Two of the state’s biggest festivals are this weekend and the tourism impact on the state is far and wide. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Last night, the Department of Transportation hosted a construction kick-off meeting for the new 4-lane Jimmie Davis Bridge over the Red River in northwest Louisiana. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 2 (34)  “I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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The Louisiana House has sent a 47-billion dollar spending plan to the Senate. Jeff Palermo reports the budget proposal includes 166-million dollars to provide bonus pay for teachers…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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It’s a huge festival weekend in Louisiana with Festival International and Jazz Fest. Both attract visitors from all over the world and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says it’s not only Lafayette and New Orleans that see a boost in tourists.

Cut 4 (13) “…over Louisiana.”

Nungesser says Jazz Fest has a $300 million impact on New Orleans, which is more than the Super Bowl, and Festival International has a $49 million impact on Lafayette.  He says state parks and hotels are booked with visitors for both events.

Cut 5 (12) “…footprint.” 

And while the two festivals are huge tourist draws for the state, Nungesser says it’s the locals’ southern hospitality that’s responsible for return visits.

Cut 6 (12) “…for more.”

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A new Jimmie Davis Bridge over the Red River is coming to Bossier and Caddo Parishes. DOTD held a Kick-off meeting for the community last night at Barksdale Baptist Church to provide information and answer questions. Public Information Officer Erin Buchanan says the existing 60-year-old 2-lane bridge is being replaced with a …

Cut 7 (10) “…every day”

The project is slated to start Mid to Late May and take about two and a half years. Buchanan says DOTD handed out detour maps and construction phasing information, so the community knows what to expect and isn’t surprised.

Cut 8 (09) “…businesses too.” 

When the new bridge is completed, Buchanan says the bridge currently being used is getting an exciting makeover…

Cut 9 (11)  “…like that.”

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The Louisiana House approved a budget for the next fiscal year that contains 166 million dollars in bonus pay for teachers. According to House leaders that equals a stipend of about 17-hundred dollars, but Appropriations Chairman Jack McFarland says it will vary…

Cut 10 (09) “…districts need.”

The spending bill heads to the Senate and there’s still time to provide more money for teacher pay. Teachers received a two-thousand dollar stipend this year, so they are set to receive a little less this year.

McFarland says lawmakers are also committed to spending 3-point-5 million dollars so the state can receive 70-million dollars in federal aid that low-income families can use to help pay for lunches when kids are out of school. DCFS is concerned it might to late to participate in the summer EBT program, McFarland doesn’t see how that can be…

Cut 11 (11) “…feeding program.”

The summer EBT program is in jeopardy because Governor Landry refused not to allocate funding for it, because it was a program established during the pandemic and there are other programs available to help feed kids when they are out of school for the summer.

The Louisiana Illuminator reports there are about 40-million dollars worth of pet projects in the budget proposal. approved by the House. But McFarland says these dollars are going to worthy initiatives…

Cut 12 (12) “…do that.” 

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As expected the Washington Commanders selected former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels with the second overall pick in last night’s NFL draft. Daniels joins a franchise that has not had a winning season since 2016 and he plans to make the Commanders a winning organization

Cut 13 (11)  “…some fun.”

A few selections later former LSU wide Malik Nabers of Youngsville went to the New York Giants with the sixth overall pick. Nabers wants to be the next great wide receiver from LSU…

Cut 14 (14)  “….chip on my shoulder .”

Another former LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Junior went to the Jacksonville Jaguars with the 23rd pick.

The Saints used their first-round draft pick on an offensive tackle, six-foot-six Taliese Fuaga (Tall-ee-s-a Foo-ah-gah) from Oregon State. The first-team All-American did not give up a sack with the Beavers and played right tackle. Fuaga says he’s played football nearly his entire life…

Cut 15 (09)  “… grit.”

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Louisiana Tech is in second place in Conference USA heading into this weekend’s series against Sam Houston. The Bulldogs are 8-3 in league play, while the Bearkats are 7-and-8. Coach Lane Burroughs says the Diamond Dogs must play well to take the series…

Cut 16 (09)  “…south Texas.”

Tech went on the road last weekend and won a series over a nationally-ranked Dallas Baptist team. Burroughs says it was a big confidence builder…

Cut 17 (11) “…RPI goes.”

