Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams might run for governor.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The 2023 Louisiana survey, a poll produced by LSU, finds 52-percent of respondents, say abortion should be legal and support is even higher in cases of rape and incest. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”  

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U-S Majority Leader and Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise is calling on Republicans not to attack each other in the governor’s race. Scalise issued a statement after a group supporting Republican candidate Stephen Waguespack released an attack ad against the perceived front-runner in the race Jeff Landry. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat…

Cut 3 (08) “…attacking Republicans”

The 30-second ad from Reboot Louisiana alleges Landry, who is the state’s top prosecutor, is responsible for the rise in violent crime. Pinsonat says Scalise issued the statement because he is concerned attacks between Republican candidates could cost the party the governor’s race…

Cut 4 (12)  “…John Bel Edwards” 

Political observers believe the political fighting between Republican candidates in the 2015 governor’s race led to voters electing Democrat John Bel Edwards over Republican David Vitter.

In his statement, Scalise says Waguespack should denounce this negative ad and Reboot Louisiana PAC should take down this attack ad immediately. Pinsonat says it will be interesting to see how Waguespack and his supporting PAC will react

Cut 5 (08) “…they would avoid”

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Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams says he’s considering getting into the governor’s race. Gambit Political Commentator and columnist Clancy Dubos says if he is serious, we should know well before qualifying in August if he’s to be considered a formidable candidate.

Cut 6 (07)  “…raising money.” 

According to an article in The Advocate, Williams says he’s been encouraged by several people to run for governor.

Gubernatorial candidate Attorney General Jeff Landry has campaign ads blaming the local justice systems for the rise in crime however Dubos says it’s Williams who’s more knowledgeable about the subject.

Cut 7 (11)  “…right now.” 

With Shawn Wilson the only Democrat in the race so far, Dubos says he imagines he’s not very happy to hear Williams could join the race. He says Wilson needs to boost his name recognition in the blue parish of Orleans.

Cut 8 (09)  “…New Orleans.” 

Qualifying is from August 8^th through the 10^th, for the October 14^th primary.

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More than two years after the death of Marie Bourque, and her 12-year-old daughter Ski Smith who died in a trailer home fire, Casey Hatch is convicted of two counts of second-degree murder. Calcasieu Parish District Attorney Stephen Dwight says the jury came to the right conclusion.

Cut 9 (12) “…about it.”

Jurors heard 911 audio of Bourque pleading for help for herself and her children in the smoke-filled house on Dobertine Road, owned by Hatch before the call went silent. Public defender King Alexander said Hatch has schizophrenia and did not know right from wrong.

Cut 10 (13) “… horrible crime.”

Hatch faces a mandatory life sentence for each of his convictions. Dwight hopes Bourque’s family can start moving forward one day at a time.

Cut 11 (13)  “…the verdict”

Bourque’s 11-year-old son was also severely injured in the fire. Hatch’s sentencing has been set for July 21.

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The 2023 Louisiana survey, an annual poll produced by LSU, shows support growing for legal abortions. Director of the Louisiana Survey Dr. Michael Henderson says two months ago they polled about 500 Louisiana residents about the hot button topic.

Cut 12 (13) “…52 percent.” 

52-percent say abortion should be legal, 44-percent agree with the state’s near total ban of abortions. Henderson says 85-percent of the respondents believe a woman should be able to obtain a legal abortion if the pregnancy has put the mother’s life in jeopardy and 77-percent also support an except if the pregnancy was the result of a rape…

Cut 13 (09) “…and Republicans” 

Henderson says Louisiana residents’ opinion on abortion are following what polling data is showing nationally that support is growing for legal abortion…

Cut 14 (12)  “…from the Supreme Court”

The gloves are coming off in the governor’s race as we have our first attack ad. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m   Jeff Palermo” 

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office investigation of the fatal officer-involved shooting of a man who was holding a child in his arms is completed. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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The statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.13, $1.10 cheaper than the same time last year. AAA Fuel Analyst Don Redman says crude oil prices are under $70 a barrel and that translates to better prices for the consumer.

Cut 3 (10) “…this year”

Redman says drivers should budget $3.25 – $3.50 a gallon for the remainder of the summer.

Cut 4 (06)  “…gallon gasoline.” 

Redman says although financial markets are unsure of what direction the economy will go due to inflation, he’s predicting a busy summer as people continue to travel over the summer.

Cut 5 (12) “…the summer.”

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We have our first attack ad in the governor’s race. A group supporting Republican candidate Stephen Waguespack claims in a TV and radio spot that Jeff Landry, the perceived front-runner in the governor’s race, has been soft on crime during his time as Attorney General…

Cut 6 (11)  “…in America” 

A super PAC called Reboot Louisiana produced the ad. The Landry campaign has responded by announcing endorsements from eight sheriffs and district attorneys. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the October 14th primary is five and a half months away and the gloves are coming off…

Cut 7 (08)  “..the front-runner” 

Pinsonat says attack ads usually wait until after qualifying, which for this election is the second week of August. Landry has raised the most money and the polls show he has the most support among voters.

