Legislation that would give St. Tammany Parish voters an opportunity to approve a riverboat casino in Slidell receives final legislative passage after the Senate approved the bill on a 23-14 vote. Jim Shannon has more…

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Jim Shannon.” 

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A bill to allow social media users to sue companies like Twitter and Facebook if their posts are censored for religious or political views is dead for the legislative session. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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A bill that would have banned drivers from handling their cell phones while behind the wheel failed by one vote in the Senate. The House-approved measure needed 20 votes to pass the upper chamber, but it received 19. Bossier City Senator Barrow Peacock says the legislation is too much of an infringement on personal freedoms

Cut 3 (11) “…state law”

Franklin Senator Bret Allain also looks at this bill as the government interfering with a person’s life…

Cut 4 (05) “…applies here”

Covington Senator Patrick McMath spoke in favor of the bill during the Senate debate. McMath says this measure would cut down on distracted driving, which leads to numerous accidents including a recent one involving senator Fred Mills., but Allain was not buying his argument..

Cut 5  (14) “…out there”

Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval has been trying to get this legislation passed for years. His proposal would allow a driver to talk on the phone through Bluetooth or an earpiece, but you can not handle the phone.

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Governor John Bel Edwards and Canadian-based Canfor Corporation announce a new 160 million dollar lumber mill will be built in Beauregard Parish near DeRidder. Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says the mill is expected to create 130 new direct jobs with an average salary of nearly 60-thousand dollars and also 386 new indirect jobs…

Cut 6 (9) “…opportunity for us”

Canfor will locate the facility at the Beauregard Regional Airport and start-up is expected to begin late in the third quarter of next year. Pierson says the availability of roads and waterways to supply the product helped Beauregard parish secure the contract…

Cut 7 (9) “…well in advance”

LED says the state also offered a competitive incentive package that included a performance-based grant of one-point-five million dollars.

The sawmill project will process yellow pine from Louisiana forests with the manufacturing capacity to produce a variety of wood products. Pierson says the location will help pulp and paper production companies in the area…

Cut 8 (8) “… these days” 

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A bill to allow social media users in the state to sue platforms like Twitter and Facebook if they are blocked for political or religious speech is dead for this legislative session after the proposal failed to receive a hearing in the House. Republican Monroe Senator Jay Morris is disappointed and believes social media has too much power.

Cut 9 (11) “…my view.”

The bill passed unanimously in the Senate and Morris requested the bill be heard in the House Civil Law Committee and was shocked when it was not placed on the calendar. He then went to the Speaker and the bill was transferred to House Commerce.

Cut 10 (09) “…show up”

Morris says he believes the bill was deliberately kept from being heard and that social media platforms have a chokehold on the flow of information in our country.

Cut 11 (11) “…quorum.”

The session ends on Thursday, so there’s not enough time for the bill to have a hearing which effectively kills the bill.

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LSU took down Oregon in the Eugene Regional and will now battle it out with Tennessee in Knoxville in the Super Regionals. Gavin Dugas (D00-ghas) was named Regional MVP after helping the Tigers win four straight elimination games to advance.

Cut 12 (06) “…this tournament”

As LSU keeps winning, coach Paul Mainieri will remain in the dugout until the season ends. Dugas (Doo-ghas) says Mainieri’s retirement announcement gave the team extra motivation.

Cut 13 (12) “…forward.”

LSU pitcher Landon Marceaux is used to his role as the team’s Friday night starter but he pitched in relief for the Tigers on Monday and recorded the final outs of the game. Marceaux says it was easy knowing his team believed in him.

Cut 14 (05) “…a lot to me”

Ochsner has undertaken its first Pfizer COVID 19 trial for patients between the ages of 5 and 11. Erik Piccoli has the story

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Erik Piccoli”

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Despite the pandemic, Louisiana ranks number one in the nation for graduating seniors completing financial aid forms needed to pay for college. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Legislation that would allow college athletes to profit off their name, image, and likeness is nearing final legislative passage after it received House approval on Monday.  Taylor Sharp has the story.

Cut 3 (28)  “…I’m Taylor Sharp.”

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Ochsner Health is enrolling its first participants in a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine trial for children between the ages of 5 and 11. Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Julia Garcia-Diaz says this trial differs from prior ones since the patients will be monitored for 18 months and are more likely to receive the vaccine than a placebo.

Cut 4 (10) “…get the vaccine”

Getting children vaccinated is critical to reaching herd immunity since they make up a third of the population. System Chair of Pediatrics Dr. William Lennarz says that the increase in variants has made the push to allow vaccines for children more critical.

Cut 5 (10) “…doesn’t mean none”

Between 70 to 75 patients are expected to partake in the trial and to have an equal number per site. Lennarz says to better suit the children the potency of the doses has been changed.

Cut 6 (8) “…doses in use”

Those interested in participating can visit ochsner.org and schedule their appointment.

