The state House has approved a bill that will increase the state’s alcohol tax for the first time since 1948. There was an effort to put a three-year expiration on the higher tax, but New Orleans Representative Walt Leger objected to the admendment with Shreveport Representative Thomas Carmody…
cut 17 (12) “….that problem”
The measure heads to the Senate where they are are expected to approve the higher alcohol tax, with the extra revenues going towards the state’s massive budget deficit.

Colfax Representative Terry Brown has filed a bill for the regular session that would require Governor Edwards to examine the state’s contracts with the Saints and Pelicans. Brown says hopefully once the governor reviews the agreements, he’ll take away any state subsidies…
cut 6 (09) “….Saints”

Legislation has been filed for the upcoming session that would increase the fines for those caught emailing, texting or looking at social media while driving. Highway safety advocate, Colonel Jim Champagne, is glad the legislature is willing to look at this issue, because this is a dangerous practice that needs to stop….
cut 9 (11) “….become secondary”
The regular session begins a week from today.

The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has approved changes to the Common Core education standards. BESE President Jim Garvey says school districts will have more control on what goes on in the classroom…
cut 11 (10) “…the ball”
The governor and the legislature still has to review these changes.