3:30 LRN Newscast April 22

Legislative committees approve a plan to allow expanded use of mail-in ballots for the July and August elections. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

According to the department of health the state has recorded 25,258 positive cases of COVID-19. Up 404 And is now reporting 1,473 fatalities up 68. Of the fatalities reported 32-percent are from nursing homes and assisted living facilities in the state.

The Resilient Louisiana Commission meetings today coming up with recommendations on how the state can jump-start its shuttered economy. Governor Edwards says some businesses could re-open on May 1st, if the state sees a downward trajectory in COVID-19 cases, reported flu-like symptoms and hospitalizations. But the governor says life will not return to pre-COVID right away

Cut 13 (12) “…economy too.”

Edwards says he plans to announce early next week what restrictions will be in place starting on May 1st.

A UL Lafayette student’s face mask sewing operation receives the national spotlight from CBS.  Sewing with Savoie founder Christine Savoie says requests for masks have picked up with the CDC recommendations.

Cut 3 (12)  “…to feel protected.”