The state House has sent the cigarette tax legislation to a conference committee so they can work out differences between the two chambers. The lower chamber passed the measure raising the tax to 68 cents per pack. The Senate amended the bill to raise the tax to $1.08. Alexandria Representative Lance Harris says the Senate hike is too much…:
CUT 9 (10) “amendment on this”
An 81-15 House vote sends the measure to a conference committee.

Getting final legislative approval today is a bill that would give domestic violence abuse victims special housing protections such as breaking a lease to escape an abuser. Supporters say woman who are abused need more safe guarding when it comes to escaping a violent situation.

Widespread flooding in Northwest Louisiana continues as the Red River finally hits it crest at 37 feet where it is expected to remain today. CS Ross, hydrologist with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says now areas further south are about to get more water…:
CUT 8 (11) “Louisiana”
He says in the Shreveport area the water will begin to go down now through the weekend.

A Baton Rouge federal judge has ordered the unconditional release of 68-year-old Albert Woodfox, the last imprisoned member of the Angola 3. Woodfox has spent over 40 years in solitary confinement for apparent involvement in a prison guard’s murder. Amnesty International’s Jasmine Heiss says Louisiana needs to let Woodfox out…:
CUT 5 (09) “way of justice”
The state has already begun the appeals process.