Republican Bossier City Representative Mike Johnson says he plans to amend the religious freedom bill he has filed amid public concerns but gay rights advocacy groups want the legislation pulled altogether.  Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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

The Colorado State University forecast team is predicting a below-average 2015 Atlantic hurricane season. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (28) “reporting”

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

Republican Bossier City Representative Mike Johnson says he plans to amend the religious freedom bill he has filed amid public concerns but gay rights advocacy groups want the legislation pulled altogether. Johnson told the Jim Engster Show he’ll remove a paragraph in the bill that some believed gave businesses the right to deny benefits to same-sex couples as other married couples based on religious beliefs…

CUT 3 (09)  “has been alleviated”

Gay rights groups feel this bill legalizes discrimination and are banding together in opposition to Johnson’s legislation. Bruce Parker, Executive Director of Louisiana Progress Action, says a campaign is underway to defeat this piece of legislation…

CUT 4 (10)  “be focused on”

Johnson says HB 707 would prevent adverse treatment from the state of any person or entity on the basis of their views on marriage and it applies equally…

CUT 5 (11)  “under the bill”

Parker says there is a lack of clarity about what Johnson’s bill is intended to do and what it does and it is alarming. He hopes people will contact Johnson and ask him to pull the legislation…

CUT 6 (08)  “our energy on”

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

Higher Education Commissioner Joe Rallo is very concerned about how some universities will be able to operate if lawmakers are not able to come up with a funding solution to the state’s one-point-six billion dollar budget deficit. Rallo says higher ed is facing a potential cut of about 600-million dollars in state funds…

CUT 7 (10)  “would not be viable”

LSU president and chancellor F King Alexander says every parish will feel the impact if these deep cuts go through. He says it will force them to eliminate the parish-based Ag Center programs, which concerns Crowley representative Jack Montoucet….

CUT 8 (08)  “rural areas”

Over the next several weeks lawmakers will discuss ways to generate revenue so that the cuts to higher ed are mitigated. Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith questions why the governor is proposing to increase the funding for TOPS scholarships, but dramatically cutting funds for colleges

CUT 9 (12)  “go to”

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

The Colorado State University forecast team is predicting a below-average 2015 Atlantic hurricane season. The lead author of the report is Dr. Phil Klotzbach who says a typical hurricane season has 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes and two major hurricanes…:

cut 10 (07) “hurricane season”

The CSU team will issue forecast updates on June 1st, July 1st and August 3rd. Klotzbach says the tropical Atlantic has cooled over the past several months and the chance of an El Nino forming is high. He says historical data indicates fewer storms form in these conditions…:

cut 11 (10)  “in the Atlantic”

The team predicts that 2015 tropical cyclone activity will be about 45 percent of the average season. By comparison, 2014′s tropical cyclone acticity was about 75 percent average. He says if the forecast holds true, it would be the third quiet Gulf hurricane season in a row…:

cut 12 (04)  “this year”

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

The 32-year-old Destrehan teacher accused of having sex with a 16-year-old student has reached a plea deal with the St. Charles Parish District Attorney’s office. Under the terms of the deal, Shelley Dufrense avoids jail time, but she’ll have to complete 90 days of treatment at a mental health facility. Legal analyst Tim Meche says most people will think Dufrense got a good deal…

cut 13 (10)  “resolution”

Dufrense will also have to forfeit her teaching certificate and while on three years of active probation, she’s not allowed to have contact with the victim or his family. Meche says based on the conditions of the deal, she avoids having to register as a sex offender for now…

cut 14 (08) “sporting activities”

Meche says if it was a male teacher involved with a female student, the punishment would likely be more severe..

cut 15 (07) “ever change”

Dufrense also faces charges out of Jefferson Parish, along with another former teacher, where an alleged threesome took place with the same 16-year-old student.

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

The city of Jeanerette is mourning the loss of 22-year-old police officer Juandre Gilliam. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

House Transportation Committee Chairwoman Karen St. Germain of Pierre Part files a bill that would increase Louisiana’s gasoline tax by 4 cents a gallon. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “reporting”

______________________________________

The leader of LABI, Stephen Waguespack, doesn’t want to see businesses harmed as the state deals with a one-point-six billion dollar shortfall. Scott Carwile…

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The city of Jeanerette is mourning the loss of 22-year-old police officer Juandre Gilliam. Gilliam was killed in the line of duty Tuesday night following a car crash during a high-speed chase. Jeanerette Police Chief Marvin Grogan says Gilliam was an asset to the force…

cut 4  (07)  “with the community”

Two people, 21-year old Antre Joseph of New Iberia and an unnamed 16-year-old juvenile, have been arrested in connection with the chase. Gilliam was a native of Jeanerette and was a quarterback for Jeanerette High School. Grogan says Gilliam was relatively new to the police force…

