House Education approves legislation outlawing the use of corporal punishment in Louisiana public schools. Baton Rouge Representative Barbara Freiberg, a retired educator, says children mirror the behavior they see in adults, and utilizing corporal punishment teaches kids to solve problems using violence.

Cut 7 (07)  “..conflict.”
Twenty-nine school districts allow corporal punishment and parents are allowed to opt-out. BESE supports the legislation.

A bill requiring mandatory reporting on college campuses of power-based abuse passes unanimously in the house. New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman says she worked with the Board of Regents at all public universities and STAR, Sexual Trauma Awareness Response Group…

Cut 15 (06)“….the table.”

Power-based abuse includes sexual assault and harassment, dating and domestic violence. The Bill now heads to the Senate.

The invasive species, known as apple snails, because they grow to that size is causing issues for some crawfish farmers. LSU Ag Center Entomologist Blake Wilson says the apple snail and their egg have besieged some crawfish farms in six parishes.

Cut 5 (08)“…all together.”

Wilson says the egg masses resemble bubble gum.

The Softball State Championships in Sulphur begin today and fans will be happy to know there won’t be any capacity restrictions due to newly relaxed COVID public health orders. Visit Lake Charles Sales Director Eric Zartler says last year the teams didn’t even get to finish their season, let alone have a tournament, so this means a lot to the players and community…

Cut 10 (12) “…Louisiana.”

Outbreaks of apple snails are affecting the crawfish harvest in some areas of the state. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A House committee advances legislation prohibiting corporal punishment from being administered in Louisiana public schools. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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The State Softball Tournament begins today and for the first time in over a year players will be treated to full stands with no capacity restrictions. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

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An invasive species is wreaking havoc for some Louisiana crawfish farmers. LSU Ag Center Entomologist Blake Wilson says apple snail egg masses are being reported in as many as six parishes.

Cut 4 (10)“…dead snails.”

Wilson says apple snails got their name because they can grow to be the size of an apple and their eggs are bright pink and resemble bubble gum and in the egg stage, they emit toxins and can irritate your skin.

While the species isn’t extremely widespread across the state, Wilson says crawfish farmers that have been besieged with them are suffering.

Cut 5 (08)“…all together.”

Apple snails were introduced to the Louisiana ecosystem back in 2016 when they were sold in pet stores for aquariums. Wilson says they believe once the snails reached full size some owners were possibly overwhelmed.

Cut 6 (11) “…gulf coast states.”

Wilson advises if you have an infestation, do not move boats or equipment to another body of water because the species will continue to spread.

Wilson says the snails have been reported in Cameron, Calcasieu, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, St. James, and Vermillion Parishes.

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House Education approves legislation outlawing the use of corporal punishment in Louisiana public schools.

Baton Rouge Representative Barbara Freiberg, a retired educator, says children mirror the behavior they see in adults, and utilizing corporal punishment teaches kids to solve problems using violence.

Cut 7 (07)  “..conflict.”

Board of Elementary and Secondary Education spokesperson Ethan Melancon says the board is strongly in favor of adopting this law.

36-year veteran teacher Tammy Wood spoke in support of the bill. She says if a student is acting out schools should work to find out why instead of just beating them.

Cut 8 (11) “…psychologists.”

Louisiana Association of School Superintendents head Michael Faulk says this decision should be left up to districts and notes the 29 that still allow it have to follow certain corporal punishment guidelines.

Cut 9 (12) “…thickness.”

In the 29 districts that allow corporal punishment parents are allowed to opt-out of it and chose other punishments instead.

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The Softball State Championships in Sulphur begin today and fans will be happy to know there won’t be any capacity restrictions due to newly relaxed COVID public health orders.

Visit Lake Charles Sales Director Eric Zartler says last year the teams didn’t even get to finish their season, let alone have a tournament, so this means a lot to the players and community…

Cut 10 (12) “…Louisiana.”

The removal of capacity restrictions will also be in effect for the State Baseball Tournament in mid-May.

Zartler says weather permitting they’re hoping for over 18,000 people to attend the 48 team tournament between today’s start of the semi-finals and Saturday’s championship finals.

Cut 11 (08) “..state.”

Zartler says the elimination of restrictions on outdoor gatherings means these students will get to play to packed stands for the first time this season.

Cut 12 (07) “…crowd.”

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A bill requiring mandatory reporting on college campuses of power-based abuse passes unanimously in the house. New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman says her bill is a result of the unreported cases of sexual assault and harassment at LSU that came to light in November.

Cut 13 (07) “…abuse.”

Power-based abuse includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating violence, and domestic violence

The bill also requires termination of an employee if they fail to report the conduct to the Title IX coordinator.

Freeman introduced an amendment to the bill to clarify how a mandatory reporter must learn of the power-based abuse.

