The House Governmental Affairs Committee rejects legislation that would have prohibited state-funded facilities from denying access to individuals who are not vaccinated against COVID-19. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

____________________________________

House Education Chairman Ray Garofalo, whose comments about slavery earlier this month ignited a controversy, says the House Speaker threatened to have him removed from the Capitol this morning if he tried to chair today’s meeting. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Matt Doyle”  

________________________________________

The House Governmental Affairs Committee rejects a Senate-approved bill that would prohibit state facilities from denying entry to individuals who are not vaccinated against COVID-19. Harvey Representative Rodney Lyons says the legislature should not prevent a public building like the State Capitol from only allowing vaccinated persons inside

Cut 3 (07)  “…circumvent that.” 

Monroe Senator Stewart Cathey’s bill died on a seven to six vote. Cathey says he’s trying to protect individuals who have made the personal decision not to get the vaccine

Cut 4 (12) “..is wrong.” 

Cathey admitted to the committee he has not received the vaccine over concerns the shot will impact the ability for him and his girlfriend to have a child.

Cut 5  (11  “…vaccinated”

Health officials have said there is no evidence that any vaccine affects fertility.

Jennifer Herricks of Mandeville testified for the bill. She’s concerned about her children getting the virus and would like to send them to a school where everyone is vaccinated

Cut 6 (07) “..diseases”

While this bill was killed, a similar bill by Gonzales Representative Kathy Edmonston has already passed the House and awaits a Senate hearing.

____________________________________

Governor Edwards says video of the Ronald Greene arrest shows State Police troopers acting unprofessionally and not conducting themselves as law enforcement officers should.

Edwards first saw the footage last October while viewing it with the Greene family. He called it disturbing then…

Cut 7 (11) “…they should.”

Greene died in police custody in 2019 after being severely beaten and tased by State Police troopers following a car chase in Union Parish. Immediately after Greene’s death the first report to come out of State Police claimed Greene died in the car crash following the chase.

Edwards says the footage is being reviewed by the Union Parish DA and the US Department of Justice for a reason.

Cut 8 (11) “…restrained.”

Edwards says Greene’s death has led to policy changes.

Cut 9 (11) “…again”

____________________________

The ongoing controversy involving House Education Chairman Ray Garofalo, whose comments about slavery ignited a firestorm, results in today’s meeting of his committee being called off.

Garofalo says this morning Speaker Clay Schexnayder told him he was still Chairman, but when he told Shexnayder he was going to chair today’s meeting, Schexnayder said no you’re not.

Cut 10 (12) “…to”

Garofalo’s comments earlier this month in committee calling for the teaching of “the good, the bad, the ugly” of slavery during a tense debate about education policy resulted in calls from the Legislative Black Caucus for Garofalo to be removed as chairman. Garofalo says his words have been taken “out of context” and he has nothing to apologize for.

Garofalo says the discussion with Shexnayder took a turn after he said he would sit as chair…

Cut 11 (11) “…duty”

When asked by a reporter if the “heated” meeting with Shexnayder got physical Garofalo declined to comment.

The committee meeting was called off after 45 minutes when only one member showed up, delaying discussion of legislation that would allow student-athletes to collect paid endorsements…

Cut 12 (12)    “…for that” 

The committee is scheduled to meet again next Wednesday, June 2nd, but the session is scheduled to end on June 10th.

____________________________________________

An E Pluribus Unum survey finds a majority of southerners support major police reform and believe not enough has changed since the murder of George Floyd. EPU Founder and former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu says the annual survey of 1,200 indicate common ground that Floyd was wrongly killed and broad support of police reform being negotiated in Congress and locally.

Cut 13 (07)“…supervision.”

The survey tracks attitudes on systemic racism in policing and police reforms in the South. It included 400 Black, 400 Latino, and 400 white respondents. Landrieu says the survey also highlighted major support of police officers stepping in when other officers use excessive force.

Cut 14 (09) “…onsite” 

Landrieu says responses from the annual survey surprised him this year because of common ground belief in police reform when before it was split along racial lines. He says the murder of George Floyd magnified the issue.

Cut 15 (10) “…might say.” 

The survey also found broad support for police officers and departments to carry liability insurance so taxpayers do not have to pay for settlements when officers are found guilty of misconduct.

It appears pay raises for the next fiscal year will be $800 for teachers and $400 for support staff. Union leaders say lawmakers claim they want to invest in education, but their actions show otherwise. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (32) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

____________________________________

A bill that would extend the state’s 180-million dollar film tax credit program for another three years to 2028 is headed to the House floor for final legislative passage. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

________________________________________

The budgeted amount for K-12 teacher pay raises in Louisiana appears to be on track for $800 and not $1000 as previously discussed by lawmakers. Louisiana Federation of Teachers Legislative Director Cynthia Posey says the amount is disappointing and the goal to bring teacher pay to the southern regional average continues to be put on the backburner.

Cut 3 (08)  “…to stay.” 

