Another election integrity bill is making its way through the legislature; and given the lack of opposition in committee, the odds are pretty good that it will end up on the governor’s desk. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A Senate committee approves legislation that provides a new legal remedy for people incarcerated under non-unanimous jury verdicts.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A bill that would ban wagering on the outcomes of elections advances to the full Senate; and given the unanimous vote in the Governmental Affairs Committee, the odds are strong that it could end up on Governor Landry’s desk. Secretary of State Nancy Landry testified in support of the bill, saying people with a money stake on elections will go to great lengths to ensure a certain outcome by illicit means.

Cut 3 (10) “…of an election.” 

Secretary Landry notes that such a rule already exists for election staff.

Cut 4 (12) “…should apply statewide.”

Landry says Louisiana already has some of the most secure elections in the state, and she wants to keep it that way.

Cut 5 (06) “…to stay there.”

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A teenager is under arrest for the murder of a man outside an Amazon distribution center in Baton Rouge. Homicide detectives arrested 18-year-old Karl Nash in connection with the shooting death of 21-year-old Daylon Anthony. BRPD Sergeant Darren Ahmed says Nash turned himself in.

Cut 6 (05) “…violent crimes unit office.”

Investigators say the two men were involved in a verbal and physical altercation outside the distribution center Monday night.  Ahmed says Anthony was pronounced dead at the scene.

Cut 7 (07) “…December 2024.”

Nash has been charged with Second Degree Murder and Illegal Use of a Weapon and is currently booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Jail. Ahmed says the investigation remains ongoing as detectives gather evidence.

Cut 8 (11) “…as we speak.”

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The number of students accepting TOPS funding has been going down for a few years. Commissioner of Higher Education Kim Hunter Reed says one requirement is that students attend a college within the state of Louisiana, and many students are being lured to other states.

Cut 9 (09)  “…now for students.”

Reed says another reason is that some students decide not to continue their education beyond high school.

Cut 10 (12) “…to be eligible.”

Reed says the trend started taking a U-turn a few years ago.

Cut 11 (09) “…program has declined.”

Reed notes that there are bills in the legislature designed to make Louisiana a more competitive state for college-bound students and to ensure an affordable path to higher education.

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New Orleans Senator Royce Duplessis has a bill that aims to provide a new legal remedy for people incarcerated under non-unanimous jury verdicts—also known as Jim Crow juries. The bill passed a Senate committee on a 5-1 vote and it now heads to the Senate floor. Promise of Justice initiative Attorney Claude Michael Comeau says it would allow individuals convicted by non-unanimous juries to seek post-conviction relief.

Cut 12 (05) “…a new trial.”

Comeau says the Louisiana Supreme Court previously declined to apply non-unanimous verdicts retroactively, leaving around 800 people without relief. Comeau says SB218 is a necessary step to address historic injustices and ensure fair trials for all Louisianans.

Cut 13 (10)  “…doing the right thying.”

Lafourche Parish District Attorney Kristine Russell focused on Child Abuse cases for 20 years and says when she looks at her non-unanimous verdicts it wasn’t a question of guilt.

Cut 14 (14) “…not guilty.”

Russell is concerned what this proposed law will mean for victims, who may have to face their offender again in court if they were previously guilty on a 10-2 or 11-1 decision…

Cut 15 (10) “…at the time.”

The bill moved to the full Senate for debate.

In a Senate committee hearing, lawmakers passed a bill that would ban kratom, an unregulated product that has stimulant effects in small doses and opioid effects in larger doses. Now the bill heads to the Senate floor. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A first-degree murder against a death-row inmate has been thrown out. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Amtrak is getting ready to launch the Mardi Gras Service running twice daily between New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A bill that would ban the sale of kratom was approved and moves to the Senate floor. Senate Bill 154 is authored by Monroe Republican Jay Morris.

Cut 4 (12) “…and to individuals.”

David Lebrano supports the bill and spoke to the dangers of the drug.  Lebrano’s son died from an apparent kratom overdose, and he hopes to prevent others from experiencing this pain.

Cut 5 (11) “…gas station, headshops, anywhere.”

Critics like kratom user and advocate Wednesday Forrest-Bear says the ban will take away from people using the product medicinally and help manage pain.

Cut 6 (06) “…regulate.”

Another opponent of the bill is Adam Peak, the owner of Bella Sunrise Smoke Shop. He says kratom has been a net positive, helping with overcoming addiction to other drugs and alcohol.

Cut 7 (11) “…an issue of kratom.”

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A man who has spent more than a quarter century on death row in connection with the death of his girlfriend’s nearly two-year-old daughter has had his first-degree murder conviction thrown out. In 1998, Jimmie Duncan was convicted of first-degree murder for the 1993 death of little Haley Oliveaux. Richard Webster, who’s been covering the story for ProPublica, says Duncan’s conviction was due in large part to testimony from forensic dentist Michael West and pathologist Steven Hayne that experts say is junk science.

Cut 8 (14) “…to Jimmie Duncan.”

Webster says West and Hayne’s conclusions led prosecutors to up the charges to first-degree murder, which ultimately led to Duncan’s death sentence. Webster says new evidence led Ouachita Parish District Judge Alvin Sharp to reconsider the conviction.