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The LSU Tigers will look to win its second consecutive SEC series as they host Auburn this weekend. Coach Jay Johnson believes his team is playing better after taking two of three from Missouri last weekend. Johnson is hoping some of his veteran hitters find a hot streak

Cut 18 (08)  “…be afraid of.”

The Tigers are 5-13 in the SEC and could use a sweep to put themselves back in the conversation of making the NCAA Tournament. Auburn has struggled as they are 2-16 in SEC play. But Johnson says Auburn has played a tough schedule too and he has a lot of respect for them

Cut 19 (07) “…this place.” 

Tonight is game two of a nine-game homestand for the Tigers.

Governor Jeff Landry says there are several reasons why his administration and Republican lawmakers are committed to a constitutional convention this year. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 1 (37)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Anthony Holland of West Monroe has been arrested in connection to the death of Sheryl Tuner of New Iberia, whose torso was found floating in the Ouachita River. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (37)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry held a press conference today to explain the need for a constitutional convention. Landry is pushing for a convention to be held in May and any changes would need voter approval in November. Landry says a presidential election is a perfect time for voters to weigh in on a reorganized constitution

Cut 3 (11) “…have a say” 

The goal of the constitutional convention is move certain sections of the constitution into state law. Landry says these changes will hopefully result in more budget flexibility when the state is facing a deficit. He says right now the Legislature’s hands are tied during tough budget times, resulting in big cuts to health care and education…

Cut 4 (10) “…those things ” 

Democrats say they are uncomfortable rushing into a constitutional convention without more details on what could be possible moved into state statue. There’s  a concern the state’s popular 75-thousand dollars homestead exemption will be removed from the constitution. Landry that’s not his intent…

Cut 5 (13)  “…statue.” 

A bill calling for a constitutional convention to begin May 20th is awaiting debate on the House floor.

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The full House has approved a bill that removes the requirement that businesses must provide minor workers a 20-minute break if they work for five consecutive hours. Denham Springs Representative Roger Wilder says the policy prevents teens from landing work with some businesses

Cut 6  (09) “…hire the kids.” 

Opponents are concerned about over working 16 and 17-year-olds. Denham Springs Representative Roger Wilder says Mississippi does not have a mandatory break for minors and there no major problems,,,

Cut 7 (12) “…responsible for.”  

Wilder says there are minors who are eager to work and the state should not hold them back or prevent businesses from working them more than five consecutive hours…

Cut 8 (11) “…wanting to work.” 

The House approved Wilder’s bill 61-37 and the measure heads to the Senate for more discussion.

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An arrest has been made in the case where the torso of 19-year-old Sheryl Turner of New Iberia was found floating the Ouachita River, on January 24^th. Catahoula Parish Sheriff Detective Dewain Littleton says 29-year-old Anthony Holland, Junior of West Monroe confessed that he dismembered and disposed of her body.

Cut 9 (13) “…not why.” 

Multiple law enforcement agencies collaborated in the investigation including the FBI. Littleton says Holland was unemployed but had been a cross-country truck driver, and there could possibly be more arrests.

Cut 10 (08) “…how to do.” 

Holland has no previous criminal record and Littleton says that due to the nature of the crime, agencies are investigating to see if others could be linked to the suspect.

Cut 11 (11) ” …for sure.”

Investigators say Holland met Turner on social media and the two planned to live together in West Monroe.

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LSU honored its women’s gymnastics team with a parade and a celebration inside the PMAC last night. Coach Jay Clark led the program to its first ever title and the team’s success resulted in Georgia offering him and his assistants a chance to coach the Gym Dogs. But Clark says he’s staying at LSU

Cut 12 (06) “…(cheers)” 

The LSU gymnastics program has been around for 50 years and they became the 8th school in NCAA history to win a national championship in gymnastics. Clark believes more championships are in their future…

Cut 13 (10) “…Geaux Tigers. (cheers fade)”

A bill to give judges the option to sentence one who commits sexual crimes against a child under the age of 13 to physical castration clears the Senate. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A bill that gives the governor the authority to select the chairperson of a state board or commission is heading to the Senate floor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Legislation to allow judges the discretion to sentence one who commits sexual crimes and the victim is under the age of 13 to surgical castration clears the Senate on a 29 to 9 vote. Bill sponsor Baton Rouge Senator Regina Barrow says way too many children are being molested and raped…

Cut 3 (12) “…of children.” 

Gonzales Senator Edward Price says while he recognizes the horrific nature of such a crime…

Cut 4 (13) “…this far. ” 

Price also questioned if physical castration applies when the perpetrator is female.

