The House of Representatives votes today on several different tax proposals that the governor is pushing as a way to solve the state’s budget crisis. Up for consideration, is an increase to the state’s sales tax, higher cigarette and alcohol taxes and fewer tax exemptions for businesses. Political Analyst Clancy Dubos…:
cut 4 (10) “they want”
There are just 14 days left in the special session.

The National Weather Service confirmed that at least eight tornadoes hit Louisiana during the destructive weather system on Tuesday. They say four of those were classified as EF-2, including the one that blew through Convent, destroying an RV park while killing two people, and injuring 30. EF2 twisters pack winds of up to 135 miles per hour. The other EF2 tornadoes hit Livingston, Paincourtville (PAN’-koor-vil), and LaPlace. The four others were in Lacombe, Kenner, Montpelier and Prairieville.

The Public Service Commission has rejected Cleco’s attempt to sell the utility company for 5-billion dollars to a foreign investment group. The deal was rejected on a 3-2 vote. Commissioner Foster Campbell voted against the sale…:
Cut 13 (06) “public monopoly”
Cleco says they are disappointed in the decision and they are reviewing their future options.

Republican State Representatives sent Governor John Bel Edwards a list of long-term changes they want in the state government as they try to negotiate the administration’s proposed tax increases aimed at fixing the budget deficit. Legislators are interested in reforms in pensions, capital outlay, and taxes. Alexandria Representative Lance Harris, who oversaw preparation of the letter, says legislators don’t want to keep having to deal with midyear deficits…:
Cut 10 (05) “year out”
The letter also asks that any tax increases approved during the special session end once revenue from long term reform is collected.