Governor John Bel Edwards says there is no easy way to address the $940 million dollar current year shortfall, or the $2 billion dollar deficit for the budget year that begins July 1st. Last night Edwards told House and Senate members that some tax increases will be needed…:
Cut 13 (10) “so massive”
But Republican lawmakers have already said they are not on board with raising taxes. The special session must end March 9th.

Teachers unions are working together to prevent cuts to public school funding. Louisiana Association of Educators President Debbie Meaux says that’s why they joined forces with the Louisiana Federation of Teachers…:
CUT 9 (05) “our children”
She says the unions also want to make sure that the accountability and evaluation systems are in place for both students and teachers in Louisiana.

The Zika virus may be cause for caution but not alarm. State health officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry with DHH says when people are infected with the virus, the illness usually doesn’t last very long…:
CUT 11 (05) “five days”
Two Louisiana residents who recently traveled to the Caribbean, were recently diagnosed with the Zika virus, after complaining about a minor illness.

During testimony lawmakers learned under a worst case scenario that students must achieve at least a 28 on their ACT in order to receive the TOPS scholarship. Senate Education Chairman Blade Morrish says if the legislature elects to make dramatic changes to TOPS, they will likely not take effect immediately. He says that would be unfair to students who are already counting on the program….:
Cut 6 (10) “in high school”
Morrish has proposed bill to cap TOPS in the past, and he plans to propose bills on the TOPS issue in the upcoming regular session.