Cut 5  (06)  “eager to learn”

Grogan says it was Gilliam’s childhood dream to become a police officer. He says the loss of Gilliam has hit his department hard but they will pull through…

Cut 6 (02)  “their prayers”

______________________________________

House Transportation Committee Chairwoman Karen St. Germain of Pierre Part files a bill that would increase Louisiana’s gasoline tax by 4 cents a gallon. The funds, about $120 million per year, would be dedicated to the state’s roads and bridges on a local level. President of Louisiana Good Roads and Transportation Association Ken Perret says the funding is badly needed…:

CUT 7 (10)  “to increase funding”

The measure was also submitted by Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Robert Adley of Benton. Dollars raised by the increased tax would go to the Parish Transportation Fund which finances local projects. Perret says this would also take some of the burden off of the statewide Transportation Trust fund…:

Cut 8  (10)  “as well as local needs” 

There are over $12 billion dollars in backlogged road and bridge needs in the state. Perret says good roads lead to good jobs and this isn’t about just fixing potholes but about developing a first class transportation system…:

Cut 9 (05)  “for all our citizens”

______________________________________

With just a few days left before the start of the legislative session, the head of Louisiana Association of Business and Industry is concerned about a proposal to eliminate refunds businesses receive for paying an inventory tax to local governments. LABI president Stephen Waguespack says you’ll see companies leaving the state if it happens

Cut 10 (08) “bad mistake”

As a way to soften cuts to higher ed and health care, the Jindal administration has proposed scaling back inventory tax refunds. But Waguespack believes there’s other solutions, including eliminating the inventory tax all together, which actually saves the state money…

cut 11 (07) “responsible way”

One of LABI’s priorities this session is workforce development, but public colleges are facing an almost 600-million dollar cut in state funding. Waguespack says its’ time to give universities more autonomy to raise tuition and fees…

cut 12 (08)   “to compete”

______________________________________

There is a bill filed for the upcoming legislative session that would essentially make playing fantasy football online for money legal. Right now in Louisiana, “play-for-cash” computer fantasy football would violate state gambling laws. The measure is by Metairie Representative Joe Lopinto who says there are numerous states which create gambling exceptions for fantasy:

Cut 13 (08)  “game of skill”

Lopinto says the bill specifies that no winning outcome would be based on scores, point spreads or on any single performance of a certain athlete. He says under the measure, Louisiana residents wouldn’t be restricted from collecting money online if they win at fantasy…:

Cut 14 (08) “state of Louisiana”

Lopinto says the measure recognizes that winning outcomes of fantasy reflect relative knowledge and skill of those participating — and that it shouldn’t be considered gambling. He says many people have been clamoring for legislation like this to be filed…:

Cut 15  (08)  “obviously do this”

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State Police are investigating a crash in Iberia Parish that killed a Jeanerette Police officer last night. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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

An Orleans Parish grand jury has indicted millionaire murder suspect Robert Durst on gun charges in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

State Police are investigating a crash in Iberia Parish that killed a Jeanerette Police officer last night. Master Trooper Brooks David says 22-year-old officer Juandre Gilliam radioed that he was pursuing a vehicle in an attempt to make a traffic stop…

CUT 3 (08)  “his vehicle”

David says Gilliam’s vehicle ran off the road, struck a culvert, and overturned. It is unknown if the chase was high speed or at the speed limit. Detectives are currently working to make that determination. He says responding personnel found Gilliam in his overturned police unit…

CUT 4 (08)  “pronounced dead”

Gilliam was transported to a local hospital where he later died of injuries sustained in the crash. David says authorities found the two suspects in the car Gilliam was chasing, 21-year old Antre Joseph of New Iberia and an unnamed 16-year-old juvenile… (Charges against the two are pending at this time.)

CUT 5 (06)  “sheriff’s office”

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

Abita Brewing Company announces their $30 million dollar expansion in Abita Springs is now complete. In a release the company says they produce 160,000 barrels of their popular craft beer annually, and with the expansion they will now be able to brew up to 400,000 barrels. President David Blossman says this will allow them to expand the brand nationally..:

CUT 6 (09)  “capacity constraints”

Blossman says they have also added on to their visitors center and retail space which will allow them to have more tours more often. He says over the past several years they’ve had capacity restraints during their peak times…:

CUT 7 (06)  “and marketing”

Blossman says they are also becoming a Founding Brewery Partner of Enjoy Beer Inc which is an enterprise created to provide resources to top independent craft brewers on a national scale…:

CUT 8 (06)  “in more places”