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According to the National College Attainment Networks FAFSA Tracker, Louisiana ranks number one in the country in terms of financial aid completion with 33-thousand of Louisiana’s 2021 high school graduates completing their FAFSA. LOSFA Executive Director DR. Sujuan Boutte says it’s been a team effort.

Cut 7 (11) “…the GO Grant”

Louisiana schools require students to fill out the FAFSA forms in order to graduate helping them receive the financial aid they wouldn’t have known about. Boutte says students and parents are getting the message that they should always file the form regardless of their financial situation.

Cut 8 (8) “…to pay back” 

Students who have graduated from high school in 2021 have until June 30th, 2022 to complete a FAFSA but Boutte says the earlier one applies the better.

Cut 9 (11) “…is not complete”

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College athletes in Louisiana would be able to profit from their name, image, and likeness under a bill that is very close to final legislative approval after the House approved the measure on an 88-7 vote.  Marrero Senator Patrick Connick says once the governor signs the proposed law, it will be effective immediately.

Cut 10 (06) “…football season”

Athletes would receive compensation for sponsorships, endorsements, and even social media presence.  Connick says another way athletes can make money is through the licensing agreement.

Cut 11 (16) “…school.”

Connick says this bill is important because it ensures that Louisiana schools aren’t at a competitive disadvantage when it comes to recruiting student-athletes…

Cut 12 (12) “…other states.”

18 other states have passed similar laws.

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State senators are no longer pushing to make a temporary state sales tax permanent to fund highway transportation projects, instead, the Senate approved a bill to take revenue from vehicle sales taxes and spend it on roads. Port Allen Senator Rick Ward says it would result in 375-million dollars in additional dollars for infrastructure

Cut 13 (10) “…term”

The measure heads to the House for their review and there are only three days left in the session. Currently, money from vehicle sales taxes goes into the general fund, but Ward’s proposal would use 75-percent of that money on roads and bridges…

Cut 14 (10) “…sub fund.”

But if lawmakers take money away from the general fund that would mean fewer dollars, for higher education, health care and public safety programs. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt still supports the effort

Cut 15 (06)“…to me”

A bill that eliminates jail time and lowers the fines associated with the possession of 14 grams of marijuana or less has passed in the Senate and heads to the governor’s desk. Erik Piccoli has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Erik Piccoli.” 

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The LSU Baseball team will look to keep Paul Mainieri’s coaching career going as the Tigers take on Oregon tonight in the Eugene Regional championship game. Jim Shannon has more…

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Jim Shannon”  

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Louisiana State Troopers are still searching for a vehicle involved in the May 26th fatal hit in run in St. Helena Parish that killed a two-year-old girl and injured three others. Trooper Will Huggins says a family of four was outside of their vehicle on LA Highway 1045 near LA Highway 43 due to a previous car accident…

Cut 3 (7) “…the suspect vehicle”

Physical evidence left at the scene is still being processed by State Troopers. Huggins says the vehicle has been described by witnesses as a light-colored van or SUV

Cut 4 (04) “…driver side mirror”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop L or online anonymously at la-safe.org by clicking the suspicious activity link. Huggins says Tangipahoa crime stoppers are also seeking tips

Cut 5  (09) “…one thousand dollars”

The victim was laid to rest on Friday at St. Mary’s Missionary Baptist Church.

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The Louisiana Senate has given final legislative approval to a bill that will decriminalize possession of 14 grams or less of marijuana. The proposal needed 20 votes to pass and that’s exactly how many it got as Senate President Page Cortez read the vote tally…

Cut 6 (10) “…the table”

The penalty for possession of 14 grams was decreased from 300 to 100 dollars, which eliminates jail time, and lets the court decide if the possessor is capable of paying the fine. Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau led the effort in the senate and says the legislation is a common-sense bill…

Cut 7 (7) “…the fines”  

The bill is expected to decrease the number of inmates in local jails. Luneau says this will help cut costs since the state pays for most of the expenses…

Cut 8 (6) “…than anything else” 

The proposal heads to the governor’s desk. If signed into law, a person caught with a small amount of pot would not face jail time.

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The Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s office says 27-percent of the pandemic-related unemployment insurance claims they reviewed had inconsistent or missing information. State auditor Ricky Rodriguez says that should have been a red flag that the claimant might not be eligible for the benefits

Cut 9 (12) “…those payments.”

The Louisiana Workforce Commission says the agency was facing unprecedented challenges but still thwarted two large-scale fraud attempts.

The report also finds that L-W-C employees may have been improperly compensated by about 786-thousand dollars through a paid leave program when there’s an Act of God. Rodriguez says some employees were paid double the amount of time they work

Cut 10 (10) “…80 hours”

LWC Secretary Ava Cates says for the first three weeks of the pandemic, their employees were pushed to the limit during a State of Emergency and were paid in accordance with LWC policy. But Rodriguez says employees should have only been paid under the special leave provision if they could not show up for work

Cut 11 (08) “…compensated for.”

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Louisiana Tech’s dream season ended yesterday with a loss to North Carolina State, but LSU is still alive in the NCAA Baseball Tournament after beating Gonzaga and Oregon yesterday. In the four to one win over the Ducks, Gavin Dugas homered and also took a trip around the bases when he banged a pitch off the wall and Dugas says he was not stopping when he got to third

Cut 12 (12 “…go from there”

Another Tiger batter that’s seeing the ball well is Dylan Crews, who has 10 hits and three home runs in regional play.  Dugas says he loves playing with a guy with Crews’ ability.

Cut 13 (10) “…he’s awesome”

LSU will play Oregon again tonight and after playing four games in three days, the Tigers will need to get production out of their bullpen.  Coach Paul Mainieri says his pitching staff needs to have a good performance.

Cut 14 (9) “…chance to win”

The winner of this game will advance to the super regional against Tennessee in Knoxville.

The LSU Ag Center is participating in a trial to show the effectiveness of a new form of insect repellant, Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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Opposition from the Conservative Caucus and a lack of outright support from Governor Edwards may end up dooming an effort to dedicate a portion of the state sales tax to infrastructure. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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Severely obese state employees will soon be eligible for bariatric surgery after legislation that has been in the works for almost 20 years passes this session. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is in Juneau, Alaska this week as part of a partnership between our two states to jointly promote domestic seafood.

Nungesser says Louisiana and Alaska are the two biggest producers of domestic seafood in the US and the partnership is a natural fit.

Cut 4 (12)”…takeovers”

Alaska and Louisiana combine to produce about 6.5 million pounds of seafood annually.

Nungesser says the partnership will certainly boost the profile of Louisiana seafood and help promote tourism into the Bayou State, but it will also spread another important message.

Cut 5 (08)”…country.”

Nungesser says after visiting Alaska he’ll be hosting their Lt. Governor on a trip to New Orleans later on.

Cut 6 (12)”…winning that”

The plan is to have 2017 King of American Seafood Chef Lionel Uppida of Alaska cook alongside 2015 King of Louisiana Seafood Chef Mike Brewer.

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LSU’s AgCenter is seeking volunteers to participate in a study of an insect repellant. Medical Entomologist Kristen Healey says they are helping a company rate the effectiveness of an existing product but not available yet in the forms of a wipe and lotion.

Cut 7 (10)  “…formulation.”

Healey says participants will be outfitted in scrubs, like those in healthcare wear, and enter a mosquito area to test the repellant.

Cut 8 (09) “…comparison.”

But Healey says before mosquitoes land on a participants’ leg to leave their mark, they will be thwarted by a device called an aspirator to minimize and bites.

Before insect repellants are available to the general public, Health says they are thoroughly tested so what you read on the EPA label is backed by proper research and that’s what they are doing with these forms of the product.

Cut 9 (06) “…by science” 

Healey says the manufacturer picked the right state to test their product because Louisiana has more than 60 individual species of mosquitos.

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The legislative session ends Thursday so legislation that would dedicate .45 percent of the state sales tax that will expire in 2025 to infrastructure has only four days left to get over the finish line. Conservative lawmakers oppose it and Governor Edwards says he likes the idea, but the devil is in the details.

Cut 10 (12) “…expire”

The legislation by Port Allen Senator Rick Ward would begin shifting that sales tax money into an infrastructure sub-fund starting in 2022. The bill is waiting to be heard on the Senate floor and it needs a two-thirds vote to pass.

Edwards says he understands the idea behind the bill and admits something must be done to generate more infrastructure funds.

Cut 11 (09) “…fund.”

The proposal would generate nearly 400 million dollars a year starting in 2025 for infrastructure projects.

Governor Edwards reiterated his commitment to vetoing a bill that’s been sent to him by the Legislature that would remove the requirement for those over 21 to have a permit to concealed carry.

Edwards says the current requirement that anyone concealed carrying be trained on marksmanship, carrying laws, safety, and law enforcement interactions is not burdensome.

Cut 12 (11) “…problems.”

The bill cleared both the House and Senate with enough votes that should Edwards veto it, and there are no lawmakers who change their mind, the veto could be overridden.

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A bill to cover bariatric surgeries for state employees passes overwhelmingly in the legislature after a long-fought battle. Bill author Baton Rouge Senator Regina Barrow says this is welcome news for state employees in an effort to extend their life and reduce the costs spent on morbidly obese-related illnesses.

Cut 13 (09) “…were on.”

Despite Louisiana having the highest in the nation obesity rate, it was one of a few states that didn’t cover bariatric surgery for severely obese state employees. An effort to have Louisiana cover the surgery began almost 20 years ago. Barrow hopes this is just the beginning.

Cut 14 (07) “…as well.”

