Marketa Garner Walters, secretary of the Department of Children and Family Services, is concerned about a 15-million dollar hole in her budget. Halen Doughty reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

================

South Louisiana law enforcement are searching for fugitives from the Gremlins Criminal Gang and Michelle Southern says the search is receiving all kinds of attention because of a viral video….

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

===================

The secretary of the Department of Children and Family Services tells legislators her department is in need of resources to care for the more than four-thousand children in foster care in Louisiana. Marketa Garner Walters spoke to the House of Appropriations about a 15-million dollar hole in the DCFS budget. Garner says there is a shortage of foster homes…

CUT 3 (09)  “a placement”

Walters says DCFS helps families in tough times. They deal with things like child abuse investigation, foster care and adoption, food stamps, child support enforcement and disability determinations. Garner says the process of finding a place to stay can be difficult on children from abusive homes.

CUT 4 (10)  “wanted there”

Walters says without sufficient funding, people will be laid off at the affected agencies and Louisiana could receive federal penalties for falling short of the national standards for these agencies…

CUT 5 (09)  “food stamp program”

============================

A federal judge officially rejected Former Saints safety Darren Sharper’s plea bargain in the case where he allegedly drugged and raped multiple women. Legal Analyst Chick Foret says Sharper is facing accusations in three other states and agreed to nine years in jail after pleading guilty in those jurisdictions. But Foret says US District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo believes nine years isn’t enough…

CUT 6 (10) “be convicted”

Judge Milazzo gave Sharper until March 3^rd to withdraw his guilty plea. Foret says Judge Milazzo said this morning, the original plea deal does not reflect the seriousness of the crime. He says the federal sentencing guidelines recommend a sentence of 15 to 20 years…

CUT 7 (09) “plea bargain”

Foret says Darren Sharper is in a bad position and the facts keep getting worse. He says Sharper only has three options…

CUT 8 (10) “sentence”

============================

South Louisiana law enforcement are actively searching for the seven remaining wanted fugitives of the Gremlins Criminal Gang and their search efforts have been boosted by the latest video message from the “Cajun John Wayne.” Captain Clay Higgins with St. Landry’s parish sheriff’s office says the gang is very active in Acadiana and Higgins called out the remaining fugitives in a viral internet video.

CUT 9 (05)  “like you”

The video filmed in front of the police station shows police officers and state leaders standing behind Higgins. It has received over 8 million views on St. Landry Parish’s Facebook page. He says police have arrested 10 Gremlins, and they have warrants for seven more. He says the officers are not afraid of these so-called thugs.

cut 10 (04)  “than you”

Higgins says all of them are armed and dangerous. Authorities say the Gremlins are responsible for violent crimes including murder, armed robbery, witness intimidation, burglary, drug trafficking, extortion, and brutal beatings.  Higgins asks the public to contact police with any information about these crimes of the whereabouts of the wanted fugitives.

Cut 11 (04) “our knees”

============================

A debate broke out at the state capitol over a tax credit that benefits working individuals with low incomes. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala has legislation to do away with the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit, which he says will save the state about 50-million dollars a year

cut 12 (12) “through revenue increases”

But Democratic state representative Walt Leger says the Earned Income Tax Credit helps the working poor pay for daily life expenses

cut 13 (09)  “out of the year”

Leger says in parishes like East Carroll and Madison,  over 50-percent of the state’s tax filers receive the earned income tax credit. The New Orleans lawmaker is actually proposing to double the earned income tax credit, which would actually help the state and local economy

cut 14 (12)  “necessities of life”

A Republican lawmaker from Hammond says the one cent sales tax increase proposal is facing significant debate in the special session. Jeff Palermo reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

 The Louisiana Supreme Court delays the execution of the so-called River Parish serial killer. Emelie Gunn reports Daniel Blank was scheduled to die next month for the murder of an elderly woman in 1997…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

 Lawmakers are considering raising the tax on alcohol for the first time since 1948 to help solve the state’s budget crisis. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

Republican Representative Chris Broadwater of Hammond, who serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, says lawmakers are taking a hard look at the Edwards Administration’s proposed one cent sales tax increase. He says the reason it’s such a pivotal issue is because they are trying to close a massive $950ish million dollar gap in the current fiscal year budget…:

cut 4  (06)  “were it to pass”

Broadwater says there is concern about whether or not the one penny sales tax hike would be utilized as a short term approach, or if it would stay long term….:

Cut 5  (10)  “that need to be made”

Broadwater says it remains to be seen if lawmakers will decide to make this part of the solution to the budget crisis. He says they are also discussing other tax measures such as on cigarettes and alcohol, but the one penny sales tax hike does continue to be a significant part of the discussion….:

Cut 6 (05)  “associated with it” 

 ______________________________________

A north Louisiana lawmaker doesn’t like hearing the threat that there will be no LSU football next season because of budget issues facing higher education. Republican State Representative Steve Pylant of Winnsboro says Governor John Bel Edwards’ statement about the possibility there will be no LSU football next year is an empty threat.