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

An Orleans Parish grand jury has indicted millionaire murder suspect Robert Durst on gun charges in Louisiana. Durst’s attorney, Dick DeGuerin, has been attempting to get Durst extradited to California to face murder charges there. Legal analyst Tim Meche says this indictment means Durst won’t be going to California any time soon…

CUT 9 (09)  “to get out”

This indictment puts any extradition plans for Durst on hold. Durst is wanted in California for the 2000 shooting death of Susan Berman. Meche says this also cancels a preliminary hearing to determine whether or not there was probable cause in Durst’s arrest last month…

cut 10 (09) “of the case”

Durst is indicted on charges of illegal possession of a firearm by a felon and illegal possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled substance. Meche says Durst is facing some pretty severe consequences…

cut 11 (10)  “means ten years”

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

The coming National Hurricane Museum and Science Center in Lake Charles receives a $1 million dollar pledge toward the building and operations. The gift from the Stream family is the largest private donation since fundraising for facility began four years ago. Gray Stream says they are motivated by the fact that the Center promises to save lives…:

cut 12 (08)  “educated by it”

The NHMSC will be open to daily visitors, but it will also offer teaching materials online covering science, technology, engineering, math and social sciences. The donation brings the total amount contributed to $40 million dollars and Stream says they are about $15 million dollars away from what they need to break ground in June 2016…:

cut 13 (09)  “big part of that”

The NHMSC should begin construction in southwest Louisiana next year for Phase One of the project. Stream says the facility will educate people about how to better prepare for, respond to and be resilient to natural disasters…:

cut 14 (09) “weather events”

The 2015 Louisiana Survey finds that state residents support the legal use of marijuana for medical purposes, but not personal use. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

Five major health advocacy groups are coming together to push for a higher cigarette tax in Louisiana. Scott Carwile has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

A high school in Monroe which previously told a gay female student that she was not allowed to wear a tuxedo to prom has now retracted. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The 2015 Louisiana Survey finds that state residents support the legal use of marijuana for medical purposes, but not personal use. LSU Public Policy Research Lab Director Michael Henderson says 52-percent of residents oppose the personal use of marijuana, but the difference between support and opposition is shrinking…

cut 4  (08)  “seven points”

68-percent of 18 to 29 year olds support legalizing marijuana for personal use while 68-percent of residents 65 and older oppose it. A majority of residents still support the legalization of marijuana for medical use, but support declined from 79- to 60-percent since last year. Henderson says last year’s Senate race may have been a factor in the drop of support…

Cut 5  (08)  “for sure”

Even if marijuana remains illegal in Louisiana, 67-percent of the public feel that people convicted of possessing small amounts of pot should not serve jail time. Henderson says that number jumps to 79-percent when respondents were informed of the costs of incarceration…

Cut 6 (07)  “support it”

______________________________________

Five major health advocacy groups are teaming up to launch a campaign in support of a bill to raise the state’s tax on cigarettes by $1.18 a pack. The American Heart Association is part of the “Invest in a Healthy Louisiana” campaign and its spokesperson Stasha Rhodes says it’s time to bring the state’s tax on cigarettes to the national average, which is a $1.54 a pack…

CUT 7 (08)  “state’s budget”

Bogalusa Representative Harold Ritchie is sponsoring a bill to raise the state’s cigarette tax to the national average. Ritchie says he’s not the only lawmaker to file legislation to raise tobacco taxes, which gives him hope something will get done

Cut 8  (07)  “this session” 

Ritchie says a higher cigarette tax can reduce the number of deaths associated with smoking and help generate millions of dollars. But Governor Jindal is calling for tax cuts to offset any tax increase. Ritchie says he’s willing to work with the governor

Cut 9 (09)  “combination of things”

______________________________________

The Department of Health and Hospitals has cut the ribbon on a new public health laboratory that will be used to test water, screen for genetic disorders and help the state respond to public health threats such as Ebola. DHH Secretary Kathy Kliebert says this is a ultra modern lab with all of the latest technology…:

Cut 10 (11) “water is safe”

Kliebert says the new lab site allows the state to better identify food outbreaks, test infectious disease samples and any number of other public health concerns. She says every single child that is born in Louisiana will have blood sent to the lab…:

cut 11 (09) “before it affects them”

Kliebert says the goal of the Office of Public Health Laboratory is to protect the health and safety of Louisiana residents by providing accurate and timely data to state officials, public health program and citizens..:

cut 12 (12)  “and laboratories”

______________________________________

A high school in Monroe which previously told a gay female student that she was not allowed to wear a tuxedo to prom has now retracted. Carroll High School and Claudetteia Love’s story got national attention. The student was represented by the National Center for Lesbian Rights and Executive Director Kate Kendell says they are happy about this outcome.:

