Lawmakers will have a lot of vetoes to sort through in the likely upcoming veto override session later this month, but one bill is set to take center stage…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says a roughly half trillion dollar bipartisan agreement in the US Senate could alleviate many of the state’s long suffering infrastructure concerns.

Wilson says Louisiana currently has a D minus grade for infrastructure from the American Society of Civil Engineers. This bill looks tailor made to address those concerns locally.

Cut 3 (09) “bridges”

Governor Edwards issued 28 total vetoes of items passed during the recent session, but with a veto override session now likely some of those could end up getting overturned.

Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says lawmakers will only have a few days to override any vetoes and that’s not much time given the wide range of bills that were nixed…

Cut 6 (09) “guns”

The World Health Organization is advising even those who are fully vaccinated to wear face masks as the delta variant of COVID continues to spread at a rapid rate. State Health Office Dr. Joe Kanter says so far, the CDC has not put out such a recommendation.

Cut 9 (12) “delta variant”

The delta variant is a mutation of the coronavirus that spreads more quickly because it is better at latching onto cells in our bodies.

Lawmakers will have a lot of vetoes to sort through in the likely upcoming veto override session later this month, but one bill is set to take center stage…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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There are growing concerns among health experts that the delta variant of COVID could bring a return of the mask mandate. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says a roughly half trillion dollar bipartisan agreement in the US Senate could alleviate many of the state’s long suffering infrastructure concerns.

Wilson says Louisiana currently has a D minus grade for infrastructure from the American Society of Civil Engineers. This bill looks tailor made to address those concerns locally.

Cut 3 (09)  “….bridges”

Wilson says this infrastructure package is a generational piece of legislation and the greatest investment in infrastructure since the New Deal.

Cut 4 (05) “…invovled”

Wilson hopes the entire push for a nationwide infrastructure overhaul doesn’t get taken down by partisan politics.

Cut 5  (04) “…talk”

The Senate and House appear set for a showdown over dueling infrastructure proposals as Friday the House passed a 715 billion dollar infrastructure proposal that includes more climate related spending than the bipartisan agreement made in the Senate.

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Governor Edwards issued 28 total vetoes of items passed during the recent session, but with a veto override session now likely some of those could end up getting overturned.

Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says lawmakers will only have a few days to override any vetoes and that’s not much time given the wide range of bills that were nixed…

Cut 6 (09) “…guns.”

Edwards issued vetoes on topics like a drug court funding bill touted by Attorney General Jeff Landry, mandatory election auditing by Senator Heather Cloud, ethics exemptions for Baton Rouge area groundwater board members, and, as is customary, line-item vetoed pet projects in districts held by his most prominent Republican rivals.

Pinsonat says without Edwards’ rejection of legislation banning transgender women from womens’ sports there’s a good chance this session would have never been called.

Cut 7 (07) “…day one.”

The Fairness in Women’s Sports Act by Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell received over two thirds support in both chambers of the Legislature. Should a session be called and those votes did not change the veto would be overridden and the bill would be made into law.

Pinsonat says after the trans sports bill legislators will likely try to undo the Governor’s veto of a bill allowing people to carry a concealed firearm without training or a permit.

Cut 8 (05) “…veto”

If approved by a majority of both the House and Senate the veto override session would begin July 20th.

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The World Health Organization is advising even those who are fully vaccinated to wear face masks as the delta variant of COVID continues to spread at a rapid rate. State Health Office Dr. Joe Kanter says so far, the CDC has not put out such a recommendation.

Cut 9 (12) “…delta variant.”

The delta variant is a mutation of the coronavirus that spreads more quickly because it is better at latching onto cells in our bodies.

Kanter says when you compare the U-S to the rest of the world, as a whole 66-percent of adults have initiated the vaccine.

Cut 10 (07) “…across the world.”

Louisiana has confirmed cases of the delta variant already and a vaccination rate of 35-percent.

Kanter says because of the higher vaccination rate among the U-S compared to other countries is most likely why the CDC hasn’t followed the lead of the WHO in advising a return to face masks.

Cut 11 (08) “…vaccinations now.”

The delta variant has been found in 80 countries around the world since it was first discovered in India.

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Major disaster aid is one step closer to reaching Louisiana, that’s more than 10 months since Hurricane Laura. Governor Edwards says the state has demonstrated $3-billion in unmet needs from Laura, Delta, and Zeta. He says the state had to make sure the numbers agreed with HUD because they oversee block grant funding for disaster recovery.

Cut 12 (05) “…to begin with.” 

Edwards says the figures have been presented to the President and Congress. Edwards says he’s even talked on the phone personally with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to let her know that Louisiana still does not have the disaster appropriation that is desperately needed.

Cut 13 (11) “…about half of it.”