CUT 7 (06)  “this fall”

Pylant’s comments came during a full day’s worth of testimony about funding for higher education. Many lawmakers expressed frustration about threats that college campuses could close this spring, unless they receive more money. But Pylant is against higher taxes to solve the problem and compares the situation to feeding hogs…

Cut 8  (09)  “a fight”

But Democrat State Representative Pat Smith of Baton Rouge says legislators have to do whatever they can to keep universities open.

Cut 9 (07)  “doors open”

Smith says she’s in favor of approving tax measures to make sure schools remain open for students.

Cut 10 (07) “to school”

_________________________________________________________

The Louisiana Supreme Court delays the scheduled March 14^th execution of the so-called River Parishes serial killer Daniel Blank. He was sentenced to death for the brutal beating death of a 71-year-old Ascension Parish woman in 1997. Blank’s attorney, Gary Clements, says an execution date should have never been set, because his client had yet to exhaust all of his appeals…

cut 11 (10) “after that”

 Blanks execution could not have been carried out next month anyways, because the state Department of Corrections doesn’t have the necessary drugs to follow through with Blank’s execution. Clements also says Blanks is innocent. He says his client’s admission that he killed six people came towards the end of a 12-hour interrogation…

cut 12 (10) “physical reality”

Clements says the Louisiana Supreme Court needs time to look at Blank’s case.

Cut 13 (08)  “this case”

________________________________________________________

State Representative Kenny Cox of Natchitoches is proposing a higher tax on alcohol as a means for closing the state’s huge budget deficit. The proposed bill would raise Louisiana’s alcohol tax to the Southern regional averages. Cox says raising taxes is not his first option…

Cut 14 (05)  “do something” 

Under this bill, taxes would increase $3 per gallon for hard liquor and 34-cents per gallon for wine. The tax would go into effect April 1, although it is unclear how much revenue it would generate. Unlike other taxes proposed during this special session, this increase would be permanent.

Alcohol taxes in Louisiana have not been raised since 1948. John Williams with the Beer Industry League of Louisiana says the tax increase in 1948 devastated the beer brewing industry in Louisiana. He says Louisiana still has one of the highest alcohol taxes in the country.

Cut 15 (05) “excise tax” 

 Craft beer breweries are a growing industry in Louisiana. Louisiana currently has 16 operating breweries, and another 5 or 6 are expected to open by the end of the summer. If the alcohol tax is raised, brewery operators fear that beer drinkers will switch to more affordable options as opposed to the expensive beers brewed in Louisiana.  State Representative Mike Huval of Breaux Bridge says this tax could hurt people that are trying to build their business in an already fragile economy.

Cut 16  (05)  “upcoming business“

_____________________________________________________

______________________________________

LSU Football head coach Les Miles introduced two new additions to his coaching staff.  The new additions have a strong ties to Louisiana. Jabbar Juluke has been named running backs coach while Dameyune Craig has been named as the wide receivers coach. Miles is thrilled they are on his staff…

Cut 17 (12) “special things”

Prior to coming to LSU, Juluke served in the same capacity at Texas Tech. This was preceded by a three year stint as the running backs coach at Louisiana Tech. Juluke is also a graduate of Southern University. The New Orleans native coached Edna Karr High School for nine years where he led the Cougars to one state championship and three consecutive state championship appearances. Juluke says he couldn’t be happier

Cut 18 (10) “be here”

Craig joins LSU after serving as Auburn’s co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach. In the 2013 season, Craig helped Auburn win the SEC title game and make an appeareance in the BCS National championship. He played quarterback at Auburn from 1994-1997, where he broke many school passing records. Craig began his coaching  career in 2004 as a graduate assistant for LSU and is glad he’s back in Baton Rouge

Cut 19 (18) “that sells”

A Republican lawmaker from Hammond says the one cent sales tax increase proposal is facing significant debate in the special session. Jeff Palermo reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Supreme Court delays the execution of the so-called River Parish serial killer. Emelie Gunn reports Daniel Blank was scheduled to die next month for the murder of an elderly woman in 1997…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Lawmakers are considering raising the tax on alcohol for the first time since 1948 to help solve the state’s budget crisis. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

Republican Representative Chris Broadwater of Hammond, who serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, says lawmakers are taking a hard look at the Edwards Administration’s proposed one cent sales tax increase. He says the reason it’s such a pivotal issue is because they are trying to close a massive $950ish million dollar gap in the current fiscal year budget…:

cut 4  (06)  “were it to pass”

Broadwater says there is concern about whether or not the one penny sales tax hike would be utilized as a short term approach, or if it would stay long term….:

Cut 5  (10)  “that need to be made”

Broadwater says it remains to be seen if lawmakers will decide to make this part of the solution to the budget crisis. He says they are also discussing other tax measures such as on cigarettes and alcohol, but the one penny sales tax hike does continue to be a significant part of the discussion….:

Cut 6 (05)  “associated with it” 

______________________________________

A north Louisiana lawmaker doesn’t like hearing the threat that there will be no LSU football next season because of budget issues facing higher education. Republican State Representative Steve Pylant of Winnsboro says Governor John Bel Edwards’ statement about the possibility there will be no LSU football next year is an empty threat.