Cut 9 (19)  “…her to drown.”

Right now, even though his first-degree murder conviction has been thrown out, Duncan remains behind bars. Webster says the big question now is – to what degree, if any, is Duncan culpable for Haley’s death?

Cut 10 (19) “…newly-uncovered evidence.”

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Senator Bill Cassidy is hailing the 17-and-a-half-billion-dollar investment that Woodside Energy Group is making in Louisiana. The Australian-based company announced yesterday that it is putting up a greenfield liquified natural gas export facility in Calcasieu Parish. Cassidy says that plot of land is going to yield thousands of new jobs.

Cut 11 (11) “…year once operational.”

Woodside’s announcement is the fourth major economic development announcement in the last several months, including a ten-billion-dollar Meta A-I data center near Monroe and a six-billion-dollar investment by Hyundai to build a steel plant in Ascension Parish. Cassidy says it all shows that Louisiana is open for business.

Cut 12 (11) “…can be brighter.”

Cassidy notes that this is the first greenfield LNG export facility to advance since President Trump rolled back the Biden administration’s pause on LNG export permits.

Cut 13 (14)  “…celebrate 100 days.”

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Amtrak will launch a new intercity train service, the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service, this summer, running twice daily between New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama. It will also have four stops in Mississippi — Bay Saint Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula. Southern Rail Commission Chairman Knox Ross says it’s a long time coming.

Cut 14 (13) “…and Mobile.”

Named to reflect the Gulf Coast’s rich Mardi Gras culture, the trains will offer scenic, comfortable travel with morning and evening departures. Passengers will enjoy connections to other major Amtrak routes, such as the City of New Orleans, Crescent, and Sunset Limited. The service aims to boost tourism, improve regional connectivity, and support local economies.

Cut 15 (12) “…from Baton Rouge.”

Leaders from all three states hailed the initiative as a milestone in Gulf Coast development, made possible through bipartisan support and partnerships with the Southern Rail Commission. Ross says the target date for the launch is mid-July.

Cut 16 (12) “…piece of track.”

Louisiana is once again participating in the federal SUN Bucks program. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The House has approves measures that seek to lower the payouts car accident victims receive in court. Jeff Palermo reports that supporters say the legal reforms will help drive down auto insurance rates…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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More than 30,000 residents in Bossier and Caddo parishes were left without power for six hours on Saturday, prompting Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell to demand answers from SWEPCO and the Southwest Power Pool. About what happened and who is paying for it:

Cut 3 (11) “…pay for that?” 

The outage, ordered by SPP to prevent a broader grid failure, came without warning and has raised serious concerns from residents and business owners. SPP President Lanny Nickell says they take responsibility and their role in the emergency outage.

Cut 4 (13) “…from reoccurring.”

Campbell stated that while he’s not looking to assign blame, he wants clear answers and solutions. SWEPCO President and CEO Brett Mattison says the outage was a last-resort response to instability caused by planned maintenance.

Cut 5 (08) “…specific area.”

Mattison says they can’t guarantee this will not happen again when temperatures soar above 90-degrees.

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Governor Landry announces yet another major economic development project for Louisiana.

Cut 6 (17) “…in Southwest Louisiana.”

(Woodside Energy Group is investing $17.5 billion investment to build a new LNG facility in Calcasieu Parish)

Woodside Energy is an Australian-based company, and their 17-billion dollar investment in Calcasieu Parish is the largest single foreign direct investment in Louisiana history. It’s also the first greenfield LNG export facility to advance since President Trump rolled back the Biden administration’s pause on LNG export permits.

Executive Vice President Daniel Kalms says he’s proud that the company is making such a huge investment in Louisiana.

Cut 7 (13) “…sector this year.”

Governor Landry says the project will create about 15-thousand jobs during construction and thousands more once the facility is up and running.

Cut 8 (10) “…their incomes raised.”

The announcement comes on the heels of prior economic development announcements, including a ten-billion-dollar Meta A-I data center near Monroe and a six-billion-dollar investment by Hyundai to build a steel plant in Ascension Parish. Construction is already underway, and the goal is to have it up and running in 2029.

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Louisiana is once again participating in the federal SUN Bucks program. The program provides eligible children between the ages of five and 18, 120-dollars to use on food during the summer months when they’re out of school. Tim Jenkins, the economic stability director for the Department of Children and Family Services, says for those already receiving SNAP benefits, there’s nothing that they need to do.

Cut 9 (09)  “…household SNAP card.”

Jenkins says those participating in other programs will get a new SUN Bucks card sent to them.

Cut 10 (13) “…the child’s name.”

Jenkins says families have only 122 days – about four months – to use the 120 dollars, and the money may only be used for certain food items.

Cut 11 (09) “…nothing like that.”

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The Louisiana House has approved bills that seek to reduce the big payouts car accident victims receive after filing a lawsuit. One of those measures is Baton Rouge Representative Emily Chenevert’s (SHEN-UH-VAIR) bill, which says if a driver is 51-percent or more at fault for a wreck, they are not entitled to damages. She says states with lower insurance rates have this law…

Cut 12 (12) “…claim for damages.”

