The legislative session ends on Thursday at 6 PM and state lawmakers are expected to pass a tax reform package that will result in lower individual income tax rates, but eliminate the ability to deduct federal income taxes paid. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says the lower income tax rates could help attract businesses
Cut 7 (09) “…the country.”
The House has approved the tax swap plan, still needs Senate approval and then it will go before voters in the fall.

A bill that raises the legal age to vape, smoke, or use any tobacco or nicotine product in Louisiana from 18 to 21 is headed to the governor’s desk. Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living Associate Director Shawna Shields says the goal is to deter young people from smoking at a young age.
Cut 30 (10) “…and under”
Denham Springs Representative Buddy Mincey authored the legislation after local school officials told him about the rampant use of vaping on school campuses.

The legislative instrument that will result in teachers getting an 800-dollar a year pay raise and school support workers seeing their salary go up 400-dollars has received final legislative approval. Jim Shannon has the story…
Cut 2 (30) …I’m Jim Shannon”

A heated discussion on the House floor led to two state representatives having to be separated. Shreveport Representative Alan Seabaugh told a Baton Rouge TV station he was explaining to Bogalusa Representative Malinda White why he was opposing her domestic violence bill when he says White threatened him. The House Speaker was to talk with both legislators about the incident.