On Monday the Senate Finance committee released their markup of the state budget that begins on July first.

Posey says there was an understanding to continue to increase teacher pay in an effort to retain and attract qualified educators in the state, but the momentum was sidetracked.

Cut 4 (08) “…again.” 

Posey says teachers were in the classroom on day one of the 20-21 school year and lawmakers praised them for it because allowed it parents to reenter the workforce and also meet the nutritional needs of those students who received free or reduced-priced meals at school.

Cut 5  (08)  “…list”

The House approved budget includes $800 pay raises for teachers and $400 raises for support staff. Louisiana schoolteachers are paid on average $51-thousand annually which is $4-thousand below the southern average.

_________________________________________________

Legislation that extends the state’s 180-million dollar film tax credit program for another three years through 2028 is moving closer to final passage. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt explained to the House Ways and Means Committee on why it’s important to pass the tax credit beyond 2025…

Cut 6 (12) “…of that”

Hewitt says the film industry supports about 10-thousand jobs in the state and last year invested more than 432-million dollars in productions in Louisiana. She expects those numbers to grow…

Cut 7 (12) “…the conversation.”

The House Ways and Means Committee approved Hewitt’s bill, which has already passed the Senate. It heads to the full House for final legislative passage. Eunice Representative Phillip Devillier is not a fan of spending 180-million dollars on the film tax industry

Cut 8 (12) “…concerns me.”

_______________________________

The state House passes a bill that would require Louisiana public high schools to spend more time teaching students about the Holocaust and World War Two. Denham Springs Representative Valarie Hodges says students and young adults know very little about the murder of six million Jews by the Nazi regime

Cut 9 (12) “…died”

Hodges says currently public schools are only required to spend one-semester teaching students about the Holocaust and World War Two, but she believes it’s a topic that should be discussed throughout a child’s high school career…

Cut 10 (11) “…I believe”

The bill passed on a 66-32 vote. Several Black lawmakers voted against the bill after Baton Rouge Representative Ted James tried to amend the bill to also include the required instruction of significant figures in Black history.

Cut 11 (10) “…as well”

James’s amendment failed on a 45-51 vote.

____________________________________________

Senate Judiciary C advances house-backed legislation that would decriminalize possession of up to 14 grams of marijuana.

Shreveport Representative Cedric Glover says under his bill those found with just under half an ounce would only face a 100 dollar fine.

Cut 12 (10)    “…felon” 

While an effort to fully legalize recreational marijuana failed in the House 47-49 Glover’s bill to decriminalize passed easily 68-25.

Louisiana Progress Action Policy Director Peter Robins-Brown spoke in support of the bill. He says polls show nearly 70 percent of Louisianans support decriminalization.

Cut 13 (12)“…law”

The Louisiana Baptist Convention opposes the bill. Office of Public Policy Director Dr. Will Hall says these days 14 grams of marijuana can be a dangerous amount.

Cut 14 (09) “..THC” 

The bill heads to the Senate floor for final passage.

As COVID cases continue to decrease, health officials are seeing a comeback of another virus. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (32) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

____________________________________

A former LSU Quarterback is staying in the SEC and also remaining a Tiger. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

________________________________________

The Louisiana Insurance Department says it has recovered 41 million dollars related to 1,500 complaints filed against insurers for issues stemming from last year’s three hurricanes. Commissioner Jim Donelon says the complaint process saves residents the effort of having to take their insurer to court over claim delays and underpayments…

Cut 3 (10)  “…lives” 

Of the 41 million recovered 38 million was related to Hurricane Laura, 2.5 million to Delta, and 750,000 from Zeta. 77 percent of complaints were related to homeowners policies.

Donelon says the process is an effective tool and he encourages anyone who is having a dispute with their insurer to utilize it.

Cut 4 (09) “…instances” 

Insurers received 311,000 total claims related to last years’ hurricanes.

Donelon says this data helps paint a national picture of who the problem insurers are.

Cut 5  (10)  “…valid”

_________________________________________________

COVID-19 mitigation practices like masking, social distancing, and frequent hand washing also decreased other transmissible illnesses like the flu. But LSU Health New Orleans Chief of Infectious Diseases Dr. Julio Figueroa says as mandates relax, we are starting to see a gradual increase in other viruses like the common cold.

Cut 6 (11) “…in May.”

There is no vaccine currently for RSV.

Figueroa says the pandemic put into play real-life examples of how proper mitigation efforts can decrease transmission of communicable diseases, something health officials have touted for years.

Cut 7 (10) “…as well.”

Highly transmissible respiratory viruses in this part of the country, Figueroa says tend to spread faster in the winter months when people gather more indoors versus outside. When asked if we need to return to mitigation practices when we see an uptick in flu cases Figueroa says possibly, however…

Cut 8 (07) “…coming year.”

Figueroa says vaccines, increased hand washing, and staying home when you are sick are the best methods of decreasing the spread of viruses.