CUT 7 (06)  “this fall”

Pylant’s comments came during a full day’s worth of testimony about funding for higher education. Many lawmakers expressed frustration about threats that college campuses could close this spring, unless they receive more money. But Pylant is against higher taxes to solve the problem and compares the situation to feeding hogs…

Cut 8  (09)  “a fight”

But Democrat State Representative Pat Smith of Baton Rouge says legislators have to do whatever they can to keep universities open.

Cut 9 (07)  “doors open”

Smith says she’s in favor of approving tax measures to make sure schools remain open for students.

Cut 10 (07) “to school”

_________________________________________________________

The Louisiana Supreme Court delays the scheduled March 14^th execution of the so-called River Parishes serial killer Daniel Blank. He was sentenced to death for the brutal beating death of a 71-year-old Ascension Parish woman in 1997. Blank’s attorney, Gary Clements, says an execution date should have never been set, because his client had yet to exhaust all of his appeals…

cut 11 (10) “after that”

Blanks execution could not have been carried out next month anyways, because the state Department of Corrections doesn’t have the necessary drugs to follow through with Blank’s execution. Clements also says Blanks is innocent. He says his client’s admission that he killed six people came towards the end of a 12-hour interrogation…

cut 12 (10) “physical reality”

Clements says the Louisiana Supreme Court needs time to look at Blank’s case.

Cut 13 (08)  “this case”

________________________________________________________

State Representative Kenny Cox of Natchitoches is proposing a higher tax on alcohol as a means for closing the state’s huge budget deficit. The proposed bill would raise Louisiana’s alcohol tax to the Southern regional averages. Cox says raising taxes is not his first option…

Cut 14 (05)  “do something” 

Under this bill, taxes would increase $3 per gallon for hard liquor and 34-cents per gallon for wine. The tax would go into effect April 1, although it is unclear how much revenue it would generate. Unlike other taxes proposed during this special session, this increase would be permanent.

Alcohol taxes in Louisiana have not been raised since 1948. John Williams with the Beer Industry League of Louisiana says the tax increase in 1948 devastated the beer brewing industry in Louisiana. He says Louisiana still has one of the highest alcohol taxes in the country.

Cut 15 (05) “excise tax” 

Craft beer breweries are a growing industry in Louisiana. Louisiana currently has 16 operating breweries, and another 5 or 6 are expected to open by the end of the summer. If the alcohol tax is raised, brewery operators fear that beer drinkers will switch to more affordable options as opposed to the expensive beers brewed in Louisiana.  State Representative Mike Huval of Breaux Bridge says this tax could hurt people that are trying to build their business in an already fragile economy.

Cut 16  (05)  “upcoming business“

A Lake Charles native has invented the first re-hydrating mouth guard. Emelie Gunn has more on the hands free system…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

A new poll from Southern Media and Opinion Research shows a majority of Louisiana residents are not in favor of raising taxes to solve the state’s budget deficit. Halen Doughty has the story….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

Legislators have started proposing bills for the regular legislative session, one of which aims to keep citizens safe at movie theaters. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

A Lake Charles man has developed a new way of keeping athletes hydrated during a game. Joseph Tucker created the Hydra-Guard, which is the first re-hydrating mouth guard in the world. Tucker says the mouth guard will be released online February 25^thand you can fill up the hands free system with water or your favorite sports drink.

cut 4  (10)  “the court”

Tucker says the mouth-guard is pressurized so the athlete just push their tongue against the roof of their mouth to release the liquid and can be refilled quickly. He says the pouch holding the liquid is sealed to the mouth-guard by a mechanical and chemical bond so it won’t get in the way while playing the game.

Cut 5  (08)  “breathability”

The mouth guard will retail for $34.99. Tucker says it holds just enough liquid to prevent athletes from getting dry mouth while playing. He anticipates the Hydra-Guard to be a big hit in Louisiana especially with our intense heat.

Cut 6 (09)  “healthy” 

 ______________________________________

A new poll shows that a vast majority of Louisiana residents do not support increasing taxes to help state government solve its huge budget deficit this fiscal year. Southern Media and Opinion Research surveyed 500 likely voters and 72% of them said “no” to raising taxes and fees. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says that’s because state government has lost credibility with the people of Louisiana.

CUT 7 (04)  “properly”

Pinsonat says his poll also shows 61% of the voters say the state government is spending too much money. He says the results from survey could make it tough for the governor to push for higher taxes…

Cut 8  (06)  “revenue problem”

The survey asked votes their opinions on certain taxes and a majority of people oppose raising income and state sales taxes, but Pinsonat says over 60% are in favor of increasing taxes on cigarettes and alcohol.

Cut 9 (04)  “sin tax”

Pinsonat says “sin taxes” are the easiest to pass, but he is unsure whether they would generate enough revenue. He says the public is wary of raising taxes on businesses because of concern about the economy. 54% of people say the state budget can be balanced without raising taxes.