Cut 14 (08) “….another manner.”

Freeman says she worked with the Board of Regents at all public universities and STAR, Sexual Trauma Awareness Response Group…

Cut 15 (06)“….the table.”

The Bill which is part of the Governor’s legislative agenda now heads to the Senate.

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The NFL draft begins tonight and wide receiver Jamarr Chase seems to be a lock to go in the top ten, with some projections having Cincinnati picking him with the fifth pick.  Many LSU fans would love to see Chase re-unite with Joe Burrow, draft analyst Mike Detillier says that may not be the best option.

Cut 16 (17) “…with Tua.”

Another Tiger receiver in the draft is Terrace Marshall Jr.  Marshall battled injuries during his time in Baton Rouge but was a big-time playmaker when healthy.  Detillier thinks Marshall could hear his name called on the first day.

Cut 17 (12) “…Ravens”

While Chase and Marshall have the talent to make immediate impacts in the league, Detillier says the most intriguing LSU player in the draft might be Safety Jacoby Stevens.

Cut  18 (13)”..at LSU.” 

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The Saints have eight selections heading into the seven-round NFL draft. They have the 28th overall pick in the first round. There was no NFL draft combine and getting medical information has been a challenge. General Manager Mickey Loomis wishes they had the chance to speak with some of the prospects face to face

Cut 19 (18) “…incomplete picture” 

The Saints have lost several starters from last year’s NFC South champion team. Quarterback Drew Brees retired and several others were released or lost in free agency to get below the salary cap. But Loomis does not see a lot of big holes on his current roster

Cut 20 (20) “…quality is a priority for us.” 

Just a day after the Senate approved Constitutional Carry on a veto-proof majority a House committee advances their own version on an 8-4 vote. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Matt Doyle.” 

And then there were three. The list of presidential candidates for LSU is narrowed down to three finalists, it includes UL system president Jim Henderson. Finalists will visit the university in person next week for interviews and meet with administrators. Notably absent is Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne.

Starting today local governments can choose whether or not they’d like to maintain the mask mandate. Governor Edwards says he lifted the statewide rule because of declining case counts and increasing vaccinations, but even though he’s personally vaccinated he will continue to mask up in public settings.

Cut 5  (05)  “…to do.”

The statewide mask mandate went into effect on July 13, 2020.

Houma Representative Mike Fesi decides not to move forward with his bill to require a juvenile to get written consent from both parents to receive gender therapy. Advocates, health professionals, and transgender individuals like this LSU student testified against it.

Cut 9 (10) “..denied care”

Senate Health and Welfare Chairman Fred Mills says he received 400 calls in opposition to the legislation.

A bill that could have prevented minors from seeking gender therapy has been shelved for the session. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (34) …I’m Jeff Palermo”  

A head-on collision in Assumption Parish claims the lives of two Thibodaux men. State Police say 31-year old Donald 46-year old Tyrone Clark were killed Tuesday. Investigators say the vehicle Jones was driving crossed the center line and struck the vehicle that Clark was a passenger in.

Health officials celebrate the progress that’s been made in addressing racial disparities in vaccination rates in Louisiana. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says Louisiana is above the national average now when it comes to the percentage of vaccinated people who are Black.

Cut 12 (13)   “…population” 

A House committee passed another bill that would allow people in Louisiana 21 and older without a felony to carry a concealed handgun without needing a permit or training. Some proponents say it’s a God-given right to carry, but a member of the public, Mrs. Brown, says there’s nothing in the bible saying so.

Cut 8 (10) “…Christ.”

Governor Edwards says he will reject any legislation that hits his desk removing the permitting requirement for concealed carry.

Houma Senator Mike Fesi decides not to move forward with his bill to require a juvenile to get written consent from both parents to receive gender therapy in Louisiana. Senate Health and Welfare Chairman Fred Mills says he received 400 cards in opposition to the legislation. Melissa Flournoy, with Louisiana Progress Action, spoke against the bill…

Cut 10 (10) “…families” 

A House committee passed another bill that would allow people in Louisiana 21 and older without a felony record to carry a concealed handgun without needing a state permit or training. Moms Demand Action member Nanette Olivier spoke out against the bill. She says polling available suggests there’s no popular support for this…

Cut 7 (09) “…representing”

The committee vote was 8-4 in favor.

It’s the first full day since Governor John Bel Edwards partially lifted the mask mandate.  But as the pandemic continues, he advises residents if you’re unsure of the vaccination status of those around you, socially distance and wear a mask.

Cut 4 (10) “…a mask.” 

Edwards said he altered the mask mandate because case numbers continue to decline and vaccine eligibility has been open to all 16 and older for just under a month. The mandate went into effect July 13^th of 2020.