Edwards says he believes an appropriation is coming in the relatively near future and the majority of funds would go to those impacted by Laura.

Cut 14 (08) “…moves forward.”

The governor says a change in presidential administrations as well other priorities in Washington have been contributing factors delaying approval.

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Cut 15 (11)“…are vaccinated.”

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Cut 16 (25) “…back at it” 

Cut 17 (15) …so far.” 

Cut  18 (19)”..yeah.”

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Cut 19 (14) “…lives.” 

Cut 20 (27)  “…next weekend.” 

Another rural Democrat is leaving the party, this time Bogalusa Representative Malinda White who announced she’s going independent, registering as No Party. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says that now makes three independents in the State House. Alford says for established candidates like White this kind of move can make sense…

Cut  11 (09) “….specifically” 

White was first elected in 2015 as a Democrat.

A Baton Rouge man got the shock of a lifetime last weekend after a banking error resulted in 50 billion dollars being deposited into his bank account. real estate agent Darren James ended up returning all of the money but since it was deposited on a Saturday it stayed in his account for three days.

Cut 13 (12) “…on Tuesday”

More pets go missing during the 4^th of July than any other time of the year. Jim Shannon talks with an animal advocate on how to keep your pet calm when the fireworks go off.

Cut 1 (32) “ …I’m Jim Shannon.” 

A massive gas leak in the Gulf of Mexico that for a time was known as the “Eye of Fire” has been extinguished according to the Mexican government. A Petroleos Mexicanos underwater natural gas pipeline had ruptured pouring ignited natural gas into the nearby water. Videos on social media showed a hellish eye shaped flaming, roiling ball of fire in the middle of the Gulf that raged for more than five hours.

The Democratic roster in the Legislature just got a little smaller after Bogalousa Representative Malinda White announced she’s leaving the party and registering under No Party. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says White’s decision to leave the party is part of an ongoing theme that’s seen Democrats hemorrhage support outside of the major cities…

Cut 10 (10) “…results.”

Friday morning on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster former State Democratic Party head Stephen Handwerk indicated that attacks on White from the left-wing of the party “probably” played a role in this decision.

Governor Edwards officially delivered the veto of two controversial bills, one involving transgender women in women’s sports and the other allowing anyone in the state to carry a concealed firearm without training or a permit. Lawmakers have indicated they will be holding for a historic veto override session July 20^th as a result.

Fireworks may be a bit pricey, and in some places completely sold out, but if you are setting off the explosives this year the State Fire Marshal wants you to do it safely. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says don’t do it drunk, and make sure you are at least 200 feet from any buildings or cars that could catch on fire.

Cut 7 (08) “…or vehicles.”

Also, have a water source nearby if you need to extinguish them for any reason.

And the LASPCA also reminds you not to have your pets outdoors with you while you light fireworks, and absolutely do not bring them to any public fireworks displays. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson before the bombs start dropping tomorrow make sure you take your dog for an early afternoon walk to tire them out in preparation…

Cut 4 (08) “…as scared (x2)”

State Democrats are losing yet another rural lawmaker as Bogalusa Representative Malinda White announces her departure in favor of identifying as No Party. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says this is the first major-party defection at the Capitol in nearly ten years.

Cut 9 (11) “…ideas.”

It is unclear which party White, who first took office as a Democrat in 2015, intends to caucus with going forward.

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery over the weekend when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account.  James says when he and his wife saw the balance on the account they knew a big mistake had been made.

Cut 12 (11) “…it was crazy.”

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says first make sure fireworks are legal in your city or parish and be sure you’ve purchased your fireworks from a reputable vendor.

Cut 6 (12) “…appropriate permitting.”

 Rodrigue says when it comes to overall firework safety your best bet is to just attend a professional display put on by your local government.

The LASPCA reports more pets go missing over 4^th of July holiday than any other time of the year, largely because pets fear fireworks and will bolt if forced to endure them. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson says having your pet tag along for a fireworks display is a bad idea.

Cut 3 (06)  “…with you.”

LSU lands a five-star kicking prospect in Nathan Dibert of Michigan, ranked the second best kicker in the country by 247 Sports. Dibert adds even more fuel to the Tiger’s currently 4^th ranked 2022 recruiting class.

Support and sympathy continues to pour in from across the sporting world for LSU track star Sha’Carri Richardson, who was booted from the Olympics after testing positive for a chemical found in marijuana. Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, Damian Lillard of the Portland Trailblzers, even former LSU star and current Cleveland Brown Odell Beckham all sent out support while editorials in papers across the country lambasted the United States Anti-Doping Association for their backwards policy.

Richardson has apologized for the positive test and accepted a one month suspension, but atleast he primary sponsor Nike says they still have Richardson’s back.

