Legislation that would require Louisiana operating rooms to adopt policies to have equipment to remove harmful surgical smoke plumes advanced from Senate Health and Welfare. Lafayette Senator Gerald Boudreaux, the author of the bill, says surgical smoke in operating rooms can be a hazard but he has met with medical associations regarding the bill.

Cut 5 (08) “…address those.”

Student researchers of UL Lafayette’s CAPE team will design and build a solar-powered satellite that will be used by NASA to gauge radiation levels for astronauts. Electrical and Computer Engineering Instructor, Dr. Jared Tessier (Tess-see-yay) says although the students have participated in this initiative three times previously – this is a new experiment.

Cut 7 (09)  “…in space.” 

The satellite is expected to go into space between 2024 and 2027.

A measure mandating statewide screening for dyslexia for kindergarteners is headed to the House floor. Gretna Representative Joe Marino the bill author says it’s time to change the educational narrative for students in Louisiana.

Cut 9 (08) “….the school.”

Marino says screening would begin with students in the second semester and tests are only $1.50 per student.

Authorities seized a little over 108 pounds of powder cocaine during a traffic stop on LA Highway 28 East of Pineville. Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tommy Carnline says deputies assigned to the RADE Unit Highway Interdiction Team conducted a traffic stop on a semi-tractor trailer truck for improper lane usage.

Cut 12 (07) “…criminal activity” 

56-year-old Jose Calderon of Edinburg, Texas was charged with several offenses including possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

A bill to terminate the parental rights of the perpetrator if the child was conceived by sexual assault advances to the House.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Science provides South Louisiana lawmen with a big break in a 33-year-old missing person’s cold case. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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One of Louisiana’s most renowned high school football teams in the nation – Edna Karr – has made it to the small screen as part of a Hulu docuseries – Algiers, America: The Relentless Pursuit. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Legislation to terminate the parental rights of the violator if a child is conceived as a result of sexual assault is before the legislature. Sexual Trauma Awareness and Response (STAR) President Morgan Lamandre recounted a case in which a judge believed it was in the best interest of the child to have two parents, despite how they were conceived.

Cut 4 (10)  “…be allowed.”

House Bill 298 would also deny the perpetrator visitation rights and any other contact with the child.

And if a mother wants to place her child for adoption, Lamandre says this bill would also terminate the perpetrator’s rights to intervene in the adoption process.

Cut 5 (12) “…their rapist.”

Solicitor General Liz Murrell says she assisted in writing the legislation to better clarify parental rights and to protect women who’ve chosen to either keep or place the child for adoption that was conceived from a violent act.

Cut 6 (08)  “…their child.”

The bill advanced from House Civil Law and Procedure without any opposition and is headed to the House floor.

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Law enforcement in southeast Louisiana report a big break in a 33-year-old missing person’s cold case. With help from the LSU FACES lab and DNA technology authorities have identified human remains – found near Slidell by a hunter back in 1989 – as a Lafourche Parish woman, Paula Boudreaux, who vanished in 1986. Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre says what was a missing persons case is now much more…:

Cut 7 (07) “…homicide was involved.”

Boudreaux was 22 years old when she disappeared from Golden Meadow in August of ’86. Fast forward three decades, when new and better facial reconstruction technology yielded an image of the victim that resembled photos of Boudreaux. Family members provided DNA base samples that told investigators the remains were Boudreaux’s. Webre says they will try their best to solve her apparent murder…:

Cut 8 (13) “…have been responsible.”

Because Boudreaux’s remains were found in a wooded area 100 miles from where she disappeared, law enforcement thinks foul play is very likely. In the years since she vanished, her son has grown to adulthood and both her parents have passed away. Sheriff Webre says this break in the 33-year-old case at least gives Boudreaux’s remaining family some closure…:

Cut 9 (06)  “…a proper burial.”

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During his monthly statewide radio show, Governor John bel Edwards addressed the sudden recent resignation of Wildlife & Fisheries Secretary Jack Montoucet (MON-too-say). The head of LDWF quit after he was implicated in a kickback scandal. Edwards appointed Montoucet to the post when he took office in 2016. He says he’s known Montoucet for years, and he hasn’t been charged with any crime…:

Cut 10 (10) “…praying for him.” 