Cut 5 (12)  “…yes sir.”

The bill now heads to the House.

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The Senate Governmental Affairs Committee approves legislation that would give the governor the authority to choose the chair person and officers of state boards and commissions. Governor Jeff Landry appeared before the panel to explain why a governor should have this power…

Cut 6  (08) “…to enact.” 

A Louisiana governor is already responsible for appointment members to hundreds of different state boards. But members of that board pick their chair person.  Shreveport Senator Sam Jenkins questioned whether it’s a good thing for the governor to also have the authority to pick a chair person…

Cut 7 (12) “…responsible for.”  

Landry believes it’s important that the politics of the board align with the governor’s politics and currently that is not the case 100-percent of the time…

Cut 8 (08) “…might not be.” 

The measure was approved without objection

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A new Morning Consult report finds Republican John Kennedy among the top ten most popular U-S Senators. The survey found that 55-percent of Louisiana voters approve of Kennedy’s job performance. That’s the tenth highest percentage. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says a majority of Louisiana voters agree with Kennedy’s politics…

Cut 9 (10) “…this state.” 

Kennedy is known for his folksy, straight-forward criticism of the Biden administration and left-wing policies. Hogan says his soundbites, quotes and one-liners play well in a red state like Louisiana…

Cut 10 (08) “…their beliefs.” 

Kennedy does not make many public appearances or speak to Louisiana media members. Hogan says the junior senator speaks to his supporters on conservative leaning news outlets like Fox News…

Cut 11 (08) ” …that resonate.”

Wyoming Republican John Barrasso is the most popular at 74-percent.

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The search continues for the person who fatally shot a driver of an 18-wheeler in what authorities in Caddo Parish describe as a road rage incident. Sergeant Casey Jones with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s office says the shooting happened Tuesday morning on I-20 in Greenwood…

Cut 12 (10) “…the median.” 

Jones says the driver of the 18-wheeler was seen trying to flee on foot before he was shot by the driver of an SUV…

Cut 13 (07) “…the victim.”

Jones says witnesses saw the driver of the SUV leave the scene, heading westbound on I-20 towards Texas. He says some sort of an argument led to this fatal shooting…

Cut  14 (06) “…looking like.” 

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office.

A bill to protect IVF clinics so what happened in Alabama doesn’t happen in Louisiana advances to the House. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Federal Trade Commission says no more noncompete agreements that prevent employees from leaving their jobs for other companies or starting businesses of their own. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry’s former campaign manager, Cory Dennis, has been appointed as the new executive director of the Louisiana Republican Party. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Legislation to provide protections for in vitro fertilization clinics in Louisiana advances favorably from House Civil Law and will go before the full House next week. Bill author, Baton Rouge Representative Paula Davis says after a Supreme Court ruling in Alabama caused IVF clinics to close, she wanted to keep that from happening here.

Cut 4 (11) “…not liable.”

The Alabama Supreme Court ruled that a frozen embryo is considered a child and if the embryo is destroyed its wrongful death. To avoid criminal charges, IVF clinics closed.

Davis says her bill only affects IVF and does not impact the state’s abortion ban.

Cut 5 (12) “…statutes are.” 

Because IVF laws in Louisiana were written in 1986, Davis says her legislation also updates previous regulations to the medical practice.

Cut 6 (09) “…liability portion of it.”

Davis refers to House Bill 833 as the IVF Modernization Bill.

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Companies will no longer be able to tell employees that they cannot go to work for a competitor as the Federal Trade Commission votes to ban noncompete agreements on Tuesday.  UNO Business Professor Mark Rosa says on one hand, it’s appropriate for the free market to figure it out but there could be unintended consequences…

Cut 7 (10) “…that employer.”

Some business groups fear the ruling may leave their proprietary information and intellectual property vulnerable, but the ruling does not ban agreements that would protect that information. Still business groups are expected to take legal action. Rosa says banning noncompete agreements would benefit clients who want to keep working with their choice of providers when they leave a company but there may need to be limits.

Cut 8 (08) “…carve out.” 

The Rule will go into effect 120 days after it’s published in the Federal Register and with a few exceptions for senior executives, even existing non-compete agreements will be thrown out. Rosa says this ruling not only empowers former employees but also customers who have relationships they want to keep…

Cut 9 (08)  “…not be penalized.”