Cut 13 (09)  “as a person”

Kendell says the school’s original decision to not allow the 17-year-old to wear the tux is not only a violation of law which prohibits sex discrimination, it’s also wrongheaded…:

Cut 14 (11) “supported”

Kendell says forbidding girls from wearing a tuxedo to the prom would have served no purpose other than to reinforce the worst sorts of harmful stereotypes and censor a core part of Love’s identity…:

Cut 15  (12)  “who they are”

______________________________________

Louisiana education superintendent John White tells lawmakers he needs more money so the state can provide standardized tests next school year. White says the budget as it currently exists will prevent students from taking the A-C-T or an assessment test like PARCC

Cut 16  (10)  “of chaos”

White and Governor Jindal have battled over the tests tied to Common Core. The Jindal administration has said the superintendent will have to decide what to cut from his budget. White says Louisiana will violate state and federal law if it doesn’t have  a standardized test

Cut 17 (10)  “education system”

A recent LSU Public Policy Research Lab poll finds support for legally recognized same-sex marriage in Louisiana lags well behind the national average. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

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

A lawmaker from Kenner is sponsoring legislation for the upcoming session that would criminalize so-called “revenge porn.” Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

A recent LSU Public Policy Research Lab poll finds support for legally recognized same-sex marriage in Louisiana lags well behind the national average, but the gap between supporters and opponents is shrinking. Director Michael Henderson says national support for same-sex marriage is between 55- and 60-percent…

CUT 3 (09)  “as the nation”

The survey shows only 42-percent of residents support legalizing same-sex marriage. The disparity between supporters and opponents is down to 9-percent, compared to 17-percent two years ago. Henderson says there appears to be a generation gap when it come to the support of legalizing same-sex marriages…

CUT 4 (06)  “strong support”

The poll shows that 62-percent of residents age 65 or older oppose legalizing same-sex marriage, while 59-percent of those age 18 to 29 support the issue. Henderson says change could be on the way as younger generations replace older generations…

CUT 5 (07)  “these trends”

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

A lawmaker from Kenner is sponsoring legislation for the upcoming session that would criminalize so-called “revenge porn.” The measure would make it illegal to disclose a sexual image of someone without their consent. Representative Julie Stokes says House Bill 489 would ensure that people who spread private pictures without permission are held accountable…:

CUT 6 (05)  “in Louisiana”

Stokes says this bill protects people who are 17 years of age or older as minors are already covered under a different set of laws when it comes to sexually explicit photos. She says there are many instances in which young adults will send a private photo to another person who they think can be trusted…:(Penalties for this offense include a fine of up to $10,000 and up to two years in jail or both.)

CUT 7 (08)  “or high school”

Governor Bobby Jindal announced this week that he fully supports this legislation saying the number of individuals who have been victimized by this form of abuse is inexcusable and needs to be stopped. Stokes says this crime happens when a person spreading private photos, usually online, intends to harm or harass another. She says they also want to send a message that it’s usually not a good idea to send out naked pictures…:

CUT 8 (05)  “these images”

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

Four underage Louisiana college students were issued summonses in Alabama for attempting to haul a trailer full of alcohol to Gulf Shores for spring break. Mobile County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Lt. Paul Burch says deputies noticed a trailer traveling on Interstate 10 with an expired tag…

CUT 9 (07)  “amount of alcohol”

Burch says deputies found over 100 18-packs of beer and numerous bottles of hard liquor and wine from the trailer. He says the four students, ages 18 and 19, were taken to a police substation where the alcohol was seized and they were cited…

cut 10 (10) “happens in court”

The four will be charged with minor in possession of alcohol. Burch says no drugs or weapons were found on the students, so authorities allowed them to go on their way. Burch says he isn’t sure if they continued on to Gulf Shores…

cut 11 (09)  “headed back out”

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

There was an unexpected turn today in the Darren Sharper case. The former New Orleans Saints star was expected to plead guilty in state court to charges related to drugging and raping women, but the judge delayed the arraignment until the federal case is resolved. Legal analyst Chick Foret says this could be a sign Sharpers “global” plea deal is going to change:

cut 12 (09)  “an alternative”

The deal that was struck would have reportedly sent Sharper to jail for 9 years and that would have covered all the charges in the four states he’s accused. Foret says the Orleans Parish DA, Leon Cannizzaro, is the one holding the cards at this point..:

cut 13 (12)  “this deal is gonna get done”

The new state hearing was set for June 15th. It’s expected Sharper will enter a guilty plea for federal drug charges in district court on May 21st. Foret says when the word was out that Sharper struck a deal to cover the charges in all four states, many called it a “sweet-heart” deal and it’s not likely Cannizzaro liked that…:

cut 14 (08) “in Orleans Parish”