The governor was also asked about proposed legislation to greatly increase legislators’ pay. He says he’s not against that, but there are other more pressing income matters to address…:

Cut 11 (11)  “…gender pay gap.”

Edwards has asked for a bill to end gender pay disparity and to increase the minimum wage ever since first taking office.

Governor Edwards was also asked about his plans for after he leaves office next year. Though he has, in the past, said he hopes to retire from “public life”, his answer Wednesday indicates he may be tempted to run if he feels he’s needed…:

Cut 12 (09)    “… the direction of the state.” 

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A new HULU series – Andscape’s Algiers, America: The Relentless Pursuit – chronicles Coach Brice Brown and the Edna Karr High Cougars football team’s journey to achieve greatness began streaming yesterday. Edna Karr Special Teams Coordinator Norman Randall says the series will show Head Football Coach Brice Brown, the staff, and players navigate football and life in New Orleans

Cut 13 (12) “…drug abuse.” 

Edna Karr – a predominantly Black high school in Algiers – football team is one of the nation’s best-producing top athletes and earning four state championships in the last five years. Randall says the series will show triumphs and tragedies and how the kids manage life.

Cut 14 (12)  “…behind the scenes.”

Randall believes Director Jackson Fager and Executive Producer Raina Kelley were able to guide the documentary in a way that will inspire and display real-life depictions of a community fighting to save the youth.

Cut 15 (09)  “…LSU flourishing.”

The five-part series won the 2022 New Orleans Film Festival’s Audience Award.

Legislation to require fathers to pay for half of the out-of-pocket pregnancy-related medical expenses advances to the House floor. Bill author, Abita Springs Representative Larry Frieman says it’s crucial to have such a law with the state’s abortion ban in place.

Cut 3 (11) “…right direction.”

The bill had no opposition in House Civil Law and will be heard on the House floor.

Attorney General Jeff Landry launched the first 30-second television ad of his gubernatorial campaign today addressing one of the state’s top issues – crime. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says Landry’s message is spot on for voters.

Cut 9 (12) “….will do it.”

The multi-market campaign ad will begin in Baton Rouge but expects to spread across the state in the upcoming months.

A measure requiring all schools to have automated external defibrillators –a portable, life-saving device designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest- was approved by a Senate Education Committee. Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields says his legislation also requires every school to have a plan in case a student collapses as a result of a heart issue…

Cut 12 (11) “…response plan” 

Fields’ legislation is called the Jump Start Your Heart Act and also requires schools to have defibrillators present at all sporting events.

Pineville’s Camp Beauregard will be renamed as the Louisiana National Guard Training Center at an official ceremony set for the fall. Lt. Col Noel Collins says they accepted more than 200 name submissions last year from the public and the list was narrowed down.

Cut 7 (08)  “…redesignation.” 

The name choice indicates the installation’s location in Rapides Parish.

Covington Senator Patrick McMath’s bill that restricts the use of social media for minors 16 and younger without parental consent advances from a Senate committee. Former employees of Facebook and Twitter employees have testified about the dangers social media has on minors. Monroe Senator Jay Morris says social media creators have made use of their platforms extremely addictive.

Cut 5 (09) “…start somewhere.”

Larry Murray with Tech Net spoke against the bill and says making these types of changes are not easy, but he is willing to work with lawmakers about the process.

Cut 7 (10) “…a simple bill.”

Senate Bill 162 with amendments passed in committee without opposition and advanced to the Senate floor.

The Belle of Baton Rouge expansion has increased from $35 million to $100 million as the parent company gets approval from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board to move the riverboat casino on land.  Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says this is a great win for downtown Baton Rouge

Cut 12 (12)    the casino.” 

The new property is expected to be operational next year.

Deridder native Tim Temple will take another swing for the Louisiana Insurance Commissioner seat and has reported $2 million in his campaign finance report. Temple believes the state needs to deregulate and bring new companies to create a more competitive industry to lower premiums.

Cut  16 (13)  “…lower rates.” 

