6:30 LRN Newscast July 2nd

State leaders have had a week now to stew about the results of the special session that ended with a 4.45 percent sales tax rate that fully funds most state programs. With the fiscal cliff in the rear view mirror, attention now turns to next year’s governor’s race. GOP House Chairman Lance Harris says the results of the session make it clear the state needs a conservative governor.
Cut 4 (12) “the governor”
But Democrats say their members stepped up to make sure health care, higher ed, and TOPS were fully funded.
Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says this fall will lack political drama, but get ready for fireworks next year…
cut 9 (07) “…for Louisiana”

With much of the recent attention on funding Louisiana’s budget, the state is making upgrades to the way residents can keep a better eye on how tax dollars are spent as they roll out the Louisiana Checkbook today. The website mirrors efforts in other states to improve transparency. Policy Director at the Division of Administration, Jacques Berry, says he hopes the push for more openness in government spending will catch on.
Cut 10 (09) “…in the nation.”
The website goes online today and it can be found at checkbook-dot-la-dot-gov.

Former LSU standout and Shreveport golfer David Toms won the U-S Senior Open yesterday as he shot three-under part for the tournament in Colorado Springs, Colorado.