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” 

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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.”  

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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”

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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”

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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”

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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” 

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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.”  

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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.

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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.

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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”

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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.

Governor Edwards tells the Senate Energy Committee that he wants the Biden Administration this summer to lift the moratorium on new lease sales for oil and gas drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Jeff Palermo has more

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The state health department says as a result of new CDC guidance, anyone 12 years of age and up can receive Pfizer’s Covid vaccine. Taylor Sharp has more.

Cut 2 (30) …I’mTaylor Sharp.”  

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Governor Edwards asked the Biden Administration to lift the moratorium on new oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico and also wants the federal government to increase the tax revenue Louisiana receives for offshore production. Edwards told the Senate Energy Committee the oil royalties are used on coastal restoration…

Cut 3 (12)  “…single year” 

Edwards says it’s imperative to restore Louisiana’s coast to combat the effects of climate change. He also says it’s important for the federal government to lift the moratorium on lease sales. The governor requests that the pause be lifted this summer to help an industry that employs 250-thousand Louisianans…

Cut 4 (10) “…and their families 

Edwards says the United States will never get away from oil production, but investments are being made in Louisiana to produce alternative forms of energy, including wind, but the ongoing lease sale moratorium is hurting that effort…

Cut 5  (12)  “…many people”

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A House committee approves legislation that would allow either chamber of the Legislature to fully terminate or modify an emergency declaration by the Governor on a majority vote.

Abita Springs Representative Larry Frieman says the legislation is not an attack on Governor Edwards’ current powers but sets the stage for future pandemic responses…

Cut 6 (12) “…we’ve had”

The legislation would take effect in 2024.

Opponents took issue with the fact that only one chamber would have these sweeping powers during an emergency. Frieman says requiring both chambers would make the bill pointless.

Cut 7 (06) “…anything.”

Frieman says under his bill lawmakers could edit existing emergency declarations, meaning federal Stafford Act funds would not be impacted.

New Orleans Representative Candace Newell (New-elle) opposed the bill. She says the Legislature is not equipped to respond to disasters in the same way the Governor is.

Cut 8 (11) “…here”

The final vote was 7-5.

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Beginning today the second Louisiana-themed episode of Restaurant Recovery airs on Discovery Plus. It’s the brainchild of Raising Cane’s CEO Todd Graves who assisted ten eateries impacted by the pandemic downturn. Graves along with Saints Receiver Michael Thomas helped New Orleans’s legendary Domilise’s Po-Boys.

Cut 9 (09) “…same thing”

Archie Manning a Domilise’s regular also appears.

The series also features Baton Rouge staple Poor Boy Lloyd’s, who lost the majority of their customers when downtown businesses worked remotely. Graves says the owners went into credit card debt to pay their own employees.

Cut 10 (09) “…felt good.” 

Basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal appears in the Poor Boy Lloyd’s episode to assist with marketing.

The best advice Graves has for struggling restaurants is proper marketing and advertising. He says reminding existing and potentially new customers of your business is vital to keeping the door opens.

Cut 11 (09) “…go eat”

Graves says the series has also been picked up by the Cooking Channel and will be served up primetime every Tuesday during the month of June.

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Louisianans ages 12 and up can now receive Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine as a result of the CDC approving the use of the vaccine in 12 to 15 year-olds. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says this is a step in the right direction.

Cut 12 (12)   “…semester” 

For a person younger than 18, parental consent is needed to get the shot.  Dr. Kanter says parents questioning whether or not their child should receive the vaccine, should seek professional advice.

Cut 13 (08)“…than later”

Kanter vaccine hesitancy is a major issue for state health officials but he hopes the expansion of the Pfizer vaccine to 12 to 15 year-olds can help show this vaccine is proven to be safe and effective in reducing cases, hospitalizations, and deaths…

Cut 14 (08) “..to be” 

The Louisiana House passes a bill that would decriminalize possession of marijuana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Ochsner Health says they are ready to begin vaccinating teens ages 12-15 with the Pfizer vaccine once state health gives the go-ahead following the CDC’s approval today. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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A person would no longer face jail time if convicted of possessing 14 grams or less of marijuana as a result of a bill approved by the Louisiana House. Shreveport Representative Cedric Glover says the possession of a small amount of marijuana should no longer result in two things

Cut 3 (10)  “…to prison” 

Currently, a person who possesses 14 grams or less of marijuana could face up to 15 days in jail and up to six months if convicted a second time. Glover’s bill removes the possibility of jail time and would make a 100-fine the maximum penalty. Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle voted in support…

Cut 4 (06) “…of marijuana” 

The measure passed on a 67-35 vote. Even one of the most conservative members of the House voted for it, Shreveport Representative Alan Seabaugh,…

Cut 5  (10)  “…incarcerate em.”

