State agencies are implementing budget cuts for the current fiscal year today. It’s to the tune of about $277 million dollars, according to Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne. But he says another round of cuts might be necessary and we’ll find out more when the Revenue Estimating Conference meets on January 17th…:
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The Department of Health is taking the biggest hit this round, but these are across the board reductions that also hit State Police and Higher Ed.

The state’s revenues will likely get a boost with the news that Amazon will begin collecting state and local sales taxes on purchases made by Louisiana consumers, starting January 1st. State Revenue Secretary Kimberly Robinson hopes other online retailiers follow Amazon’s new policy. It’s a state law that taxes must be paid on internet purchases, but it’s up to the consumer to self report.

The ACLU of Louisiana is suing the City of Slidell because of an ordinance that requires a permit to panhandle. Halen Doughty has more..:
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A Livingston Parish man is charged with attempted murder following a road rage incident. Walker Police Captain John Sharp says 35-year-old Johnny Franz and 31-year-old Bradley Deville got into a heated exchange over tailgating. He says the two stopped and Franz invited Deville to get out of his car…:
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Sharp says in addition to attempted murder, Deville is charged with illegal use of a firearm, and possession of an open container.