5:30 LRN Newscast April 17

Senate Governmental Affairs approves legislation that critics say will gut the state’s public records law at every level. It would prohibit the public from obtaining any government documents involved in decision making. Bill author, Turkey Creek Senator Heather Cloud, says they are trying to prevent unfinalized information from becoming public…

Cut 10 (11 ) “…catastrophic”

 

Fox 8 New Orleans Investigative reporter Lee Zurik spoke in opposition. He says public records requests helped shine a light on what led to the collapse of the New Orleans Hard Rock hotel in 2019.

Cut 11 (12) “…this law.”

Cloud says she’ll work to address the concerns of opponents and make changes before the full Senate votes.

Legislation to create a Gun Free Zone in New Orleans’ entertainment district was voluntarily deferred in House Criminal Justice. Bill author Representative Alonzo Knox urged committee members to ask local law enforcement in their districts what they think about the law that goes into effect July 4th allowing for concealed carry without a permit.

Cut 4 (12) “…a crisis.”

Knox amended the bill to allow gun owners with a permit to conceal carry in the New Orleans entertainment district so it would not infringe upon one’s rights. But that too was met with opposition. Firearm Professionals of Louisiana political director Chris Patron…

Cut 5 (12) “…need is enforcement.” 

Knox says he plans to meet with Republican Senator Kirk Talbot who’s proposed similar legislation and work on points made in committee.