Shreveport, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans have already passed local ordinances that decriminalized convictions for small marijuana possessions. The legislation heads to the Senate for more discussion.

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The Louisiana House has unanimously passed a bill extending the period in which victims of child sexual abuse can pursue legal actions against their abusers from 10 to 35 years. Lead sponsor and New Orleans representative Jason Hughes says the extension is necessary since most victims delay their disclosure into adulthood.

Cut 6 (10) “…at 52 years old”

The bill provides a list of what qualifies as a “crime against the child” including assault, kidnapping, and criminal neglect. Abita Springs representative Larry Frieman asked Hughes why not eliminate the prescriptive period.

Cut 7 (10) “…governers desk.”

Hughes gave an emotional closing statement on the House floor, telling lawmakers this legislation is on behalf of every victim and survivor of child sexual abuse

Cut 8 (8) “…them closure”

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A CDC advisory approved the emergency use of the Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 12 to 15 today. Ochsner Health Pediatrician Dr. William Lennarz says data for this age group is extremely encouraging with the Pfizer vaccine.

Cut 9 (08) “…safe”

The American Academy of Pediatrics has already issued a statement in favor of 12- to 15-year-olds receiving the vaccine. Dr. Lennarz says while yes children are less likely to become extremely ill COVID compared to adults however they are not completely immune to the virus.

Cut 10 (11) “…syndrome 

Due to the cold storage required for the Pfizer vaccine Ochsner Health says the vaccine will not be available at their pediatric clinics, however, Dr. Lennarz says there are convenient locations for all ages to be vaccinated.

Cut 11 (05) “…vaccine”

Officials with Ochsner Health say they are ready to begin vaccinating the new age group within 24 hours of the Louisiana Department of Health guidance.

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The House votes 53-42 in favor of legislation that would partially limit qualified immunity for police officers in some cases.

Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan says his bill blocks officers from utilizing qualified immunity in a wrongful death or injury suit if a judge deems their conduct to be “unreasonable”.

Cut 12 (11)   “…immunity” 

The bill passed by one vote and heads to the Senate.

House Republican Caucus Chairman Blake Miguez opposes the bill. He says passage would make it more difficult to recruit law enforcement officers.

Cut 13 (12)“…good actors”

The legislation is the result of a police reform task force that was formed after last year’s George Floyd Protests. The task force included community, legislative, and law enforcement leaders.

Baton Rouge Representative Ted James took issue with some of his colleagues’ accusations that this bill would lead to frivolous lawsuits against officers.

Cut 14 (09) “..it is” 

The bill was amended to include language requiring anyone who loses a qualified immunity lawsuit against an office to pay all court costs and attorney fees. Bill supporters call it a poison pill and will attempt to remove it in the Senate.

Wine consumers in Louisiana could soon have their favorite beverage shipped directly from the manufacture. Brooke Thorington explains

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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A cyber-attack against one of the nation’s largest pipelines threatens to increase gas prices locally and potentially result in fuel shortages elsewhere in the country. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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A bill to allow Louisiana consumers to have their favorite wine shipped directly from the manufacturer passes in the House.  Current law prohibits manufacturers from sending vino directly to a connoisseur in Louisiana. Larose Representative Joseph Orgeron says 44 other states allow this but in Louisiana, a wholesale agreement with distributors hinders the sale.

Cut 3 (12)  “…stipulation.” 

Opponents like Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle say it could hurt wine wholesalers and retailers in the state.

Cut 4 (09) “…consumers.” 

Orgeron says due to the current law wineries do not file appropriate paperwork to ship directly to consumers in the state because the agreement with wholesalers and retailers hinders them from shipping most of their product.

Cut 5  (11)  “…ship to Louisiana.”

House bill 393 passed 53-40 and now heads to the Senate.

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Gas prices look likely to rise nationwide after a cyber-attack shut down the Colonial Pipeline, one of the nation’s largest fuel veins.