A fiscal note attached to the bill estimates that covering the surgeries will cost more than $5 million in the first year but decrease to half that by 2026 due to savings on prescription drug benefits and other medical costs like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Cut 15 (09)“…go down.”

The bill cleared the House last week on a 93-0 vote and takes effect in August.

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The LSU Tigers are still alive in the Eugene Regional after winning two games yesterday, nine to four over Gonzaga and four to one over Oregon to set up a winner take all game tonight against the Ducks. After a terrific pitching performance against the Zags by A-J Labas, freshman Javen Coleman followed that up with six sensational innings against Oregon. Head Coach Paul Mainieri…

Cut 16 (19) “…tremendous job.”

Devin Fontenot pitched two shutout innings for his fifth save. Gavin Dugas led the Tigers offensively with a home run and a triple that could have been ruled as an inside the park home run. Mainieri was glad to see Dugas have a big game after a quiet start to the regional

Cut 17 (13) without out a doubt.” 

If LSU can beat Oregon tonight, they will advance to the super regionals to play Tennessee in Knoxville. Mainieri says he’s not ready to retire yet…

Cut  18 (18)”..do it though.”

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Louisiana Tech’s historic baseball season ended last night with a 14-7 loss to North Carolina State in the championship round of the Ruston Regional. The Bulldogs jumped out to a four to nothing lead but they couldn’t keep the Wolfpack down who beat Tech twice over the weekend. La Tech Coach Lane Burroughs says he’s proud of this team

Cut 19 (17) “…man.” 

Louisiana Tech finished with a record of 42-20, won the Conference USA West, beat three teams from the SEC including a 10-8 win over Alabama yesterday and hosted the first Regional in school history. Burroughs says they are just getting started

Cut 20 (19)  “…good team.” 

An effort to extend the state’s 180 million dollar film tax credit program into 2028 was rejected by the House and appears unlikely to pass by the end of the session next week. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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Business groups are calling on an early end of enhanced unemployment benefits but Governor Edwards says he wants to make an informed decision as to not end benefits too early. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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The Gulf of Mexico “Dead Zone” is expected to cover an area of 4,761 square miles this summer ranging from Louisiana to Texas. That’s according to LSU scientist Dr. Nancy Rabalais who says the low oxygen area in the gulf, where it’s hard for living resources to survive, is about 500 square miles less than previous years but still a disappointing number.

Cut 3 (7) “…might come through”

The current size of the Dead Zone is two and half times larger than the goal set in 2001 making it about three times the size of Rhode Island. Rabalais says she’s very disappointed due to the lack of change.

Cut 4 (10) “…to accomplish it”

The low oxygen conditions began 50 years ago due to agricultural practices in the Midwest and the nitrate loading hasn’t reduced since. Rabalais says the dead zone also has an economic side effect.

Cut 5  (11) “…low oxygen increases”

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The House rejected an attempt to extend the state’s 180 million dollar film tax credit out to 2028 from its current sunset date of 2025.

Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson hammered the bill, saying we can only afford a meager 800 dollar teacher pay raise for 60 million dollars while giving Hollywood 180 million a year. He adds…

Cut 6 (12) “…system”

Nelson also cited a study that claims the program only generates 22 cents in revenue for every one dollar the state spends on film tax credits.

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris notes the credit is worth about half of the .45 percent sales tax extension that was approved by lawmakers in 2018.

Cut 7 (11) “…state” 

Opponents also pointed to a report that showed many of the productions utilizing the credit are taking in more in credits than they pay out in payroll.

Columbia Representative Neil Riser spoke on behalf of the bill’s author Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt. He touted numbers from the Lt. Governor showing the credit has a 1.3 billion dollar annual tourism impact.

Cut 8 (10) “…came there.” 

The final vote was 45 in favor with 37 against with 23 members absent. Riser says he would like to bring the bill back for another vote but is concerned the 70 votes needed for passage would be a tall order with the Speaker against it.

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After receiving several letters and complaints from numerous business groups and owners to end the federally enhanced unemployment benefits before they expire in September, Governor John Bel Edwards says he wants to make an informed decision before reacting.

Cut 9 (11) “…or not.”

Economist Jim Richardson served on the Revenue Estimating Conference for the state for three decades.

Edwards says as of yet he doesn’t have the benefit of the study, but he does know that Louisiana is heavily dependent on tourism.

Cut 10 (09) “…not jobs”

Groups like LABI and the Baton Rouge Area Chamber of Commerce are calling on state leaders to end federally enhanced benefits to encourage people to return to the workforce. Edwards says however the more than $8.2 billion in unemployment payments is having a positive effect on the local economies.

Cut 11 (11) “…meeting.”

The Governor says he expects the study to be completed in the next few weeks. He also pointed out that the Federal benefits are set to expire on Labor Day when the majority of students are back in class thus helping those with childcare issues to be able to return to the workforce.

