A vote is expected today in the House to raise the state’s gasoline tax to fund more highway construction projects. State Representative Steve Carter originally called for a 17 cent a gallon hike, but plans to push for a 10 cent increase. State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says lowering the proposed tax means fewer mega-projects will be completed.
Cut 7 (10) “spend it”
A senate committee is scheduled to debate whether voters should have a say before military monuments, including confederate statues, are removed. Critics say the state shouldn’t get involved in decisions made by local elected officials, but Shreveport Representative Thomas Carmody says…
Cut 6 (12) “….this decision”
Drug felons would be eligible for food stamps for the first time in decades under a House-approved measure by New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno. In the 1990s offenders with drug related charges were barred from the assistance program, while all other felons remained eligible. Moreno says all but six states have lifted these restrictions because they don’t make sense anymore.

Cut 3 (09) “for success”

The measure passed on a 77-17 vote.

A study involving 11-hundred Australian high school students found increased phone use at night can lead to depressed mood and low self-esteem. LSU Health Sciences Center clinical psychologist Michelle Moore says that’s because teens may only be getting half as much sleep as they need. She encourages parents to set an example for their kids and put their phones away at bedtime too.
Cut 12 (07) “bedroom areas”