Governor John Bel Edwards’s proposal to allocate 500-million dollars towards building a new I-10 Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge is facing some pushback from legislative leaders. House Democratic Caucus Chairman Sam Jenkins of Shreveport is one of them. He’s also concerned about using 550-million dollars in federal pandemic aid to help replenish the Unemployment insurance trust fund.

Cut 5 (06) “…different direction.”

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The state’s trucking industry says they’re not happy with proposals of tolls to build a new I-10 bridge in Lake Charles. Executive Director of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association Renee Amar says that while members agree the Calcasieu Bridge is in dire need of replacement, not a single one is in favor of tolls to fund the project.

Cut 6 (12) “…deliver goods”

Amar says not only does a toll bridge place a burden on truckers, but the ultimate cost is passed on to taxpayers.

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A new report says Saints executives and owner Gayle Benson met with Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson for a second time on Wednesday night. Nick Underhill of New Orleans-dot-football says the meeting took place in Atlanta following Watson’s visit with the Falcons. Watson is in control, holding a no-trade clause, so the decision on his destination is his to make. ESPN reported that the Browns and Panthers have pulled out of negotiations, leaving the choice between the Saints and their most-hated rival. The 28-year-old QB has four years remaining on his contract and is due to make $35 million in 2022.

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