The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed a second measle case in the Greater New Orleans area. The first one was reported over the weekend and state health officials announced a second one yesterday. In both cases, the patient is an adult who recently traveled abroad. Louisiana Surgeon General Doctor Ralph Abraham is urging those who are not vaccinated against the measles to get vaccinated…

Cut 8 (07) “…to get it”

The MMR vaccine protects against the measles, mumps and rubella.

New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry will present a bill to the House Ways and Means Committee today that would increase the state’s cigarette tax. Landry says that by increasing the tax, it will lower the smoking rate…

Cut 11 (12) “…whole is healthier”

Various reports indicate that between 16 and 18 percent of Louisiana adults smoke.

The Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee approves legislation that would result in homeowners receiving a individual income tax credit of up to ten-thousand dollars, if they voluntarily pay to install a fortified roof on their home. River Ridge Senator Kirk Talbot is the author of the legislation…

Cut 9 (08) “…three years”

Talbot says a fortified roof can reduce storm damage in a high wind event and it can also lower your homeowners insurance premium

The Public Service Commission voted to remove the state’s energy efficiency program. The 3-to-2 vote will end all energy efficiency programs outside of the PSC’s jurisdiction at the end of the year. Commission Chairman Mike Francis says the third-party program for private entities is not cost-efficient.

Cut 13 (10)  “…of operating costs.”

The Alliance for Affordable Energy is not happy with the decision. Executive Director Logan Burke says removing the energy efficiency program will make it harder for people to reduce their utility bills.