AAA Fuel Analyst Don Redman says Louisiana likely won’t be as impacted as other states due to our local production, but to the east of us…

Cut 6 (11) “…gallon.”

The pipeline carries fuel from Texas up to the East Coast.

The average cost of a gallon of gas in Louisiana sits at two dollars and 66 cents, but Redman says nationally that number is just under three dollars and expected to rise quickly…

Cut 7 (07) “…2014.”

The price is up a dollar and six cents from this time last year when the futures price of a barrel of oil dropped below zero.

Redman says this attack comes at a particularly bad time given the fact that prices were already beginning their slow summer march upward…

Cut 8 (09) “…lockdowns”

According to the FBI, the ransomware attack came from a Russian hacking collective that was attempting to extort money from the pipeline’s operators.

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The Louisiana House has passed legislation that puts in place the fee and tax structure for sports betting, which has been approved in 55 of the state’s 64 parishes. Crowley Representative John Stefanski’s bill also allows the Louisiana Lottery to oversee sports betting at bars and restaurants, where alcohol is served

Cut 9 (10) “…kiosk”

The legislation calls for a ten-percent tax on the net proceeds of an operator for on-premise sports wagering and an 18-percent tax on net proceeds from mobile betting. Stefanski says most of the tax money from bets placed at kiosks run by the Louisiana Lottery will go towards education…

Cut 10 (09) “.in children 

Stefanski says a Senate bill allows for sports betting to also take place at the state’s riverboat casinos, Harrah’s in New Orleans, and the five-horse racing tracks. That bill also allows for full mobile sports betting on your phone. He says his legislation sets up the kiosks at restaurants and bars

Cut 11 (12) “…the lottery”

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New Orleans Democrat Troy Carter was sworn in as Louisiana’s newest U-S House member today, replacing Cedric Richmond who represented the second district until taking a job with the Biden administration. The former New Orleans City Councilman and state lawmaker understands the importance of public service.

Cut 12 (09)   “…the people” 

Carter will represent New Orleans in the U-S House, along with portions of the River Parishes and the Baton Rouge area. He says his district has a lot of needs…COVID recovery, economic development, infrastructure investment, criminal justice reform, education, and environmental justice

Cut 13 (10)“…being addressed”

Carter defeated New Orleans Senator Karen Carter Peterson in a special election. The 57-year-old says he’s honored to be given this opportunity to serve…

Cut 14 (11) “..great country” 

A bill to allow cameras in special education classrooms advances from Senate Education. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Legislation that protects employees from being discriminated against due to their natural hairstyle is headed to the House for final passage after a tense debate in committee. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 2 (31) …I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A bill to allow cameras in special education classrooms, if requested by the parents, advances from Senate Education. Baton Rouge Senator Franklin Foil authored the bill on behalf of the Louisiana Development Disabilities Council and concerned parents whose special needs children experienced mental and/or physical abuse in the classroom.

Cut 3 (03)  “…safeguard.” 

Baton Rouge physician and mother of a nonverbal special needs daughter, Dr. Mary Elizabeth Christian says she will never forget the day when she sat in an Individualized Education Program for her daughter and learned of ongoing abuse.

Cut 4 (12) “… every day.” 

Tonya Williams shared the story of how her son Tyler was shuffled around in several schools and when she found bruises on his body, she received conflicting responses from administrators. Williams says cameras in the classroom could have saved her son from ongoing abuse.

Cut 5  (09)  “…tell me.”

The price tag to install the cameras could cost up to $8-million, but only if every special education classroom receives a request from a parent or guardian for the cameras.

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A Senate-approved bill aimed at ending employer discrimination against Black natural hairstyles is headed to the House floor after a contentious debate in committee.

New Orleans Senator Troy Carter says his bill was inspired by the experiences of African Americans who were suspended from school or fired from jobs just for wearing their hair naturally…

Cut 6 (12) “…shouldn’t be”

The legislation protects against racial discrimination on the basis of natural hairstyles or textures including, but not limited to afros, braids, locks, or twists.

Denham Springs Representative Valarie Hodges voted against the bill.

Cut 7 (08) “…hairstyle.”

Hodges says business owners should have the right to dictate what employees’ hair looks like.

Cut 8 (10) “…sued?”

Carter argues the bill will not prevent employers from setting restrictions on hair length, whether beards are allowed, or other limits such as the requirement for hairnets in kitchens.