Republican US Senator David Vitter begins to unveil his plan on leading Louisiana into the future as governor. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The state Department of Education says Louisiana’s four-year high school graduation rate was at a record high in 2014 and increased for the fourth straight year. Scott Carwile reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Film Entertainment Association says a study they commissioned found that movies made here created up to $4 billion dollars in economic output in 2013. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

Funeral services will be held today for Loreauvile Mayor Albert Broussard. Broussard was killed in a car crash Friday night. New Iberia State Representative Taylor Barras (BAR-ra) says it’s a sad day for the small, tight-knit community…

cut 4  (10)  “the village forward”

Services are scheduled for 1PM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Loreauville. Broussard is survived by his fiancee, a son, and two daughters. Barras says Broussard loved Loreauville and loved serving his community…

Cut 5  (09)  “the same time”

Broussard served as Alderman for 24 years and was serving his third term as mayor at the time of his death. He was also a 1st Lieutenant in the Louisiana National Guard. Barras says Broussard’s death is a loss that will be felt beyond Loreauville…

Cut 6 (07)  “miss him greatly”

______________________________________

Republican US Senator David Vitter begins to unveil his plan on leading Louisiana into the future as governor. Vitter calls the plan “Together, Louisiana Strong”. He has released the first two chapters; one dealing with staying in touch with Louisiana citizens while governor and the second focusing on stabilizing the budget through spending and tax reform…

CUT 7 (09)  “crisis level”

Vitter says he would immediately call a special legislative session to deal exclusively with the budget crisis, if elected. Two big concerns among residents are roads and education. He says specific chapters on each will be released in the coming weeks. Vitter says one of the key areas of focus in that special session would be to protect and enhance the Transportation Trust Fund…

Cut 8  (05)  “roads and bridges” 

Vitter calls this a blueprint for building a brighter future for all Louisianians. You can get more information at DavidVitter-dot-com. Vitter’s education plan includes getting Louisiana out of Common Core and enhancing technical and skills training for high school students…

Cut 9 (09)  “a four-year degree”

______________________________________

The state Department of Education says Louisiana’s four-year high school graduation rate was at a record high in 2014 and increased for the fourth straight year. Superintendent John White says about 75% of students who entered 9th grade, graduated in 2014 which is a 1.1% increase over the prior year…:

Cut 10 (07) “four years ago”

White says this increase is a great sign for our state and a true testament to the hard work and devotion of teachers, principals and families. He says in the class of 2014, nearly 1600 more students graduated than did in the class of 2013 and nearly 3,440 more students than in 2011…:

cut 11 (09) “annually”

White says of the nearly 1600 additional students graduating in 2014, more than 1200 are of a minority racial group and more than 1230 are from low income homes…:

cut 12 (09)  “backgrounds”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Film Entertainment Association says a study they commissioned found that movies made here created up to $4 billion dollars in economic output in 2013. HR&A Advisors Partner Shuprotim Bhaumik (Shoe-pro-teem Bah-Mick) says over 33,000 jobs and over $1.2 billion in personal income can be attributed to the state’s film tax credits. He also says the movie industry attracts tourists…:

Cut 13 (09)  “induced tourists”

Bhaumik says based on a survey of nearly 1400 recent visitors to Louisiana, 14.5% said they were spurred to visit Louisiana because of a television show or movie that was filmed here…:

Cut 14 (08) “activities”

Changes to the state’s film tax credit program have already been proposed for the upcoming legislative session. Those include capping the program and making administrative changes to help prevent fraud. LFEA executive director David Tatman says the economic impact of the incentives are felt throughout the entire state of Louisiana…:

Cut 15  (10)  “healthy industry”

______________________________________

LSU’s Austin Bain has been named SEC Co-Freshman of the week. Bain was outstanding out of the pen on Saturday as he pitched 6.2 shutout innings, allowing just three hits and a career-high nine strikeouts in a win over Alabama. Coach Paul Mainieri has announced Bain will start Sunday’s game against Auburn and the former Dutchtown star is looking forward to the opportunity…

Cut 16  (07)  “that I have”

LSU hosts UNO tonight. Senior catcher Kade Scivicque likes the qualities that Bain brings to the mound….

