The saints have reportedly inked quarterback drew brees to a two year deal to keep the future hall of famer in new orleans. Brees is able to negotiate with other teams and the vikings had shown some interest. However reports indicate that the brees deal is done at least for another two years.

There are several bills filed for this legislative session that will seek to make major changes to the state’s gaming industry. Executive Director of the Louisiana Casino Association Wade Duty says the state legalized riverboat gambling in 1991 and now those casinos are looking to become more attractive to players.

Duty realizes that there will be opponents against the modernization of the gambling industry, but stresses the bills before the legislature will not expand gaming as they are not seeking additional riverboat gaming licenses. He says these changes are designed to help casino operators and benefit the state with more tax revenue…

Cut 6 (13) “the state.”

In Baton Rouge today the House Appropriations Committee will begin the long process of attempting to hammer out a budget before the end of the regular session. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne doubts the legislature can pass a spending plan facing a billion dollar revenue shortfall.

Dardenne says because of a lack of revenues, deep cuts will be needed in the areas of health care, higher education, and TOPS.

But Appropriations Chairman Rep. Cameron Henry disagrees, saying the budget gap only amounts to a fraction of the total budget. Cameron believes the legislature will find the cuts necessary to avoid having to enter a special session.

The Republican from Metairie says before assuming the state needs more revenue, legislators should look at making cuts to the Department of Health’s budget.

Cut 10 (09) “billion dollars.”

The regular session is scheduled to end June 4^th.