Tonight the back and forth Eastern Conference Finals between Milwaukee and Atlanta continues at 7:30. The Bucks have a chance to close it out up 3 games to 2 but both teams will be without their stars as Giannis Antetokoumpo and Trae Young are both expected to be out of action after suffering injuries earlier in the series.

Should the Bucks close out the Hawks tonight Pelicans fans could be in a real bind when it comes to who they’ll be pulling for in the Finals. Chris Paul’s Suns are already in from the West after taking down the Clippers and beloved guard Jrue Holliday has played a key role in the Bucks’ ascension through the east.

LSU outfielder Dylan Crews has been named to the USA baseball 2021 Collegiate National Team roster.  Crews batted .362 this season with 18 homers, 42 RBI’s, and 12 steals. 

In basketball, the Ragin Cajuns leading scorer, Cedric Russell, has entered the NCAA Transfer portal. He’s the fifth member from last season’s team to enter the portal. Russell averaged 17 points and shot 40-percent from three-point territory.

On Friday Governor Edwards released a statement that he’s signed 477 bills from the 2021 legislative session and vetoed 28. Edwards says he vetoed the bills because they were simply unnecessary, and many would have caused real harm to the people of Louisiana. A majority of lawmakers in both chambers will decide if they want to hold a historic veto session. If so, it would start July 20^th.

Bogalusa Representative Malinda White is leaving the Democratic Party, citing frustration with partisan politics. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Matt Doyle  

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account.  James says when he and his wife saw the balance on the account they knew a big mistake had been made.

Cut 12 (11) “…it was crazy.”

James ended up returning the money.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue where you set off your fireworks is crucial, make sure you are at least 200 feet from any buildings or cars that could catch on fire.

Cut 7 (09) “…or vehicle.”

And never allow children to handle fireworks.

This afternoon Governor Edwards announced that he’s vetoed 28 pieces of legislation from the 2021 regular session. Two high profile bills, the ability to conceal carry without a permit and legislation to keep transgender females from competing in women’s sports are among the 28 vetoed If lawmakers agree to hold a historic veto session it would be held July 20^th.

State Democrats are losing yet another rural lawmaker as Bogalusa Representative Malinda White announces her departure in favor of identifying as No Party. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says White’s decision to leave the party is part of an ongoing theme that’s seen Democrats hemorrhage support outside of the major cities…

Cut 10 (10) “…results.”

White was first elected in 2015 as a Democrat.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says first make sure fireworks are legal in your city or parish first and that you’ve purchased your fireworks from a reputable vendor.

Cut 6 (12) “…appropriate permitting.”

Never set off fireworks if you are impaired or tired, you need to be able to react quickly if something goes wrong.

Did you know that more pets go missing over the 4^th of July than any other time of the year? Fireworks often scare pets leading them to run away. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson (mell-ah-sun) says having your pet tag along for a fireworks display is a bad idea.

Cut 3 (06)  “…with you.”

Also, make sure your pets ID tags are up to date.

State Democrats are losing yet another rural lawmaker as Bogalusa Representative Malinda White announces her departure in favor of identifying as No Party. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says this is the first major-party defection at the Capitol in nearly ten years.

Cut 9 (11) “…ideas.”

It is unclear which party White intends to caucus with going forward.

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery over the weekend when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account. While James is not sure where the money came from, he says he’s not the only person that this has happened to.

Cut 14 (09) “…amount of money.” 

James ended up returning all the money.

More pets go missing during the 4^th of July than any other time of the year. Jim Shannon talks with an animal advocate on how to keep your pet calm and from straying when the fireworks go off.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Jim Shannon.” 

Actor Will Smith saves the day, Independence Day that is, for New Orleans. The actor along with his production company have sponsored a fireworks display to take place Sunday. The Go 4^th on the river display is a last-minute show that was announced by the city Friday. Smith is in town shooting the feature film Emancipation.

Bogalusa Representative Malinda White is leaving the Democratic Party, citing frustration with partisan politics. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Matt Doyle  

This afternoon Governor Edwards announced that he’s vetoed 28 pieces of legislation from the 2021 regular session. Two high profile bills, the ability to conceal carry without a permit and legislation to keep transgender females from competing in women’s’ sports are among the 28 vetoed If lawmakers agree to hold a historic veto session it would be held July 20^th.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says be sure to keep a water source handy in case things get out of control. Once you’re finished with your fireworks, Rodrigue says to dispose of them properly.

Cut 8 (11) “…in case.”

And never allow children to handle fireworks.

Did you know that the 4^th of July is when most pets go missing due to running away from fireworks. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson says if you live near a fireworks display keep your pet inside and play white noise or music to calm your pet. Also make sure your pet is properly tagged.

Cut 5  (12) “…a week.”