_______________________________

House Appropriations advances Senate-approved legislation mandating children who turn five on or before September 30th attend Kindergarten.

The vote was 19-1 with Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews the lone dissenter. He says he’s been bombarded with calls from concerned constituents…

Cut 9 (10) “…that age”

The bill would impact an estimated 2,800 students a year at most, and cost about 11 million dollars extra a year if all of those students went to school instead of being homeschooled. If passed the law would go into effect for the 2022-2023 school year.

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris says 54,000 students are already doing kindergarten every year, so it’s clear nearly all parents understand it is an important step.

Cut 10 (11) “…they need”

According to Department of Education stats, only 49 percent of students are reading on grade level in 1^st grade.

Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields says under his bill if a parent doesn’t want to send their kid to school they can homeschool them but either way they must be educated.

Cut 11 (10) “…nation”

19 states currently mandate Kindergarten attendance including Texas.

____________________________________________

It’s been a wet May, which has made it difficult for cotton farmers. State Cotton Specialist Matt Foster says there have only been a few dry days to plant cotton and a couple of dry days has been followed by several days of rain, limiting the effectiveness of expensive seed treatments

Cut 12 (10)    “…bigger problem” 

Foster says cotton plants have also struggled with cool nighttime temperatures that extended into the middle of May…

Cut 13 (11)“…replanting”

Rain chances for this week are much lower than previous weeks, but Foster says planting cotton later in the season, will mean a later harvest deeper into hurricane season…

Cut 14 (06) “..that crop” 

Foster expects to see more soybean acres and a lower cotton crop because of the wetter than normal May.

Today through Friday job seekers can attend virtual job fairs featuring over 100 employers hosted by the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Erik Piccoli has more

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Erik Piccoli”

_______________________________

State Police has released all of the video evidence they have from their encounter with Ronald Greene in 2019, a Black man who died in police custody. Matt Doyle has the story

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

____________________________

The state health department reports two cases of the India COVID variant have been detected in two coronavirus patients in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

____________________________

The Louisiana Workforce Commission is hosting a virtual job fair every day this week as part of “Workforce Week.”  LWC spokesperson Marina Clay says more than 100 employers will offer thousands of immediate job openings to strengthen Louisiana’s workforce following the pandemic.

Cut 4 (10)”…to work”

Each day jobseekers will be able to meet with an array of different representatives from industries including manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality and tourism, and IT. Clay says applicants can attend multiple days and for those who are unemployed, this would count towards your work search requirement.

Cut 5 (9)”…and its effective”

While over 1000 job seekers have already registered, Clay says there’s still time to sign up on LA works dot net, update your resume and prepare an elevator pitch.

Cut 6 (8)”…a virtual platform”

____________________

The Louisiana Department of Health has issued an alert for healthcare providers in the Alexandria area over a significant increase in the number of new syphilis cases.

Region Six Medical Director Dr. David Holcombe says the number of early syphilis cases among women was up 62 percent from 2019 to 2020…

Cut 7 (11)  “…doubled.”

Alexandria is only 6 percent of the state’s population but accounts for 13 percent of new early syphilis cases and 14 percent of all congenital syphilis cases. The number of new cases has been rising since 2017 where only 43 cases were reported. In 2020 178 cases were reported.

Holcombe says the bacterial infection can spread quickly once it’s out in the community

Cut 8 (10) “…community.”

Those with syphilis will usually see a painless sore growing on their genitals, rectum, or mouth. That will eventually become a rash. Years later those with syphilis can suffer a number of severe impacts to their nervous system, brain, eyes, or heart.

Holcombe says regional medical providers need to be on the lookout…

Cut 9 (11) “…do this” 

___________________________________

State Police has released nine videos from the 2019 arrest of Ronald Greene, a 49-year-old unarmed black man who died in police custody. The videos show the troopers dragged Greene out of his vehicle, repeatedly punched him, and used a stun gun multiple times following a high-speed chase that ended in Union Parish. Superintendent Col. Lamar Davis says the videos are in the hands of state and federal criminal investigators

Cut 10 (09) “…investigation.”

The three troopers involved have been identified as Chris Hollingsworth, Dakota DeMoss and Kory York. Hollingsworth died from a car crash after learning he would be fired. Davis says he intends on firing DeMoss and York received a 50-hour suspension but remains on leave pending state and federal investigations.

The initial report from the traffic stop said Greene died in a car crash following that chase.

Davis would not comment directly on the video but he says new policies will ensure that something like this does not happen again.

Cut 11 (10) “….communties.”

Davis says footage released last week by the AP lacked full context. He hopes releasing all of the footage from the encounter will show his department is committed to transparency.

Cut 12 (12) “…wounds”

Governor Edwards says he supports the decision to release the footage in its entirety. Edwards says the decision was made in consultation with the US Attorney’s Office and the Union Parish DA.

__________________________________

The Louisiana health department has confirmed the state’s first two cases of the India COVID-19 variant. LSU Health Shreveport Virologist Dr. Jeremy Kamil (Camille) says the two cases were detected in Caddo Parish.

