On the same day that smoking is banned from public colleges and universities, motorists could face a much stiffer penalty if they throw a cigarette butt from a car window. The new law increases fines for the intentional disposal of a cigarette from a motor vehicle. First offense fines are increased from $250 to $300, plus community service. Marrerro Representative Patrick Connick says the key to the success of this law is enforcement…

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Under the new law, third and subsequent offense fines jump to $1,500 plus 80 hours of community service and suspension of your driver’s license for one year.

The Slidell Police Department has arrested three suspects allegedly involved in a shooting at a Slidell party on July 20 that has left a 26-year-old man fighting for his life. 21-year-old Tyrone Ward, 24-year-old Michael Harris, and 17-year-old Ashley Brandon, all of Slidell, were arrested on charges stemming from the shooting. Jamar Wilson remains hospitalized in guarded condition.

Another law that goes into effect today would grant an immediate divorce in domestic violence situations. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says now if someone has reasonable proof that they’ve been abused and can show that in court, they will be able to divorce the abuser right away. He says Louisiana is one of the leaders in the nation when it comes to domestic violence situations that end in death so one of the major goals of the 2014 session was to pass sweeping anti-domestic violence legislation…

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Morrell says also beginning today, abusers under a protective order are prohibited from possessing a firearm and those convicted of domestic abuse are banned from possessing a firearm for 10 years.

The 11th Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off is being held Saturday morning in New Orleans where 19 chefs from throughout the US will compete for the high honor of best seafood chef in the nation. Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says this is a great opportunity to put the spotlight on Louisiana and Gulf seafood…

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Dardenne says the competition takes place at the Morial Convention Center beginning at 11:30 and the public is invited to come out and taste some amazing seafood.