5:30 LRN Newscast

LSU’s School of Veterinary Medicine plans to double student admission and increase graduation rates to shrink the shortage of veterinarians across the U.S. LSU Vet School Dean, Oliver Garden says they will increase class size by next year.

Cut 3 (09) “…this happens”

Nearly every state reported critical shortages in veterinary care in 2022, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

To increase safety along the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge, DOTD plans to install speed cameras next year as a preventive measure. The beginning phase includes increased signage along the bridge. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallet says feedback cameras will also be installed to alert drivers when they are speeding.

Cut 7 (09)  “…the number of crashes.” 

Double speeding fine signs installed on the bridge in August is proving to be effective.

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt authored a bill that increases punishment for those who produce or combine fentanyl with other drugs. Drugs laced with fentanyl were responsible for 140 deaths last year in her home parish of St. Tammany. She says the maximum penalty for manufacturing a controlled substance under her legislation would increase from 15 to 40.

Cut 10 (10) “…in our state” 

The penalties would also include a 500-thousand dollar fine for the convicted drug manufacturer.

ULM and Louisiana Tech announce they will renew their football rivalry, but fans will have to wait until 2030 before the two schools separated by 36 miles will meet again on the gridiron. KNOE-TV sports director Aaron Dietrich says hopes this game will take place.

Cut 14 (11)  “…down the road”

They have not played each other on the football field since 2000.