Governor John Bel Edwards says changes in TOPS as we know it are likely coming because of next year’s 750 million dollar deficit. Edwards says the program costs 300-million dollars this fiscal year and the price tag is expected to rise as colleges and universities hike tuition costs. The governor says in these tough budget times, many government services and programs will unfortunately suffer…
Cut 13 (07) “at risk”

Many Louisiana residents don’t know but there is another election coming up April 9th. Early voting for this municipal election starts Saturday morning. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says there was a 30 percent turnout in the March Presidential primary, and this ballot likely won’t generate as much buzz, but people still need to vote.
CUT 5 (10) “than 30%”

The State Department of Health and Hospitals announces Louisiana’s tuberculosis case rate has fallen 43-percent since 2010. DHH Tuberculosis controller Michael Lacassagne attributes the drop to a new blood testing procedure to improve the diagnosis and a new therapy to prevent the progression of the tuberculosis. He says to keep the number down, they focus on high risk populations, like those with HIV or born outside of the country…
cut 10 (10) “that group”

The Louisiana Attorney General’s office is cautioning flood victims that there are fraudulent people looking to make a quick buck. Spokesperson Ruth Wisher says FEMA won’t ever call you asking for financial account information and they always carry identification badges. She says don’t hesitate to call the AG’s office to ensure a contractor legitimate.
CUT 8 (10) “double check”