The 2019 session kicks off in seven days, but as of now they will do so without an official budget proposal from the governor…
Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

The House Appropriations Committee will begin its budget hearings today. They’ll use Chairman Cameron Henry’s proposal to discuss the state’s spending plan for next fiscal year. Henry’s plan spends 134-million dollars less than what Governor Edwards has recommended and it includes money for teacher pay raises.

Gonzales Representative Clay Schexnayder is proposing to legalize hemp production in Louisiana. Last year’s federal farm bill permits states to regulate and grow hemp. He says the crop is a cash cow that is perfectly suited to the Louisiana climate, much like sugarcane.
Cut 13 (09) “…cooking oils”
Louisiana Farm Bureau President Ronnie Anderson says industrial hemp would be a welcomed crop for Louisiana producers to diversify their harvest.

Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval has filed legislation that would prohibit drivers from using a hand held cell phone while behind wheel. Huval says the proposed law would carry a few exceptions for hand held phone use, including first responders…
cut 6 (13) “….an exception also”
Similar legislation has failed in previous sessions.

We’re a week away from the start of the 2019 legislative session, but LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says there’s one problem…
Cut 7 (09) “…officially”
That’s because there’s a battle between the Edwards administration and House Republican leadership over how much money the state actually has available to spend. House Speaker Taylor Barras has blocked efforts to officially recognize additional revenues.

There’s always a bill in every regular session dealing with cell phone use while driving. Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval wants to prohibit the use of handheld cell phones while behind the wheel…
cut 4 (13) “….it’s about safety”
The session begins April eighth.

LSU’s run through the NCAA Tournament ended and now we wait to see what happens with the Tigers basketball program. It’s likely Will Wade has coached his last game, because of the FBI wire tap scandal, but what about the players on this SEC Championship team. Assistant Tiger Rag Editor Tyler Nunez says point guard Tremont Waters and Naz Reid are likely headed to the NBA, and freshman guard Javonte Smart might also leave, since his name has been connected to the purported F-B-I wire tap…
cut 12 (12) “…nukes his career”