Temple is currently the only candidate in the race for Louisiana Insurance Commissioner.

A.G. Jeff Landry and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser are currently leading in their prospective bids in this fall election according to a recent poll. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

UL Lafayette Ragin Cajuns launched a pair of two-run homers to upset No. 1 LSU 8-5 in Alex Box Stadium, Skip Bertman Field last night. David Christie pitched a career-high six innings and limited LSU to one run on three hits and walked four and struck out one. The Cajuns who are 26 and 12 benefited from two LSU errors and two misplayed fly balls by the Tiger’s outfield. Also, Louisiana Tech beat 24th-ranked Southern Miss three to one.

Construction for the Belle of Baton Rouge originally estimated at $35 million is now near $100 million as renovation plans are scheduled to begin. Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says the parent company – The Queen Casino & Entertainment – initially planned to open a limited number of hotel rooms and space.

Cut 11 (11)  “…base casino.”

Plans also include moving the 17,000-square-foot gambling floor into the casino atrium.

Insurance Executive Tim Temple is the only candidate running for Insurance Commissioner and has reported $2 million in his campaign finance report. Temple says he’s ready to serve the people of Louisiana and is optimistic about the outcome.

Cut 14 (09)  “…change hands.”

Temple threw his hat in the race after current Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announced would not seek re-election.

Attorney General Jeff Landry’s campaign finance reports pushes him to the front of the governor’s race with  $6.3 million. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Schroder is in a close second with $2.4 million, however…

Cut 4 (12)  “…tough money.” 

Landry’s finances and endorsements make him the frontrunner in the race.

A resolution to create a Task Force to review protocols and safety for officers involved in high-speed police pursuits was approved today by Senate Committee. Port Allen Senator Caleb Kleinpeter says many law enforcement officers agree guidelines are needed to set policies for chases.

Cut 6 (08)  “…of hand.” 

Members of the Dunn and Gill family attended the meeting. The measure now goes to the Senate Floor for approval.

The statewide clean-up initiative – Keep Louisiana Beautiful – is off to a trashy start as residents connect to beautify and show love for the boot this week. Keep Louisiana Beautiful spokesperson Melissa Kenyon says the number of participants will more than triple last year’s numbers which means more trash.

Cut 14 (11)  “…by Sunday.”

Kenyon encourages everyone to recycle or place trash in its proper place. Polluting is a danger to the environment.

The Senate Judiciary C Committee approves legislation that increases the penalties for individuals convicted of producing drugs containing fentanyl. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt says the current penalty of 5 to 15 years in prison is not enough

Cut 9 (11) “….your first conviction”

The measure heads to the Senate floor for more discussion.

Tax day is here and if you’re not prepared an automatic six-month extension of time to file is available. Metairie CPA Gina Rachel says filers should also remember today is also the deadline to take advantage of tax deductions and tax credits.

Cut 6 (07)  “…contributions later.”

The sum of estimated taxes owed must be paid by today. If an extension is requested, the federal tax return will be due on Oct. 16.

A Senate committee is scheduled to hear legislation that would require social media companies like TikTok to secure parental consent before minors can download the apps today. Covington Senator Patrick McMath says his bill would affect platforms with 5 million users or more:

Cut 7 (10) “…16 and under.”

McMath’s SB 162 – the “SOCIAL Act” – would impose an “online curfew” for minors and fines of $2500 for violations…:

Cordish Companies is the new prospective buyer for the former Diamond Jack’s Casino in Bossier City. Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says Cordish Companies – the owner of Texas Live in Arlington – plans to renovate the property that’s been closed since the pandemic.

Cut 12 (12)    financially strong.” 

The property is expected to be operational in 2025.

The statewide initiative to clean up trash and curb the state’s ongoing litter problem –  “Love the Boot” week is in full swing. Keep Louisiana Beautiful spokesperson Melissa Kenyon says the mission of the project was to motivate individuals to clean areas in their communities.

Cut 13 (07) “…this week.” 

The event takes place in conjunction with both Earth and Volunteer Week.

