In case the legislature is not able to fully fund TOPS, a bill that would ensure all students get at least part of their scholarship is nearing final passage. Currently, 51-thousand students receive TOPS. Hammond Representative Chris Broadwater says, without this bill, 13-thousand students could lose their award which would be bad for the state’s economy…:
CUT 3 (05) “do it”
The measure passed the House and now heads back to the Senate so changes made to the bill can be approved.

A final investigation into the deaths of two giraffes at the Baton Rouge zoo finds the staff responded as an experienced and knowledgeable team and were not at fault. The American Association of Zoos and Aquariums says the handlers were faced with a challenging situation and they commend the Baton Rouge Zoo for the long-term care of these animals. The zoo requested the investigation after the two giraffes died in March.

Earlier this morning the price of oil rose above 50 dollars a barrel for the first time since October. Executive Director at LSU’s Center for Energy Studies David Dismukes says this marks an important milestone and it might put an end to the job losses in this industry…:
CUT 6 (10) “woods yet”
Crude oil was below 30 dollars a barrel earlier this year.

The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office says a man is under arrest after a 17-year-old woman died of an apparent drug overdose. They say Melissa Sharpe drove the victim to the hospital, and it was determined the woman had been deceased for several hours. She is charged with obstruction of justice. Noah Sharpe is booked with 2nd degree murder in the incident. They’re asking anyone with information on this incident contact authorities.