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Louisiana public school teachers would receive a cut in pay and early childhood education would see a reduction in state funding under the budget proposal approved by House Appropriations. But Baton Rouge Representative Barbara Freiberg does not want to see teachers’ pay go down

Cut 10 (07) “…salary.”

The spending plan approved by House appropriations would reduce a two-thousand-dollar stipend that teachers receive on top of their regular salary, down to 13-hundred dollars. New Orleans Representative Jason Hughes says there’s time during the budget process to find money so the stipend is two-thousand dollars…

Cut 11 (12) “…through the process.”

House Appropriations Chairman Jack McFarland says they had to reduce proposed teacher stipends and cut 24-million from early childhood education to fully fund the K-through-12 public school funding formula BESE submitted to the legislature.

Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle says a 24-million dollar cut to pre-k, means an estimated two-thousand fewer children taking part in pre education …

Cut 12 (10) “…with funding.” 

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A graduate of the U-S Naval Academy and the former campaign manager for Jeff Landry’s gubernatorial campaign is the new executive director of the Louisiana Republican Party. Maryland native Cory Dennis is excited to be appointed to the G-O-P leadership position…

Cut 13 (12)  “…second home to me.”

Dennis’ appointments comes weeks after Derek Babcock was elected as the chairman of the Louisiana Republican Party. Republicans are in control of Louisiana as they hold all of the elected statewide positions and enjoy a super majority over the Democrats in the Legislature. Dennis says the goal is to build on their recent successes…

Cut 14 (05)  “…growing.”

Dennis is a Black Republican but says race didn’t land him in this position…

Cut 15 (13)  “…those endeavors.”

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The Saints have the 14th overall pick in the first round of Thursday night’s NFL draft. According to Mike Triplett of New Orleans-football…the Saints have traded up 26 straight times in the NFL draft. General Manager Mickey Loomis says every team is looking at their situation and trying to see if there’s a trade partner to move up in the draft or slide back…

Cut 16 (20)  “…go back”  

The Saints have an obvious need to draft an offensive tackle, but they could also take a wide receiver. Loomis says the belief is that more offensive players will go in the first round than defensive players…

Cut 17 (14) “…see that.”

There are rumors that the Saints are looking to trade veteran cornerback Marshon Lattimore. But Loomis says he doesn’t like dealing established starters…

Cut 18 (15)  “….we got”

A 54-year-old Springfield man has been sentenced to 50 years and physical castration for the rape of a 14-year-old girl. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana has received 156 million dollars in federal grant money that will lead to the installation of more solar energy panels. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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54-year-old Glenn Sullivan of Springfield has been sentenced to 50 years and physical castration for raping and impregnating a 14-year-old. Livingston Parish Assistant DA Brad Cascio is pleased with the sentencing after Sullivan plead guilty to four counts of second-degree rape.

Cut 3 (11) “…her life.” 

A DNA test confirmed he was the father.

Cascio says because sentencing laws can change, prosecutors are pleased that physical castration is part of his punishment.

Cut 4 (12) “…this again. ” 

Judges are given discretion in rape cases to order chemical castration as a punishment and Cascio says because of the horrific nature of Sullivan’s case, physical castration was ordered, which he believes is a first for the 21^st district.

Cascio says he admires the bravery it took for the victim to come forward despite being threatened not to.

Cut 5 (11)  “…the end.”

Cascio says sadly so many of these types of cases go unreported.

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The state Department of Energy and Natural Resources announces Louisiana is recipient of a 156-million dollar federal grant to initiate a statewide program called “Solar for Y’all.” D-N-R spokesperson Patrick Courreges says the federal dollars should expand solar panel installations, especially for those who can not afford them

Cut 6  (05) “..build solar energy.” 

Louisiana is one of 60 government bodies that received the money which comes from the federal Inflation Reduction Act. Courreges says the state will benefit from this federal investment, with so much of the population at risk of losing power for several days because of devastating storms

Cut 7 (07) “…power lines”  

Courreges says they still have to get approval from the federal government on how they plan to spend the money, but they are looking to provide dollars to pay for upgrades on single-family and multi-family homes to prepare them for solar energy equipment and they are also looking at creating solar hubs…

Cut 8 (12) “..get it going” 

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Legislation to require public colleges and universities in the state to accept cash at sporting events passes in the House on a 70 to 24 vote. Chalmette Representative Michael Bayham questioned bill author Rosepine Representative Charles Owen about the purpose of his bill.