Chenevert says the bill would reduce frivolous lawsuits and called it a common-sense change…

Cut 13 (12)  “…cover that.”

The bill passed on a 67-26 vote and it has the support of insurance companies.

The House also approved a medical transparency bill. House Bill 34 by Slidell Republican Brian Glorioso would make medical costs admissible in court, so the judge and jury know exactly how much a person injured in a wreck paid in medical costs…

Cut 14 (07) “…consider it.”

Both of these bills head to a Senate committee for further consideration.

State lawmakers are attempting to ban the sale of kratom at gas stations and smoke shops. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Two new buildings are coming to Louisiana Tech. Colleen Crain reports

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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If you’ve ever said you could do a better job than the legislature at balancing the budget, now’s your chance to put up or shut up. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana lawmakers are debating the future of kratom, an herbal substance with stimulating or sedating effects sold in gas stations and smoke shops. Monroe Senator Jay Morris, seeks a total ban, citing safety concerns and support from law enforcement. Possession could lead to fines or prison. Morris argues that if it’s a medicine, it should have FDA approval.

Cut 4 (11) “…sold in Louisiana.”

Morris says kratom can be addictive, causing hallucinations, nausea and even death.  He says medical professionals are even seeing babies born addicted to the substance.

Cut 5 (06) “…legal substance.”

Some parishes have issued bans amid reports of overdoses and misuse, prompting broader discussions on kratom’s legal status, public safety, and potential therapeutic value.  Morris says some use kratom to manage pain, which is exactly what opioids do.

Cut 6 (12) “…approved as a drug.”

The Louisiana District Attorneys Association and the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association support Morris’s bill.

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Two new buildings are under construction at Louisiana Tech. One of them is the new Origin Bank Academic Center for Student Athlete Success. University President Jim Henderson says it will be located adjacent to Joe Aillet Stadium, and it will help give student-athletes the academic resources they need to be successful in the classroom.

Cut 7 (11) “…are fully supported.”

Henderson says the other one is the Forest Products Innovation Center on the south campus that houses ag and forestry.

Cut 8 (10) “…using yellow pine.”

Henderson says the Forest Products Innovation Center will expand the school’s research capacity.

Cut 9 (07)  “…in the country.”

Both buildings are expected to open in the fall of 2026.

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If you’ve ever said you could do a better job balancing the budget than the elected officials you repeatedly insult on social media, you’re now invited to put your money — make that the state’s money — where your mouth is. PAR, LSU and The Advocate have all teamed up to launch the online game, “Solve The Budget.” PAR President Steven Procopio says it covers many aspects of the state budget.

Cut 10 (10) “…things like that.”

Procopio says you can also decide which facets of education to spend money on and which ones to cut.

Cut 11 (10) “…and university spending.”

Procopio says one practical purpose behind this exercise is to illustrate how daunting of a task it is for the legislature to balance the budget. While the task in Baton Rouge is very intense, the Solve The Budget game makes it easy for you by asking simple yes or no questions, each with a dollar figure of how much the item will cost or how much it will increase revenue by.

Cut 12 (09) “…areas to cut.”

With every decision you make, a line graph at the top shows you how much your surplus or deficit is. The game will remain live throughout the rest of the legislative session.

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The LSU Tigers took two of three from Tennessee in a matchup of the last two College World Series Champions. Freshman left fielder Derek Curiel nearly hit for the cycle yesterday as the Tigers won 12 to 2 in eight innings. One day after failing to reach base in a game for the first time this season, Curiel went 4-for-4 with a homer, two doubles and five RBI…

Cut 13 (13)  “…going forward.”

LSU improved to 36-9 overall, 14-7 in the SEC. After only getting a total of ten hits in the first two games of the series, the Tigers scored a dozen runs against one of the top pitching staffs in the nation. Coach Jay Johnson liked his team’s approach…

Cut 14 (09) “…good plan.”

The other story in Sunday’s run-rule victory was freshman right-hander Casan Evans, who allowed just two runs over six innings in his first collegiate start. Evans settled down after giving up two runs in the first inning…

Cut 15 (15) “…after that.”

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The Saints have added a quarterback to their roster. They used a second-round pick to select Tyler Shough (“shuck”). He’s 25 years old, played seven seasons of college football with three different schools, and suffered three significant injuries. Coach Kellen Moore says they came away more impressed every time they interacted with Shough during the draft process.

Cut 16 (20) “…he was.”

Shough says it’s been a long journey to get to this point so it was surreal when he got the call from the New Orleans Saints ….

Cut 17 (15)  “…earn it.”

The Saints added depth to their defensive secondary with the selection of Jonas Sanker. Moore says there is a lot to like about Sanker as he was a three-year starter at Virginia, a team captain and led the ACC in tackles for two straight seasons…

cut 18 (19)  “…this guy.”

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At the TPC Louisiana in Avondale, Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin are your 2025 Zurich Classic champions. The two finished at 28 under par, one stroke better than brothers Nicolai and Rasmus Hojgaard (HOE-guard). The first and third rounds were played using the best-ball format, while teammates alternated shots in the second and fourth rounds. This is the first PGA win for both Novak and Griffin; and Griffin said after some recent close shaves, this first win is very gratifying.

