiring all kids who turn five years old on or before Sept. 30th to attend kindergarten clears the Senate on a 34-1 vote. Gonzales Senator Edward Price spoke in support of the bill by Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields.

Cut 14 (09) “…been here.”

The bill also requires students to take a readiness assessment prior to entering first grade.

Beginning today the second Louisiana-themed episode of “Restaurant” Recovery airs on Discovery Plus. It’s the brainchild of Raising Cane’s CEO Todd Graves who assisted ten eateries with the pandemic downturn. Graves along with Saints Wide Receiver Michael Thomas lend a helping hand at New Orleans’s legendary Domilise’s Po-Boys.

Cut 9 (09) “…same thing”

Archie Manning, a regular at the restaurant, also appears.

Governor Edwards is testifying before the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy about federal offshore oil and gas developments. Edwards is addressing the state’s ongoing work on climate initiatives. Senator Bill Cassidy says that investing in Louisiana and other domestic oil producers will not only create jobs but help in the fight to decrease global greenhouse gas emissions.

Cut 5 (07)”…there will be.”

Colonial Pipeline restarted operations last night after a hacking incident forced a shutdown, which sparked several Americans to panic buy gasoline. But, Executive Director of the Louisiana Oil Marketers and Convenience Store Association Natalie Isaacks says there is no need for hoarding gas, especially in the Bayou State.

Cut 7 (06)  “…out of fuel.”

According to GasBuddy less than one percent of Louisiana gas stations had outages.

House Education advances Senate-approved legislation barring trans athletes from participating in K-12 and college girls’ sports, a reversal from the committee’s earlier rejection of a similar bill.

Former LSU championship-winning Decathlonist Claston Bernard spoke in favor of the bill. He says trans athletes have a competitive advantage in women’s sports.

Cut 10 (09) “….happen.”

Coalition for Louisiana Progress Chair Melissa Flourney says the legislation is discriminatory and not needed…

Cut 12 (12) “…association.”

The NCAA has threatened to move events out of states that enact such laws.

If the bill reaches the governor’s desk, it’s expected he will veto it.

Governor Edwards testifies today before the U-S Senate Energy Committee. Eric Piccolli reports he’s expected to discuss oil and gas exploration and climate control…

Cut 1 (31) “…out of jobs.”

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Colonial Pipeline restarted operations Wednesday night after a shutdown caused several Americans to panic buy gasoline. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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In a reversal, the House Education Committee approves legislation that would bar transgender athletes from participating in elementary, secondary, and post-secondary girls’ and women’s sports. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

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Governor Edwards will testify today at the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy about federal offshore oil and gas developments. Baton Rouge Congressman Garrett Graves says that while he doesn’t agree with all of Edwards’s energy policies he believes the governor has a better perspective on offshore energy.

Cut 4 (10)“…zero energy production.”

Edwards is expected to address the state’s ongoing work on climate initiatives. Senator Bill Cassidy says that investing in Louisiana and other domestic oil producers will not only create jobs but help in the fight to decrease global greenhouse gas emissions.

Cut 5 (07)”…there will be.”

Edwards said ways to reduce the state’s emissions while maintaining its energy production are essential. This sentiment was echoed by Graves who believes the state shouldn’t continue business as usual.

Cut 6 (10) “…clean energy technologies.”

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Colonial Pipeline restarted operations last night after a  hacking incident forced a shutdown, which sparked several Americans to panic buy gasoline. But, Executive Director of the Louisiana Oil Marketers and Convenience Store Association Natalie Isaacks says there is no need for hoarding gas, especially in the Bayou State.

Cut 7 (06)  “…out of fuel.”

Photos of long lines at gas stations and people pumping gasoline in whatever kind of container they can get their hands on are circulating on social media. Isaacks says one photo of a woman putting gas in an open container is especially concerning.

Cut 8 (10) “…routine.” 

Colonial Pipeline carries fuel from Texas all the way up the east coast. Isaacks says even with the pipeline now back up in running it’s going some take time for distributors to catch up because people are hoarding gasoline and exacerbated the issue.

Cut 9 (06) “…Memorial Day.”

The association represents 3,400 fuel stations and Isaacks says members in central and northeastern Louisiana are reporting incidents of panic buying.

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House Education advances Senate-approved legislation barring trans athletes from participating in K-12 and college girls’ sports, a reversal from the committee’s earlier rejection of a similar bill.

Former LSU championship-winning Decathlonist Claston Bernard spoke in favor of the bill. He says trans athletes have a competitive advantage in women’s sports.

Cut 10 (09) “….happen.”

Bill author Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says the bill is preemptive, as there are currently no trans athletes participating in Louisiana girls’ sports.

Franklin Representative Vincent St. Blanc says he and his constituents are concerned long-standing records would be shattered if this bill doesn’t pass.

