Governor John Bel Edwards tells lawmakers that the state can’t cut its way out of its fiscal problems. That’s how a three and a half week long special session got underway last night as Edwards told House and Senate members that some tax increases will be needed to address a 940-million dollar budget deficit this fiscal year…:
Cut 13 (10) “so massive”
Republican West Monroe Senator Mike Walsworth is optimistic the GOP legislature can work with the Democratic Edwards administration on a solution to fixing the state’s budget problems…:
Cut 15 (10) “I believe”
The special session must conclude by March 9th.

A state health director says Louisiana residents should use caution when it comes to the Zika Virus, but not be alarmed. Jeff Palermo has the story…:
Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

Baton Rouge Police say a man who is suspected of shooting two officers has died. They say 22-year-old Calvin Smith was being treated at the same hospital as the two cops he allegedly shot. Authorities say BRPD was responding to a domestic disturbance when they encountered the suspect who fled before turning a rifle and shooting at the cops. The officers, who suffered non life threatening injuries, returned fire and struck Smith. The investigation is ongoing.