Cut 9 (12) “…and water” 

Bayham recalled the Auburn-LSU football game, which was extremely hot, and some fans suffered heat exhaustion.

Cut 10 (13) “…bill up.”

In a fiscal note, LSU reported the bill could lead to a $75,000 annual loss for third-party vendors and slow concession lines.

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Legislation to remove nitrogen hypoxia as a means of execution passes in the Senate after two votes. Monroe Representative Katrina Jackson-Andrews says members of the Jewish community asked her to sponsor the bill because of its tragic history with the Holocaust.

Cut 11 (12) “…by mistake.”

The first vote was 19-19 and Jackson asked for a suspension of the rules because she believed some members mistakenly voted against the bill. She reminded Senate members the bill does not repeal the death penalty, only the use of gas for execution.

Cut 12 (12) “…State of Louisiana.” 

The bill passed on a 22-16 vote and advances to the House.

A bill to ban touching your cell phone while driving advances from House Transportation. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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In it’s 50th year as a program, the LSU gymnastics team can finally call itself national champs. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Testimony for and against legislation to ban the use of touching your cell phone while driving in House Transportation was emotional this morning. Port Allen motorcyclist Anthony Summers supports the bill after being the victim of an accident caused by a distracted driver on their phone. He says the losses from the incident total more than $80 thousand.

Cut 3 (12) “…safe manner.” 

Kenner resident Connie Zimmerman opposes the bill for several reasons and told committee members it violates one’s liberties.

Cut 4 (11) “…a police state. ” 

Touching your cell phone while driving would be a secondary offense, meaning you could only be charged if you were first pulled over for another violation, as speeding. It would be considered a primary offense in school and construction zones.

Chris Alexander with Louisiana Citizen Advocacy Group also spoke against the bill. He says in testimony from previous legislative attempts the bill’s author has said the ultimate goal is to get rid of phones in vehicles altogether.

Cut 5 (07)  “…will occur.”

The bill passed in committee without objection. The bill has already received Senate approval.

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The U-S House has sent to the Senate a 95-billion dollar foreign aid package that includes aid for Ukraine. Speaker Mike Johnson of Benton needed help from Democrats to pass the aid bill for Ukraine and that puts his job as speaker in jeopardy..

Cut 6  (12) “..where they may.” 

Georgia Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene leads a group of hard-right Republicans who believe Johnson should be fired as Speaker because the House approved billions in foreign aid over new border security and immigration policies. Johnson believes the House did the right thing…

Cut 7 (03) “…judge it well”  

Ukraine President Volodymer Zelensky says help from the United States is desperately needed as country continues to try to stave of a Russian invasion. Johnson says the 60-billion dollars heading to Ukraine is coming at a good time

Cut 8 (07) “…our troops.” 

Ukraine President Volodymer Zelensky says help from the United States is desperately needed as country continues to try to stave of a Russian invasion. Johnson says the 60-billion dollars heading to Ukraine is coming at a good time.

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Former LSU gymnastics Coach DD Breaux is beaming with pride today as the program she built can finally say they are national champions.. The LSU gymnastics team won its first championship in dramatic fashion rallying from behind to win during the final rotation. Breaux was watching from the stands in Fort Worth, Texas…

Cut 9 (05) “…the mountain” 

Breaux led the LSU gymnastics team for 43 years before retiring in 2020. She led the Tigers to 31 top-ten finished in 43 seasons, including three runner-up titles. The Donaldsonville native is so happy to see the program grow under head coach Jay Clark…

Cut 10 (16) “…on Saturday.”

Breaux hired current head coach Jay Clark in 2012 after he resigned as the head coach at Georgia. Breaux named Clark Associate Head Coach and she knew he could lead the LSU gym program to great things…

Cut 11 (06) “…incredible feat.”

LSU will hold a parade for the national champion gym team at 6:30 on Wednesday night.

In the fall Baker High School juniors and seniors who make the grade will have the option of a four-day school week. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Two bills are going through the legislature to repeal the three-year rule where insurers can’t drop policyholders after three years of coverage. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Louisiana is showing some gains in attracting and keeping teachers. Colleen Crain has more on the latest numbers from the Educator Workforce Snapshot…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain” 

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Baker High School juniors and seniors who keep their grades up and have acceptable conduct in school will be rewarded with a four-day school week. Superintendent J.T. Stroder says instead of negative reinforcement for students he suggested one with a positive twist.

