At the State Capitol, a bill that would raise the statewide minimum wage to $10 failed in the House Labor Committee by a 9-5 vote. The bill’s author, Alexandria Representative Ed Larvadain says citizens are struggling to survive and lawmakers must step up…:

CUT 09(09)      “…in unacceptable.”

Thirty out of fifty states have a minimum wage greater than the federal minimum. Neighboring states like Arkansas and Missouri have done so (at $11 and $12 respectively). National Federation of Independent Business State Director Dawn McVea advocated for small businesses; saying they just can’t afford it…:

CUT 10(12)      “…number of employees.”

The last time the feds raised the minimum was 2009. Opponents said it would cause more job losses than anything else. The bill was voted down and appears dead again this year.

The House Education Committee approves legislation requiring high school students to pass a financial literacy class to graduate. Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley says he hears from parents who say public school students should be educated on how to handle their finances…:

CUT 13(12)      “…have to make.”

That bill heads to the House floor.

The man arrested for Monday’s fatal double shooting outside a Minden truck stop is also the suspect in a stabbing and shooting in Alabama. Bossier City PD say the initial call came in as an armed robbery with shots fired.

CUT 23(12)      “…no further harm.”

50-year-old Cortrell Burks is also wanted in Jefferson County, Alabama for murder and attempted murder.