_________________________________________________________

Shreveport Representative Barbara Norton has proposed a bill for the regular session that would require metal detectors to be installed at movie theaters. This would prevent people from bringing weapons into theaters.

Cut 10 (07) “a weapon”

The bill comes as a response to the deadly shootings that occur at movie theaters around the country, including one in Lafayette last year. Norton says lawmakers need to keep Louisiana residents safe.

cut 11 (05) “are safe”

Under Norton’s proposed bill, movie theaters would face fines for not having metal detectors. Movie theaters across the country have been hesitant to install metal detectors because of costs. Norton says the added safety measure is well worth the price of protecting a person’s life.

cut 12 (07) “or safer”

________________________________________________________

The House Ways and Means Committee will hear testimony today for tax increases on tobacco, alcohol, Internet sales and car rentals. Jeremy Alford, publisher of la-politics.com, says that legislators will not be voting on these proposed taxes yet.

Cut 13 (04)  “eventually vote”

Legislators will begin voting on these tax proposals, after they hear from supporters and opponents of each of the proposed taxes. Alford says Republicans have been hesitant about raising taxes, but it might be something they have to consider.

Cut 14 (05)  “be created” 

Legislators will examine carefully the fiscal notes for each proposal, which detail how much money each measure would raise. Alford says passing any of the proposed bills will take compromise from both sides.

Cut 15 (05) “to move” 

The committee will reportedly not hear corporate and personal income tax bills until next week.

Louisiana’s budget deficit has called into question the future of the TOPS scholarship program…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

A former department of children and family services case worker faces charges for claiming to check on foster care children while employed by the state, but didn’t. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

 President Obama is expected to nominate a replacement for Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, but Louisiana’s Republican Senators think we should wait. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Parents may not be able to count on the TOPS scholarship in the future, according to certified financial planner Anne Osestriecher. The state funded scholarship program has run into funding troubles as part of the state’s budget crisis. Osestriecher, who works out of Alexandria, says parents who have students that could be eligible for TOPS need to prepare for tuition costs…

cut 4  (05)  “can have”

Osestriecher says it could make more financial sense for parents to have their children live at home, while attending college. She says that will cut down on costly room and board expenses. She says applying for other scholarships is also an option.

Cut 5  (03)  “for them”

She says many scholarships go unclaimed every year because students simply do not apply for them. Osestriecher says community college and part-time jobs for students are things parents should think about as well. She says students may also need to consider what they can do to help finance their education.

Cut 6 (04)  “always loans” 

 ______________________________________

An arrest warrant has been issued for a former Department of Children and Family Services case worker, who allegedly falsified records regarding foster home visits when she worked for the state. 49-year-old Kimberly Lee of Calhoun is facing several criminal counts, including malfeasance in office. Inspector General Stephen Street says Lee is expected to surrender herself this week….

CUT 7 (08)  “occurred”

 Street says over a period of a year, between July of 2013 and August of 2014, Lee falsified documents on 20 separate occasions. He says after being interviewed by investigators, she admitted to falsifying the reports.

Cut 8  (10)  “buzzwords”

In a statement, DCFS says they have zero tolerance for any employee who puts children at risk or purposefully deceives the Department by falsifying documents. Street says child welfare has to be our first priority. He says the stakes are just too high to let incidents like this happen.

Cut 9 (09)  “accountable”

_________________________________________________________

President Barack Obama is expected to nominate a successor to Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, but Louisiana’s Republican US senators say the next President should select Scalia’s replacement. Senator David Vitter, who is a member of the judiciary committee, says the next Justice debate should be part of the presidential election…

Cut 10 (10) “tug of war”

Vitter says any nomination made by the President goes through the Judiciary Committee. He says the committee holds a hearing and then votes on the President’s choice, then it goes to the full Senate for a vote.

cut 11 (11) “American people”

 Republican Senator Bill Cassidy agrees with Vitter. He says let the next President nominate a new Supreme Court Justice.

cut 12 (08) “president”

Cassidy says the Supreme Court is fairly centrist right now but President Obama would like to shift it to the left. He says if the President nominates a replacement for Scalia, he doesn’t expect it to pass.

Cut 13 (10)  “to speak”

________________________________________________________

The Republican Party is raising money to promote an ad that shows Governor John Bel Edwards saying on several occasions he would not raise taxes. The comments were taken when Edwards was running for governor. Louisiana Republican Party Executive Director Jason Dore says Governor Edwards campaigned on a platform of not raising taxes.

Cut 14 (05)  “the opposite.” 

Dore says the governor promised to balance the budget by having fiscal responsibility and growing the economy, not by increasing taxes. With oil prices falling and the state entering into a recession, Dore says now is not the time to raise taxes for Louisiana residents.

Cut 15 (04) “and businesses” 

The 30 second ad, titled “Don’t Raise Taxes,” was released on Sunday. The Republican Party’s goal is to raise enough funds so they can air it on TV and radio stations.