Cut 11 (03) “….broke.”

Coalition for Louisiana Progress Chair Melissa Flournoy says the legislation is discriminatory and a solution in search of a problem…

Cut 12 (12) “…association.”

Governor John Bel Edwards has indicated he will veto the bill.

Forum for Equality Executive Director Sarah Jane Guidry says after 12 months of testosterone suppression trans athletes fall under the usual variance in athletic ability from woman to woman.

Cut 13 (04) “…pelican state.”

The NCAA has threatened to move events out of states that enact such laws.

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Legislation requiring all kids who turn five years old on or before Sept. 30th to attend kindergarten clears the Senate 34-1.

Gonzales Senator Edward Price spoke in support of the bill by Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields.

Cut 14 (09) “…been here.”

The bill also requires students to take a readiness assessment prior to entering first grade.

Price says there’s ample evidence showing just how beneficial kindergarten is to educational development.

Cut 15 (10)“…state.”

If signed into law it would take effect for the 2022-2023 school year.

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Cut 16 (00) “…n/a.”

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LSU is 9-and-15 in the SEC heading into this weekend’s series against Alabama that will begin on Friday night at Alex Box Stadium. Kendall Rogers with D-1 baseball-dot-com says the Tigers need to win five of their six remaining SEC games in order to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament

Cut 17 (13) “…NCAA Tournament.”

LSU is 30-and-18 overall and they have an RPI of 20. Rogers says LSU could be a dangerous team if they get into a Regional…

Cut  18 (13)”…on a run.”

Louisiana Tech is 33-and-13 overall and they have an RPI of 25. Rogers says the Bulldogs 19 wins in conference play, plus victories over Arkansas and Ole Miss give them a great chance at hosting a Regional…

Cut 19 (18) “…of pitching.” 

The Louisiana House passes a bill that would decriminalize possession of marijuana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

37-year old Jordy Robertson, the father of Jarrius Robertson, was sentenced to eight years in prison for drug trafficking and for fraudulently capitalizing on his son’s illness with a phony charity. His son gained fame for being a Saints superfan and prosecutors say his father took advantage of his son’s notoriety.

The Louisiana House has unanimously passed a bill extending the period in which victims of child sexual abuse can pursue legal actions against their abusers from 10 to 35 years. Lead sponsor and New Orleans representative Jason Hughes says the extension is necessary since most victims delay their disclosure into adulthood.

Cut 6 (10) “…at 52 years old”

A CDC advisory approved the emergency use of the Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 12 to 15 today. Ochsner Health Pediatrician Dr. William Lennarz says data for this age group is extremely encouraging with the Pfizer vaccine.

Cut 9 (08) “…safe”

Ochsner Health says they expect to begin giving vaccine for ages 12 to 15 by the end the of week.

The House votes 53-42 in favor of legislation that would partially limit qualified immunity for police officers in some cases. Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan says his bill blocks officers from utilizing qualified immunity in a wrongful death or injury suit if a judge deems their conduct to be “unreasonable”.

Cut 12 (11)   “…immunity” 

A person would no longer face jail time if convicted of possessing 14 grams or less of marijuana as a result of a bill approved by the Louisiana House. Shreveport Representative Cedric Glover says the possession of a small amount of marijuana should no longer result in two things.

Cut 3 (10)  “…to prison” 

The measure passed on a 67-35 vote, it now heads to the Senate.

The Louisiana House has unanimously passed a bill extending the period in which victims of child sexual abuse can pursue legal actions against their abusers from 10 to 35 years. New Orleans representative Jason Hughes gave an emotional closing statement on the House floor, telling lawmakers this legislation is on behalf of every victim and survivor of child sexual abuse.

Cut 8 (8) “…them closure”

A CDC advisory committee is expected to approve emergency use of the Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 12 to 15 today. Ochsner Health Pediatrician Dr. William Lennarz says while yes children are less likely to become extremely ill from COVID compared to adults however they are not completely immune to the virus.

Cut 10 (11) “…syndrome 

Ochsner says once approved, they will begin vaccinating 12-15 years olds in 24 hours.

The Louisiana House has unanimously passed a bill extending the period in which victims of child sexual abuse can pursue legal actions against their abusers from 10 to 35 years. Lead sponsor and New Orleans representative Jason Hughes says the extension is necessary since most victims delay their disclosure into adulthood.

Cut 6 (10) “…at 52 years old”

A CDC advisory committee is expected to approve emergency use of the Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 12 to 15 today. Ochsner Health Pediatrician Dr. William Lennarz says data for this age group is extremely encouraging with the Pfizer vaccine.

Cut 9 (08) “…safe”

Ochsner says once they receive approval from the state health department, they will begin vaccines for ages 12-15 within 24 hours.

The Louisiana House passes a bill that would decriminalize possession of marijuana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo”