Governor John Bel Edwards says Louisiana will remain in Phase 2 of the state’s reopening of the economy because of a spike in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations. Edwards says they anticipated an increase in cases with more testing and more businesses opening up, but there’s a percentage of the public who are not doing their part as well…
cut 7 (10) “….today”
Edwards says the state will continue to stay in Phase 2 until at least July 24.

State Treasurer John Schroder tells lawmakers he’s looking to distribute grants of up to 15-thousand dollars to small businesses by December. The money is coming from federal coronavirus relief aid and Schroder says there are an estimated 450-thousand small businesses who could be eligible…
cut 4 (06) “….happens”
This small business grant program is the result of legislation approved in the regular session.

A cloud of Saharan dust is crossing the Atlantic and is set to arrive in Louisiana by Wednesday bringing with it more COVID-19 concerns. The dust consists of tiny mineral rock particles from Africa. While it can produce vivid sunsets, the head of environmental sciences at LSU Health New Orleans, Dr. James Diaz, says it poses a risk to those with underlying health conditions.
Cut 10 (10) “…of getting COVID-19.”
Those with asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, and heart conditions should be most cautious.

State Police say five people were killed and six injured in a three-vehicle crash on Highway 29 in Avoyelles Parish yesterday.  Investigators say the incident began when a 21-year-old driver crossed the center line and hit another vehicle head-on. A Toyota Corolla then slammed into one of the vehicles. The ages of the fatal crash victims range from 20-years-old to 60-years-old.