Louisiana Democratic Party executive director Stephen Handwerk is disappointed by the the GOP’s tactics….

Cut 16  (05)  “in Baton Rouge“

Handwerk says that there are no good answers, and the GOP wants to make cuts that just are not possible.

Cut 17 (03) “the bone”

Handwerk says “there is no more fat to cut” in many programs, especially not fast enough to resolve the huge budget shortfall.

As part of Governor John Bel Edwards plan to fix the state budget, he’s proposing roughly $160 million dollars in cuts. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

================

Former state lawmaker Troy Hebert outlined 15 suggestions to resolve the state’s budget issues in a letter to lawmakers…

CUT 2 (28)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

===================

As part of Governor John Bel Edwards plan to fix the state budget, he’s proposing roughly $160 million dollars in cuts. Republican Representative Cameron Henry of Metairie says with a $957 million dollar deficit you have to look at more ways to manage spending…:

CUT 3 (06)  “to do there”

Henry says GOP lawmakers will look at every way to cut before anyone agrees to raise taxes. He says Louisiana can not continue spending more money than it makes…”

CUT 4 (09)  “concerned”

Edwards spoke with reporters following his opening remarks to lawmakers Sunday and said he’s leaving everything on the table…:

CUT 5 (07)  “as well”

Edwards says it’s impossible to operate on nothing…:

CUT 6 (13) “to happen”

============================

The Edwards Administration began detailing today its tax proposals that will be debated during the special session. Governor Edwards recommends a combination of budget cuts and revenue raising measures as a way to solve a $957 million deficit. State Department of Revenue Secretary Kimberly Robinson spoke to the House Ways and Means Committee about a proposed 1-cent state sales tax increase.

CUT 7 (09) “FY-17″

The tax increase, which would take effect by April 1, would generate an estimated $200 million for this fiscal year.

The current state sales tax is 4%. Robinson says even with the proposed one-cent sales tax increase, the amount of taxes Louisiana citizens pay, is below average when compared to other states….

CUT 8 (08) “in general”

The Edwards administration is also proposing changes to income taxes, plus seeking legislative support for higher alcohol and cigarette taxes as part of their revenue raising package. Robinson says the additional penny on the state sales tax would be temporary, until the deficit is resolved.

CUT 9 (10)  “phasing out”

Robinson said the so-called “clean penny tax” would not apply to areas of exemption including groceries, residential utilities, prescription medications and gas.

============================

A published report says Nicholls State is considering closing its doors for 12 days because of a lack of state funds. But Nicholls president, Doctor Bruce Murphy, says closing the campus for several days is the last option they would ever take. University of Louisiana System president, Doctor Dan Reneau, encouraged the Senate education committee to do what they can to keep college campuses open…

cut 10 (08)  “three weeks”

Lawmakers have until March ninth to come up with a funding solution that would spare higher education from deep budget cuts. Metairie Senator Conrad Appel is upset to see a headline that Nicholls plans to close, when that’s not the case…

Cut 11 (12) “down schools”

Reneau says depending on the size of the cut in state funding, mid-year closures could occur as some universities. But Appel warns higher ed leaders that these kinds of threats could become a “self fulfilling prophecy”…

cut 12 (10) “their problem”

============================

Former state lawmaker Troy Hebert recommends putting GPS devices on state vehicles and requiring state employees, including college professors, to be on a time clock while at work. Hebert provided other suggestions on how to control government spending in a letter to lawmakers. 

cut 13 (05)  “needed services”

Hebert says it is not fair to taxpayers for state workers to be paid for more work than they actually do. He believes using time clocks would resolve this issues.

cut 14 (07)  “day’s pay”

Hebert recently served as commissioner of Alcohol and Tobacco Control. At ATC, Hebert says he cut the number of employees in half, reduced the budget and increased services. Hebert says when he used GPS and time clocks at ATC, he made troubling discoveries about the employees.

cut 15 (06)  “an hour early”

Hebert’s other suggestions include tying pay to performance, monitoring civil service actions and settlements, stopping across-the-board cuts, and changing state supervisor-to-worker ratios.

=================================================

The budget crisis in Louisiana has called into question the future of the TOPS scholarship program. Halen Doughty reports…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

A state health director says Louisiana residents use caution when it comes to the Zika Virus, but they should not be alarmed. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards urges lawmakers to work with his administration on solving this fiscal year’s 940-million dollar budget deficit. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s budget problems have raised concerns about the future of the state’s taxpayer funded college scholarship known as TOPS. The highly popular program has run into money issues, as the state may not have enough money to fully pay a recipients scholarship. Senate Education Chairman Blade Morrish says the legislature will look at options to control TOPS spending during the regular legislative session….

cut 4  (07)  “on TOPS”

According to Governor John Bel Edwards, TOPS is only funded at 25% for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1, unless the legislature acts to change that, which means fewer scholarships would be awarded next year. Morrish says he believes limiting the amount a TOPS recipient receives might be their best course of action.