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Two men were struck and killed while changing a tire on the shoulder of I-10 westbound in St. James Parish on Thursday afternoon. State Trooper Taylor Scrantz says 33-year-old Jermaine Irvine of St. Francisville’s vehicle veered off the roadway as 33-year-old Daniel Thomas was assisting 50-year-old James Breaux of Donaldsonville with a flat tire…

Cut 12 (6) “…killing em both”

Scrantz says Breaux and Thomas were pronounced dead at the scene and toxicology samples have been taken from all three parties…

Cut 13 (6) “…be filed as well”

As of now, no charges have been filed against Irvine. Scrantz urges motorists to be aware of disabled vehicles on the side of the road…

Cut 14 (9) “…on the roadway”

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A flash flood watch is in effect this weekend across south Louisiana.  Assistant Professor of Research at LSU Dr. Vinny Brown says we just can’t shake this rainy pattern

Cut 15 (11) “…southern Louisiana.” 

The National Weather Service says there’s the potential for two to five inches of rain with localized higher amounts. Brown says that rain will fall on already saturated soil…

Cut 16 (09) “…soil saturation.” 

A bill to remove the state sales tax from feminine hygiene products along with diapers is heading to the full Senate for final passage. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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One-half of the legislative effort to allow the use and sale of raw, smoke-able medical marijuana has gained final legislative passage and is expected to be signed by the Governor. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The White House has approved Louisiana’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for five parishes following the flash flooding in mid-May which damaged several thousand homes in Ascension, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, and Lafayette parishes. FEMA spokesperson Stuart Lewis says residents in these parishes can apply for disaster assistance…

Cut 3 (07)  “…uninsured.” 

So far, more than 2,900 homes have reported damage from the severe weather, with 737 suffering major damage and a number of them being destroyed.  Lewis says FEMA can help displaced individuals find a permanent residence.

Cut 4 (11) “…those things.” 

Stuart says even if you are insured, you can file a claim with FEMA if you need additional support.

Cut 5  (12)  “…the gaps.”

To File for FEMA assistance you can register online at www.DisasterAssistance.Gov or call 1-800-621-3362.

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An effort to remove the state sales “pink tax” from feminine hygiene products and diapers is heading to the Senate floor for final passage. New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman’s bill is in its fifth year in the legislature previously carried by former New Orleans Senator J.P. Morrell. Freeman says the bill has wide support.

Cut 6 (11) “…Catholic Bishops”

Gonzales Senator Eddie Lambert questioned Freeman about how much removing the state sales tax on feminine hygiene products, along with child and adult diapers, would cost the state.

Cut 7 (12) “…tax exempt.” 

The legislation removes the collection of state sales tax on the designated items. Denham Springs Senator Rogers Pope asked how this would impact the collection of local sales for municipalities and parishes.

Cut 8 (07) “…an option.” 

Removing the 4.45 percent tax would cost the state $10.5 million. The bill passed in the house 62-32. If approved by the Senate and signed by the governor, the sales tax would end in July 2022.

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The Colorado State University hurricane research team is continuing to call for 18 named storms this hurricane season. C-S-U Graduate Research Assistant Jhordanne Jones says they still do not see an El Nino developing, which can hinder tropical storm development

Cut 9 (11) “…north Atlantic.”

2020 produced a record number of storms with 30 and a record five named storms made landfall in Louisiana. Jones says there’s still a good chance the Bayou State will be threatened again this year

Cut 10 (07) “…named storm”

The 18 named storms include Ana, which formed in May. Researchers also expect eight hurricanes and four to reach major hurricane strength. Jones says Gulf coast residents should have plans in place if a storm threatens their area…

Cut 11 (11) “…informed.”

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The Legislature gave final passage to a bill that would allow the use of medical marijuana in the raw, smoke-able form.

Houma Representative Tanner Magee says his legislation will make medical marijuana more accessible to those who need it by significantly reducing the cost of the treatment.

Cut 12 (10)   “…tremendously” 

Mississippi and Arkansas have also approved the use and sale of raw medical marijuana.

Governor Edwards indicated he will sign the bill and Magee notes, unlike the push for recreational pot, it did not face any opposition from law enforcement groups.

Cut 13 (11)“…problem”

Magee says producers estimate the new form of the treatment will be available in January.

Recreational marijuana legalization only won 47 votes in the House compared to this medical marijuana expansion’s 75 votes. Magee says legalization is coming, but it will have to wait for one key group…

Cut 14 (12) “…at it.” 

Legislation establishing the tax rate for raw medical marijuana is still working through the Legislature and was amended to include a controversial, unrelated tax proposal related to infrastructure.

The Mississippi River bridge project on Interstate 20 is now complete in Madison Parish. Brooke Thorington has more on what travelers can expect in northeast Louisiana.

Cut 1 (29) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Governor Edwards signs into law legislation allowing sexual assault survivors to terminate their lease early. Matt Doyle has more on the law that went effect Tuesday…

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle”  

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An over two-year rehabilitation Mississippi River Bridge project on Interstate 20 is now complete. Department of Transportation Spokesperson Erin Buchanan says the bridge in Madison Parish was built about 50 years ago and like any interstate corridor, it is well-traveled.