Pinsonat says Waguespack was the last major candidate to get in the race, but a pro-Waguespack group dropping an attack ad on Landry shows the former L-A-B-I president is serious about winning

Cut 8 (09)  “…Landry” 

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Another hurricane season begins tomorrow.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says Louisiana, Florida, and North Carolina are the top three most vulnerable states due to size of coastline and geographic locations.

Cut 9 (13) “…these things.”

NOAA  predicts a near-normal season with 12 to 17 named storms. The peak of hurricane season starts in mid-August, but Keim recommends having a plan in place now and stay ready.

Cut 10 (11) “… hyper-focused.”

Keim says last year’s hurricane season was quiet with not one track in the northern or western gulf compared to the previous years. He says every year there’s something to learn about the state’s geographic vulnerabilities, however…

Cut 11 (13)  “…in Louisiana”

A strong El Nino is expected around August, September, and October which creates hostile conditions for the formation of hurricanes.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office has completed its investigation of the fatal April 23^rd Pineville Police officer-involved shooting. RPSO spokesperson Tommy Carnline says 25-year-old Larry Calk was holding a child and a weapon and threatening to harm the child while on the front porch of a residence.

Cut 12 (09) “…the child.” 

Pineville Police responded to a reported family disturbance shortly before 1 PM on Sunday, April 23^rd. Carnline says the officers first heard the suspect inside the home threatening the child and that continued as he exited the residence.

Cut 13 (11) “…was saved.” 

Carnline says immediately after Calk was shot and the child was out of danger, other officers immediately began rendering medical aid.

Cut 14 (09)  “…alive today.”

The investigation has been turned over to the Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office.

A bill to increase the state’s minimum wage still has a pulse as the legislative session enters its final two weeks. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m   Jeff Palermo” 

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The latest release from the annual LSU Louisiana survey of public opinion confirms the property insurances market in in distress. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

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Ten days left in the legislative session and a bill to increase the state’s minimum wage from $7.25 to ten-dollars an hour starting in January is still alive. New Orleans Senator Gary Carter told the Senate Finance Committee says raising the wage will improve the livelihoods of thousands of Louisiana residents…

Cut 3 (13) “…government subsidies”

The Senate Finance Committee did not vote on the bill, instead made the procedural move of advancing the legislation to the Senate floor without a vote, which pleased Carter….

Cut 4 (11)  “…(laughter).” 

It remains to be seen if the bill will actually get a vote on the Senate floor and getting through the House would be a huge obstacle. But Carter told Shreveport Senator Gregory Tarver there are still many workers receiving pay below ten-dollars an hour…

Cut 5 (12) “…lot of places.”

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Legislation to incentivize gun owners with a $500 tax credit to buy safety devices for their firearms has bipartisan support as it makes its way through the legislature. New Orleans Democrat Mandie Landry says the devices can help prevent children from being killed in accidental shootings and guns from being stolen.

Cut 6 (07)  “…their cars” 

Landry has been a longtime proponent of gun safety and says her bill can also help address the rampant issue of guns being stolen in her district.

Cut 7 (05)  “…accidents.” 

When it comes to legislation involving firearms it’s usually divided but Landry says gun safety is a topic that has bipartisan support. She says in Virginia similar legislation even received support from the NRA.

Cut 8 (09)  “…gun safety.” 

If the full Senate supports the bill it will head to the Governor’s desk.

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A bill to allow non-felons, 18 and older, to carry a concealed firearm without a permit continues to make its way through the legislative process. The House approved bill received the backing today of Senate Judiciary B on a four to one vote. Oil City Representative Danny McCormick believes the U-S Constitution allows gun owners to conceal carry without a permit…

Cut 9 (06)  “asking for” 

Several groups oppose McCormick’s measure over concerns his proposed law will lead to more gun violence. Executive Director of Louisiana Progress Peter Robbins-Brown…

Cut 10 (13) “…everyday”

The Louisiana Association of Chiefs of Police also opposes the legislation. Executive Director Fabian Blache says training is required to get a concealed  carry permit and he’s concerned the legislation will lead to more people who do not know how to handle a firearm. He imagines a scenario of a group of young people mishandling the responsibility of owning a weapon…

Cut 11 (12)  “…going to fire”

The bill was sent to Senate Finance, because State Police would lose out on money if a permit is no longer required to conceal carry.

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Louisiana residents are frustrated with property insurance cancelations, coverage refusals and affordability. That’s the findings of LSU’s annual “Louisiana Survey” of public opinion. Poll leader Dr. Michael Henderson says the survey of 509 random Louisiana adults statewide showed that 17-percent said they’ve had their homeowners insurance canceled within the past year…:

Cut 12 (09) “…the last year.” 

It’s no secret that hurricanes in 2020 and ’21 caused a lot of insurers to either go insolvent or leave the state.

Henderson says the Survey also asked respondents about applying for coverage and found 19-percent had tried to acquire new homeowner’s coverage in the last year, and a great many had a hard time with that or were even refused…:

Cut 13 (07) “…homeowner’s insurance.” 

Henderson says the survey found 63-percent say their insurance cost has increased significantly in just the past year. They say the same of flood insurance and auto coverage as well. Henderson says the overall picture is of as dismal environment for insurance in Louisiana…:

Cut 14 (08)  “…have been covered.”

