2:30 PM Newscast

Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says he’s disappointed in the Governor’s decision to extend the stay at home order to May 15th.  Waguespack says the longer Louisiana brick and mortar stores stay closed, the more comfortable Louisianans will get ordering online from out of state vendors.
Cut 5 (08)  “…Louisiana.”
LABI is asking the state to use the extra time to develop a comprehensive plan to allow all businesses to open by May 15th at the latest.
The Associated General Contractors of America says New Orleans saw construction jobs dip by 2,800 over the year, a 10 percent drop.  Spokesperson Brian Turmail says metros across south Louisiana are seeing the worst of the state’s over-the-year downward trends.
Cut 7 (11) “…in Baton Rouge.”
Shreveport saw 100 construction jobs lost, down 1 percent.

 

A survey from Lending Tree indicates that 91 percent of coronavirus-impacted homeowners, who have asked for assistance or forbearance on their monthly bill, are successful.  While a majority of those who ask for help are granted assistance, Lending Tree Chief Credit Analyst Matt Schulz says many are unaware, almost one in five, that the option is even available with their mortgage.

Cut 11 (09) “…need to.”

Schulz says if you need assistance you have to make the effort to reach out to your mortgage company.

Governor Edwards extends the stay at home order until May 15th citing concerning COVID-19 case growth in areas outside of the New Orleans epicenter like Monroe.  Ouachita Parish reports 651 total cases and 16 COVID deaths, and Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo supports the stay at home extension, adding he’s also not seeing nearly enough people wear masks in public.

Cut 14 (11) “…with”