Governor John Bel Edwards will reportedly meet with state senators today as he seeks their support and input heading into a special session that’s been called to close a massive budget shortfall this fiscal year and next. Meanwhile, House Speaker Taylor Barras says the lower chamber is committed to avoiding big cuts to higher ed and health care…
cut 14 (09) “…inflicted”
The special session begins on Sunday.

The Public Affairs Research Council has provided the governor and the legislature with several recommendations on how to cut government spending. PAR President Robert Travis Scott says one suggestion is to come up with a plan to make sure retirement costs and health care plans for employees do not escalate…
cut 10 (07) “….year to year”
PAR’s other suggestions include a 200-million dollar cut across state agencies and consolidating academic programs with colleges that are located near each other.

Mardi Gras 2016 comes to a close today with Fat Tuesday. Michelle Southern has more with Mardi Gras expert Arthur Hardy…
cut 1 (30) “..I’m Michelle Southern”

The Saints have released six-time Pro Bowl guard Jahri Evans. He was a key member of the 2009 Super Bowl team.