Haughton Representative Dodie Horton was initially skeptical but voted to pass it after a lengthy discussion with Carter…

Cut 9 (12) “…*claps*”

The bill passed 7-4 and heads to the House floor for final approval.

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The Defenders of Liberty Air and Space Show returns to the Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier Parish this weekend with shows Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM. Air Show director Major Daniel Drier says you need a ticket for your vehicle to attend the show and then drive up to the base…

Cut 10 (12) “..square” 

Tickets are free for the event and you only need one printout per vehicle.  Everyone is encouraged to get tickets but Dreier says there will be a capacity limit.

Cut 11 (10) “…for safety”

Dreier says that folks attending the event can expect a wide variety of military planes.

Cut 12 (13)   “…performers” 

The website to reserve tickets for the event is barksdaleasbairshow.com. Tickets are free and the gates open at 9 AM.

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Governor John Bel Edwards says because he and his family are fully vaccinated they’ll be able to enjoy a safe, normal Mother’s Day celebration Sunday.

Edwards says after having to cancel Mother’s Day 2020, he’s ready to return to normal.

Cut 13 (12)“…vaccinated”

Edwards says if you’re still on the fence about the vaccine know one major benefit is that you can have normal family get-togethers again.

Cut 14 (12) “..desire” 

Edwards says if your family is not fully vaccinated continue social distancing and hold the event outdoors.

Edwards says the faster everyone in the state gets vaccinated the safer we will be and the fewer holiday restrictions will be needed.

Cut 15 (08) “…today.” 

Four women accusing LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor of fostering a toxic and discriminatory workplace spoke about their decision to file an EEOC complaint against the school. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 1 (29) “ …I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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President Biden pushed for the passage of the American Jobs Plan during a visit to Lake Charles, a city that could use a new bridge and hurricane recovery dollars. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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In addition to providing a digital copy of your driver’s license LA Wallet now offers the ability to store a copy of your COVID vaccine card. Governor Edwards says it’s optional and free of charge.

Cut 3 (04)  “…information” 

Edwards says users can be assured their health information is protected with the LA Wallet and the ability to have a copy of your vaccine status in the application is ideal for residents who tend to misplace things.

Cut 4 (08) “…lose them.” 

If you don’t have a smartphone you also have the option to receive a printed copy of your vaccine records from a parish health unit or any provider that administers vaccines and uses the LINKs system.

LA Wallet launched in 2018 to provide a digital copy of your driver’s license. Edwards says the additional feature for your vaccine status is completely voluntary.

Cut 5  (10)  “…allows.”

The LA Wallet app is free and available for download on the Apple App and Google Play stores.

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Four women who filed EEOC complaints alleging they suffered sexual harassment and discrimination at LSU Health Shreveport are calling for Chancellor G.E. Ghali to be removed. Attorney Allison Jones represents the four high-ranking members of the school. Jones says Ghali created a toxic work environment hostile to women.

Cut 6 (10) “…behavior”

Jones highlighted behavior by administrative employee Dr. Scott Kennedy, alleging his routine harassment of female coworkers was allowed by Ghali.

Jones says her clients hoped to address the situation privately, but instead the LSU Board of Supervisors held an executive session where politicians were invited, but the media and accusers were barred.

Cut 7 (07) “…situation.”

An internal investigation by the school looked into the complaints but did not find any Title Nine violations. Ghali is currently on leave, but denies the allegations.

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Jen Woerner is one of the accusers. She says this decision wasn’t easy…

Cut 8 (11) “…truth”

An LSU Health Shreveport spokesperson responded saying “LSU Health Shreveport does not comment on personnel matters.”

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LSU quarterback TJ Finley has officially entered his name into the transfer portal.  Finley started five games for the Tigers last season after an injury to Myles Brennan, but was replaced late in the year by Max Johnson.  USA Today Network LSU Beat reporter Glen Guilbeau says after spring practice Finley saw the writing on the wall.

Cut 9 (12) “…play much”

The Ponchatoula native threw for 941 yards with five touchdowns and five interceptions in 2020.  While Finley showed some promise, Guilbeau says he wasn’t consistent enough.

Cut 10 (11) “..of games” 

Even though Finley’s time in Baton Rouge didn’t go as planned, Guilbeau is still confident that Finley can have a nice career.