Legislation aimed at protecting kids from some of the darker sides of social media will be heard by a Senate committee.  Kevin Gallagher has more:

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

A 14-year-old who admitted to shooting a St. Tammany Parish Deputy Sheriff last May was sentenced to serve four years in juvenile detention. Prosecutors say the shooting happened as Deputy Kenneth Doby was responding to a burglary call on Highway 21 in Bush. Doby was shot in the back but was still able to restrain the teen.  The unnamed teenager, who was 13 years old when he shot Doby on May 25 – has been incarcerated in the Florida Parishes Detention Center since being arrested. The teen was charged with several offenses including attempted first-degree murder of a peace officer and illegal possession of a handgun by a juvenile.

It’s tax day and if you’ve been waiting until the last minute to file your federal tax return – you have until midnight to meet the deadline. Metairie CPA Gina Rachel says get an extension if you need more time but file electronically is the more efficient route so you have proof.

Cut 5 (12) “…taxpayer.”

Failure to file a return on time is 5% of your tax bill each month but can increase to $425.

The statewide effort – “Love the Boot” week -is underway and Louisianans are encouraged to pick up trash and help with the state’s litter problem. Keep Louisiana Beautiful spokesperson Melissa Kenyon says around 280 clean-up events took place around the state last year and over 500 events are scheduled for this year.

Cut 14 (11)  “…by Sunday.”

The project was developed to get boots on the ground and to motivate individuals to clean areas in their neighborhoods and businesses.

The fungus candida auris is becoming a dangerous public threat in the U.S.  LSU Health New Orleans Infectious Disease specialist, Dr. Fred Lopez says it’s causing high levels of concern because it is becoming untreatable.

Cut 3 (10) “…treat infections.”

The mortality rate is between 30 to 60 percent and Lopez says there are 50 known cases in Louisiana.

The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is already underway this weekend. Director of Sales at Tangipahoa Tourism Emily Matise says the festival is one of the state’s largest free events and will continue rain or shine.

Cut 7 (12)  “…Strawberry Festival.” 

The three-day event will be filled with traditions, great entertainment, rides, and loads of family fun! Visit lastrawberryfestival.com

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Jack Montoucet has resigned after allegations of being involved in a bribery scandal. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says has not been criminally charged criminally…

Cut 12 (11) “…that point.” 

Records from the U-S Attorney’s office indicate Montoucet signed a contract for a program set up by Guidry, that would result in an LDWF official receiving an ATV worth 14-thousand dollars upon retirement.

Reaching out to veterans’ organizations to return missing money is the latest push by State Treasurer John Schroder for unclaimed property. The campaign is called “Veterans Cash Claim.” Schroder says they’ve returned close to $280 million.

Cut 14 (09)  “…of Veteran’s Affairs.”

To check if you might have any unclaimed property go to LaCashClaim.org

An in-ground fungal disease and unusual season have forced many Louisiana strawberry farmers to close early but they are expecting an increase in sales at this weekend’s Ponchatoula’s Strawberry Festival. Livingston Parish strawberry farmer Rhonda Poche says a fungus destroyed one berry plant but their crop was limited.

Cut 4 (10)  “…sold out.”

This weekend is Pontchatoula’s Strawberry Festival and Poche hopeful people will buy locally grown berries and show support.

Labor shortages and post-pandemic lack of customers have Louisiana’s small businesses feeling less optimistic after a continued to slide in the 1^st Quarter. The National Federation of Independent Business state director Dawn McVea says 15 percent of owners plan to create new jobs within the next three months and there’s hope for recovery.

Cut 12 (09)  “…comes back around.”

McVea says debt service on loans is also a big concern for small businesses, as lending rates continue to rise.

Suicide rates in the U.S. saw a spike in 2001, that’s after two previous years of decline according to the CDC. LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Rahn Bailey says men are four times more likely than women to commit suicide and we need to end the stigma of mental illness.

Cut 8 (08) “…become worse.”

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, half of all suicides involve a gun.

Colorado State University is predicting a slightly below-average 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. A slightly below-average hurricane season prediction is welcome news, but research assistant Tyler Barbero says always have a hurricane plan in place.

Cut 17 (09) ‘…prepare always.”

NOAA will release its hurricane forecast next month.