Governor John Bel Edwards released a column today saying the budget does not need to be fixed by cutting higher ed and healthcare, but Republican House Appropriations Committee Chairman Cameron Henry says he want to look at reducing spending before raising taxes. He thinks Republican lawmakers are willing to work with Governor Edwards, but they need to know what the detailed budget plans are..:
cut 5 (05) “any steps”
He believes legislators will exhaust every measure possible to reduce the size of government before raising taxes.

Three Louisiana regions, New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Shreveport-Bossier, are in the Top 10 of the best places to live and work as a moviemaker. Executive Director of Louisiana’s Film Office Chris Stelly says there are many films and show projects going on right now in the state…:
CUT 11 (09) “in Shreveport”
He says the moviemaker.com ranking proves the film industry in Louisiana is alive and well.

The plea deal entered by former Saints star Darren Sharper in New Orleans to charges he drugged and raped women, is imploding according to a legal filing. Sharper pleaded guilty last year and agreed to a nine-year federal prison sentence in a so called “global deal.” Legal Analyst Tim Meche says it looks like the judge isn’t committing to the prison terms. He says this is bad for Sharper who has already admitted to being a serial rapist…:
CUT 8 (09) “good for him”
The joint motion by Sharper’s attorneys and the US Attorney asked the judge to postpone a March 7th trial date.

There were no signs of working smoke alarms in the home fire which investigators say claimed the life of a 6-year-old in Rapides Parish overnight. The State Fire Marshal’s Office says another child, aged 12, suffered significant burns in the blaze. The mother and another child were able to escape.

And today, New Orleans lawyer Caroline Fayard becomes the first Democrat to enter this year’s US Senate Race.