The governor approved language in the appropriations bill that would front load the TOPS program Edwards believes vetoing the legislation would cause chaos just weeks before the next semester begins. Higher Education Commissioner Joe Rallo says they respect the governor’s opinion.
Cut 13 (06) “potential challenge”

Those who oppose say this would place a massive burden on students in the spring.

A lawsuit has been filed in attempt to restore voting rights to Louisiana felons. The suit states that prohibiting people released on parole or probation from voting in the state is unconstitutional. The suit was filed by the activist group called The Voice of the Ex-Offender. The Attorney General’s Office says they will review the lawsuit but believe the law is constitutional.

A driver has been cited after being involved in a crash that resulted in a State Police Trooper being hit by her own unit. Authorities say the trooper was helping a disable vehicle change a tire on 1-55 when a truck hit the unit which caused it to spin and hit the trooper walking along the shoulder. 28-year-old Shane Matecum of Tickfaw was been cited for careless operation. The trooper was airlifted to the hospital and is now in stable condition.

A deputy with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office has been arrested for solicitation of a prostitute. State Trooper Scott Moreau says the investigation into 48-year-old Stacy Bender revealed he had an inappropriate relationship. Moreau says Bender is looking at 12 charges…
cut 15 (11) “criminal records”

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office says Bender was a deputy for over 17 years and has been terminated.