Cut 19 (14) “…get it done.”

Novak and Griffin were tied throughout much of the final round with their playing partners, Jake Knapp and Frankie Cappan the Third. But the pivotal moment of the tournament came on the 17th hole when Novak and Griffin birdied, while Knapp and Cappan bogied. Novak says after watching Cappan hit his tee shot in the water, that gave his team the opening they needed, and he made sure not to repeat the mistake Cappan made on the tee.

Cut 20 (20) “…on the wind.”

Novak’s tee shot ended up on the fringe, and Griffin sank the 36-foot put for the birdie to put the pair up by two strokes and effectively seal the win. The Hojgaard brothers birdied the 18th to leapfrog Knapp and Cappan and finish second. With the win, Novak and Griffin each take home more than 1.3-million dollars.

Thanks to a 35-3 vote by the Senate, a bill cracking down on “left-lane camping” is zooming over to the House. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A bill to ban fluoride in drinking water advances to the full Senate. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Less than a month after voters rejected a constitutional amendment that included permanent teacher pay raises, Louisiana lawmakers are advancing a bill to increase teacher salaries.  Lafayette Representative Josh Carlson’s bill, approved by the House Education Committee, would require school districts to use savings from eliminating three state trust funds to provide $2,000 raises for teachers and $1,000 for support staff.

Cut 3 (10) “…able to do it.” 

These trust fund eliminations would pay off debts in the teacher retirement system, saving districts money. A companion bill from Carencro representative Julie Emerson was designed to simplify the proposal in response to criticism that the prior Amendment 2 was too complex.

Cut 4 (09) “…teacher pay raise there.”

If both bills pass, voters must again approve the change. Concerns remain about whether some districts can afford the raises, but lawmakers have pledged state subsidies for those needing support. Unlike the original amendment, charter school teachers would also be eligible for raises. Laplace Representative Sylvia Taylor supports the bill and says these changes are crucial.

Cut 5 (08) “…wait on a whim.”

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This season, LSU Shreveport baseball is invincible – literally. 44 games, 44 wins – and many by lopsided scores. Head Coach Brad Neffendorf says his team has really gelled this year.

Cut 6 (14) “…pretty well together.”

Looking at their results, one three-game series really jumps out at you. In late March, the Pilots swept Texas College by the scores of – we’re not making this up – 37-0, 15-0 and 42-4. Never mind home runs, this team scores touchdowns! Neffendorf says one challenge amid such dominance is not to let the team get over-confident.

Cut 7 (09) “…can be beat.”

The Pilots don’t win 44 games in a row without sheer talent, and Coach Neffendorf says his team is loaded with talent, especially Josh Gibson.

Cut 8 (12) “…high-caliber athlete.”

The 44-game winning streak is the longest in NAIA history, and it’s longer than the current NCAA Division One record of 34, set in 1977 by Texas and equaled in 1999 by Florida Atlantic. It matches the Division Three record set by Trinity College of Connecticut in 2008, but it’s two wins shy of the overall four-year collegiate record – Division Two’s Savannah State, which won 46 in a row in 2000. LSU Shreveport can surpass that mark by sweeping Jarvis Christian in Texas this weekend.

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The full Senate has approved legislation cracking down on “left-lane camping,” the act of lingering in the passing lane.  Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau hailed it as “the most important bill of the session,” asserting it would ease traffic flow and reduce road rage.

Cut 9 (13)  “…kind of stuff.”

During the debate, Sen. Royce Duplessis brought levity to the moment by suggesting a theme song, referencing Ludacris’ famous anthem.

Cut 10 (12) “…fitting for this bill”

Current law says a vehicle can not travel less than 10-miles per hour below the speed limit in the left lane of a four-lane highway. Luneau’s proposal changes current law allowing, police officers to ticket motorists who are traveling at or below the speed limit and not looking to pass vehicles in the right.

First time offenders of the proposed law would face a fine of up to 150-dollars. Monroe Senator Stewart Cathey jokingly suggested a harsher punishment.

Cut 11 (11) “…pass this.”

The full Senate approved the bill on a 35-3 vote. It now heads to the House for further consideration.

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The Senate Health and Welfare Committee has advanced a bill that would ban fluoride in drinking water. The bill was written by Houma Republican Mike Fesi, who echoed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in saying that fluoride is poison.

Cut 12 (12) “…into our water.”

Surgeon General Dr. Ralph Abraham says excessive levels of fluoride have been shown to lower IQs in babies. He calls it an issue of freedom of choice.

Cut 13 (10)  “…as a physician.”

Opponents, however, say fluoride has proven to be beneficial when used at the right concentration. Baton Rouge pediatric dentist Dr. Robert Delarosa says when fluoride is added to drinking water at the recommended limit of point-seven milligrams per liter, it is an important tool to fight tooth decay. 

Cut 14 (17) “…special needs.”

Annette Droddy, who represents the Louisiana Dental Association’s 19-hundred dentists, says when cities remove fluoride from their drinking water, tooth decay goes up.

Cut 15 (09) “…removal of fluoride.”

The vote was 6-to-3, along party lines.