Cut 5  (05)  “number is”

Morrish has proposed bill to cap TOPS in the past, and he plans to propose bills on the TOPS issue in the upcoming regular session.

Morrish says if the legislature elects to make dramatic changes to TOPS, they will likely not take effect immediately, because it would be unfair to students who are already counting on the program.

Cut 6 (10)  “in high school” 

LOSFA has announced they will pay 80% of tuition, and universities will have to absorb the remaining 20%. No students will be billed for the current semester.

______________________________________

Louisiana’s two largest public school teacher unions, the Louisiana Federation of Teachers and the Louisiana Association of Educators, announced they are teaming up in an effort to prevent cuts to public school funding. LAE President Debbie Meaux believes they can achieve powerful results by working together…

CUT 7 (06)  “of Louisiana”

Meaux says the unions also want to make sure that the accountability and evaluation systems are in place for both students and teachers in Louisiana. Meaux says the unions are afraid the legislature won’t go along with the governor’s plan to increase taxes and public schools could lose funding.

Cut 8  (06)  “is possible”

The governor’s proposed budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1st does not call for a reduction of state funding for public schools and Meaux says the LFT and LAE would like for that to remain the case….

Cut 9 (05)  “our children”

The special legislative session began Sunday and must end by March 9^th. Lawmakers will attempt to resolve a 940-million dollar deficit this fiscal year.

_________________________________________________________

The Zika virus may be cause for caution but not alarm. That’s according to state health director, Doctor Frank Welch, with the state department of health and hospitals. Welch says The Zika virus is transmitted by a certain kind of mosquito that is not active in Louisiana at this time and he says the mosquito borne disease is not harmful to most who get it….

Cut 10 (07) “they’re sick”

The Zika virus is not new. It has been around since the late 1970s in South America and has since moved into the Caribbean. Two Louisiana residents who recently traveled to the Caribbean, were recently diagnosed with the Zika virus, after complaining about a minor illness. Welch says when people are infected, the illness usually does not last very long.

cut 11 (05) “five days”

People travelling to the Caribbean, where the disease is prevalent, should also take extra precautions. Welch says that while the virus is not cause for alarm among most people, pregnant women should take extra precautions.

cut 12 (07) “defects happen”

________________________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards tells lawmakers that the state can’t cut its way out of its fiscal problems. That’s how a three and a half week long special session got underway last night as Edwards told House and Senate members that some tax increases will be needed to address a 940-million dollar budget deficit this fiscal year…

Cut 13 (10)  “so massive”

Many republican lawmakers have already expressed reservations about raising taxes. Edwards says he doesn’t want partisan politics to get in the way of doing what’s right for the state

Cut 14 (12)   (applause building)

Republican West Monroe Senator Mike Walsworth is optimistic the GOP legislature can work with the Democratic Edwards administration on a solution to fixing the state’s budget problems

Cut 15 (10) “I believe” 

Walsworth believes there’s some departments in state government that is overspending. The special session must conclude by March 9th and republican Bossier City Representative Mike Johnson wants to use this time to look at ways to reduce spending…

Cut 16  (08)  “uninformed“

_____________________________________________________

A big second half helped LSU pick up a quality win at home to help boost its NCAA tournament resume. The Tigers outscored Texas A&M by nine points in the second half to beat the Aggies 76-71. Coach Johnny JOnes says his team executed well in the final 20 minutes of this game…

Cut 17 (17) “game today”

The victory improves LSU’s overall record to 16-9, 9-3 in the SEC and tied with Kentucky for first place in the league standings. We are about a month away from NCAA Tournament selection Sunday and Coach Johnny Jones says wins like this can help LSU’s at-large bid, but they need to keep piling up victories.

Cut 18 (11) “about that”

LSU is considered to be on the bubble when it comes to getting in the NCAA Tournament. Jones doesn’t want his team focusing on the tournament projections, instead the team should remain concentrated on getting as many wins as possible…

Cut 19 (14) “for us”

The Governor’s Executive Budget for the 2016-2017 fiscal year will be presented to lawmakers Saturday. Michelle Southern has a preview…:(starts with cut)

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor John Bel Edwards says severe budget cuts could mean no LSU football next fall. Jeff Palermo reports…:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Governor’s Executive Budget for the 2016-2017 fiscal year will be presented to lawmakers Saturday. The adopted economic forecast projects the next deficit is around $2 billion dollars. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says they don’t plan to sugarcoat the facts..:

CUT 3 (06)  “completely recovered”

Dardenne says if lawmakers want to spend only the money that they think is coming in to Louisiana in FY-17, here’s the budget and it’s not pretty. He says this is not what they want…:

CUT 4 (10)  “a reality”

Dardenne says legislators and the public aren’t going to like it, but they will be given the honest truth…:

CUT 5 (10)  “materialize”

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In a special televised address Governor John Bel Edwards said there is a possibility there will be no LSU football next fall unless legislators resolve the state’s budget deficit. Political analyst Clancy Dubos does not think Edwards wants to make these cuts, but the governor’s hands are tied unless taxes are raised.