You can view the Louisiana Survey reports HERE

LSU’s annual “Louisiana Survey” of public opinions shows residents’ Number One concern is CRIME. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (31)  “…Kevin Gallagher.”

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It’s the law to wear a seatbelt in Louisiana and Louisiana Highway Safety Commission is making sure all occupants are buckled up during their “Click it or Ticket” campaign through June 4^th. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The family of the 63-year-old Houston woman who died of hypothermia in a New Iberia Arby’s May 11^th is suing the owners of the chain. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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LSU’s annual “Louisiana Survey” public opinion poll shows crime is residents’ top concern. The survey is done by LSU’s Reilly Center for Media & Public Affairs to gauge public opinion of life, government and policies. Study lead Michael Henderson says the yearly telephone interview survey of over 500 random statewide residents got a surprising result this time around…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…folks named ‘crime’”

Henderson says 20 percent of respondents said their biggest worry was rising crime. He says that is the highest number on that particular question in memory…:

Cut 5 (06)   “…near 20 percent.”

Henderson says folks taking the Louisiana Survey reported they can see crime getting worse and spreading everywhere…:

Cut 6 (05)  “…last four years.”

Henderson hopes law enforcement and government leaders will take note and understand the public is looking for better, safer times.

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Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reminds drivers law enforcement will be out to issue tickets to anyone who doesn’t buckle up during the “Click It or Ticket” campaign through June 4. Spokesperson Gregory Fischer says wearing a seat belt increases your chances of surviving a vehicle crash.

Cut 7 (13) “…their seatbelts.”

State law mandates every person in a vehicle must wear a seat belt or be in a child safety seat. Fewer than 14 percent of drivers and passengers make up more than half of the motor vehicle fatalities in the state. Fischer says unsecured backseat drivers can be in more jeopardy during a crash.

Cut 8 (13) “…buckled up.”

The 2022 LHSC survey shows 91 percent of women wear seatbelts, while men are at 82-percent. New Orleans and Monroe have the highest seat belt usage at 88 percent. Fischer says the usage rate is lower in central Louisiana.

Cut 9 (12)  “…their seatbelts.”

A first-time ticket for not wearing a seatbelt costs $50, and subsequent offenses are $75.

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The most recent ALICE Report, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed from the United Way indicates more than half of Louisiana households are struggling to make ends meet. President of the Louisiana Association of United Ways, Sarah Berthelot says the Bayou State ranks second in the country, just behind Mississippi…

Cut 10 (05) “…survival budget. ” 

In 2021 the ALICE Household Survival Budget for a working family of four was $66,000, far above the Federal Poverty Level of $26,500. Berthelot says that would mean wage earners in a household of four would need $33 an hour to meet household expenses, yet 70 percent of the state’s most common jobs pay less than $20 an hour.

Berthelot says stagnant wages and inflation are to blame.

Cut 11 (11)  “…really tough.”

Berthelot says so many families are working extremely hard to pay their expenses but the 11-percent increase in inflation is making it extremely difficult and so many families were forced to dip into their savings during the pandemic.

Cut 12 (11)    “…concluding.” 

A link to view the ALICE report can be found on the LouisianaRadioNetwork.com

https://www.launitedway.org/ALICE-Reports-Louisiana

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Family members of the 63-year-old Houston woman who died of hypothermia at the New Iberia Arby’s on May 11^th are suing Turbo Restaurants, the Texas-based company that owns the franchise. Attorney Paul Skrabanek (scraw-bionic) says Nguyet Lee (New wet Lee) was the acting manager when she was found dead in the walk-in cooler.

Cut 13 (11) “…thing broken.”  

Turbo Restaurants had asked Le, who managed an Arby’s in Houston, to manage the New Iberia eatery temporarily for four to six weeks. Skrabanek says it was Le’s 41-year-old special needs son who worked with her that made the grisly discovery. He says the police told them Le tried to fight her way out.

Cut 14 (10)  “…the floor.”

Skrabanek says Le was alone at the restaurant and arrived around 9 o’clock that morning and was discovered about an hour and a half later. He says employees were using a screwdriver to go in and out of the cooler and propping the door open with a box, since Fall. He says they want to bring about awareness of the incident and are seeking monetary damages. He says he’s heard nothing from the owners.

Cut 15 (09)  “…to file it.”

Skrabanek says Le was a mother of four from a tight-knit hard-working Asian family.

_______________________________________________

U-L Lafayette fans are getting ready for a late night so they can watch the Lady Cajun softball team batting Washington in game one of a super regional series. First pitch from Seattle is at 9 PM. The 22nd-ranked Cajuns have won 50 games this year, while the Huskies are 41-13 and ranked fifth in the country. U-L Coach Gerry Glasco says there will be a lot of talent on the field during this best-of-three series

Cut  16 (16)  “..hard-fought series.” 

Both teams enter the super regionals on an emotional high. The Cajuns beat their in-state rival LSU twice on Sunday, while Washington had to rally from six runs down in the seventh to beat McNeese and win its regional. Glasco says getting off to a good start will be key…

Cut 17 (15) “…mentally.” 

