The House Health and Welfare Committee advances a measure that could put new conditions on how the state would operate the food stamp program, ultimately with the goal of implementing work requirements. Monroe Representative Jay Morris says able-bodies adults without kids should work or perform community service 20 hours a week in order to receive SNAP benefits…:
CUT 14 (10) “time to time”
The measure would require legislative approval to waive federally mandated work requirements for food stamp recipients.

Today is the official last day at LSU for the legendary voice of the Fighting Tigers, Jim Hawthorne, as he begins retirement. Hawthorne has been on the radio call for thousands of LSU events over the past 35 years, and says he’s enjoyed his work immensely…:
Cut 17 (06) “forget it”
He says he’s looking forward to spending time with family and traveling with his wife.

The state sales tax increases by a penny starting tomorrow, and new taxes on cigarettes and alcohol also go into effect. LSU Marketing Professor Dr. Dan Rice says shoppers making big purchases, like vehicles or furniture, will likely see a difference after the sales tax goes up…:
Cut 10 (08) “situation”
He says most people won’t even notice a difference.

A bill to increase the minimum wage is set to be heard today in the Senate Labor Committee. State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business Dawn Starns says this would be bad for their members…:
CUT 5 (07) “in jobs”
But those in favor say an increase from $7.25 to $8.50 and hour will help pull people out of poverty.
Cut 6 (06) “ends meet”
That’s Louisiana Budget Project director Jan Moller.