The regular session ends Thursday at 6 p.m. and lawmakers are optimistic a special session will not be needed. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says it remains to be seen if a budget deal can be reached between the House and Senate…:
Cut 6 (10) “in the past”
It would be the fourth special session since Governor John Bel Edwards took office.

Three criminal justice reform senate bills will be heard in the House today. One of the biggest problems certain lawmakers have had with the legislation is that it would give parole eligibility for second degree murderers sentenced in the 1970s. But Natalie Laborde with the Department of Corrections says the legislature removed parole eligibility for these offenders in the 1980s…:
Cut 12 (07) “the offenders”
The measures would also reduce sentences for some first-time offenders.

State lawmakers have approved the 2017 Coastal Master Plan and implementation can now begin. Emelie Gunn has more…:
Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

Two bills requiring traffic stop etiquette to be taught in driver’s education courses are waiting for the governor’s signature. Student drivers would learn what to do if they get pulled over. Bossier City Representative Ryan Gatti says this will not increase the cost of the driving course…:
Cut 14 (09) “their instructor”