1:30 LRN Newscast May 17

Former Louisiana Governor Buddy Roemer passed away this morning. During his term from 1988 to 1991 Roemer signed the bill that legalized riverboat gaming, he also worked to improve the state’s environment. But his tax reform plan was rejected by the voters. Former chief of staff Len Sanderson says Roemer’s administration also had to cut the budget because of a large deficit…

Cut 5  (10)  “…would like to”

Roemer was 77.

The National Weather Service says 10 to 13 inches of rain has fallen in some parts of southwest Louisiana today. Numerous roads are closed in the Lake Charles area and there are reports of rainwater getting into homes. Meteorologist Donald Jones says more rain is on its way.

Cut 9 (10) “…as well”

The US Supreme Court rules that those convicted in the past on non-unanimous jury verdicts will not automatically get a retrial. Attorney Andre Belanger who argued for retroactivity says about 1,500 Louisiana convictions would have to have been retried if the ruling went the other way, but Belanger says the Court did leave the door open for state and local action.

Cut 13 (09)“…verdict”

The ruling was 6-3 against retroactivity.

The temporary shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline only highlighted the ongoing truck driver shortage, Louisiana Motor Transport Association Executive Director Renee Amar says consumers should expect to see an increase in prices and….

Cut 7 (10) “…issues there.”

Amar says the shortage of drivers was an issue well before the pandemic.