A report is out from Loyola, the ACLU, and Solitary Watch, showing Louisiana has a four times higher rate of the use of solitary confinement for prisoners than the national average. Loyola researcher Dr. Sue Weishar says over 500 prisoners in their survey reported solitary stays of more than a year, which she describes as torture.
Cut 3 (11) “…hopelessness”
The Department of Corrections responded, saying the use of solitary has declined in recent years following reforms.
Rep. Phillip DeVillier says he was caught off guard by the veto to his bill that would have allowed golf carts to cross LA 35 and other state highways within the town limits of Church Point, especially with Edwards’ voting in favor of similar bills in other communities during his time as a lawmaker.
The Louisiana Health Department announces they’ve reached a “subscription model” deal with Asegua Therapeutics that will result in the state treating an estimated 31-thousand people who have hepatitis C, which is an infectious liver disease. Curing a person of Hepatitis C costs an estimated 24-thousand dollars per treatment, but Gee says under this deal, Louisiana will receive an unlimited supply of Hep C medication for five years at a cost of 58-million dollars a year
Cut 10 (08) “…this illness.”
Newly minted Pelican Zion Williamson arrived in town to a housewarming gift of a framed, signed jersey from Saints QB Drew Brees, a note welcoming him to the city, and a challenge for him to become the new favored son of New Orleans sports. The 6’7 280-pound power forward was visibly shocked and grinning ear to ear as he took in the moment, and celebrated the gift.
Cut 14 (11) “…sheesh”
The Pelicans posted video of the moment on their twitter feed.