Cut 17 (11)  “to play”

Bain will take Jake Godfrey’s spot in the weekend rotation. The freshman from Illinois has struggled in his last two outings and Mainieri plans to start him on Wednesday against Northwestern State. Mainieri says Godfrey is having trouble locating his breaking ball in the strike zone and opposing hitters are sitting on his fastball

Cut 18 (16) ” bigger times’

_________________________________

The Pelicans, who are fighting to get into the NBA Playoffs, will host Golden State tonight. The Warriors have the best record in the NBA and they are led by MVP candidate Stephen Curry. Pelicans guard Norris Cole on trying to slow down Curry

Cut 19 (13)  “as possible “

New Orleans has lost 11 straight games to Golden State. The Pels enter tonight’s action a half game back of Oklahoma City for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Coach Monty Williams has told his team not to worry about O-K-C…

Cut 20 (15)  “as well”

According to the United States Public Interest Research Group, federal data from 2014 indicates that over 1,800 bridges in Louisiana need repairs. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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

Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne officially kicked off his campaign for Governor today. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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Governor Bobby Jindal made an appearance on NBC’s Meet The Press to talk about the religious freedom debate that’s created a national controversy. Bossier City Representative Mike Johnson has filed a religious freedom bill in Louisiana. Jindal says this issue is about business owners that don’t want to have to choose between their religious beliefs and being able to operate their businesses…

CUT 3 (09)  “those ceremonies”

Johnson’s proposed bill would permit private businesses to deny the same benefits to same-sex couples as other married couples based on a religious objection. Jindal says there used to be a bi-partisan consensus in the US about religious liberty…

CUT 4 (11)  “held beliefs”

The governor said that he has not read Johnson’s bill but supports the defense of religious liberty. Jindal says forcing businesses to participate in a same-sex wedding ceremony, when they have a religious objection, is a Constitutional issue…

CUT 5 (06)  “their religious beliefs”

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

According to the United States Public Interest Research Group, federal data from 2014 indicates that over 1,800 bridges in Louisiana need repairs. The Federal Highway Administration lists 1,837 bridges in Louisiana as “structurally deficient”. Louisiana Department of Transportation spokesman Rodney Mallett says motorists should not be frightened by this designation…

CUT 6 (07)  “for repairs”

A “structurally deficient” designation doesn’t mean a bridge is unsafe. It means the bridge has at least one component that needs repair or replacement. Mallet admits that DOTD has prioritized interstate improvements in recent years, but that doesn’t mean bridges across the state have been neglected…

CUT 7 (10)  “replacement projects”

The state faces a $12 billion backlog in delayed road and bridge maintenance projects. Mallett says, with the current financial problems facing the state, it all comes down to money…

CUT 8 (09)  “address those”

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

State police say one of their troopers was injured in a crash involving a drunk driver Sunday morning while investigating another DWI related accident in East Baton Rouge Parish. Trooper Dustin Dwight says the unidentified trooper had the first DWI suspect inside his vehicle parked on the side of I-12 and was finishing up the paperwork for that accident report…:

CUT 9 (06)  “back of him”

Dwight says both the trooper and the first DWI offender were inside the fully marked Tahoe when it was hit and suffered minor to moderate injuries. He says the vehicle which slammed into the back of the cop car was driven by 24-year-old Magen Hall of Zachary…:

cut 10 (09) “minor injuries”

Dwight says it’s a shame that the trooper was taking care of one drunk driving crash then he was hit by another drunk driver. He says they investigated several DWI crashes over the Easter weekend which is unacceptable…:

cut 11 (10)  “for Megen”

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

Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne officially kicked off his campaign for Governor today. In his announcement, Dardenne said he’s traveled thousands of miles across Louisiana in his current job which is what he plans to do if he’s elected to be the next leader of the state…:

cut 12 (08)  “and Shreveport”

Dardenne says he’d work out of an existing state office in each location so it wouldn’t cost any more money. He says Louisiana is in horrible financial shape right now and he plans to go to work on budget matters from day one…:

cut 13 (09)  “to celebrate”

Dardenne says his office will work to create stability in the state’s budget and end the practice of using one-time money to pay for ongoing expenses. He says higher education will be a top priority and it will be funded as such. Dardenne says it’s okay that he doesn’t have the most cash to run his campaign…:

cut 14 (08) “the best idea”

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

Lt Governor Jay Dardenne begins a statewide tour today to officially announce that he’s running for Governor. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

A contentious legislative session has another hot button item to discuss. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

Former New Orleans Saints safety Darren Sharper is scheduled for arraignment today in federal court and tomorrow in state court. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Lt Governor Jay Dardenne begins a statewide tour today to officially announce that he’s running for Governor. Dardenne will begin in Baton Rouge and Lafayette today, tomorrow he’ll visit Alexandria and Lake Charles. Wednesday it’s New Orleans then Thursday Monroe and Shreveport. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat believes Dardenne has a tough road ahead

cut 4  (08)  “in the middle”

Recent polls have shown Dardenne a distant third in the race behind the leading Republican David Vitter then the Democratic candidate John Bel Edwards. Pinsonat says not only is Dardenne a moderate conservative, the fact that he supports Common Core might also be a problem for his campaign