Cut 13 (06) “…out there.”

The World Health Organization is concerned about the COVID strain from India, because it is thought to be more transmissible. Kamil says the current COVID-19 vaccines are effective against this variant strain…

Cut 14 (12) “…changing a little bit.”

Kamil says this variant is not completely responsible for the alarming outbreak in India. He says a low percentage of vaccinated individuals is a major factor, along with heavily populated cities and not wearing face masks.

There are now multiple variants of concern circulating in Louisiana. Kamil says the best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated.

Cut 15 (12)“…recover from it.”

To find the nearest vaccine site visit CovidVaccine.LA.gov

________________________________________

LSU is a nine-seed in the SEC Tournament and will play Georgia on Tuesday afternoon after winning their final three conference series to finish with a 13-and-17 league record. The Tigers concluded the regular season with an eight to two win over Texas A-and-M. Zach Arnold hit a two-run homer on Saturday

Cut 16 (15) “…make a run at it.”

LSU got another great start from senior-right hander Ma’Khail Hilliard on Saturday. Hilliard allowed just two runs over seven innings for his sixth win on the season…

Cut 17 (17) “..been doing”

Before the season, LSU was picked to finish fourth in the SEC and they ended up finishing in fourth place. The Tigers are on the bubble to make the NCAA Tournament, but Coach Paul Mainieri is proud of how his team has overcome a lot of challenges this season…

Cut  18 (18)”…what happens.”

_____________________________________________

The Ragin Cajuns won the Sun Belt Western Division title with a two to one win over Troy on Saturday afternoon. Coach Matt Deggs was finally able to catch U-T Arlington on the final day of the regular season…

Cut 19 (19) “…great defense.” 

The Cajuns held Troy to five hits on Saturday and Carson Roccaforte and Drake Osborn each drove in a run. Osborn finished the regular season with a .333 record and has walked more than he struck out. Deggs says the transfer from Texas A-and-M Corpus Christi has been clutch for them this season.

Cut 20 (16) “…when it matters.” 

The Cajuns will take on Texas State in the Sun Belt Tournament on Wednesday night. It’s pool play so the Cajuns will face Appalachian State on Thursday night.

Starting in July a budget airliner will begin offering direct flights out of New Orleans to ten midsized cities in the South and Midwest. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Matt Doyle.” 

____________________________________

A $30-million buyout program to assist a Lake Charles neighborhood is now underway. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (32) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

________________________________________

Governor Edwards says the state is considering implementing a vaccine incentive program similar to efforts in other states.

The number of new vaccinations per week has fallen precipitously from a mid-March high. Edwards says they’re looking into ways to get skeptical Louisianans off the fence…

Cut 3 (10)  “…vaccinated” 

A significant decline in new vaccinations is being seen across the country. Nationwide between April 11^th and May 11^th the average number of weekly vaccinations is down 50 percent.

Ten states have so far adopted incentive programs ranging from lotteries to free beer and even a 100 dollar savings bond. Edwards says they’re carefully studying those efforts.

Cut 4 (12) “..do that” 

Alabama held a mass vaccination event where people who got vaccinated were entered into a raffle for a chance to drive two laps on the Talladega Superspeedway.

Edwards says whatever incentive program they come up with will be on top of ongoing outreach efforts…

Cut 5  (11)  “…ongoing”

_________________________________________________

Senator Bill Cassidy toured parts of Lake Charles this morning to check on the area after widespread flooding Monday and ongoing hurricane recovery efforts. As for helping southwest Louisiana get more federal assistance, Cassidy says he has met with a key person in the Biden administration in hopes of getting the President to sign off.

Cut 6 (09) “…sign it.”

Cassidy says he still sees plenty of standing water in Lake Charles and is aware of the possibility of more flooding in the immediate future. When asked who is against sending aid to the area and what the hurdles are…

Cut 7 (10) “…the need.”

Cassidy says it’s a matter of keeping the issue at the forefront and educating other lawmakers about the magnitude of damage. The state experience three hurricanes in 2020, two major winter storms in February, and now flooding.

Governor Edwards has requested an additional $3-billion for the area and Cassidy says he’s meeting again with a key decision-maker in the Biden administration.

Cut 8 (10) “…working hard.”

Cassidy shared that two staff members who just purchased homes in Baton Rouge flooded this week.

_______________________________

The National Hurricane Center is monitoring a disturbance that has a medium chance of developing into a tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico. National Weather Service in Lake Charles meteorologist Alex Donato says it’ll likely make landfall in Texas or possibly in southwest Louisiana

Cut 9 (8) “…most likely scenario”

Forecasters say the system could produce heavy rainfall which is why a flashflood watch is in effect through tonight for the western half of Louisiana. Donato this is one of two disturbances the National Hurricane Center is monitoring. The other is way out in the Middle of the Atlantic…

Cut 10 (4) “…average this year”

______________________________________

Breeze Airways will begin offering cheap direct flights out of Louis Armstrong in New Orleans into ten mid sizes cities across the Midwest and South.

