10:30 LRN Newscast May 20

Business organizations are asking Governor John Bel Edwards to stop federally enhanced unemployment benefits. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says the state is very dependent on a service-based economy like hospitality, tourism, restaurants, and retail.

Cut 4 (11)“…(x2) to work..”

While neighboring states like Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi are opting out of federally enhanced unemployment, Governor Edwards says he does not want to react too quickly.

Cut 5 (11)”…we are.”

Governor Edwards says while the enhanced benefits are only temporary, the tourism industry has yet to rebound from pre-pandemic levels. The current enhanced $300 unemployment benefits are scheduled to end on September 6th.

 

A House committee unanimously approves a resolution calling for the formation of a committee dedicated to studying the impacts of potentially legalizing marijuana in Louisiana. Thibodaux Representative Bryan Fontenot was one of the leading voices against legalization this year, saying this kind of study must be conducted before lawmakers can make an informed decision…

Cut 11 (07) “….those people”

17 states have legalized recreational marijuana so far.

 

During a Congressional hearing, Senator John Kennedy questioned an official with the US Housing and Urban Development on why the Biden administration has not formulated a disaster aid package to assist 2020 hurricane victims. Kennedy says it’s been nine months since Hurricane Laura nearly flattened southwest Louisiana…

Cut 8 (08) “…get an answer?” (2x)