The Cajuns won the Baton Rouge regional despite committing five errors in the championship game against LSU. Glasco says they need to keep the errors to a minimum this weekend…

Cut 18 (19) “…all aspects”

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The national champion LSU women’s basketball team meets President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden today for a ceremony to celebrate the Lady Tigers and the national champion UCONN men’s basketball team. The voice of the Lady Tigers Patrick Wright says the champs are excited about the trip…

Cut 19 (19) “… all of us.” 

The Lady Tigers hoops squad is the fourth LSU sport to visit the White House in celebration of a national championship. The last time an LSU team went to the White House was the 2019 national champion football team and they produced a viral video while dancing to “Get the Gat.” Wright wouldn’t be surprised if this team produces a sequel…

Cut 20 (07)  “…cameo”  

A bill to end capital punishment in Louisiana got a death sentence in the House Criminal Justice Committee Wednesday. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…Kevin Gallagher.”

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Do you plan to travel this Memorial Day holiday? If so, AAA projects a 7 percent increase of travelers compared to last year. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The Senate Health and Welfare Committee votes down on a House-approved bill that sought to ban gender-affirming care for minors. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Delta Biofuel will break ground in late June on a $100 million renewable facility in Jeanerette that will produce 340,000 metric tons of biomass fuel pellets annually. CEO Phil Keating says this will solve a serious problem for the sugar cane industry…

Cut 4 (11)  “…in utilities”

The facility will be the first of its kind in North America for its use of bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane production, to manufacture biomass fuel pellets on a commercial scale. Louisiana is one of the nation’s top producers of sugarcane, producing more than 2 million tons of raw sugar in 2022. Keating says it will create alternative fuel from unneeded bagasse.

Cut 5 (13)   “…industrial scale.”

Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in a total of 275 new jobs in the Acadiana region. Keating says the average salary will be around 63 thousand dollars.

Cut 6 (12)  “…for everybody.”

Delta Biofuel plans to source from nearby sugar mills in Iberia, St. Mary, and St. Martin parishes. The company also has long-term contracts primarily with power utility companies across Europe for the sale of more than 1.8 million tons of pellets over the next several years.

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A bill that would end capital punishment in Louisiana has failed to pass out of the House Criminal Justice Committee. HB 228 was from Marrero Democrat Representative Kyle Green, who tells committee members the death penalty needs to go forever…:

Cut 7 (09) “…innocent people.”

Louisiana is one of 27 states that still allow capital punishment, but no one has been put to death here since 2010. Among those speaking FOR Green’s bill was defense attorney Ralph Capitelli, who says the process – from conviction to actual execution – simply takes too long to play out, and it should be eliminated…:

Cut 8 (11) “…criminal justice system.”

Opposing the bill was West Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney Tony Clayton, who tells members the death penalty still has a place in Louisiana justice…punishment for the worst of the worst…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…the death penalty.”

Also against the bill, Chief Deputy Attorney General John Sinquefield, who says virtually all Gulf South states still have the death penalty, and he worries what message ending capital punishment might send…:

Cut 10 (12) “…no death penalty. ” 

The measure failed by a vote of 4 “yeas” to 11 “nays”, which is a death sentence for Green’s bill.

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AAA says 42 million people will travel out this Memorial Day holiday weekend, a 7 percent increase from last year. Analyst Don Redman says despite inflation, more people are planning trips and booking them early.

Cut 11 (12)  “…in 2000.”

Despite high ticket prices, demand for flights is soaring. Air travel will surpass pre-pandemic levels, with 3 million people boarding planes for the weekend, that’s an 11 percent increase over last year. Redman says that’s about 170,000 more passengers than 2019.

Cut 12 (13)    “…people fly.” 

Road trips are up by 6 percent, with 37 million people expected to drive to their destination, an increase of more than 2 million from last year. The good news, gas prices are lower this year compared to last year when the national average was more than $4 a gallon. Redman says it’s also important to check your vehicle before hitting the road.

Cut 13 (13) “…for help.”  

More travelers are taking other modes of transportation, like buses and trains totaling nearly 2 million, an increase of 20.6 over last year.

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The Senate Health and Welfare Committee kills a bill that would prohibit gender affirming care for minors. The vote was five to four to defer the legislation for the regular session. Republican Chairman and St. Martin Parish Senator Fred Mills casted the tie-breaking vote…

Cut 14 (07)  “…vote yes.”

Pollock Representative Gabe Firment’s bill would prohibit doctors from giving minors puberty blockers or performing any gender-transitioning procedures. Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau says there are no cases of a parent allowing their child to have a sex change before they are 18….

Cut 15 (13)  “…has occurred”

Firment says he’s trying to protect children from what he calls experimental treatments. He believes gender dysphoria should be treated as a mental health issue that includes counseling. But Luneau says gender-affirming care has the support of several major medical organizations

Cut  16 (12)  “..needed therapy” 

Opponents of the legislation pointed to studies that show transgender youth are less at risk for depression and suicidal thoughts if they are able to access gender-affirming care.