Cut 11 (11) “…than ever”

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President Joe Biden was in Lake Charles today to tout his American Jobs Plan, which he says will create millions of jobs to rebuild the nation’s infrastructure. Biden says this legislation would result in tax hikes for the wealthiest Americans to pay for new roads and bridges, like the Calcasieu River Bridge…

Cut 12 (12)   “…this important” 

Biden says over 80-thousand vehicles a day use the I-10 bridge in Lake Charles and it’s one of 45-thousand bridges in the US that are structurally deficient.

Republicans do not support Biden’s plan. House Republican Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana says the President is promoting a budget-busting tax hike that will force middle-class jobs overseas. But Biden says his plan would result in over 16-million American jobs and is willing to meet with GOP legislators to find common ground

Cut 13 (11)“…to compromise.”

The other issue surrounding Mr. Biden’s trip to Lake Charles is hurricane recovery. Local officials say Hurricane Laura devasted the region and Congress has yet to approve a disaster relief package. The President says he believes residents in southwest Louisiana need the help and he’ll make sure they get it

Cut 14 (10) “..I’ve observed” 

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House Labor approves legislation prohibiting employers from retaliating against employees for sharing salary information with each other, and from asking about applicants’ previous wage history. Baton Rouge Representative Barbara Carpenter says in 2013 the Legislature passed legislation allowing state employees to share salary information and it narrowed the gender pay gap.

Cut 15 (09) “…percent.” 

Carpenter says 19 states have passed similar pay transparency laws.

Carpenter says blocking employers from asking about applicants’ wage history ensures they don’t get lowballed when taking a new job.

Cut 16 (09) “…retirement” 

The legislation is opposed by the National Federation of Independent Businesses.

ID.me the new verification process for unemployment goes into effect today to help reduce fraud. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (27) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A measure to increase the cost of a hunting and fishing license clears its first legislative hurdle as it receives approval from the House Natural Resources Committee. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A new program goes into effect today to help speed up the verification process for Louisianans filing for unemployment. Louisiana Workforce Commission Secretary Ava Cates says ID.me will help ensure the correct person collects benefits.

Cut 3 (11)  “…10 minutes” 

Cates says those new to filing and existing claimants transitioning from one type of unemployment to another will be required to use the new verification process.

Cut 4 (11) “…social security card.” 

The identification process is a federal requirement for COVID-related unemployment claims and Cates says don’t be surprised if you have to resubmit verification documents again in the future. She says the process also protects claimants.

Cut 5  (09)  “…those benefits.”

A recent audit indicates more than 100-thousand individuals received unemployment benefits they were not entitled to from LWC.

__________________________________________________

Legislation that would have established a closed party primary system for Louisiana congressional elections gets shelved for the session.

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt wrote the bill. She says under the current jungle primary system voters don’t have much incentive to make sure they register with a party that matches their views.

Cut 6 (13) “…record”

The bill had a 5.5 million dollar price tag due to the need to hold an additional election every cycle, and concerns were raised about the logistics of holding that extra election and how it could create a logjam.

Louisiana GOP Deputy Chairman Charlie Buckles says the party authored a resolution in support of the bill. He says the jungle primary system results in elections that are less issue-based.

Cut 7 (12) “…rat.”

Louisiana is one of the few states in the nation that does not have a closed primary system.

Libertarian Party activist Mike Wolf says moving to closed primaries would produce candidates that more consistently represent their party’s mainstream views.

Cut 8 (09) “…candidate”

Opponents argued closed primaries would result in more ideologically extreme candidates and give independent and no party voters less of a say in politics.

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The House Natural Resources Committee approves legislation that would increase the cost to purchase recreational hunting and fishing licenses. State Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Jack Montoucet says license fees have remained steady for the last 20 years and a fund that’s helped finance the department is nearly dry

Cut 9 (07) “…big dilemna”

The proposal calls for the cost of a basic fishing license to increase from $9.50 to 17-dollars, a basic annual hunting license would climb from 150 to 200-dollars. Several other types of licenses related to hunting and fishing would also see an increase.

Montoucet says over the last several years his department has done more with less money, but it’s come to a point where they can’t continue operating this way…

Cut 10 (09) “..this bill” 

Abbeville Representative Ryan Bourriaque says his constituents are concerned about higher fishing and hunting licenses and so he’s hoping that as the bill moves through the legislative process they can find other sources of funding…

Cut 11 (10) “…hurricanes”

More discussion on the bill is expected in the House.

