A bill to prohibit transgender athletes from participating in girls’ sports in Louisiana cleared another legislative hurdle. In support of the proposal, the panel heard from retired women’s soccer player Anne Metz, who said her career ended when she was blindsided during a game by a biological male competing as a woman…:

Cut 11  (11)      “…my head.”

The bill now goes to the House floor for final passage. The same bill was passed last year, but vetoed by the Governor. A veto override attempt failed.

A bill banning use of a handheld cellphone while driving failed to pass the full House. Bill sponsor Mike Huval, of Breaux Bridge, had this exchange with Amite Rep. Robby Carter, who was concerned not everyone has or can afford hands-free tech…:

CUT 03(11)      “…not use your hands”

The bill got more “yeas” than “nays”, but fell shy of the 53 votes needed to pass.

A House committee approves a bill that would allow law enforcement to charge a mother who has an abortion with murder and also charge those who assist with terminating a pregnancy. Jeff Palermo has more…:

CUT 01(31)      “…Jeff Palermo.”

The House Committee on Criminal Justice also approved a bill creating the crime of theft of a vehicle’s catalytic converter or engine control module. Another bill moved forward increases the criminal penalties for committing a carjacking. Both those crimes are happening with alarming frequency. The same committee rejected a bill that would have allowed earlier parole for certain inmates who meet criteria for good behavior and time served. That bill appears dead for the session.