CEO David Neeleman, who founded Jet Blue, says the flights are inexpensive and often take less than two hours to get to their destination.

Cut 11 (09) “…hub”

Flights to Charleston will begin July 8^th with flights to Louisville, Fayetteville, Richmond, Norfolk, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Akron, Columbus, and Huntsville beginning July 15^th and 16^th.

The Louisiana Department of Economic Development estimates the new routes will create 261 new direct jobs and 877 new indirect jobs throughout the region.

Cut 12 (08)    “…visitors” 

Neeleman says he’s already hearing good things from South Louisianans…

Cut 13 (10)“…much”

________________________

Governor Edwards announces a $30-million buyout program for a Calcasieu Parish neighborhood that has flooded on multiple occasions. Police Jury President Brian Abshire says the funds will be used to purchase homes at fair market value in the Greinwich Terrance neighborhood of Lake Charles.

Cut 14 (13) “…record flood” 

The buyout program is completely optional and Abshire says while he understands relocating and leaving your home is extremely emotional…

Cut 15 (09) “…repair your home.” 

Abshire says many of these residents were in the midst of renovating their homes from the hurricane and were impacted again by flooding Monday.

Homeowners will be approached about the buyout program there is no need to register. Abshire says once the majority of the neighborhood is purchased it will be turned into a green space.

Cut 16 (06) “…the future.” 

The 50-year old neighborhood has approximately 300 homes.

A bill prohibiting the handheld use of a phone when driving finally makes passage out of the house. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

____________________________________

 NOAA is once again predicting an active hurricane season. Erik Picolli reports on how many storms we could see in 2021…

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Erik Piccoli.”  

________________________________________

A bill prohibiting the handheld use of a cellphone when you’re driving makes passage out of the house. Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval’s bill would impose a $25 fine for the first offense and $50 for a second violation.

Cut 3 (11)  “…make a call” 

The use of a handheld device is already prohibited in school zones in Louisiana.

Rep Huval has brought similar legislation in the past and Baton Rouge Representative Denice Marcelle says she supports the bill now because it prohibits police from pulling one for handheld phone use to search their vehicle.

Cut 4 (07) “..with me” 

Use of a Bluetooth and speakerphone is not prohibited in this bill, only handheld use of the device. Oil City Representative Danny McCormick feels the law would hurt criminal justice reform and create a negative interaction between the police and the public.

Cut 5  (11)  “…oppose the bill”

The vote was 76-21 and the bill now heads to the Senate. If the legislation passes Louisiana would join 24 other states with similar laws.

__________________________________________________

Lumber prices have more than tripled over the year amidst a pandemic-driven surge in new home construction and renovation.

LSU Forestry Economist Joseph Chang says new home construction is up about 30 percent from last year and there are more remodeling projects in the works as well.

Cut 6 (12) “…space”

Last year lumber prices were clocked at around 354 dollars per thousand feet of lumber. As of May 18^th that number is up to 1,264 dollars, down from the year’s high of 1,686 earlier this month.

Chang says folks hoping to build or buy new homes are really feeling that lumber price increase…

Cut 7 (07) “…buying”

Despite the increase in lumber prices timber prices for landowners in Louisiana’s expansive forestry industry haven’t changed much due to a major decline in the number of sawmills over the last 15 years.

Chang says his sense is that the price is eventually going to decline, but the question is when…

Cut 8 (11) “…fall”

_______________________________

The NOAA Climate Prediction Center predicts another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Acting NOAA administrator Ben Friedman says between 13 to 20 named storms are expected to form and between six and ten will become hurricanes.

Cut 9 (8) “…miles per hour”

NOAA’s lead season hurricane forecaster Matthew Rosencrans says several factors have been combined for them to predict another active hurricane season…

Cut 10 (10) “…West African monsoon” 

NOAA says El Nino conditions are currently in the neutral phase. When there’s an El Nino it suppresses tropical activity in the Atlantic Ocean. Rosencrans is concerned about the possibility of a La Nina forming later in the hurricane season…

Cut 11 (11) “…predicted ranges”

A record 30 named storms formed in 2020.

_________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s not looking to continue his political career after his term ends in 2024.

Edwards says he does not anticipate that he will continue in public life as an elected official once his second term ends.

Cut 12 (07)    “…sector” 

Edwards says he’s also not considering running for any other office before this term ends, such as the US Senate race next year.

Cut 13 (12)“…term”

Edwards says there have been no conversations about him leaving Louisiana to join President Biden’s cabinet, but…

Cut 14 (10) “…consider” 

The Louisiana House has voted for a bill that would increase hunting and fishing licenses starting next year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

____________________________________

Legislation allowing anyone 21 and older without a felony record to concealed carry a handgun without a permit is headed to the House for final passage. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle.”  