____________________________________

Former LSU President F. King Alexander says the opposition he faced from local leaders to his move to deprioritize standardized test scores in admissions was racist.

Alexander says his support for and adoption of holistic admissions three years ago prompted outrage from prominent boosters and members of the Board, but…

Cut 12 (11)   “…university” 

Alexander says LSU was one of the last schools in the nation to adopt holistic admissions.

The prior policy only allowed four percent of the incoming freshmen to not meet the required ACT/SAT requirements. He says it was disproportionately used to recruit student-athletes of color.

Cut 13 (08)“…laboratories.”

Alexander says about a quarter of all student-athletes at the time did not meet the school’s baseline GPA or ACT/SAT criteria.

Alexander says he doesn’t regret the firestorm his policy change created and wouldn’t do anything differently in that regard.

Cut 14 (10) “…university” 

Alexander made the comments on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster.

The United Cajun Navy ends search efforts for the missing crew members of the SEACOR lift boat. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

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Legislation allowing St. Tammany voters to vote on allowing a waterfront casino to operate in Slidell is headed to the House floor. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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The United Cajun Navy is explaining why they are no longer aiding in the search for the seven missing crewmen of the SEACOR Power that capsized on April 13^th. UCN spokesperson Brian Trascher says they cap search efforts at two weeks and opted to end their participation due to a smear campaign launched by former members.

Cut 3 (10)  “…oxygen” 

Trascher says the UCN still plans to assist family members of the missing crew members.  Trascher says it’s a group of former volunteers, that were asked to leave the group for various reasons, who continue to slander the UCN and they’ve had to take the matter to court before.

Cut 4 (11) “…judge.” 

Trascher says the United Cajun Navy is the only registered nonprofit organization that has emerged from the grassroots efforts of the Cajun Navy that responded to the 2016 flood in Louisiana. Trascher says there are several rumors accusing the organization of misusing funds, but a lack of evidence.

Cut 5  (07)  “…all lies.”

Trascher says even though the group is nonprofit it doesn’t mean they don’t have expenses and they are also donating funds raised from search efforts in the form of grants to families of the missing crewmembers.

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The Louisiana Department of Education is partnering with Ochsner Health to give teachers and school support staff workers free access to virtual visits with a licensed mental health professional. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley….

Cut 6 (08) “…private format”

During the appointment, patients will be asked about current symptoms, medical history and goals for therapy. Brumley says those seeking help will have access to a variety of visits.

Cut 7 (11) “…the state.”

More than 166,000 public school educators and support staff statewide will have access to free mental health virtual visits through Ochsner Anywhere Care.  Brumley says Louisiana educators have done hero’s work through a pandemic and a record-breaking hurricane season and this is one way we can be there for them.

Cut 8 (11) “…everyday.”

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A House committee votes 8-2 in favor of legislation allowing St. Tammany voters the opportunity to decide whether or not they’d like a waterfront casino in Slidell.

St. Tammany Corporation CEO Chris Masingill says they’ve worked out a five percent revenue share agreement with casino owners Pacific Peninsula, who are moving the license from Bossier City…

Cut 9 (10) “…projects”

Masingill also notes the 250 million dollar project would create 1,900 direct jobs at the facility.

The bill is backed by the St. Tammany Chamber and Northshore Business Council. Business Council CEO Bonnie Eades says local residents deserve a chance to vote on this…

Cut 10 (10) “…issue” 

Moving the license would result in the closure of DiamondJacks Casino in Bossier City. DiamondJacks has not been open since the beginning of the pandemic.

Some residents who live near the proposed casino spoke against the bill. Lisa Clayton argues casinos are magnets for sex trafficking.

Cut 11 (12) “…town”

Others argued there’s evidence that casinos lower property values in nearby neighborhoods.

Louisiana Baptists Office of Public Policy Director Will Hall says Louisiana has the 4^th highest incidence of problem gambling, a number that ballooned after gambling was legalized in the early 90s.

Cut 12 (08)   “…research” 

The legislation advances to the House floor. A similar bill on the Senate side is stuck in the Finance Committee.

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A proposal that would prevent transgender athletes from competing on girls sports teams in schools fails to pass out of the House Education Committee on a six to five vote. Conservative groups are in support. Louisiana Baptist Office of Public Policy. Director Will Hall says the legislation seeks to create a fair playing field

Cut 13 (07)“…for women.”