CUT 6 (04) “at that”

The state’s budget deficit is $940 million for this fiscal year, and almost $2 billion for the next fiscal year. Dubos says this kind of scare tactic is common among government officials who seek to raise taxes.

CUT 7 (05) “everywhere”

Dubos said former four-term Governor Edwin Edwards used scare tactics effectively to raise revenue.

CUT 8 (08) “kidney machines”

A special legislative session to address the state’s budget begins Sunday.

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The Americans for Prosperity releases a poll that shows a majority of Louisiana residents oppose Governor John Bel Edwards’ proposals to increase sales and personal income taxes to address the state’s budget deficit. A-F-P state director Phillip Joffrion says these increases are disrespectful to the people of Louisiana.

CUT 9 (08)  “their means”

Joffrion says the sales tax increase would put Louisiana at the highest combined local and state sales tax in the country.  Americans for Prosperity also released an online ad criticizing the governor’s proposals. Joffrion says their goal is to educate the people of Louisiana about these proposed tax hikes.

cut 10 (09)  “their say”

Joffrion says their poll shows the citizens of Louisiana were more accepting of the increase of cigarette and alcohol taxes. But he says ultimately more taxes are not the solution to our state’s budget crisis and citizens who oppose higher taxes need to speak up…

Cut 11 (10) “for us”

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Louisiana’s Longest Know Married Couple of 2016 has been announced by the Louisiana Family Forum. For the second year in a row, Lawrence and Varrie Player have been the married the longest in Louisiana, tying the knot 81 years ago. L-F-F President Gene Mills says Lawrence is 101-years-old and Varrie is 97.

cut 12 (07) “celebrate them”

Mills says the Player’s are unable to travel to the special reception honoring the top 10 longest married couples at the Governor’s Mansion today, so a celebration will be hosted at their home in Benton. He says this couple is a model for Louisiana families.

cut 13 (11)  “self”

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Governor John Bel Edwards says TOPS students will not get a tuition bill this semester, despite money troubles with the popular taxpayer funded program. Edwards says if the state is unable to pay a TOPS recipient’s tuition, colleges will absorb those costs…

cut 14 (06)  “current semester”

Edwards says not enough money was appropriated for the TOPS program this year. He says they are about 28-million dollars short and it will be up to each individual or college to pick up the rest of the costs

cut 15 (04)  “tuition bill”

Edwards says while TOPS students will have their scholarships fully paid for this year, next school year is a different story, if the state doesn’t raise revenue to help pay for this government program and others

cut 16 (05)  “funded next year”

Now that the giant burn chamber has arrived at Camp Minden, the process of disposing of the millions of pounds of M6 propellant can begin. Jeff Palermo reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In a special televised address Governor John Bel Edwards said that unless the legislature approves tax increases, colleges and hospitals will close. Halen Doughty reports…..

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The state’s flu bug expert says Louisiana is in the middle of one of its slowest flu seasons ever. Emelie Gunn has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Now that the giant burn chamber has arrived at Camp Minden, the process of disposing of the millions of pounds of M6 propellant can begin. Louisiana National Guard spokesman Col Pete Schneider says it will take about 4 days to get the massive structure installed…:

cut 4  (10)  “operating”

The 400,000 pound tank made the journey by road from the Port of Natchitoches to Minden this week, and Schneider says they’ve had fantastic cooperation from communities, law enforcement and utility companies affected by the move. He says they expect it will take about 30-35 days to make sure everything is working properly…:

Cut 5  (04)  “of the M6”

Explosive Service International is in charge of the contained burn and Schneider says their intent is to burn non-stop once they check then double check that everything is in order…:

Cut 6 (08)  “million pounds” 

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Governor John Bel Edwards says colleges and hospitals will close and critical healthcare services will be eliminated if the state legislature does not approve higher taxes to help close a $940 million budget deficit this fiscal year. Edwards made the comments during a special address that was aired on TV and radio stations.

CUT 7 (12)  “as well”

Edwards even suggested there would be no college football next fall because the players would not be able to complete their spring semester if colleges are forced to close before May.  The governor says he is proposing significant cuts to the budget, but it will also take from the legislature to raise revenue in order to stabilize the budget.

Cut 8  (09)  “state strong”

After Edwards spoke, State Treasurer John Kennedy provided the Republican Party’s response. Kennedy says raising revenue is not the answer to the state’s budget problems.

Cut 9 (07)  “run deficits”

Kennedy says there are plenty of areas the state can reduce spending and he has provide the legislature with ample suggestions.

Cut 10 (09) “hurting anyone”

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Louisiana is experiencing one of its slowest flu seasons in several years. That’s according to Dr. Frank Welch, an influenza expert with the state department of health and hospitals. Welch says doctors are seeing very few flu cases…

cut 11 (09) “flu-like illness”

This slow season comes in stark contrast to last year’s terrible flu season, which exerts said was one of the worst. Welch says that the flu virus can be unpredictable, but this season is off to a slow start. He credits this year’s warmer weather for the low number of flu cases.

cut 12 (09) “a lot better”

Welch says that more people were vaccinated for the flu this year, which may be another contributing factor for this year’s slow flu season. He advises people to get flu vaccines to keep the number of flu cases at a minimum.