Governor Landry is backing legislation that would result stricter advertising standards for personal injury attorneys, but is the proposed law constitutional. Sean Richardson spoke with a legal expert…

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The House Ways and Means Committee rejected a proposal to increase tax on tobacco cigarettes, but that same panel approves a state tax hike on vape products and e-cigarettes. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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A bill to ban speed cameras in Louisiana advances to the full Senate. If passed, prosecutors would be allowed to file malfeasance charges against government officials in cities that use them. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The House Commerce Committee will soon consider a bill by Mandeville Republican Kim Carver to tighten rules on personal injury attorney advertising. Supporters, including Governor Landry, say it will reduce frivolous lawsuits and lower auto insurance costs.  But critics, including LSU media law professor Will Mari, argue that the U-S Supreme Court has already weighed in on previous efforts.

Cut 4 (11) “…First Amendment protection.”

Mari notes that Louisiana already enforces stricter advertising rules than many states and calls HB430 largely redundant.

Cut 5 (11) “…400 miles away.”

The bill also prohibits the use of slogans, and Mari says this is a red herring and says it would be like restricting restaurants from using catchphrases.

Cut 6 (08) “…hard to justify.”

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The House Ways and Means Committee approves legislation to increase the state tax on vapes and e-cigarettes, but the same panel did not approve a bill to increase Louisiana’s tax on tobacco cigarettes. The vote against the cigarette tax hike was 7-to-4. But Vacherie Representative Ken Brass’s legislation to raise the tax on vapes and e-cigarettes passed on a 9-to-6 vote. Brass says a higher tax will result in a drop in usage for these harmful products.

Cut 7 (07) “…health care costs.”

Democrats on the committee voted for Brass’s bill, while Republicans were split. Bossier City Representative Dennis Hamburg knows there’s a large percentage of teens smoking vapes and e-cigarettes and if it costs more, it can reduce the percentage of minors using these products.

Cut 8 (07) “…little bit.”

A representative from the American Lung Association testified and said one out of four middle school students and one out of three high school students are using tobacco products and a majority are vaping. Eric Weinzettle says for every ten-percent increase in prices, consumption will drop 13 to 22 percent among youth.

But Mandeville Representative Jay Galle’ is not a believer in those statistics.

Cut 9 (10)  “…there’s that.”

Galle’ says if the sales tax is increased, he anticipates teenagers finding other ways to get their hands on vaping products.

Cut 10 (06) “…my concerns.”

Brass’s legislation could have a hearing in front of House Appropriations, before a vote on the House floor. It will take a two-thirds vote for the measure to advance to the Senate.

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The Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously advances a bill that would do away with speed cameras in Louisiana. Under current law, all municipalities that use speed enforcement cameras in school zones need to have an agreement in place on how money collected would be split. However, the bill’s author, Monroe Republican Stewart Cathey, says some cities and towns are operating those cameras without such agreements. He told the committee that the speed cameras are nothing but a money grab.

Cut 11 (13) “…premium taxes combined.”

Cathey says one village’s revenue illustrates that point.

Cut 12 (15) “…from these things.”

Cathey says an unscientific study found that speed cameras were less popular than herpes. And he says it’s not just the general public that doesn’t like them – many local lawmakers aren’t too thrilled with them either.

Cut 13 (11)  “…it doesn’t matter.”

If passed and signed into law, people in city government could be charged with malfeasance in office for allowing for the operation of speed cameras in their cities. The bill now advances to the full Senate.

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The new secretary for the Louisiana Department of Health is actually a former secretary of that department. Bruce Greenstein (GREEN-steen) had previously served as LDH secretary from 2010 to 2013, during Bobby Jindal’s administration. During that time, he was indicted with lying to a grand jury under oath about his alleged involvement in the awarding of a cancelled Medicaid contract with his previous employer, Maryland-based CNSI, worth 200-million dollars. During a news conference on his first day back on the job, Greenstein was asked about the indictment, which was eventually dismissed.

Cut 14 (06) “…just simply accusations.”

The charges were dropped in 2015 by Jeff Landry, who at that time had just been elected Louisiana attorney general.

Cut 15 (08) “…it was dropped.”

CNSI sued Louisiana after the state cancelled the contract in 2013. It was settled three years later under the governorship of John Bel Edwards. Greenstein says he had nothing to do with the civil suit.

Cut 16 (05) “…from either side.”

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The Pelicans formally introduce Joe Dumars as their new executive vice president of basketball operations. During his introductory news conference yesterday afternoon, Dumars said the only specific mandate he got from Owner Gayle Benson is to build a winner.

Cut 17 (16)  “…nothing like that.”

Dumars played 14 seasons with the Detroit Pistons, winning two world championships, and he’s in the Basketball Hall of Fame. After his playing career, he spent another 14 seasons as an executive with the Pistons, building the team that won the 2004 championship. He then spent three seasons in the Sacramento Kings’ front office before moving to the league office three years ago. Dumars says a lot has changed in the game since his Pistons won the title 21 years ago.

Cut 18 (15)  “…into something new.”

This past season, the Pelicans were ravaged with injuries, with the team losing almost 400 man games to injury. In fact, there wasn’t a single game all season long in which Head Coach Willie Green was able to assemble his best roster. Dumars says he wants to get to the bottom of the team’s injury troubles.