Several advocates for transgender individuals spoke out against the bill. Teyanna Tokeoh, a spokesperson for a group called BreakOut, says the proposed bill discriminates against trans gender youth…

Cut 14 (07) “…male cheerleaders” 

Two Republicans on the committee joined with Democrats to kill this particular bill for the session. The announcement of the final vote drew a reaction from the audience…

Cut 15 (12) “…thank you.” 

A similar bill remains alive in the upper chamber and is waiting for a vote on the Senate floor. Governor John Bel Edwards has expressed his opposition to the anti-transgender legislation

A state audit finds that prisoners received unemployment checks last year. Don Molino has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Don Molino” 

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House Criminal Justice is scheduled to hear a bill tomorrow that seeks to decriminalize prostitution in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (36) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Motorists who have State Farm could see a slight increase in their premiums. The Louisiana Insurance Department has approved a statewide rate increase of four percent. Last June, State Farm lowered rates by an average of 10-percent. So what changed? Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says more vehicles on the road…

Cut 3 (09)  “…as well” 

The adjusted auto rates in Louisiana went into effect on April 5th. Donelon says 9.6 percent decrease in auto insurance rates that State Farm put into place last year is no longer justified as the nation starts to move out of the pandemic

Cut 4 (12) “…2019.” 

The state legislature passed a tort reform law last year that supporters say will lead to lower auto insurance rates. So why are State Farm’s rates going up? Donelon says the legislation changes the rules on how car accident lawsuits are handled in the state’s court system, but we will not see the impact until suits are settled or judges rule on cases…

Cut 5  (09)  “…legislature.”

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation has completed debris removal from what Hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Zeta left behind last season. DOTD Spokesperson Rodney Mallet says the extensive removal process started at the end of August.

Cut 6 (11) “…hurricane debris”

Debris removal in Calcasieu Parish wrapped up last week, it was the last parish of the five in southwest Louisiana that required removal.

Mallett says with the assistance of contractors they moved from one parish to another until the cleanup of the more than 3- million cubic yards of debris from a historic 2020 hurricane season

Cut 7 (12) “…professional fashion.”

The southwest parishes of Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jefferson Davis required the majority of debris removal with more than 2 million cubic yards of the just over 3 million cubic yards removed in the state.

Cut 8 (09) “…hurricane season.”

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A state audit finds the Louisiana Workforce Commission paid out six-point-two million dollars in unemployment benefits to nearly 12-hundred prisoners. Data Analytics Manager for the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office, Chris Magee, says it’s a conservative number since they only looked at unemployment applications for the first half of 2020

Cut 9 (07) “..the issue”

Magee says L-W-C has told them the problem is with a vendor that multiple states use to track incarceration data…

Cut 10 (09) “…COVID pandemic.” 

Magee says LWC plans on trying to recoup the unemployment benefits that went to prisoners. He says in most of the cases they’ve identified, incarcerated individuals received multiple unemployment checks

Cut 11 (10) “… those individuals”

The LWC says they are trying to determine why there was an issue with the cross-matching process which helps identify if individuals are eligible for benefits. The state agency says the potential overpayments found by the Legislative Auditor represent well less than one percent of the 900-thousand individuals paid since the start of the pandemic.

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The House Criminal Justice Committee will hear a bill to decriminalize prostitution in Louisiana on Tuesday. New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry says the intent of her bill is not to turn the state into a red-light district but to protect sex workers and reduce human trafficking.

Cut 12 (10)   “…they need.” 

Landry says if their profession is no longer a crime, they could seek assistance.

However National Center of Sexual Exploitation CEO Dawn Hawkins says decriminalizing prostitution will do more harm than good for sex workers.

Cut 13 (11)“…prostitution.”

Hawkins says it was a London School of Economics study that found decriminalization increased the sex trade and violence associated with it.

Landry says trafficking is already a crime no matter what age someone is doing something against their will along with prostitution.

Cut 14 (12) “…trafficking victim” 

Landry says it’s often sex workers that are charged with a crime and not those seeking their services.

Hawkins says the answer to protecting sex workers and victims of trafficking is to providing off-ramps for those being exploited in the commercial sex trade.

Cut 15 (12) “…in the area.”