Cut 4 (12) “…an option.”

For students who don’t make the grade, Stroder says Fridays will be dedicated to helping them work on subjects where they are struggling.

When Stroder ran the idea by students, he knew he was on to something…

Cut 5 (11) “…of it.” 

Of the approximately 75 students in each grade, Stroder says about 25-percent of students would qualify for a four-day-school week, but he’s hoping with this new incentive that number will grow.

Since the pandemic, he says it’s been an ongoing challenge to get students to focus on their education.

Cut 6 (10) “…a little deeper.”

The new incentive will go into effect this fall when students return to the previous campus that was flooded in August 2016.

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The goal of two bills making their way through the legislature is to repeal the three-year rule. It ensures property policyholders that their carrier cannot drop their coverage after three years. Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple says the bills are focused on revitalizing the insurance marketplace in Louisiana.

Cut 7 (08) “…which is choice.”

But Ben Riggs at Real Reform Louisiana opposes the bills and says the state’s insurance crisis is two-fold with unavailability and unaffordability and the loss of the three-year consumer protection will only exacerbate the crisis.

Cut 8 (11) “…surcharge.” 

Temple says the three-year rule is not enticing new insurers to come to the state, it’s merely a deterrent.

Cut 9 (09)  “…the same.”

Riggs says the bills would allow carriers to cancel up to five percent of their three-year protected policies without cause and the option to cancel more with permission from the insurance commissioner and those requests would not be subject to public disclosure.

Cut 10 (07) “…at risk.”

The two bills are House Bill 611 and Senate Bill 370 are nearing final legislative approval.

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Louisiana is making some progress in both attracting and holding on to teachers but there are still shortages and according to Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Jenna Chaisson there is some ground to make up…

Cut 11 (11) “…88 percent.”

Chaisson says newer teachers need more support, but the retention of experienced teachers has increased.  And while there are still too many unfilled educator roles, the Bayou State added over 1700 educators in the 2022-2023 school year…

Cut 12 (08) “…as teachers.” 

Chaisson believes some of the recent gains are due to Covid-related stimulus funds received which provided for more support staff positions and smaller classroom sizes.  She believes a shift may be coming…

Cut 13 (10)  “…support staff.”

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Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields would like to see every school bus in Louisiana to have heating and air conditioning by August 1, 2025. Fields says it’s hard to learn in the classroom after sweating on the ride to school…

Cut 14 (12)  “… unconscionable.”

Jackson Parish Superintendent David Claxton, who is also the president of the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents, many school districts are already transitioning to climate-controlled buses, but getting it all done by the 2025-26 school year might be difficult…

Cut 15 (08)  “…own ours”

Fields says there are federal grants available to help school districts pay for air-conditioned and heated buses. He told the Senate Finance Committee he may change the wording of his bill to give school systems more time…

Cut 16 (13)  “…our intent”  

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LSU is a national champion in gymnastics for the first time in program history. The Tigers scored a 198.225 to beat out California, Utah and Florida to become just the eighth program in NCAA history to win the women’s gymnastics championship. Coach Jay Clark on the emotion of winning it all

Cut 17 (14) “…just clutch.”

LSU trailed Utah heading into the final rotation and the Tigers were on a beam. Sierra Ballard, Konnor McClain, Kiya Johnson, Haleigh Bryant and Aleah Finnegan all scored a 9.95 or higher. Finnegan’s fantastic performance sealed the victory. Clark knew Aleah would hit on her final routine…

Cut 18 (18)  “…bubble popped.” 

LSU’s women’s gymnastics program is 50 years old. They’ve had four runner-up finishes. Haleigh Bryant says this national championship is not just about the 2024 team…

Cut 19 (10) “…everybody.” 

The championship also cements Bryant’s legacy as the greatest LSU gymnast in history. She also won the NCAA all-around championship on Thursday and won another all-around title on Saturday….

Cut 20 (20) “…exceeds everything.”

LSU will hold a parade for the national champs on Wednesday.