Cut 19 (24) “…thoughts on this?”

Meta’s Teen Accounts look to safeguard minors and notify parents of what their kids are doing on Instagram.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health launches a task force to fight waste, fraud and abuse. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Meta is getting the word out to parents about Teen Accounts for Instagram that puts safeguards on accounts of teens under the age of 16 years old that notify parents on how they can check their teens account. Meta Spokesperson Stephanie Otway says over 54 million Teen Accounts are active, offering features like private profiles and limited messaging.

Cut 3 (08) “…Parents’ involvement.” 

These accounts have been widely accepted, with 97-perdcnet of teens aged 13–15 keeping the default settings, and 94-percnet of U-S parents find them helpful.  Otway says Meta also put additional requirements on Teen Accounts for changing age.

Cut 4 (11) “…their birthday.”

Otway says Meta is taking a hands-on approach using AI to identify possible Teen Accounts on Instagram.

Cut 5 (12) “…restrictive state.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health is launching a new task force to fight waste, fraud and abuse. Undersecretary Drew Maranto says the department will collaborate with several departments in this effort.

Cut 6 (10) “…gaps in oversight.”

One initiative involves LDH collaborating with the Office of Motor Vehicles to ensure that no Medicaid recipient in Louisiana has an active driver’s license in another state. Maranto says another involves a partnership with U-L Lafayette to use artificial intelligence for state-specific data analysis.

Cut 7 (09) “…within the system.”

A third initiative involves working with the attorney general’s office to identify questionable billing practices.

Cut 8 (08) “…to this conduct.”

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The Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee approves legislation that would result in homeowners receiving a individual income tax credit of up to ten-thousand dollars, if they voluntarily pay to install a fortified roof on their home. River Ridge Senator Kirk Talbot is the author of the legislation

Cut 9 (08)  “…three years.”

Talbot says a fortified roof can reduce storm damage in a high wind event and that means fewer claims for insurance companies…

Cut 10 (10) “…know that.”

Talbot says the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office recently found that homeowners who had a foritified roof installed saw a decline in their insurance premiums…

Cut 11 (12) “…their premium.”

The measure heads to the Senate Finance Committee, because the proposal will lower state revenues.

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The greater Lafayette area will be a sea of carbon fiber, aluminum, steel and spandex this week as cyclists from all across the state and beyond gather for Cycle Zydeco. It gets underway tomorrow, and organizer Scott Schilling says cycling is just one component of the five-day event.

Cut 12 (08) “…to the other.”

Schilling says there are non-stop activities with a little bit of cycling mixed in.

Cut 13 (07)  “…culture down here.”

Schilling says you have no excuse not to go riding with the group. If you’re out of shape, you’ll be in good company.

Cut 14 (08) “…the sweet spot.”

If your schedule doesn’t allow you to participate for all five days, there is a weekend option for just Saturday and Sunday.

On Easter Monday, Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, died at 88 after a 12-year papacy defined by humility, advocacy for the marginalized, and reform.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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DOTD has a message for all you drivers – “Respect the zone so we all go home.” Andrew Greenstein is at DOTD headquarters in Baton Rouge with more.

Cut 2 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Two men are dead after crashing their Jeep while speeding away from pursuing troopers in Alexandria. State Police Master Trooper Casey Wallace says police tried pulling the Jeep over early Saturday morning along the U.S. 165 frontage road.

Cut 3 (06) “…improper lane usage.” 

But the driver would not stop and instead sped up and turned onto England Drive. Wallace says it’s a narrow, winding road that leads to Alexandria International Airport.

Cut 4 (08) “…goes through there.”

Almost an hour later, well after troopers had called off the pursuit, they found the Jeep partially submerged in a bayou, and 33-year-old Aaron Watson of Amite and 30-year-old Brandon Wright of Pineville were ejected from the vehicle. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. Wallace says it’s unclear which one was the driver.

Cut 5 (06) “…a normal crash.”

At this time, it’s unknown why Watson and Wright were running from police.

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Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, is dead at the age of 88. He led the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years. Francis was not afraid to take on challenging issues like climate change, inequality and he welcomed gays and lesbians into the Catholic Church.  LSU Professor of Religion Michael Pasquier says his stance on these issues upset some American Catholics, but the pope was taking a global view…

Cut 6 (12) “…American prospective.”

His progressive stance stirred controversy, alienating conservatives who viewed him as doctrinally lenient. Despite missteps in handling clergy abuse, he initiated reforms in Vatican finances and expanded roles for women. Pasquier says Francis highlighted mercy and inclusivity, often clashing with traditionalists.

Cut 7 (12) “…those standards.”

Pasquier says the next step will take place behind closed doors as bishops from around the world gather in conclave to choose the next pope.

Cut 8 (12) “…Catholic Church.”

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With peak road construction season upon us, DOTD is urging you to please pay extra attention and use extra caution when going through work zones. This is National Work Zone Awareness Week; and this year’s theme is, “Respect the zone so we all go home.” Lisa Freeman, the executive director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, says construction workers are putting their lives on the line for the safety of the rest of us.