LSU will open Alex Box Stadium and Tiger Park this weekend for 100-percent capacity for baseball and softball fans. This will be the first time since the pandemic Tiger fans will be allowed to fill the stands and face mask are not required.  And There will be no capacity limits or mask requirements when softball fans attend the Louisiana state softball championships in Sulphur.

It’s the first full day that a statewide mask is partially lifted in Louisiana. Governor John Bel Edwards altered the mask mandate for a number of reasons, among them the continued downward trend in case numbers and fatalities. However, he still advises the use of face masks.

Cut 3 (10)  “…an unvaccinated.” 

A Senate committee approves legislation that would prohibit law enforcement officers from using chokeholds and no-knock warrants at night. Norco Senator Gary Smith says placing strict limits on nighttime no-knock warrants comes after several incidents in other parts of the country ended in tragedy.

Cut 9 (09) “…of the situation.”
The measure heads to the Senate floor for more discussion.

Legislation allowing anyone in Louisiana over 21 who isn’t a convicted felon to carry a concealed handgun without a permit heads to the House after passing the Senate on a veto-proof majority vote. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

A head-on collision in Assumption Parish claims the lives of two Thibodaux men. State Police say their preliminary investigation indicates 31-year old Donald Jones was traveling north on state highway one Tuesday afternoon, crossed the center line then struck the vehicle in which 46-year old Tyrone Clark was a passenger. Jones was transported to a local hospital where he later died, and Clark was pronounced dead on the scene.

Governor John Bel Edwards has lifted most of the statewide mask mandate. Masks are still required for state buildings, K-12 schools and universities, public transportation, and all licensed healthcare facilities.
Cut 12 (10) “…nursing homes.”
Businesses can keep mask mandates in place and so can local governments, but most are lifting them.

The Coast Guard’s Unified Command for the SEACOR Power response begins efforts to remove the vessel that capsized earlier this month near Port Fourchon. The 234-foot lift boat was carrying potentially up to 35-thousand gallons of oil products. Coast Guard Public Information Officer Nicole Groll…

Cut 16 (09) “…pollutants.”

So far there are no reported impacts to wildlife from the incident.

A bill containing police reforms resulting from a legislative task force formed last summer is headed to the Senate floor. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

And then there were three. The list of presidential candidates for LSU is narrowed down to three finalists, it includes UL system president Jim Henderson. Finalists will visit the university in person next week for interviews and meet with administrators. Notably absent is Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne.

Legislation allowing anyone in Louisiana over 21 who isn’t a convicted felon to carry a concealed handgun without a permit heads to the House after passing the Senate on a veto-proof majority vote. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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A bill containing police reforms resulting from a legislative task force formed last summer is headed to the Senate floor. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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Governor John Bel Edwards eases health restrictions, Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Senate approves legislation doing away with the need to obtain a permit to conceal carry in Louisiana on a veto-proof 27 to 11 vote.

Bill author and West Monroe Senator Jay Morris says passage would make Louisiana the 21^st state to adopt a so-called “Constitutional Carry” law.

Cut 4 (10)“…permission.”

To conceal carry in Louisiana, you would still need to be over 21 and not be a convicted felon.

Houma Senator Mike Fesi voted in favor. He cited a recent mass shooting in Houma that he says could have been mitigated by the widespread adoption of concealed carry.

Cut 5 (09)“…it was.”

The legislation was also amended to make it so that any persons visiting Louisiana would be allowed to concealed carry without obtaining a permit.

Lafayette Senator Gerald Boudreaux opposed the bill. He says America has a gun problem right now and this would just make matters worse.

Cut 6 (06) “…west.”

The legislation is opposed by the Louisiana Association of Chiefs of Police.

New Orleans Senator Karen Carter Peterson’s proposed amendment to rename the bill the Thoughts and Prayers Act was rejected. She says this will further increase gun violence.

Cut 7 (11)  “…your heart.”

The bill heads to the House.

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Legislation instituting a series of policing policy reforms clears a Senate committee and is headed to the Senate floor.

One of the reforms would largely prohibit the execution of no-knock warrants at nighttime. State Police Lt. Robert Burns says LSP backs the change, noting it’s already being phased out of use…

Cut 8 (11) “…occupants of the property.”

The bill by Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields also mandates a strict policy be established on body and dash camera usage, mandates duty to intervene training, and restricts the authority to utilize chokeholds,

Norco Senator Gary Smith says placing strict limits on nighttime no-knock warrants comes after several incidents in other parts of the country ended in tragedy.

Cut 9 (09) “…of the situation.”

Nighttime no-knock warrants would still be permitted in some situations, but only with additional and specific judicial approval.

The legislation received unanimous approval in a Senate Judiciary Committee, but Shreveport Senator Greg Tarver told Fields that he’s not comfortable with the proposed limits on night-time no-knocks…

Cut 10 (09) “…you know.”

