The Senate approved a bill that would renew the state’s contract with Harrah’s New Orleans for at least 20 more years, contribute an additional 20 million dollars a year to the state’s coffers, and they would provide an upfront payment of 40-million dollars, which would be divided between the state and the city. Harrah’s would also agree to build a 350-million dollar hotel, with new restaurants and entertainment space. New Orleans Senator Karen Carter Peterson says if Harrah’s agrees, it’d be a huge investment in the state.
Cut 13 (10) “twenty years”
The measure heads back to the House to see if they agree to Senate changes with the legislation.

During his monthly call-in show, Governor Edwards says he’s waiting for the final language in the Harrah’s bill, before determining whether he’ll sign it….
cut 5 (09) “…the House”

A bill that would have allowed teachers to join students in prayer during school hours was significantly changed by the House because of concerns were raised that it violated religious civil rights. The bill would have allowed the joint prayer to occur if all students present had a signed consent form from their parents. Shreveport Representative Alan Seabaugh says the old bill would have targeted religious minorities.
Cut 10 (11) “consent form”
The amendments were rejected by the bill’s author, Bossier City Senator Ryan Gatti this moring, and a committee will try to iron out the differences.

Kenner Representative Julie Stokes announces she will run for Secretary of State this fall, becoming the first announced candidate to be the state’s election chief. Stokes if elected, she’ll encourage voter participation and protect Louisiana elections….
cut 8 (10) “….possible”
The general election is in November.