Cut 13 (08)  “flu shot”

The peak of the Flu season in Louisiana typically peaks in late February or early March. Welch says we will not be out of the woods until early April.

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The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance has notified colleges and universities that due to uncertainty over potential budget cuts they are holding off on making any TOPS payments. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it would be a huge disaster for Louisiana if it’s unable to pay a TOPS recipients full tuition for this semester…

Cut 14 (08) “being taken away”

A spokesperson for the office of student financial assistance says the suspension of TOPS payments to public colleges is just a precautionary measure. Pinsonat says the state’s taxpayer funded scholarship program is very popular and this development will have TOPS recipients alarmed…

Cut 15 (10) “almost outrageous.” 

Pinsonat says he can’t see how the state doesn’t fufill it’s promise that they would pay a student’s full tuition if they reached certain academic achievements…

Cut 16  (08)  “more explanation“

Louisiana is in the midst of a financial crisis, but analysts say other states have been through this too. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards and Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy will each give their views on the budget crisis tonight. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (28)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The State Department of Health and Hospitals is investigating two possible Zika cases in Louisiana. Dr. Frank Welch, with the Louisiana Office of Public Health, says officials learned of these two cases after the patients complained to their doctors about feeling ill after visiting the Caribbean.

CUT 3 (06)  “completely recovered”

Neither of the patients required hospitalization and they were counseled to avoid mosquito bites, so the disease doesn’t spread in Louisiana. Welch says at this point, Louisiana residents shouldn’t be concerned about getting the Zika Virus, because local transmission is very unlikely at this time….

CUT 4 (08)  “right now”

Most people who get the Zika virus are unaware they have it. Welch says it’s a mild illness, but it can cause birth defects if pregnant women are infected.  He says Zika could become a problem in Louisiana when the weather gets warmer.

CUT 5 (08)  “be prepared”

Welch encourages people to do what they can to prevent the spread of the virus by wearing long sleeves and bug repellent, avoiding standing water, and watching for possible Zika symptoms.

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Louisiana is going through some major financial trouble right now, but analysts say we aren’t the first or last state to see issues like this. Political pollster Ron Faucheux says most states have improved their fiscal situation since the the Great Recession in 2008 and 2009…:

CUT 6 (09) “have rebounded”

Governor John Bel Edwards is broadcasting a rare address this evening to let the public know exactly what Louisiana is facing. The projected shortfall for this fiscal year is around $870 million dollars, and the budget year that begins July 1st is short about $2 billion. Faucheux says, unlike Louisiana, other states struggle when gas prices are high…:

CUT 7 (11) “after the hurricane”

Faucheux says this doesn’t mean Louisiana is isolated from the rest of the nation, but economic waves tend to be felt here on a different time table. He says raising taxes and cutting spending are quick ways to rebound, but
money matters here run much deeper…:

CUT 8 (09) “in the state”

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Louisiana Researchers have played a role in detecting gravitational waves, which Albert Einstein predicted would occur as part of his general theory of relativity. LSU astronomy professor, Gabriela Gonzalez, says their observatory in Livingston Parish observed the ripples in the fabric of spacetime on September 14th….

CUT 9 (09)  “black holes”

Gonzales says two black holes colliding some one-point-three billion years ago created the gravitational wave that was detected in Livingston Parish and at another facility in Washington…

cut 10 (10)  away”

Instruments recorded the sound of the black holes colliding. All it is was a “chirp” that lasted less than a second.  But Gonzales says this type of discovery can help scientists learn more about how the universe works…

Cut 11 (10) “listening to the universe”

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State Police is partnering with Blue Cross to help with the safe disposal of prescription medication in central and northwest Louisiana. Trooper Michael Reichardt says in the front of the Troop F station in Monroe they’ve set out a box similar to a mail box for people to safely discard old or unwanted medication. He says the abuse of prescription medication in teens has become a growing problem…

cut 12 (09) “age group”

Reichardt says the normal methods of flushing old prescriptions down the toilet or throwing them in the trash are still effective. He says this is just an additional option of getting rid of the medications.

cut 13 (06)  “our office”

Reichardt says drop boxes are outside of Troop E and F stations in Monroe and Alexandria. He says they won’t take any needles or intravenous drugs in the boxes.

cut 14 (08)  “a doctor”

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After an identity hearing in California today, a judged has ruled Frank Selas is former Monroe TV personality “Mr. Wonder” who is accused of committing sex crimes in Louisiana in the 70s. Lt. Tommy Carnline with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office says now the process of getting Selas back to Louisiana begins…

cut 15 (09)  “governor’s warrant”

Mr. Wonder was living in San Diego at the time he was arrested. Carnline says everyone in Rapides Parish is anxious to get Selas back in Louisiana.

cut 16 (08)  “37 years”