Cut 9 (10)  “…roads more navigable.”

State Police Colonel Robert Hodges says when you’re going through a construction zone, 100-percent of your attention and focus needs to be on driving safely.

Cut 10 (12) “…dark at night.”

Police are out in full force looking for people driving dangerously through work zones. In Louisiana, all fines for moving violations within work zones are doubled. DOTD secretary Joe Donahue says depending on where you’re at, those fines could go up even more.

Cut 11 (11) “…fines for traffic.”

In 2023, the latest year in which statistics are available, 14 people were killed in Louisiana work zones, with 898 killed nationwide.

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It was 15 years ago yesterday when the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded off Louisiana’s coast sending 134 million gallons of crude into the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the worst offshore oil spill in the nation’s history. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says the marshes impacted by the oil were restored, but several islands that would serve as nesting grounds for pelicans were lost.

Cut 12 (13) “…to our coast.”

Eleven workers were killed when the rig exploded as a result of multiple failures in the drilling process. Five of the victims were from Louisiana. Nungesser says he still thinks about those families that lost loved ones…

Cut 13 (09)  “…close to home.”

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A 16-year-old girl is shot and killed in Caddo Parish. It happened last night inside a home in Vivian. 17-year-old Wyatt Sanders and another 16-year-old girl are each facing charges in connection with the girl’s death, including negligent homicide and illegal possession of a handgun. Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Lieutenant Breck Scott says the circumstances surrounding the shooting are still under investigation.

Cut 14 (03) “…to the juvenile.”

Lieutenant Scott says investigators also do not know the exact nature of the relationship between the three.

Cut 15 (03) “…at this time.”

Sanders was booked into the Caddo Correctional Center, and the 16-year-old girl was taken to the Caddo Juvenile Detention Center.

Stonewall Representative Larry Bagley is once again pushing legislation to eliminate vehicle inspection stickers, marking his fourth attempt. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Yesterday marked the 15th anniversary of the start of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Andrew Greenstein talked with one man who was in the middle of it all.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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There’s a push in this legislative session to increase the scholarship award amounts for TOPS recipients. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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State Representative Larry Bagley is once again pushing legislation to eliminate the need for passenger vehicles to have an up-to-date inspection sticker. It’s the DeSoto Parish Republican’s fourth attempt. Bagley says Louisiana is the only red state that requires them. Bagley has confidence he can get legislative approval this year, because he has the support of key players.

Cut 4 (09) “…the past years.”

State Police opposed Bagley’s bill in the past because they would lose funding if motorists did not have to pay for an inspection sticker. Bagley addressed this by proposing a $10 annual increase to vehicle registration fees, maintaining funding without the need for inspection stickers.

Cut 5 (04) “…inspection sticker.”

If passed, the bill would take effect July 1, potentially making current stickers the last. Currently, only 13 states require annual inspections, with six, including Louisiana, requiring them every other year. Bagley is optimistic, stating he’s worked to resolve past issues.

Cut 6 (07) “…problem for them.”

The bill is waiting for debate in the House Transportation Committee.

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As spring brings increased road construction, safety becomes more critical for both workers and drivers. National Work Zone Awareness Week, observed this week, encourages the need for caution in work zones. LWCC Jason Hazelton urges drivers to slow down, stay alert, and be mindful.

Cut 7 (08) “…behind the wheel.”

This year’s theme, “Respect the Zone So We All Get Home,” highlights the heightened risk of crashes during peak construction and holiday traffic. Hazelton says recent statistics show 891 in the U-S died in work zones.

Cut 8 (10) “…when we’re driving.”

Hazelton says drivers are encouraged to avoid distractions and expect sudden changes in traffic flow. Reduced speed limits, warning signs, and temporary traffic patterns must be followed.

Cut 9 (11)  “…at the last second.”

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This week marks 15 years since the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill off the Louisiana coast. It was on April 20th, 2010 – 15 years ago yesterday – that the Deepwater Horizon oil platform exploded, spewing almost five-million barrels of toxic oil into the gulf. 11 people were killed and 17 others injured, along with countless marine wildlife. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser was the president of Plaquemines Parish back then. He remembers not just the explosion and oil spill, but also the sheer chaos in the response. He says he found himself fighting BP and the consultants more than fighting the oil.

Cut 10 (15) “…the main passes.”

Nungesser says he remembers a lack of leadership on the ground in the wake of the oil spill, which inspired him to eventually run for lieutenant governor.

Cut 11 (10) “…do to help?”

Nungesser recalls the Coast Guard checking registration and insurance while people were putting their boats on trailers, with time of the essence. He says that wasted a lot of time that could have gone to rescuing people and marine wildlife.

Cut 12 (10) “…never understood that.”

In all, Nungesser says it’s an experience he hopes never to have to relive.

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There’s an effort in the legislative session to increase the award amounts for TOPS recipients. It’s held steady since the 2016-17 school year. Ruston Representative Christopher Turner’s bill would increase state funding for the TOPS scholarship program by 50 million dollars. Turner says the scholarship amount needs to be increased, because college costs a lot more than it did when he went to school…

Cut 13 (11)  “…Nicholls.”