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Louisiana Tech hit five home runs yesterday to beat Charlotte 13 to eight in the Conference USA Tournament. Dalton Davis hit two dingers and Phillip Matulia mashed his 19th home run of the season. Bulldogs Coach Lane Burroughs had a feeling some runs would be scored in Houston

Cut 17 (12) “..proud of our guys” 

Sixth seeded Louisiana Tech will face seventh seeded Middle Tennessee at 12:30 today. The Blue Raiders upset second-seeded UTSA five to one yesterday. Tech is trying to repeat as Conference USA Tournament champs and receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. Burroughs says the key is to stay focused on the present…

Cut 18 (12) “…right now”

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The fifth-ranked LSU baseball team opened the SEC Tournament with a solid 10-3 win over South Carolina. The Tigers got a good start on the mound from Thatcher Hurd and left-hander Nate Ackenhausen was brilliant in relief as he pitched 3.2 innings for his second save of the season. Coach Jay Johnson went to Ackenhausen in the sixth inning when the Gamecocks were mounting a comeback…

Cut 19 (21) “….playoff baseball” 

For LSU to win its seventh national championship in program history, pitching will be the key. Johnson says the win over South Carolina was a good sign for a staff that does not have to be dominant…

Cut 20 (21)  “…at bats”  

State Treasurer John Schroder announce more than 25 thousand unclaimed property checks totaling $4.4 million dollars will be mailed out to Louisiana residents today. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Louisiana Congressman Garrett Graves is in the middle of the debt ceiling talks. Jeff Palermo reports the Republican from Baton Rouge gives an update on how talks are going…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The Department of Treasury is shipping out nearly 26,000 unclaimed property checks today, totaling $4.4 million. State Treasurer John Schroder says the checks are real, so take it to the bank.

Cut 3 (11) “…of Treasury.”

Each year businesses turn over millions of dollars in unclaimed cash, stocks, bonds, securities, and insurance proceeds to the Treasurer’s Office. Schroder says the Department of Revenue shares its database of current addresses so that recipients have a better chance of receiving checks.

Cut 4 (12)  “…the people.” 

These funds include payroll checks, old bank accounts, utility deposits, and life insurance proceeds. Schroder says one in six individuals in Louisiana has “unclaimed property”, with claims averaging $900.

Cut 5 (11) “…cash it.”

To find out if you have unclaimed property, search LaCashClaim.org or call 888-925-4127.

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is one of the top Republican mediators in the debt ceiling talks. President Biden is urging Congress to raise the nation’s debt limit, now at 31 trillion dollars. Graves says the G-O-P is willing to raise the debt ceiling but they want to cut spending…

Cut 6 (12)  “…unsustainable.” 

But the White House believes deficits can be reduced if tax breaks end for wealthy households and some corporations.

Negotiators are facing a June 1st deadline and if a deal is not reached, financial markets could be thrown into upheaval as the federal government would default on its debts. Graves says they are making some progress in negotiations…

Cut 7 (12)  “…what’s reasonable” 

Graves says taking tax breaks away is not a way to raise revenue, instead it’s time the federal government spends less money than it did this year…

Cut 8 (10)  “…to Japan” 

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A bill that would limit certain foreign entities from leasing or buying property in Louisiana has won approval in the state House of Representatives. HB 537 comes from Livingston Parish Republican Rep. Valarie Hodges, who call the bill a “Louisiana sovereignty bill”…:

Cut 9 (08) “…major assets.”

The bill would ban agents of China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Venezuela or Russia from buying and titling property in the state. In committee, many Asian Americans voiced worries the bill would limit their ability to buy land or businesses here. Hodges says the bill isn’t concerned with persons or small businesses…:

Cut 10 (06) “…our farmland.”

The help clarify the language, Houma Republican Rep. and Speaker Pro Tem Tanner McGee offered an amendment…:

Cut 11 (08)  “…foreign adversary.”

By a 78-to-22 vote (pretty much down party lines) HB 537 moves now to the Senate.

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The top ranked LSU baseball team moved into the winner’s bracket of the SEC Tournament today with a ten to three win over South Carolina. Left fielder Brayden Jobert homered for the Tigers and Thatcher Hurd and Nate Ackenhausen were outstanding on the mound. It was win number 400 for Coach Jay Johnson…

Cut 12 (11) “…well today” 

Ackenhausen earned his second save of the season while Hurd picked up the win. The right-hander was using Paul Skenes is glove and he allowed four hits and three runs in the outing…

Cut 13 (12) “…with it” 

LSU’s next game in the SEC Tournament is Thursday afternoon at 4:30 PM.

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Shielding your kids from smut? Or un-needed censorship? A Senate-approved bill restricting what kids can view at the public library clears the House Education Committee Tuesday…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…Kevin Gallagher.”

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If you’ve been binging “Stranger Things” thanks to a friend of a friend’s Netflix password, the day of reckoning has arrived. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A House-backed measure that would allow law-abiding people 18 and older to conceal carry a weapon without needing a permit or training passed in a 70-29 vote. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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One of the “social hot button” bills before the legislature this year – a bill to restrict what minors can see and read at public libraries – moves closer to passage after clearing a House committee Tuesday. Senate Bill 7, from Turkey Creek Republican Senator Heather Cloud, drew opposition in the House Education Committee from St. Tammany resident Joan Simon, who accuses Republicans of using the issue to score points with voters…:

Cut 4 (12)  “…it’s grandstanding!”

Speaking for Senator Cloud’s bill was Attorney General (and candidate for Governor) Jeff Landry, who says his investigators were able to find abundant evidence of adult material available for children to view  in Louisiana libraries…:

Cut 5 (12)   “…perform said acts.”