Cut 3 (10)  “…itself.” 

The $30-million-dollar project began in January of 2019 and is one of the few interstate river crossings in the state. Buchannan says the repairs were paid for with both state and federal dollars.

Cut 4 (10) “…of both.” 

Buchanan says in addition to resurfacing the structure, there were also corroded bolts and other components of the bridge that were replaced.

Cut 5  (11)  “…that goes.”

The bridge also received modernizations with new LED lighting, cameras, and radar that are integrated into Mississippi’s IT network.

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The first bill of the session to be signed into law by Governor Edwards is one that would allow sexual assault survivors to terminate their residential leases early.

New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman says this legislation was inspired in large part by all of the LSU students who had their sexual assaults covered up by the school.

Cut 6 (09) “..survivors”

The tenant would be allowed to apply for the early termination after a wait of at least 60 days after the assault. From that point, the victim would have to pay one more month’s rent.

STAR Legal Director Morgan Lamandre says the new law is similar to an existing law but it covers a loophole that’s been particularly problematic for students.

Cut 7 (09) “…assualted.” 

The law, which took effect Tuesday, also allows landlords to immediately evict a tenant if they are documented as the individual who perpetrated the assault.

Lamandre notes there are some stipulations…

Cut 8 (12) “…before.” 

The law also requires the assault to be verified by a “qualified third party” such as a licensed social worker or counselor, prosecuting attorney, law enforcement officer involved in the assault investigation, a healthcare worker who administered a forensic examination, or program director of a sexual assault center such as STAR.

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A Senate judiciary committee has voted down a bill that would limit the legal immunity Louisiana police officers have in wrongful death or injury cases. Shreveport Police Officers Association president Michael Carter voiced his concerns with legislation that would allow civil lawsuits against officers who acted “unreasonable”…

Cut 9 (10) “…huge arguments.”

Carter says the legislation would also open up officers to numerous lawsuits and cops do not earn enough money to pay malpractice insurance. Veteran Shreveport police officer Kevin Goodwin says if this became law, it would change how officers would police

Cut 10 (10) “…my children.”

Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan’s bill received approval from the House and it had the backing of the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association. Jordan tried to make the case that his legislation was not designed to drive good officers away from the profession

Cut 11 (09) “…deal with.”

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A tragic boating accident near the Lake Bistineau Spillway Tuesday claims the life of a 15-year-old Bossier Parish high schooler

The victim has been identified as Cavalry Baptist Academy football player Hayden “Lane” Mangum. Bossier Sheriff’s Lt. Bill Davis says he was out fishing with his best friend when the incident occurred.

Cut 12 (09)   “…middle ground.” 

Mangum’s friend and fellow football player, 16-year-old Cade Bedgood, managed to jump off of the boat before it began to capsize and made it back to shore safely. He then told first responders what happened.

Davis says local first responders, drone crews, and local boaters spent all yesterday evening and into the night utilizing emergency searchlights to look for Mangam.

Cut 13 (07)“…capsized”

Davis says it’s a tragic, shocking accident.

Cut 14 (11) “…body.” 

The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will investigate what led to the capsizing of the boat and the subsequent death.

Southwest Louisiana continues to struggle with recovery from the 2020 hurricanes and today marks the beginning of the 2021 season. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (28) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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Republican US Senator John Kennedy says he’s running for reelection in 2022. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The 2021 Atlantic Hurricane season is officially underway and southwest Louisiana continues recovery efforts from the last season along with other weather woes. Calcasieu Parish Police Jury President Brian Abshire says they are hoping they will receive a break this season.

Cut 3 (09)  “…I suppose.” 

As for how the parish is has recovered approximately 9 months since the area was impacted by Hurricanes Laura and Delta, Abshire says it depends on who you ask.

Cut 4 (11) “…the woods.” 

Abshire says approximately 4,000 residents remain displaced from the hurricanes. He says they could be living in another home or apartment, with family, or even in a trailer on their property but they remain displaced.

Cut 5  (12)  “…individual to individual.”

Abshire says a number of residents are working with the Insurance Commission to settle their claims while others have had to seek litigation.

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US Senator John Kennedy announces he is running for reelection in 2022.

The Mississippi-born, Zachary-raised Republican says it’s been an honor to serve the state in D.C.

Cut 6 (11) “..again.”

Kennedy won the 2016 US Senate election defeating Democratic Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell 61 to 39 percent. Kennedy took first place in the jungle primary that proceeded it with 25 percent, with Republican former Congressman Charles Boustany coming in third with 15 percent.

Kennedy, a Democrat until 2007, served as a lawyer to Governor Roemer and Revenue Secretary under Governor Foster before winning the 1999 race for State Treasurer.