________________________________________

The Louisiana House approves legislation to increase certain hunting and fishing license fees, raising millions of dollars for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says a fee hike is necessary because LDWF can no longer rely on a pot of money from the Conversation Fund

Cut 3 (10)  “…practically depleted” 

The vote was 79-20 in favor of restructuring Louisiana’s hunting and fishing licenses. The measure still needs Senate approval. Bacala says if they do not raise fees, then the state would have to take money from the general fund to pay for the operations of LDWF

Cut 4 (04) “..be given” 

Bacala says the average sportsmen’s license will not go up by more than 10-dollars and some activities will be combined. He says the commercial fishermen’s rates have been in place since 1986

Cut 5  (09)  “…state resource”

If the Senate approves Bacala’s bill, half of the rate increases would start on June 1, 2022, the remaining half would kick in two years later.

__________________________________________________

A House committee advances Senate-approved legislation that would do away with the need to get a permit to carry a concealed handgun.

The bill is opposed by the Louisiana Chiefs of Police Association, but West Monroe Senator Jay Morris says not all law enforcement are against his bill, including his chief of police…

Cut 6 (08) “…criminals”

The bill also includes language requiring the state to offer an optional free-of-charge 60-minute online training course teaching concealed carry basics including use of deadly force, interaction with law enforcement, and firearm-free zones.

Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle says this will only result in more untrained gun owners carrying in public.

Cut 7 (09) “…this bill.”

Morris says “Constitutional Carry” legislation is about protecting your 2^nd Amendment rights and liberties…

Cut 8 (09) “…permission”

If passed those under 21 and those with felony records would not be allowed to concealed carry.

Representative Frederick Jones echoed other Black lawmakers in saying passing this bill would put law enforcement on edge and result in more police shootings of Black people.

Cut 9 (09) “…a gun”

The final vote was 6-4 in favor. The bill heads to the House floor for final passage. Governor Edwards has vowed to veto the legislation if it makes it to his desk.

___________________________________

A bill mandating trauma training for all public-school teachers, counselors, and administrators passed unanimously through House Education. Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson’s bill requires instruction on how to recognize childhood trauma and address their needs.

Cut 10 (10) “…at home” 

Jackson says the one-hour class will be taught during in-service days for instructors so it will not be an unfunded mandate on education. Baton Rouge Representative Barbara Freiberg questioned if one hour was enough to instruct such a class. Jackson expressed she hopes class time will be extended in the future when they can dedicate funding for the class. Freiberg praised Jackson’s efforts.

Cut 11 (03) “…good”

New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman also voiced support of the bill and Jackson’s forethought to have the training added to the current in-service structure for educators.

Cut 12 (10)    “…abusive household” 

Jackson says the bill is also endorsed by First Lady Donna Edwards. Senate Bill 211 now heads to the house floor for final debate.

___________________________

Seacor Power salvage crews have managed to remove all of the vessel’s diesel fuel stores, averting potential environmental contamination.

Coast Guard Petty Officer Cory Mendenhall says crews managed to remove over 20,300 gallons of diesel from the fuel storage tanks, but about 4,500 gallons of hydraulic fluid remain…

Cut 13 (09)“…vessel”

Mendenhall says they’re now moving from the environmental response to a salvage phase that will involve raising the vessel and getting it back to port.

Cut 14 (11) “…crews” 

No there is currently no timetable for when they expect to raise the vessel, but Mendenhall does not expect it to happen before June at the earliest.

Seven crew members remain missing. Mendenhall says the National Transportation Safety Board is taking point in investigating those crewmembers’ whereabouts.

Cut 15 (06) “…continue.” 

Nineteen crew members were on board at the time the Seacor Power encountered rough weather and capsized April 13^th. Six crew were rescued and six bodies have been recovered.

Lake Charles recorded its heaviest amount of rainfall on Monday according to the National Weather Service, Brooke Thorington has more from Mayor Nic Hunter as the city is still rebuilding after two hurricanes.

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

____________________________________

Chalmette Representative Ray Garofalo is out as House Education Chairman. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

________________________________________

Over a foot of rain fell over parts of Lake Charles and Baton Rouge yesterday as a result of a slow-moving storm system. State Climatologist Barry Keim says Lake Charles is once again dealing with storm damage

Cut 3 (14)  “…that flooded” 

In the Baton Rouge area, nearly 15 inches of rain fell in Gonzales and more heavy rainfall is expected through Thursday. Keim says warm air off the Gulf of Mexico is colliding with the upper atmosphere to produce strong thunderstorms capable of dumping a lot of water…

Cut 4 (10) “..over and over again” 

Keim says Louisiana has seen its share of major flood events in May. He says the two that come to mind are the May 3rd flood in 1978 in New Orleans and the May 8th to 10th 1995 flood in Slidell

Cut 5  (10)  “…of events”

__________________________________________________

Lake Charles recorded the third heaviest rainfall in history according to the National Weather Service, with more than a foot of rain Monday, and that includes Hurricanes Laura and Delta. Mayor Nic Hunter says he’s not a scientist but three major weather events in less than nine months are evidence of climate change.

