Lawmakers are split on whether or not to tap into the state’s rainy day fund to close a $304 million budget gap. Lake Charles Representative Mark Abraham sits on the Appropriations Committee and says he’s still not sure if that’s the way to go.

Cut 3 (12) “rainy day fund”

The Edwards Administration will unveil its budget plan on Friday.

Former-Angola Warden Burl Cain defends himself amid allegations he misused public funds. A legislative audit says taxpayers footed the $27-thousand bill for appliances and TVs at Cain’s home on prison grounds. But he says he also spent his own money on the public home.

Cut 15 (09) “my pocket”

Cain made the comments during an interview with Talk 107.3 in Baton Rouge.

New Orleans officials proposed a plan to reduce crime on Bourbon Street, including requiring bars to close their doors at 3 a.m. but crime analyst Jeff Asher says last year only 20-percent of shootings in that area occurred between 3 and 7 a.m.

Cut 7 (11) “of crime”

Asher says improving police response time would be a better way to reduce crime.

The state Fire Marshal’s Office says a Covington man is dead after he set his house on fire during a dispute with his father. Deputy Chief Brant Thompson says Brandon Kellum’s father, Jamie Kellum, has burns to 85% of his body.

Cut 11 (10) “his body”

Thompson says alcohol is believed to be a factor.