Today is August 1st, and a total of 551 laws are going into affect today, including one written by New Orleans Senator J.P. Morrell that grants an immediate divorce in domestic violence situations. The old law said that married victims of abuse had to wait 6 months to a year to get a divorce. Now, he says, if someone has reasonable proof, and can show it in court, they will be able to get the divorce right away…;
cut 10 :13 sec. Q: “at that time”
Also beginning today, abusers – who are under a protective order – are prohibited from possessing a firearm.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals is confirming six new West Nile virus cases this week, bringing the total number of cases to 15 so far. Last year Louisiana had 34 cases reported.
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On the same day that smoking is banned from college campuses, drivers who throw cigarette butts out car windows face hefty fines. Michelle Southern reports…:
cut V2 :35 sec. Q: “reporting”

Researchers continue to predict a below average 2014 Atlantic Hurricane season. Colorado State University Report Author Dr. William Gray says they are now calling for a total of 10 named storms with four becoming hurricanes and one to reach major hurricane strength. He says the storm deterring El Nino is still expected to arrive…:
cut 15 :11 sec. Q: “Atlantic Basin”
Right now, Tropical Storm Bertha is moving into the Carribean, but current forecasts say that the storm should not affect the US, at least for right now.