At the Capitol, the Senate rejects legislation requiring cable and internet providers to provide refunds to customers without service for over 24 hours during a declared disaster. Jeff Palermo has the story…:

CUT 01(30)      “…Jeff Palermo.”

From the “No Surprise Here” file… The Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling says reported cases of gambling addiction are on the rise, and yes – it coincides with the advent of sports book betting in the state. They say the majority of callers to their addiction helpline are between 25 and 34 years of age.

A couple of House bills seeking to raise the minimum wage in Louisiana fail to pass in the House Labor Committee. “No” votes outnumbered the “yeas”, with opponents concerned the bills would raise consumer prices overall, and still hurt lower-income workers. Here’s Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews…:

CUT 13(10)      “…enter the workplace.”

At this hour, the committee still has another minimum wage bill to discuss.

The Louisiana Public Service Commission made headway this week in an effort to help close the digital divide in North Louisiana. Northeast Louisiana Power Cooperative will be the first utility co-op to supply internet service to their customers. Commissioner Foster Campbell says that covers seven northeast parishes…:

CUT 04(09)      “…and the poorest.”

About a quarter of Louisiana homes have no broadband internet; either because they can’t afford it or it’s just not available.