The legislature has approved as bill that curbs the cost of TOPS, likely meaning recipients will have to pay a portion of their tuition. Lafayette Representative Nancy Landry says the measure freezes the scholarship and it doesn’t go up, even if tuition rises…:
cut 14 (10) “afford to”
The measure passed on a 74-20 vote and heads to the governor’s desk, where he is expected to sign it.

Slidell Police say a man allegedly hit a school crossing guard with his vehicle on purpose causing her to sustain minor injuries. They say witnesses report around 8:15 Monday morning near Abney Elementary School, 33-year-old Francis Gras got into an argument with the victim when he wouldn’t follow her instructions, then backed up and hit the guard intentionally. Gras faces several charges including hit and run, aggravated battery, reckless operation and possession of marijuana.

The Senate approves legislation that would send 17-year-old non-violent offenders through the juvenile court system, instead of adult court. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says 17-year-olds who are convicted of crimes would be better off if they didn’t go to adult jail…:
cut 11 (08) “hardened criminal”
The measure, which is supported by Governor Edwards, was approved on a 33-4 vote and heads to the House.

The Louisiana Supreme Court decided not to hear the appeal of the estranged heirs of Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson, over whether or not he is competent to handle his own affairs. Benson is trying to remove his estranged family from being able to receive shares of the franchises, and they aren’t happy about it. The disagreement is being hashed out in federal court in New Orleans.