But Louisiana Association of School Librarians President Amanda Jones says child safeguards are already in place at virtually ALL libraries, and she says people are using libraries and librarians as political pawns…:

Cut 6 (08)  “…and He weeps.”

The bill has also been accused of seeking to ban books; a claim refuted by A.G. Jeff Landry as not true…:

Cut 7 (13) “…appropriate shelves.”

By an 8-to-3 vote, the committee approves the bill. The measure has already passed in the Senate. It moves now to House floor debate, and possible final passage.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office announces say a Deville woman has been arrested on child rape and human trafficking charges. R-P-S-O Spokesperson Tommy Carnline says they began their investigation into 29-year-old Danielle Sober Trapp in early April after receiving a complaint in reference to criminal sexual conduct….

Cut 8 (10) “…was investigating.”

The investigation included interviews with the victims through the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center. Trapp was arrested on four counts of obscenity and two counts of sexual battery. Carnline says detectives also identified several additional victims.

Cut 9 (12)  “…following day.”

Detectives were able to uncover more alleged crimes and warrants. Carnline says Trapp was re-arrested a second time on outstanding warrants on April 28.

Cut 10 (13) “…a juvenile.” 

The investigation is ongoing.

________________________________________

If you share your Netflix account with a friend or five, you’re going to see a price increase on your monthly bill if you plan to continue sharing your password outside of your home. Haggai Davis with General Informatics says primary account holders should be on the lookout for an email about the password crackdown.

Cut 11 (11)  “…friends with.”

Netflix has already begun the new restrictions in Canada and Spain and now the account-sharing protocols are now rolling out in the US.  If you’re among the individuals who use your friend’s account Davis says you’ll have the option to create your own account and keep your profile.

Cut 12 (08)    “…with you.” 

Davis says if you’re a Netflix consumer you either need to get ready to spend more each month or whittle down who you share your account with.

Cut 13 (11) “…your account.”  

Standard accounts can add one extra member while Premium accounts can add two extra members.

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The House approves legislation that would allow non-felons 18 years of age and older to conceal carry a firearm without a permit or training in a 70 to 29 vote. Oil City Republican Representative Danny McCormick says the Second Amendment gives law-abiding citizens the right to do so.

Cut 14 (06)  “…our citizens.”

Referred to as the “Constitutional Carry” bill, many believe under the 2^nd Amendment it gives law-abiding citizens the right to bear arms and should not require a concealed carry permit. Alexandria Representative Ed Larvadain voted against the bill. He believes under this legislation it makes it easier for people to act and to endanger our communities.

Cut 15 (13)  “…each other.”

Oakdale Representative Dewith Carrier favored the bill. He said the issue is not people carrying guns.

Cut  16 (13)  “..to happen” 

Twenty-seven other states already have similar laws in effect.

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The LSU Baseball team will begin its SEC tournament run at 9:30 this morning. The fifth-ranked Tigers will face South Carolina after their 9-0 win over Georgia yesterday. The Tigers and Gamecocks split the season series in Columbia since game 3 of the series was canceled due to weather. Coach Jay Johnson says the early start won’t affect how he and his team approach the game…

Cut 17 (17) “..nine-thirty” 

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UL-Lafayette will look to defend its Sun-Belt title starting against 5th-seeded Texas St. tonight. The 36-20 Cajuns swept the Bobcats in the season series and will have to beat them a fourth time in one season if they want a shot at a  postseason berth, but coach Matt Deggs says he’s approaching this rematch like any other game…

Cut 18 (17) “…the bat”

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The Saints began offseason training activities (OTA’s) yesterday as they usher in a new era in New Orleans football under Derek Carr. For Carr though, he says he hasn’t had to change much for the franchise with the strong culture already in place in the building. He says he’s enjoyed his time in New Orleans so far and is here to win a championship…

Cut 19 (20) “….for me” 

New tight end Foster Moreau saw the field for the first time this offseason just two months after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. A full participant in practice, the former Raider was able to connect with his old quarterback several occasions in a strong first day for both he and fellow tight end Juwan Johnson. Carr says they’ve got a talented tight end group…

Cut 20 (19)  “…with ‘em.”  

A bill to create accountability for rape kits in Louisiana advances in the legislature. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Adoptions can be financially challenging but a bill that would provide families with a $5,000 tax credit for adopting children under the age of three was approved by a full House. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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After numerous stories of rape kits getting lost and the backlog of processing Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell decided to make the system more accountable with legislation to create a tracking system for the kits. Senate Bill 169 establishes a database system so victims can follow where their kits are in the process.

Cut 3 (09) “…rape kit.”

In addition to creating accountability for the vital piece of evidence, Mizell says the tracking process will place Louisiana in the ranking of 40 other states who have similar mechanisms.

Cut 4 (08)  “…for that point.” 

Ponchatoula Representative Bill Wheat thanked Mizell for bringing attention to the matter and sponsoring legislation to create a tracking system.

Cut 5 (08) “…evidence.”

The bill has passed in the Senate and heads to the full House for final passage.

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Legislation that would provide families adopting a child under the age of three with a $5 thousand tax credit was approved by a full House in a 97 to 0 vote. Bill author, Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds says he hopes this will alleviate some of the financial burden for adoptive families.