The U-S House is expected to take a vote on Saturday to send foreign aid to Ukraine and Israel, a move that puts Mike Johnson’s position as House Speaker in jeopardy. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Oklahoma stumbles at the NCAA gymnastic championships, giving LSU an excellent chance to win its first national title in gymnastics. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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House Speaker Mike Johnson of Benton’s political future is on the line as the US House is scheduled to vote on Saturday to provide funding for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. LSU political science professor Robert Hogan says far right Republicans oppose additional funding to Ukraine

Cut 3 (11) “…as speaker” 

Georgia Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene has said she will move forward with her motion to vacate Johnson if he puts a Ukraine aid bill up for a vote in the House. A divided House Republican caucus led to the removal of Johnson’s predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, last October. But Hogan says the desire for a new House Speaker is not as strong as it was last Fall…

Cut 4 (08) “…seeing now ” 

Johnson has separated the foreign aid package into separate bills, so lawmakers will vote specifically on whether the U-S should send 60-billion dollars to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia.

Republican hardliners have demanded that any foreign aid bill must be tied to strong border security policies. Hogan says Johnson is doing what he thinks is right and is not worrying about the political ramifications…

Cut 5 (11)  “..United States.”

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LSU could win its first national championship in gymnastics on Saturday. They will compete against Utah, Florida and Cal, but not Oklahoma. The two-time defending champion Sooners suffered multiple falls in the semifinals and they are out. College Gym News co-managing editor Brandif Heffner

Cut 6  (10) “..slight edge.” 

Heffner says Cal, Florida and Utah are more than capable of winning a national championship as well, but the Tigers benefit from having the best gymnast in the country….

Cut 7 (10) “…in the final”  

Utah is looking for its 10th national championship in women’s gymnastics, which would tie a record. Florida is seeking its fourth and Cal is fresh off a Pac-12 title and they’ve flipped flopped with LSU for most of the season as the second ranked team in the country. But Heffner likes LSU’s depth…

Cut 8 (08) “…championship final.” 

The NCAA Championships will begin at 3 PM on Saturday.

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U.S. Department of Homeland Security has launched the Know2Protect campaign to educate parents about the dangers of online sexual exploitation and abuse of children. Special Agent Jessica Zuppardo says you can learn more at dhs-dot-gov Know 2 Protect, that’s with the number two.

Cut 9 (12) “…the police.” 

The problem is rampant in Louisiana and the State Attorney General’s office indicates an almost 100-percent increase in cases from 2022. Zuppardo says there are two reasons they are seeing an increase…

Cut 10 (10) “…reporting it.”

If your child is a victim of such abuse Zuppardo says not to delete any messages, don’t engage with the perpetrator, and to contact local law enforcement.

Cut 11 (12) “…law enforcement.”

https://www.dhs.gov/know2protect

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Louisiana has the 3^rd highest rate of pickup truck fatalities according to the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission and this week some Law enforcement officers will be focused on pickup truck drivers during the Buckle UP in Your Truck Campaign. Why the special focus? DOTD Spokesperson, Gregory Fischer…

Cut 12 (10) “…their seatbelts” 

Because trucks are large and heavy, Fischer believes Pickup Truck Drivers may have an elevated sense of safety causing some to feel comfortable unbuckled…

Cut 13 (13) “…big trouble.”

During the campaign, there’s an opportunity for state Law enforcement to receive extra funding for overtime patrols, but Fischer says It’s not about issuing tickets. He hopes the desire to avoid a ticket will help pickup drivers establish the habit of buckling up…

Cut  14 (09) “…these things.” 

The Buckle Up in Your Truck campaign runs through Saturday, April 27^th.

Webster Parish’s largest employer is expanding its facility and the project is expected to produce hundreds of new jobs. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A bill to remove the required 30-minute meal break for minors who work five or more hours advances from House Labor. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Big economic development news in northwest Louisiana as industrial manufacturer Fibrebond announces a 50-million dollar expansion of its production facility in Minden. Officials say this will result in an estimated 650 new jobs to support the expansion. Mayor Nick Cox says Fibrebond is the cornerstone of Webster Parish’s economy

Cut 3 (14) “…here to stay.” 

The expansion allows Fibrebond to retain more than 450 existing jobs in northwest Louisiana. The family-owned company supports data center, telecommunications, industrial and utility projects across the United States.

Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois says Fibrebond is taking advantage of a retention and  modernization state tax credit to build a new production facility…

Cut 4 (13) “…shiny things ” 

Construction will begin in June and Mayor Nick Cox says this latest expansion will bring Fibrebond’s total manufacturing and warehouse space to more than one million square feet on its 254-acre campus…

Cut 5 (10)  “…north Louisiana.”

