Today in a 218 to 214 vote, the U. S. House gave final legislative passage for President Trump’s sweeping tax cut and spending bill. Two Republicans and every Democrat in the House voted against the measure. New Orleans Democratic Congressman Troy Carter says Trump’s Big Ugly Bill will increase energy costs by 400-dollars per household, give tax breaks to the rich, and rip away health coverage from 17 million Americans. House Speaker Mike Johnson says the One Big Beautiful Bill will provide tax relief for the middle class and save every American from a tax increase…

Cut 16 (10) “…on the bill.”

With the latest LEAP test results showing overall student proficiency up a percentage point for third to eighter graders but down a point for high schoolers. Erin Bendily with the Pelican Institute, says while the state has certainly come a long way in the last few years, we still has a way to go.

Cut 5 (14) “…will soon face.”

Fireworks will be popping tonight and tomorrow as America celebrates its 249th birthday. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ken Pastorick says if you plan to shoot fireworks, make sure you are 200 feet away from buildings and vehicles, never let children handle fireworks, light one firework at a time and do not use fireworks impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Cut 9 (10)  “…eleven deaths.”

And Planning a 4th of July barbecue expect higher prices for some staples, with beef up seven-percent, ground beef up ten-percent and potatoes and pork n beans also costing more, according to Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain.

Cut 12 (11) “…over a year ago.”