New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell announces the city will enforce the use of face masks, due to the uptick of coronavirus cases. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

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There are many myths circulating about virus spread mitigation efforts with masks, but in the wake of rising COVID-19 numbers, health officials are debunking them. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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A resolution calling for a task force on policing policy creates a heated disagreement on the House floor. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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As coronavirus hospitalizations increase across the nation the American Psychiatric Nurses Association says they are seeing significant mental health impacts on healthcare providers that work on the frontlines. APNA President Tari Dilks says because patients are having to die alone to mitigate the spread of the virus, nurses are having to offer the comfort that family members would normally provide.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…family members”

While many states and hospitals are offering counseling for healthcare workers, Dilks encourages those with family members and loved ones working on the frontlines to be supportive of the situation.

Cut 5 (10)  …good diet” 

Dilks says the increased workload from COVID-19 on healthcare providers is having an emotional impact.  With other crises for example hurricanes, those on the frontline know that the increased workload will eventually taper off.

Healthcare providers are witnessing COVID patients suffer to a greater extent compared to other diseases and Dilks says it’s having an acute impact on their mental state and could lead to PTSD.

Cut 6 (12) “…slowly to death”

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Governor Edwards’ new proclamation of extending Phase Two reopening for another 28 days is officially issued today.  Edwards says when ranking of states by per capita COVID-19 cases, Louisiana is ranked 7^th, down three spots from its previous best ranking.

Cut 7 (08) “…doing more testing.”

245,000 tests have been done in the state this month with no plans to slow those efforts down.

Edwards is alarmed by the growing numbers or younger individuals testing positive for the virus and encourages them to take mitigation efforts seriously.  Edwards says while younger people think they may be untouchable by the virus, they can suffer poor health outcomes, including death.

Cut 8 (12) “…may last forever.”

Edwards says there is not a path forward in continuing to reopen the economy without more intense participation from the public in spread mitigation efforts.

Cut 9 (07) “…to do it.”

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Governor Edwards says wearing a mask is one of the best tools the public has in fighting COVID-19 spread and during Wednesday’s press briefing, time was taken to debunk some myths about face coverings. State health officer Doctor Jimmy Guidry says it’s a myth that they are not effective.

Cut 10 (11) “…an important part.”

Guidry says a mask reduces the risk of someone sharing the virus with others through exhaled particles, and for it to have maximum effect, it needs to cover the nose, not just the mouth like another myth would lead some to believe.

Guidry highlights the myth that if someone isn’t feeling sick, they should not wear a mask, but he says asymptomatic people still can spread the virus.

Cut 11 (08) “…that’s a fact.”

Guidry says the idea that someone can wearing a mask and resume life as normal without any other spread mitigation efforts is also incorrect, adding that the combination of efforts further reduces transmission rates.

Cut 12 (06) “…avoid large crowds.”

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The House unanimously passes a resolution to create a task force to study policing policy after removing language mentioning the killing of George Floyd.

Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala backed the effort but expressed frustration that there isn’t adequate appreciation for the dangers of police work. Bacala says since 2017…

Cut 13 (07) “…duty” 

Bacala, a former state trooper, says police are far more likely to be killed in the line of duty than African Americans are to be killed by police.

Cut 14 (07) “…about”

Baton Rouge Representative Ted James responded, saying people who murder cops get arrested, while cops who murder black men get taxpayer-funded vacations and rarely suffer consequences.

Cut 15 (09) “…action.”

James was animated in his comments, detailing what he says was an agreement between Republican leaders and the Black Caucus to pass the resolution by stripping it of language mentioning George Floyd and holding no floor speeches about policing. After the amendments stripping the bill passed, Bacala made his comments, leading to James accusing GOP leaders of duplicity.

James called for a reckoning on racial profiling and mentioned an incident where he was confronted by Baton Rouge police while with other black men. He says he showed the officers he was a lawmaker…

Cut 16 (13) “…of them” 

The resolution, by Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields, heads back to the Senate for approval of the House made changes.

Medical marijuana patients will soon enjoy cheaper treatments. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The state reported 882 more coronavirus cases today, one day after Louisiana reported over 13-hundred new cases. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The family of a gay teenager stabbed in the neck and wrists believes 18-year-old Holden White of Kaplan is the victim of a hate crime. But Lafayette Police is not pursuing hate crime charges. Legal analyst Franz Borghardt says the evidence has to be clear that the attack occurred because White is gay…

Cut 3 (09) ”…problematic”  

Police have arrested 19-year-old Chance Seneca and charged him with attempted second-degree murder, but no hate crime charges have been added. Borghardt says police officers and prosecutors sometimes do not want to pursue hate crime charges, because it makes the case more complicated

Cut 4 (11)_ “…discrimination”

Lafayette Police say the evidence shows there are other motives on why the attack occurred. White reportedly met Seneca on a gay dating app and police say the two got into an argument which led to Seneca stabbing White. Borghardt says a hate crime is a very serious charge…

Cut 5 (06)  “…stiff penalty”

White is in intensive care, but his family says his condition is improving.

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The state’s only current medical marijuana grower announces it will lower its prices as a result of a new law that greatly expands access to the treatment.