Cut 6 (12) “…100 years (x2)”

It was 264 days ago that the city was hit with Hurricane Laura, then just over a month later Delta. Hunter says it’s ridiculous that they have yet to receive commiserate federal response to the 2020 hurricanes.

Cut 7 (12) “…response.”

Hunter says he’s not saying the city wouldn’t have flooded Monday if they had received federal aid sooner, but the lack of response is unfathomable.

With three major weather events in less than eight months, Hunter says some residents are facing now a third renovation of their homes.

Cut 8 (08) “…for citizens”

Hunter says congressional leaders continue to tell him they are fighting for funding to assist southwest Louisiana.

___________________________________

The historic rainfall that swamped Lake Charles and Baton Rouge last night left many residents stranded in their cars and homes as floodwaters rose rapidly yesterday and early this morning.

State Fire Marshal’s spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says their long day began early Monday as marshals were called in to help assist local authorities in Lake Charles…

Cut 9 (12) “…flooded in”

The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reports having to rescue 110 people in southwest Louisiana yesterday. Rodrigue says so far marshals have rescued nearly 100 themselves…

Cut 10 (08) “..people” 

This weather event is expected to last at least another day and Rodrigue is asking residents to stay off the road if they can and stay away from any flooded streets.

Cut 11 (11) “…out”

___________________________

State Representative Ray Garofalo says he’s out as House Education Chairman. The Legislative Black Caucus asked for Garofalo’s removal after he said there was good with slavery to go along with the bad and ugly. La-Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says House Speaker Clay Schexnayder did not give any indication this move would occur

Cut 12 (09)    “…on this” 

Alford says there was pressure to make a move with Garofalo as House Education Chair because the Black Caucus threatened not to support the Republicans’ tax reform plans. But he says now that Garofalo is out, they still might not support it

Cut 13 (09)“…tax rate”

Garofalo made his controversial comment about slavery on April 26th. Alford says since then racial tensions have been high when that committee meets and Garofalo has tried to keep a low profile…

Cut 14 (10) “…come back in” 

No word on who will replace Garofalo as House Education Chairman.

_____________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards says severe weather yesterday and early this morning is suspected to be responsible for four deaths so far in the Baton Rouge area.

Edwards says a suspected weather-related incident in West Baton Rouge Parish claimed one life, injured another, and resulted in one missing person. Just across the river…

Cut 15 (11) “…Bluebonnet.” 

Edwards says two additional deaths in Baton Rouge may be related to power outages.

Edwards says this weather event is expected to continue into tonight but unlike the 2016 Flood…

Cut 16 (12) “…quickly” 

Former Louisiana Governor Buddy Roemer died this morning in Baton Rouge at the age of 77. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

____________________________________

The US Supreme Court rules 6-3 that a prior ruling deeming non-unanimous jury verdicts unconstitutional is not retroactive. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Matt Doyle.”  

________________________________________

Former Louisiana Governor Buddy Roemer has passed away at the age of 77. Roemer was Louisiana’s governor from 1988 to 1991. Before that, he served as a U-S Representative for over seven years. His former chief of staff Len Sanderson says Roemer was a compelling person

Cut 3 (10)  “…electric personality” 

Roemer was known as a reformer and his Roemer Revolution talk helped him defeat Edwin Edwards in the 1987 governor’s race. Sanderson says one of Roemer’s big successes during his one term in office was changes to campaign finance laws…

Cut 4 (12) “..be reported. 

Roemer signed the bill that legalized riverboat gaming, he also worked to improve the state’s environment. But his tax reform plan was rejected by the voters and Sanderson says his administration also had to cut the budget as a result of a large deficit…

Cut 5  (10)  “…would like to”

__________________________________________________

The temporary shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline only highlighted the truck driver shortage. Louisiana Motor Transport Association Executive Director Renee Amar says the driver shortage was already an issue well before the pandemic, at least 15 years, and they need tens of thousands of drivers monthly.

Cut 6 (11) “…truckdrivers”

During the pandemic, the need for tank truck drivers decreased and many found other employment opportunities.

Amar says due to the aging population of experienced drivers many chose to retire early and that only added to the shortage. She says consumers should expect to see an increase in prices and….

Cut 7 (10) “…issues there.”

Amar says the industry is paying higher wages and bonuses to retain and entice drivers and the costs will be passed on to consumers.

Amar says there’s legislation to help train potential CDL-licensed drivers and the association is also looking at scholarships to entice more drivers to the workforce.

Cut 8 (09) “…those trucks”

___________________________________

The National Weather Service says 10 to 13 inches of rain has fallen in some parts of southwest Louisiana today. Numerous roads are closed in the Lake Charles area and there are reports of rainwater getting into homes. Meteorologist Donald Jones says more rain is on its way

Cut 9 (10) “…as well”

A flash flood watch is in effect for southwest Louisiana through Thursday night. The watch box also includes Alexandria, Lafayette, and Morgan City.