Cut 7 (13) “…values.” 

It took Kennedy three tries to win his Senate seat, first losing as a Democrat in the 2004 open seat race, then failing to unseat incumbent Mary Landrieu in 2008.

UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross expects Kennedy will have a relatively stress-free reelection. Cross says the only Democrat who could potentially put up a real fight is Governor Edwards…

Cut 8 (7) “…at least.” 

On his monthly talk show Ask the Governor Edwards said he was planning to serve out the rest of his term and then go back to the private sector.

Cross says Kennedy likely won’t face a real challenger from within the Republican Party, giving him the freedom to use this reelection to pad his election bank account for a future move.

Cut 9 (11) “…impeachment.”

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The Senate Natural Resources Committee has passed House-approved legislation that would raise recreational and commercial hunting and fishing licenses. Chairman of the governor’s shrimp task force, George Barisich, opposes the legislation

Cut 10 (08) “…proposal.”

The bill’s author, Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala, says the restructuring of hunting and fishing licenses, which will lead to fee increases, is needed because the Conversation Fund which has been funding the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is nearly empty. Bacala on the importance of passing this bill…

Cut 11 (12) “…purposes.”

The legislation has received House approval and more adjustments were made to the bill in the Senate Natural Resources Committee. Bacala says he’s working with a lot of different parties, so no one gets hurt too badly by the fee increases

Cut 12 (09)   “…middle ground.” 

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Senate Judiciary Committee B approves legislation allowing those 21 and older to carry a concealed handgun without needing a permit or training.

Democratic Shreveport Senator Greg Tarver lambasted the bill saying this will lead to more gun violence.

Cut 13 (07)“..business.”

The proposal is opposed by both the Chiefs of Police Association and Governor Edwards.

But Thibodaux Republican Representative Bryan Fontenot, a former law enforcement officer, says there’s no research to suggest that his bill will result in more crime.

Cut 14 (10) “…table.” 

A nearly identical bill by West Monroe Senator Jay Morris passed both the House and Senate on margins large enough to overturn a veto.

Tarver contends this bill will lead to more police shootings because cops will now have to assume everyone has a gun on them.

Cut 15 (11) “…killed.” 

The bill notes that no individual who is currently barred from owning a gun or who is intoxicated may carry a concealed firearm. It also calls on State Police to provide a free, but optional 60-minute online training course that covers concealed carry basics like interaction with law enforcement, gun-free zones, and use of deadly force.

Higher education officials are celebrating the 38 billion dollar budget approved by the Legislature. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

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If you’re hitting the waterways you are not alone on this Memorial Day. A boat towing company says to expect a jump in the number of boaters and new navigators. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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UL System President Jim Henderson calls the budget for the fiscal year starting in July the biggest investment in higher education the state has seen in 13 years.

The 38 billion dollar spending plan is headed to the Governor’s desk. Henderson says it features a faculty pay raise that breaks down to about a two to two and a half percent increase.

Cut 3 (10)  “…for us.”

Henderson says UL System faculty are still about 8,000 to 10,000 dollars a year behind the southern regional average and this increase gets them about a quarter of the way there.

Henderson says the budget fully funds TOPS and even increases the size of the Go Grant program.

Cut 4 (09)”…higher education”

Despite the big increase in higher ed funding this year, Henderson says the still hasn’t made up for the steep budget cuts enacted during the Jindal Administration.

Cut 5 (06)”…Legislators.”

Per-student funding is still below where it was in 2009 and the Henderson says the funding mechanism for higher ed has “flipped” in the last decade. Previously up to 70 percent of college budgets were state-funded, now 75 percent of college budgets are sustained by student tuition and fees.

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Not only are there more drivers on the road for Memorial Day this year, but according to a Sea Tow Services survey, 52-percent of the boaters say they plan to spend more time on the water this year compared to 2020. Sea Tow President Kristen Frohnhoefer (Frone – hoffer) says expect waterways to be crowded.

Cut 6 (11)”…with it.”

With a record number of new boat sales and an influx of new boaters, Sea Tow says new navigators are 142-percent more likely to need ungrounding services. Frohnhoefer says if you’re a neophyte to boating, get properly trained before you leave the dock.

Cut 7 (11)  “…courteous boater.”

Frohnhoefer says their Sea Tow affiliates in Louisiana have experienced a large increase of ungrounding calls due to the record low tides. She says another hazard, due to the recent floods, is more debris in the water. She recommends assigning someone to serve as a lookout when cruising.

Cut 8 (10) “…the water.”

She also recommends checking that you are properly fueled before you leave the dock as well.

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Hurricane season starts tomorrow and Louisiana residents know all too well about storm preparedness.  David Maurstad, the head of the National Flood Insurance Program with FEMA, says every homeowner should have a flood insurance policy

Cut 9 (13) “…you need.” 

There’s no way to completely eliminate flood damage but Maurstad says a good policy can help with the recovery process.