Cut 6 (12)  “…bill does.” 

Under the legislation, if the $5,000 credit exceeds the adoptive family’s tax liability, the state would give the family the balance of that money the year the adoption takes place. Edmonds says it’s about helping families help children.

Cut 7 (08)  “…lives forever.” 

The bill also prohibits the tax credit from applying to the adoption of a child from foster care and prohibits a taxpayer from claiming the credit and claiming the deduction.

Cut 8 (07)  “…the other.” 

The bill heads to the Senate.

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The state House has unanimously approved a bill that would symbolically abolish slavery in Louisiana. Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan’s legislation would add language to the state’s constitution that would abolish slavery and involuntary servitude forever…

Cut 9 (07) “…we are good.”

Jordan’s measure heads to the Senate for its approval. Since it’s a constitutional amendment, it will also need voter approval.

Louisiana voters rejected a similar proposal last year, but Jordan asked voters to reject it because the amendment’s language was confusing. He says the language is more clear this year

Cut 10 (04) “…needs to be.”

Slavery was abolished in the United States in 1865. But more than 150 years later, states are banning involuntary servitude and slavery in their state constitutions. Jordan says this legislation will not prevent convicts from performing hard labor while in prison…

Cut 11 (15)  “…to slavery.”

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There’s an effort by a state lawmaker to provide free lunches and breakfast for public school students who currently receive school meals at a reduced price. Families who have children that qualify for reduced-price meals have to pay 70-cents a day. Marrero Representative Kyle Green’s legislation calls on the state to pick up that cost, which is about 14-dollars a month…

Cut 12 (09) “…weren’t able to pay” 

Green’s bill will cost the state 860-thousand dollars and it will be needed to be included in the state’s budget. The budget proposal that’s in the Senate currently does not include this allocation.

Green says Louisiana is a poor state and low income families shouldn’t have to worry about their kids not eating while at school

Cut 13 (12) “…is impossible” 

The bill heads to the House floor for more discussion.

US Senator John Kennedy urges Louisiana lawmakers to pass House Bill 12. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “Brooke Thorington.”

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There’s been a lot of bills filed in the Legislature this year aimed at having better and cheaper auto and home insurance. How are they coming along? Kevin Gallagher takes a look…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The House and Senate have three weeks to reach an agreement on funding teacher pay raises. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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US Senator John Kennedy took to the floor in DC urging state senators in Baton Rouge to pass legislation to hold back third graders who are unable to read on grade level.

Cut 4 (11)  “…that attention.”

Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson’s bill will give students intensive reading instruction and three opportunities to pass the literacy exam before advancing to third grade.

Kennedy says the legislation is modeled after one Mississippi and a similar program in Florida has shown promising results.

Cut 5 (11)   “…it will.”

The legislation passed in the House last year and failed to garner enough votes in the Senate. So far this session it has advanced from the House and Kennedy pleaded with state senators to help the bill cross the finish line this year.

Cut 6 (08)  “…pass this bill.”

If enacted the program would begin implementation in the 2024-2025 school year.

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With just three weeks remaining in the legislative session, how are bills aimed at improving Louisiana’s property insurance environment for consumers coming along? Benjamin Riggs is Executive Director of Real Reform Louisiana; an insurance consumer advocacy group. He says RRL supports House Bill 252, sponsored by Tangipahoa Parish Rep. Robby Carter, which recently cleared committee review…:

Cut 7 (09) “…Louisiana policyholders.”

Riggs says insurance companies make billions and they do not need to pass advertising costs on to their customers. Another bill favored by RRL is Senate Bill 11, from Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau, which Riggs says provides relief on car insurance costs…:

Cut 8 (09) “…insurance rates.”

Riggs says his group is worried that some bills will have a detrimental effect on consumers if they pass. He cites SB 96, from Jefferson Parish Senator Kirk Talbot as one that seems intended to help the state-run insurer of last resort, but could easily hurt the insured…:

Cut 9 (12)  “…insurance corporation.”

Riggs is concerned there may not be enough time remaining to get real beneficial insurance reforms to final passage, before the session ends June 8^th.

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State lawmakers have three weeks left to decide how they want to spend two-point-two billion dollars in surplus money. Republican House leaders would like to use 950 million dollars to pay down pension debt. House Speaker Clay Schexnayder

Cut 10 (15) “…next legislature” 

House leaders say by paying down debt in the teacher retirement system it would free up cash for local school systems to give teachers a meaningful pay raise.

But Governor Edwards says there are 296-million dollars available to give teachers a three-thousand dollar pay raise. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the state also has the opportunity also has to make a significant investment toward other priorities…

Cut 11 (07)  “…needed.”

In order to fund teacher pay raises and spend hundreds of millions of dollars on infrastructure projects. The Legislature would have to raise the spending cap. It will take a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate. Senate President Page Cortez says raising the spending cap, the state can put significant dollars toward some major projects…

Cut 12 (09)    “..pay a toll.” 

Right now the House is reluctant to raise the spending cap. Schexnayder says there’s still plenty of time to negotiate with the Senate…

Cut 13 (12) “Always done”  

The legislative session must conclude on June 8th at 6 PM.