Cut 5  (09)  “dislike Common Core”

Pinsonat says Vitter is a very powerful Senator and has a strong ability to raise plenty of cash while Dardenne’s war chest is lacking. He says in order for Dardenne to have a fighting chance at making the runoff, something major would have to happen with Vitter…:

Cut 6 (09)  “in the runoff”

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What is expected to be a very difficult legislative session begins a week today as state lawmakers will try to come up with a fiscal plan to avoid large budget cuts to health care and higher education. Alcohol and Tobacco Control Commissioner Troy Hebert has been appointed as Governor Jindal’s legislative liaison. Hebert is optimistic a workable solution can be had…

CUT 7 (11)  “in the past”

Heading into the session, there are numerous bills seeking to raise revenue as a way to close the budget deficit, but the Jindal administration has said if lawmakers raise taxes in one area, they have to be lowered somewhere else, so it’s revenue neutral. Hebert believes that’s what the public wants too

Cut 8  (07)  “anymore either” 

Hebert is familiar with the legislature as he’s served in the House and the Senate prior to becoming A-T-C Commissioner. He says while the state’s budget problems are difficult, he believes every crisis is an opportunity….

Cut 9 (11)  “solution”

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Former New Orleans Saints safety Darren Sharper is scheduled for arraignment today in federal court and tomorrow in state court. The 39-year-old is accused of drugging and raping women in four states and struck a “global” plea deal to resolve all of the charges where he’s been indicted. Legal analyst Chick Foret says the end results of both hearings this week will be guilty pleas…:

Cut 10 (12) “serve his time”

It’s been reported that Sharper will get 20 years in Louisiana, but will serve just nine under the multi state deal. Foret feels it will be far more complicated than that. But he says either way many people aren’t happy about the leniency Sharper is getting for these very serious charges…:

cut 11 (10) “been reduced”

Foret believes Sharper will definitely serve nine new years in jail, but once all the details in the case are hammered out this week we’ll know a lot more…:

cut 12 (10)  “complicated plea bargain”

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The religious freedom debate which made national headlines in Indiana and Arkansas is coming to Louisiana. Bossier City Representative Mike Johnson has filed a bill that would prevent state government from penalizing a business or person for decisions made based on their religious views about marriage. Jeremy Alford of la-politics-dot-com, says with the state facing a huge budge deficit, will some legislators be willing to debate this issue…

Cut 13 (09)  “hallways”

Gays rights organization, Equality Louisiana, has already come out in opposition to Johnson’s measure, because they believe it will lead to the discrimination of gays, lesbians and transgender individuals. Alford says this bill has a chance to bring national attention to Louisiana…

Cut 14 (10) “violently”

Common Core and the budget are expected to dominate the legislative session that begins Monday. Alford says some veteran lawmakers might not be willing to debate this bill, with some big issues already on the table

Cut 15  (10)  “through the system”

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The author of a bill to require a designated driver before drinks can be served to a person at a bar or restaurant, now plans on not seeking approval of his legislation. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (26) “reporting”

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This is the biggest weekend of the seafood year and a distributor says the crawfish are in good supply, but the sooner you get your orders in the better. Jeff Palermo reports…:

CUT 2 (26) “reporting”

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Haughton Representative Henry Burns, who has filed a bill that would require bar and restaurant patrons to have a designated driver, is now saying he will not try to seek approval of his measure in this session. Burns says his legislation would be difficult to enforce…

CUT 3 (08)  “smooth transition”

Burns says he still would like to have a committee hearing on his bill, to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving….

CUT 4 (06)  “do some good”

Burns says he filed the legislation after hearing from families who have lost loved one as a result of drunk drivers, but he hasn’t figured out how the legislation could be enforced

CUT 5 (09)  “goes from here”

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This is the biggest weekend of the seafood year and a distributor says the crawfish are in good supply, but the sooner you get your orders in the better. Gulf Seafood Institute Chairman Harlon Pearce says the product and prices are so good right now, mudbug lovers can’t get enough…:

CUT 6 (07)  “get em and enjoy em”

Pearce says the Easter weekend is the peak of the season and prices tend to drop from here. He says it’s been years since he’s seen crawfish as beautiful as they are this season…:

CUT 7 (08)  “really great season”

Pearce says there is also a ton of other delicious seafood available if you’re not a crawfish person. He says the shrimp are plump and oysters are extremely delicious right now…:

CUT 8 (06)  “fairly tight”

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Spring festival season is officially underway and there is no shortage of fun filled events happening in Sportsman’s Paradise. There is essentially a fair or festival on the calendar every weekend from now until the end of June. Jacques Berry with the Lt. Governor’s Office says Louisiana festivals are loved by locals and tourists…:

CUT 9 (09)  “promote the state”

Berry says the festivals range from the massive Jazz Fest in New Orleans to smaller historic events which have been years long traditions…:

cut 10 (15) “last weekend in April”

He says you can log on to www.louisianatravel.com to see a full calendar of events happening this spring. Berry says the greatest thing about these Louisiana gatherings is that they celebrate local communities and Louisiana’s many passions…:

cut 11 (08)  “gumbo pot”

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Data from the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis, shows Louisiana’s personal income for the fourth quarter in 2014 grew by just 0.6 percent, which is last in the country. But LSU economist Loren Scott says a reason for the low growth is because Louisiana did not accept federal dollars to expand its Medicaid program

cut 12 (07)  “bad thing”

The fourth quarter of 2014 coincides with a drop in oil prices and layoffs in the oil and gas industry. But Scott doesn’t see Louisiana being impacted as much as some other states who depend on large oil shale plays

cut 13 (07)  “hurt some”

Scott says there’s fewer federal dollars flowing into the state to assist low-income or unemployed workers and that’s what led to the lowest personal income growth number in the country for the fourth quarter of 2014…

cut 14 (10)  “in the country”

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The Louisiana Department of Education announces that 22,972 recent public high school graduates enrolled in college in 2014, an all-time high for the state. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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Pounchatoula-based Elmer’s Chocolates are a must-have for many Louisiana Easter baskets this Sunday. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (27) “reporting”

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New Orleans Senator JP Morrell files a package of bills that seeks to reform the state’s film tax credit program. Scott Carwile has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

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The Louisiana Department of Education announces that 22,972 recent public high school graduates enrolled in college in 2014, an all-time high for the state. That’s a six-percent increase from 2013. Education Superintendent John White says the numbers in this report are very exciting…

cut 4  (08)  “several years”

He says this year’s gains are fueled by an increase in low-income and minority students attending college. Those two groups account for over half of the overall growth. White says recently implemented programs like Advanced Placement, dual enrollment classes, and Jump Start are creating chances for students…

Cut 5  (10)  “for our kids”

He says the number of graduates enrolling in college directly after high school has increased 16-percent since 2011. Statewide, 59-percent of the class of 2014 enrolled in college for the fall semester. White says this is not the time for education in Louisiana to take a step backwards…

Cut 6 (08)  “political whims”

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A must-have for many Louisiana Easter baskets this Sunday is a candy manufactured in Ponchatoula. Elmer’s chocolates have been around over 160 years and President Rob Nelson says the Easter Sunday tradition is highlighted by their top sellers — Heavenly Hash and Gold Brick…:

CUT 7 (08)  “turn of the century”

The company started in The Big Easy in 1855 as a pastry business but eventually became Elmer Candy Corporation. Nelson says even Easter is falling a little early this year, sales this Holiday have been great…:

Cut 8  (10)  “this weekend” 

Nelson says Heavenly Hash is their second most popular Easter candy, but the Gold Brick Eggs and their different flavors top the charts every year. He says they attribute a large part of their success to being in one of the best Easter candy markets in the country — from Houston, Texas to Pensacola, Florida…:

Cut 9 (08)  “family traditions”

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Legislation to reform the state’s film tax credit program has been filed for the upcoming session. The program has made Louisiana a major player in the motion picture industry, but the department of economic development says it costs $4.48 for every dollar of state revenue it creates. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says one of the goals with his legislation is to make the tax credit more predictable…

Cut 10 (09) “unsustainable”

Morrell says the most the state has paid out in a given year is 250-million dollars and one of his bills would cap the amount of tax credits paid in a fiscal year to 300-million dollars. The state senator says he also has three different bills that attempt to control fraudulent behavior

cut 11 (12) “itself is truthful”

Morrell says the legislation he’s filed is not designed to ruin Louisiana’s reputation as “Hollywood South.” He says the goal is to make it better and that includes legislation to help college graduates get involved in the movie and TV industry…

cut 12 (11)  “native industry”

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office is investigating an officer involved shooting which left one man dead in Pineville. Lt. Tommy Carnline says deputies responded to reports of a disturbance in which a person was threatening another person in the residence and also threatening to do harm to himself…:

Cut 13 (11)  “at our deputies”

Carnline says they tried to calm the subject down for over an hour until he suddently left the room then began pointing a gun at deputies…:

Cut 14 (07) “on the scene”

Carnline says the subject did not listen to orders to drop the weapon which is when he was shot and killed by cops. He says the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave as standard procedure…:

Cut 15  (09)  “choice that we’re given”

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