The bill is the result of a legislative task force comprised of lawmakers, community leaders, and law enforcement officials from multiple agencies that was formed last summer in the wake of nationwide anti-police brutality demonstrations.

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Governor John Bel Edwards announces a partial lift of the statewide mask mandate effective today. With vaccine eligibility open to all residents 16 and older for more than a month in Louisiana and a continued downward trend of case numbers and deaths from COVID, he says now is the time to ease restrictions.

Cut 11 (08) “…regarding masks.”

The mask mandate remains in effect for state buildings, K-12 schools and universities, public transportation, and all licensed healthcare facilities.

Cut 12 (10) “…nursing homes.”

The new proclamation also eases some restrictions on live music, allows some businesses like salons to reopen their waiting rooms, and removes outdoor limitations on crowds. Edwards says as for indoor venues…

Cut 13 (13) “…with masks.”

For all indoor sporting events capacity remains at 75-percent with social distancing or venues can choose a 100-percent capacity with a mask mandate.

The statewide mask mandate has been in effect since July 13^th of 2020.

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The Coast Guard’s Unified Command for the SEACOR Power response begins efforts to remove the vessel that capsized earlier this month near Port Fourchon. The 234-foot vessel was carrying 19 passengers and potentially up to 35-thousand gallons of oil products. Coast Guard Public Information Officer Nicole Groll says safety is a priority.

Cut 14 (11) “….safely off.”

The Unified Command is comprised of representatives from the Coast Guard and SEACOR Marine. The vessel that capsized on April 13th, six passengers survived and five remain lost at sea. Groll says they are monitoring the weather and making sure all safety parameters are being followed.

Cut 15 (05)“….impact”

As for removal of the vessel, Groll says they are developing the best strategy.

Cut 16 (09) “…pollutants.”

So far there are no reported impacts to wildlife from the incident.

Governor Edwards partially lifts the statewide mask mandate. Masks will still be required in government offices, schools, health centers and public transportation. Local governments can set their own mandate.

The House Criminal Justice Committee approves legislation to give voters the opportunity to decide if recreational marijuana use should be legal in Louisiana on the 2022 November ballot. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson’s proposal passed on a seven to five vote.

Cut 12 (14)   “…drug dealers” 

Louisiana Sheriff Association Executive Director Michael Ranatza says legal use will increase other problems. He referred to a study in Colorado that says marijuana is most likely to be present in adolescents who commit suicide…

Cut 14 (08) “..of yours” 

2020 Census data shows the Bayou State’s population at 4.6 million, a 2-percent growth from the 2010 tally but well below the national average growth of 7-percent. Demographer Greg Rigamer says among several business surveys there are reasons why the state consistently ranks low in attracting and retaining residents.

Cut 4 (12) “…and income.” 

New Orleans Police are looking for a street performer that wears a Star Wars Chewbacca costume. That person allegedly stabbed another person after a verbal altercation with the victim Saturday night in the French Quarter. New Orleans paramedic Holly Sherman from A&E’s “Nightwatch” told Talk 107-3 in Baton Rouge, she responds to bizarre calls frequently in the Crescent City.

Cut 8 (07) “…crazy calls..”

A witness says the suspect’s costume head fell off during the altercation revealing a black male in his 20’s.

For the first time ever Louisiana’s House Criminal Justice Committee approves legislation that would give Louisiana voters the opportunity in 2022 to decide if recreational marijuana use should be legal. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson’s proposal passed on a seven to five vote. He says it’s an activity that can be taxed, generating as much as 200-million dollars in state revenues and some of that money can go towards beefing up law enforcement…

Cut 13 (08)“….significant”

Louisiana Sheriff Association Executive Director Michael Ranatza says taxing the legal use of marijuana is not worth it, because it will bring on a host of other problems. He pointed to a study out of Colorado that shows marijuana was mostly likely to be present in adolescents who commit suicide…

Cut 14 (08) “..of yours” 

The Louisiana House will have its first debate on a bill that seeks to legalize recreational marijuana use.

The Bayou State’s population sits a 4.6 million according to the 2020 Census, a 2-percent growth from 2010, but well below the national average growth of 7-percent.  After the 2010 Census, Louisiana lost a congressional seat but as for the 2030 outlook Demographer, Greg Rigamer says it’s not promising.

Cut 5  (09)  “…live here.”

Rigamer says the state’s high poverty and unemployment rates are hindering the state’s ability to attract and retain residents.

A Senate committee unanimously approves a bill requiring the National Anthem be played before all sporting events at publicly funded facilities in Louisiana. Bill author Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt says it’s in honor of veterans and she hopes it will teach the youth about patriotism.

Cut 10 (11) “…to that”