Cut 10 (07) “..few days” 

Jones says after dealing with two major hurricanes and a winter storm in the last year, a flooding event is the last thing they need in this area…

Cut 11 (10) “…as well”

___________________________

The US Supreme Court rules that those convicted in the past on non-unanimous jury verdicts will not automatically get a retrial.

The decision states that a prior ruling deeming non-unanimous jury verdicts unconstitutional is not retroactive. Attorney Andre Belanger argued for retroactivity, calling the 6-3 decision unfair…

Cut 12 (11)   “…factor” 

About 1,500 Louisiana convictions would have to have been retried if the ruling went the other way, but Belanger says the Court did leave the door open for state and local action.

Cut 13 (09)“…verdict”

There’s also legislation that is currently in committee that would make the unconstitutionality of non-unanimous verdicts retroactive.

Attorney General Jeff Landry argued ordering retrials would threaten the convictions of many violent criminals…

Cut 14 (08) “…rule of law” 

Belanger counters Landry’s argument…

Cut 15 (11) “…verdict.” 

Before the US Supreme Court ruled that non-unanimous verdicts were unconstitutional and rooted in old racist policy the state passed an amendment that ended the use of non-unanimous verdicts, but did not apply it retroactively.

Legislation allowing St. Tammany residents to vote on whether a casino should be built on the water in Slidell is approved by the House. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 1 (33) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

____________________________________

An LSU legend has retired from playing basketball. Brooke Thorington looks back at the career of future Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Seimone Augustus

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

________________________________________

Senator Bill Cassidy says news of the revised CDC guidelines that fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear face masks or socially distance is long overdue. Cassidy voiced his frustration publicly at a hearing in DC this week and the physician believes the federal agency is behind the curve.

Cut 3 (11)  “…most Americans” 

Cassidy says when various studies show that fully vaccinated individuals are unable to transmit the virus to others it is past due to change recommendations and he doesn’t understand the CDC’s delay.

Cut 4 (05) “…American people. 

Cassidy says this is another valid reason for individuals to get fully vaccinated. He says this should be a relief for parents who are now able to now have their teenagers vaccinated and no longer worry if they are masked or not.

Cut 5  (11)  “…vaccinated”

The state department of health says approximately 30-percent of Louisianans are fully vaccinated.

__________________________________________________

The House approves legislation that would allow St. Tammany voters the chance to vote on whether or not a waterfront casino should be built just outside Slidell.

The bill was brought by Slidell Representative Mary DuBuisson who quoted recent survey results indicating local support for the right to vote on the issue.

Cut 6 (10) “…reality”

The casino would be constructed at the foot of the twin spans on Lake Ponchartrain just outside Slidell city limits.

DuBuisson says a 2009 Gaming Control Board study shows Louisiana loses about 3.2 million people per year to Mississippi casinos.

Cut 7 (11) “…Louisiana.”

DuBuisson says approving this project would also help cut down on casino oversaturation in the Bossier City market. The current proposal by P2E would result in the closure of DiamondJacks in Bossier and the relocation of that license to St. Tammany Parish.

Opponents argue the casino would result in increased human trafficking and immoral behavior in Slidell. Covington Representative Mark Wright addressed those concerns…

Cut 8 (12) “…a vote”

The final vote was 63-28 in favor, but a similar bill in the Senate has not received approval from the Senate Finance Committee.

_________

Gas prices in Louisiana continue to rise as AAA spokesperson Donal Redman says the statewide average is 2.72 a gallon for regular gasoline, which is up eight cents in the last week.  While other parts of the country are impacted by the temporary shutdown of the Colonial pipeline, Redman says that isn’t the case for Louisiana.

Cut 9 (09) “…pipeline”

Redman says there’s enough gasoline to meet the increasing demand for fuel. He says a big issue at the moment is distribution…

Cut 10 (11) “..truck drivers.” 

Redman expects gas prices to inch up a few more pennies as we get closer to the first big holiday weekend of the summer, Memorial Day…

Cut 11 (08) “…June”

___________________________

Baton Rouge high school basketball sensation, LSU legend and WNBA superstar Seimone Augustus has retired at the age of 37. Augustus received national attention when she was in the sixth grade and the voice of the Lady Tigers Patrick Wright says Augustus became a household name during an All-American career at LSU

Cut 12 (08)   “…of Baton Rouge” 

Augustus led LSU to a 121-19 record from 2002 to 2006, including three straight final four appearances. The Lady Tigers also went to the Final Four two straight years after she left. Wright says Augustus went on to win four WNBA titles…

Cut 13 (09)“…way around”

Wright says Augustus was a phenom that lived up to the hype

Cut 14 (12) “..did it” 

Augustus played 15 seasons in the W-N-B-A and will now serve as an assistant for the Los Angeles Sparks.