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Legislation to remove the required 30-minute meal period for minors who work five or more hours advances from House Labor Committee.  Bill author, Denham Springs Representative Roger Wilder says of the businesses he owns in Louisiana, the required break forces his employees who want to work to lose 30 minutes of pay.

Cut 6  (07) “…want to.” 

Shreveport Representative Tammy Phelps questioned Wilder if he considers a 16 or 17-year-old a young adult. He countered that the emancipation age is 16, and you’re allowed to marry at age 16.

Cut 7 (13) “…a minor.”  

Haughton Representative Dodie Horton supports the bill because she wants to ensure the state allows private businesses to operate as they see fit.

Cut 8 (12) “…all over.” 

The bill passed on a 10 to 2 vote and advances to the House.

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Every spring millions of beautiful birds migrate through Louisiana but the lights from our homes and buildings can be hazardous to them especially during storms so The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is asking Louisianans to turn off bright lights from 11 pm to 6 am each night from now to May 31^st. Federation Communications Director Jimmy Frederick…

Cut 9 (11) “…used to” 

Frederick understands the need to light our homes for safety and security and suggests other options to help the flying visitors make it safely though the Bayou State…

Cut 10 (09) “…huge difference”

Diming lights or using motion activated lights are other ways to protect the migrating birds.

Frederick says, establishing the habit of diming or turning off lights at night brings other benefits like more visible stars in the sky while helping the birds make their way back to their northern nesting sites. He says over 450 million fly over and include multiple beautiful varieties of shore birds and song birds…

Cut 11 (07) “…his wings”

Frederick also says some indoor lights can also confuse the birds but closing blinds will help.

The Pelicans will not have Zion Williamson for their do or die matchup against the Sacramento Kings. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Republican Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie joins Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene’s motion to vacate Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House. Jeff Palermo reports Johnson has no plans to leave…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The Louisiana Senate has approved a bill that would prohibit public school teachers from teaching critical race theory. The bill passed on a 28-11 vote and would prohibit teachers from teaching about systemic racism. Denham Springs Senator Valerie Hodges says her legislation will help preserve a bid to preserve students’ self-esteem

Cut 3 (08) “…national origin.” 

Every Democrat in the Senate voted against the legislation, including New Orleans Senator Royce Duplessis. Duplessis is concerned the legislation is too broad and it will impact a teachers’ ability to educate students about subjects that some may find difficult…

Cut 4 (08) “…history be taught” 

Hodges says her legislation will not prevent educators from teaching history lessons…

Cut 5 (09)  “…America.”

The measure heads to the House for more discussion.

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U-S House Speaker Mike Johnson is adamant he is not resigning despite calls from House Republicans who are not happy with his proposals to provide aid to Israel and Ukraine. The Republican from Bossier Parish says efforts to remove him from office are not helpful

Cut 6  (06) “…do our job.” 

Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene filed a motion to vacate the speaker and Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie has suggested Johnson should step down. Johnson says an effort to remove him as speaker does not help House Republicans advance their agenda…

Cut 7 (07) “…very thing”  

Johnson’s aid package proposal for Ukraine and Israel will require support from Democrats, which upsets some Republicans. House Republicans also do not like that Johnson is not requiring more security at the U-S Mexico border as he pushes separate aid bills for Ukraine and Israel.

Johnson refers to himself as a wartime speaker…

Cut 8 (12) “…terribly divided” 

The U-S House has 435 representatives and Republicans hold a single vote majority with 218 seats.

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Parental approval would be needed for a teacher to identify a student by their preferred name or a pronoun that does not match their biological sex as a result of a bill that received House approval. Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews says teachers could still object for religious reasons…

Cut 9 (13) “…that classroom” 

The House approved the bill on a 68- to-30 vote, sending it to the Senate. Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle says this type of legislation makes it harder on transgender children…

Cut 10 (12) “…in any manner”

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The Louisiana House has approved legislation that critics have labeled as the “Don’t Say Gay Bill.” It prohibits teachers in K-through-12th grade from discussing gender identity and sexual orientation during class time, or even during extracurricular and athletic events. Haughton Representative Dodie Horton is the author of the legislation…

Cut 11 (08) “…haven’t discussed”

The proposal was approved on a 69-28 vote. New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry says this is a bill that conservative groups are trying to get states to pass, but it’s really a non-issue…

Cut 12 (12) “…sits in”