But Lake Charles Representative Phillip Tarver is against Turner’s proposal because he wants to reduce state spending….

Cut 14 (07) “…going no more.”

Under Turner’s proposal, a TOPS recipient would receive three thousand dollars to attend a two-year technical school. TOPS Opportunity recipients would get six thousand dollars, TOPS Performance 65-hundred dollars, TOPS Honors nine-thousand dollars, and a new scholarship award would be created, called Excellence, and those students would receive $11,300…

Cut 15 (13) “…four year univerities.”

Under the proposal, students at LSU and LSU Health New Orleans would receive an additional $350 a semester, since those schools are more expensive to attend.

The House Education Committee has approved the bill. It still needs to be reviewed by Appropriations before it gets a vote on the House floor.

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Louisiana Tech won its sixth straight series as the Bulldogs defeated Liberty four to three on Saturday. Tech also won a one-run game on Thursday and dropped a five-to-three decision on Friday night. Coach Lane Burroughs….

Cut 16 (13) “…at all.”

The Bulldogs are 10-4 in Conference USA, a half a game back of Western Kentucky and Dallas Baptist, who are tied for first in the league. Burroughs expects a tight race for the regular season championship…

Cut 17 (18)  “…way to win.”

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After winning two of three from Alabama, the LSU Tigers are now 12-6 in the SEC. Right fielder Jake Brown gives his assessment of the Tigers…

Cut 18 (18)  “…team to beat.”

LSU had a chance to sweep Alabama, but they could not beat the Crimson Tide on Saturday, losing seven to four. Coach Jay Johnson says, despite the loss, it was a good week..

Cut 19 (14) “..did today.”

It’s the biggest crawfish weekend of the year; and as Andrew Greenstein reports, those tasty tiny crustaceans can be had for relatively cheap.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU’s quest to repeat as national champions in gymnastics ended Thursday night as they failed to get past the semifinals. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Tariffs on Canada could harm Louisiana’s tourism industry, which is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says Canada is the state’s largest international tourism market. However, he says President Trump’s tariffs have discouraged travel, leading some Canadian officials to cancel upcoming visits.

Cut 3 (11) “…cancel this year” 

Although the Super Bowl in New Orleans is expected to boost tourism this year, the state has not yet returned to its pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, Louisiana welcomed over 53 million visitors, but Nungesser says because of tariffs, tourism this year will suffer.

Cu 4 (11) “…reach that record.” 

Nungesser says he is seeing cancellations all over the state from Canada and has talked with Canadian mayors.  He says Canada still love Louisiana, they can’t convince them to visit America this year. Nungesser hopes it gets worked out quickly…

Cut 5 (10) “…here in Louisiana greatly.”

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If ever there was a weekend to enjoy some tasty tiny crustaceans, this is it. This is the biggest weekend of the year for crawfish – and Laney King, the founder of The Crawfish App, says crawfish prices are very low this Easter weekend.

Cut 6 (13) “…dollars a pound.”

King says crawfish is so popular this weekend that some stores are sold out, so you’d better get a move on it.

Cut 7 (09) “…do that now.”

King says while this is certainly the peak of crawfish season, the prices are not the lowest they will be this year.

Cut 8 (06) “…month of May.”

King says live crawfish are averaging $3.10 a pound this weekend and boiled crawfish is going for about $5.50 a pound at your favorite restaurant.

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The top ranked LSU gymnastics team falls short of reaching the NCAA Championships as they struggled to hit on many of their routines in the semifinals and will not have a chance at defending its title. Coach Jay Clark says a great season ends in disappointment

Cut 9 (14)  “…this year.”

LSU freshman Kailin Chio (KAY-lin Chee-oh) is a champion as she won the vault title with a score of 9.975. Thursday night turned out to be the final meet for Haleigh Bryant, who goes down as the best gymnast in the history of LSU. The five-time SEC champion and national all-around champion in 2024 says it’s hard to say good-bye

Cut 10 (05) “…five years.”

LSU won its first national championship in gymnastics last year. The enter this year’s national championships as the favorites to win it after winning the Southeastern Conference regular season title, the SEC championship meet and their NCAA regional. But Clark says it’s different being the hunted than the hunter…

Cut 11 (13) “…future is bright.”

Not only is Bryant out of eligibility, but so is social media star Olivia Dunne, Sierra Ballard and 2024 Olympian Aleah Finnegan.

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The Ponchatoula Police Department issued arrest warrants for six men following a shooting at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival that injured two teens. Police Chief Bry Layrisson says they received tips from the community.

Cut 12 (10) “…good old detective work”

Last Saturday, multiple law enforcement agencies searched five homes tied to the incident. Layrisson says those arrested were all between 18 and 21 years old. Camryn Finley and Dealvin Davis, both charged with attempted second-degree murder and terrorizing, and Courtney McGee, Markus Dokes, Quentrel Smith, and Quenton Smith, who were charged with terrorizing.

Cut 13 (08)  “…these six individuals.”

Layrisson confirmed that all gunshot victims are expected to recover, and he is meeting with the Mayor and Chairman-elect of the Strawberry Festival next week.

Cut 14 (08) “…2026 Strawberry Festival.”