Three sales tax bills got out of a House committee today and now head to the House floor for more discussion. The bill that receive the greatest support is a measure by Baton Rouge Representative Paula Davis, which would renew an expiring one-cent sales tax by four-tenths. Members of the legislative black caucus didn’t vote for it, because they want a sales tax bill that renews half of the expiring one cent sales tax. Davis is optimistic her legislation can get 70 votes for House approval….
cut 14 (07) “….right bill”
The full House is expected to vote on the revenue raising bills tomorrow. The special session ends a week from today.

Governor John Bel Edwards announced today he’s not removing a three-member Louisiana National Guard team from the Mexico border that’s assisting with border patrol. He says they will remain there until mid-July. The governor says they are not involved in the separating of families who enter the country illegally.

A 59 year old man walked out of prison as a free man for the first time in his adult life after serving over 40 years for a murder in Monroe. Gerald Manning was exonerated of his conviction in the 1977 death of Vonda Harris. His attorney, Kristin Wenstrom, says years of DNA testing contributed to ensuring that Manning could once again have his freedom….
cut 7 (10) “…by the perpetrator”
Manning plans to live with his mother in Monroe. A freedom fund and an Amazon wishlist have been set up for those that would like to help in his transition to the outside world.

A State Police trooper has been arrested on allegations that he raped a 16-year-old girl in New Orleans. Thirty-six-year-old Lander Journee was booked on third-degree rape and posted a 25-thousand dollar bond. He’s been placed on administrative leave.