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A federal judge in New Orleans has ordered former LSU football coach Les Miles will need to give a deposition in Sharon Lewis’ lawsuit against the LSU Board of Supervisors. Lewis is a former associate athletic director and claims LSU created a hostile work environment and retaliated against her after she tried to report Miles sexually harassed a student. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says the judge also ordered LSU to provide a bunch of documents that were previously withheld…

Cut 14 (06)  “…more information”

Miles has been out of the public eye since 2021 when it became public knowledge that Miles was investigated for sexual harassment in 2013 while he was still the coach at LSU. Horne says LSU has to be uneasy about Miles answering questions under oath from Lewis’ defense team…

Cut 15 (05)  “..court setting”

Eight current and former LSU Board of Supervisor members have also been ordered to give depositions. Horne says the U-S District Judge Susie Morgan also pushed the trial date back from May to December…

Cut  16 (13)  “..three weeks.” 

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The Ragin Cajuns softball team is heading to the Super Regionals for the first time since 2016 as they rallied back to beat LSU 9-8 in the championship game of the Baton Rouge Regional. UL-Lafayette scored two runs in the seventh inning to win the game. Karly Heath homered in the fifth inning to make it a one-run game and scored the winning run in the seventh…

Cut 17 (17) “…college softball”

UL-Lafayette beat LSU twice on Sunday to advance to the super regionals. In the first game, three different players hit home runs and Sam Landry pitched five shutout innings of relief in a seven-to-four win. In game two, Jourdyn Campbell had 5 RBIs and Chloe Riassetto had three shutout innings of relief to get the win. Coach Gerry Glasco says everyone chipped in…

Cut 18 (17) “…team is”

It’s a disappointing finish for the 11th ranked LSU softball team who went 42-17, but for the second consecutive season lost in the regionals. Coach Beth Torinia could not hide the tears…

Cut 19 (18) “….all they had” 

Legislation to set minimum bail amounts for crimes of violence and or the use of a firearm advances from House Criminal Justice. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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After a catastrophic computer systems failure, the state Office of Motor Vehicles remains closed statewide today. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (29)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Legislation that would require public schools statewide to schedule at least 15 minutes of supervised, unstructured free play time of recess for grades kindergarten through fifth was approved by the House in a 66 to 28 vote. Houma Representative Beryl Amedee says under this legislation no special accommodations are required.

Cut 3 (12) “…funded mandate.”

A recent study finds 89 percent of schools in Louisiana currently have recess and 56 percent offer more than 15 minutes of recess for students according to The Status of Health and Physical Education in Louisiana Public. Amedee says the numbers are encouraging, however…

Cut 4 (08)  “…of schools.” 

The bill would allow recess not to be counted toward the minimum of 360 instructional minutes required each school day. Amedee says recess time would be beneficial for their social and emotional well-being.

Cut 5 (08) “…learn better.”

The bill heads to the Senate.

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Legislation to set minimum bail amounts for crimes of violence and or the use of a firearm advances from House Criminal Justice. Crowley Representative John Stefanski’s bill would set a minimum bail of $50,000 for a violent crime and $100,000 for one that involves the use of a firearm.

Cut 6 (10)  “…did that.” 

Michael Calhoun with the Promise of Justice Initiative spoke in opposition to the bill. He says it’s often family members of the accused who have to pay the bond or place their homes or assets at risk so the accused can prepare for trial.

Cut 7 (09)  “…their income.” 

Stefanski says the majority of the time Judges set bonds accordingly, but this is his attempt to make Louisiana safer.

Cut 8 (11)  “…the crime.” 

The bill passed favorably in committee heads to the House floor.

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Louisiana ranks the fourth unhealthiest state for adults 65 and older for the second year according to the United Health Foundation’s 11^th America’s Health Rankings Senior Report. Chief Medical Officer for the Medicare and Retirement Division Dr. Phillip Painter says there are a number of challenges that weigh against seniors living in the Bayou State.

Cut 9 (12) “…should be”

The report covers 52 measures providing insights into many of the strengths and areas of improvement in the health of seniors nationally and state-wide. Poverty among seniors statewide rose by 14 percent from 12 percent to 14 percent between 2018 – 2021. Painter says additional funding from the local government could help raise the state ranking.

Cut 10 (10) “…stay healthy.”

Access to healthcare, physical environment, social and economic factors, and healthy behaviors play a vital role in the ranking. Painter says there’s still hope for improvement for Louisiana seniors.

Cut 11 (12)  “…or exercise”

Louisiana falls below Mississippi which is the unhealthiest state in the nation.

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A bill to ban social media platforms from allowing minors to have their own account without parental consent passed in the Senate but it would only go into effect if funds are allocated for enforcement.  Bill author, Covington Senator Patrick McMath…

Cut 12 (11) “…health crisis.” 

Minors in the bill are defined as ages 15 and younger.

If enacted, McMath says the Attorney General’s Office would be tasked with investigating and enforcing Senate Bill 162, and…

Cut 13 (12) “…this law” 

McMath says Utah and Arkansas have passed similar legislation and so far it appears that some of the larger social media outlets are agreeable to such changes.

Cut 14 (08)  “…is going.”

The Senate passed the bill on a 37-0 vote and it advances to the lower chamber.