Cut 10 (12) “…policy.”

Louisiana residents experienced an unprecedented flood back in 2016 due to a variety of reasons.  Maurstad says the NFIP policy protects from all types of flooding.

Cut 11 (07) “…policy.”

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Americans observe Memorial Day today, remembering those who died serving our country.

Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Colonel Joey Strickland says today is partially about remembering those who have served in the military, but…

Cut 12 (12) “…forgotten”

Strickland says while you’re enjoying your day off take some time to think about the Louisiana National Guardsmen who are overseas…

Cut 13 (07) “…are”

Dating back to the Revolutionary War an estimated 70,000 Louisianans have died while serving in the military, but Strickland says that number is likely much higher when you factor in uncounted civil war deaths.

Cut 14 (06) “…sacrifice.”

Cameron Parish authorities say it was a tip from a local woman that helped them identify a human skull found off a highway in 2018. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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The Legislature sends a 38-billion dollar spending plan to Governor Edwards’ desk, a record amount buoyed by federal coronavirus aid.  Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle”  

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After 15 seasons and one national championship at LSU, Paul Mainieri has announced he’s retiring as a college baseball coach. Mainieri has the most career victories among active Division one coaches, but his team had a losing record in SEC play this year. Tiger Rag Editor Ron Higgins says the 63-year-old is also dealing with health issues…

Cut 3 (10)  “…left to prove.” 

Mainieri led the Tigers to the College World Series five times, winning it all in 2009 and finishing as a runner-up in 2017. But his critics say Mainieri didn’t win enough national titles like Skip Bertman, who won five titles. Higgins says Mainieri was still a great coach…

Cut 4 (08) “…great job.” 

This year’s LSU baseball team is waiting to find out if they made the NCAA Tournament. The Field of 64 will be unveiled on Monday at 11 AM. The Tigers are on the bubble after going 13-and-17 in SEC play. Higgins says Mainieri’s announcement might give the selection committee another reason to put the Tigers in a regional

Cut 5  (10)  “…deserve that”

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Millions of drivers are expected to hit the roadway this Memorial day weekend and the Louisiana Transportation Department advises travelers to exercise extra caution. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says 330 people have lost their lives in fatal crashes this year in Louisiana so put down the phone and buckle up to prevent more fatalities…

Cut 6 (8) “…they’re used too”

Last year over 800 drivers died in Louisiana. Mallett hopes they do not surpass that number this year, despite traffic volume up over last year.

Cut 7 (9) “…that trend downwards” 

Travelers should expect roadwork on I-10 next to the Texas border and near the Atchafalaya Basin and I-12 in St. Tammany Parish. Mallet says there will be no lane closers but be aware of speed limit changes and lane shifts…

Cut 8 (7) “…at any minute” 

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A human skull found in Cameron Parish more than three years ago has been identified as a missing 58-year old San Antonio woman. Cameron Parish Sheriff Ron Johnson says it was a computer-generated image of the head that led a concerned citizen to connect the dots and dental records confirmed the findings.

Cut 9 (11) “…Sally Hines.”

58-year-old Hines went missing in December of 2017 and a clean-up crew found the head on highway 27 between Hackberry and Holly Beach in March of 2018.

After numerous tips over the years that never identified the skull, Johnson says it was a Cameron Parish woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, that looked at a computer-generated image of what the skull would resemble in person and that pointed investigators in the direction to see if it was Hines.

Cut 10 (11) “…at zero.

Johnson says San Antonio police, who took the initial missing person report, is leading the investigation and many questions remain unanswered.

Cut 11 (08) “…the body.”

Johnson says they do not believe any other body parts from Hines, with the exception of the skull, are located in Cameron Parish.

____________________________________________

With two weeks still left in the session, the Legislature approves a record 38 billion dollar spending plan for the fiscal year starting in July.

Senate President Page Cortez says because of federal assistance there were a lot of things they could accomplish so lawmakers didn’t argue about the little things.

Cut 12 (08)   “…Senate.” 

Despite frequent talk of increasing early childhood education funding, no additional dollars were allocated to it.

Cortez highlighted a few of the major investments they were able to make thanks to the American Rescue Act Assistance, including infrastructure.

Cut 13 (11)“..lines”

The state also paid down 400 million dollars of a one billion dollar outstanding payment we owe to the federal government over the 12 billion dollar New Orleans levee system built after Hurricane Katrina. The unemployment trust fund was also replenished with 490 million dollars. After paying back some money owed to the feds that puts the fund at a net of 300 million dollars.

Also included was an 800 dollar teacher pay raise and a roughly two and a half percent higher education faculty pay raise. Cortez says they may be reoccurring costs, but it’s a priority that’s worth it.

Cut 14 (12) “…do that” 

Other items include four million to increase LSU campus lighting and security, more money for public defenders, millions in funding for small local projects, judicial pay raises, the full funding of TOPS, and more.