Wellcana CEO John Davis says the price reductions will allow pharmacies to sell the product at the average price for the nation’s more mature markets.

Cut 6 (11) “…is.”

Currently, patients have to pay hundreds of dollars a month to afford their medical marijuana prescriptions. Medical marijuana is not covered by health insurance because it’s still illegal under federal law.

Davis says the price reduction will hit their bottom line, but they believe by lowering the price they can significantly expand the market.

Cut 7 (11) “…count.”

In addition to lowering the price, Wellcana will soon begin offering a concentrated product that can be blended into food and drinks.

Davis says the soon-to-be law makes up to three million adults potential customers.

Cut 8 (12) “…patients”

The law expanding access goes into effect on August 1^st.

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The Acadiana region is outpacing other regions of the state in new COVID-19 cases.  The region’s case count of Tuesday was the highest on record and Dr. Tina Stefanski, regional medical director of the Office of Public Health in Acadiana, believes the area is just late to see the first wave.

Cut 9 (09) “…experiencing such increases.”

On Tuesday, 354 cases came from the region, making up more than a quarter of the state’s total case count, nearly double the share of the next highest region.

Of the tests taken in the region, 11.1% came back positive, higher than the federal recommendations in moving forward in economic reopening.  Stefanski says the age groups that are the most problematic are the younger demographics.

Cut 10 (10) “…then 30 to 39.”

Stafanski hopes that young adults will begin to heed the advice of health officials by avoiding crowds and limiting activities, as it will help protect those most at risk for poor outcomes.

Cut 11 (12) “…maintain a distance.”
The region’s hospitalizations have increased by 40% in four days.

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The House approves legislation protecting public and private schools from civil suits by students or teachers who say they got COVID on school grounds.

Amite Representative Robby Carter says a school board superintendent told him this bill was vital to actually having students back in classrooms come fall.

Cut 12 (11) “…learning”

The vote was 82-17.

But New Orleans Representative Gary Carter feels the legislation would allow schools to violate COVID health regulations and be shielded from repercussions.

Cut 13 (11) “…support it”  

Supporters of the bill say it still allows for suits in cases of demonstrable gross negligence.

But bill sponsor, Denham Springs Representative Buddy Mincey contends it’s needed because it’s impossible to prove exactly where students or teachers get their COVID infections.

Cut 14 (10) “…there”

The bill is retroactive to March 11^th and applies to all K-12, charter, and public and private schools along with all public and private colleges and universities.

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A proposal that will result in many of Louisiana’s essential workers receiving a 250-dollar check from the state continues to make its way through the legislative process. The Senate Revenue Fiscal Affairs committee approved the bill Shreveport Representative Sam Jenkins

Cut 15 (08) “…eligible” 

Grocery store workers, first responders, nurses, bus drivers, and others who were forced to work during the first few weeks of the pandemic would receive the stimulus check if they make less than 50-thousand dollars. New Orleans Senator Troy Carter complimented Jenkins on the legislation

Cut 16 (12) “ won’t allow that…

The money will come from the one-point-eight billion dollars the state received in federal coronavirus relief funding.

Fire marshals are fanning out across the state doing courtesy visits to businesses to help increase COVID compliance. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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 A Senate committee will take up the budget this afternoon. Matt Doyle has the status of the spending plan for the fiscal year starting in July…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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Governor Edwards expects the upcoming school year to start on time, with kids back in the classroom. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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State Fire Marshal deputies will perform random courtesy visits to businesses in an effort to help owners better comply with COVID spread mitigation restrictions.

State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says they will visit various businesses with the goal of increasing compliance.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…they’re not”

Browning says they’re not looking to bust owners for breaking COVID regulations, they’re hoping to help them correct any mistakes.

Cut 5 (05)  “employees” 

Browning says most businesses are doing their best to be compliant. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Steve Waguespack agrees and says owners want to limit COVID spread because it’s good for business.

Cut 6 (08) “…customers”

Waguespack says the one issue business owners have with current COVID guidelines is their lack of specificity for what are fairly common situations…

Cut 7 (10) “…I mean.”

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The Senate Finance Committee will take up the 34 billion dollar budget for the next fiscal year this afternoon.

Lapolitics.com Publisher Jeremy Alford expects it to be approved, but notes crafting the budget is tricky because total revenue could change if a series of COVID relief tax breaks are passed.

Cut 8 (11) “…to walk.”

Several of the larger tax break bills headed to the Senate floor have been redirected back to Senate Finance for further review after winning approval in another committee.

Federal relief dollars plugged most of the, at one point, billion-dollar shortfall, but some cuts in healthcare and higher ed are still planned. Alford says early year promises for more early childhood education funding and teacher pay raises had to be abandoned as well.

Cut 9 (07) “…dollars.”

The state constitution requires the budget to be balanced.

Lawmakers only have a week left to pass the budget which still has to clear the Senate and head back to the House. Alford says that compressed timeline will likely mean fewer fights over its contents.

Cut 10 (08) “…governor”

Alford expects lawmakers will likely be back in Baton Rouge in the fall for a midyear budget review once the state has a better idea of the economic impact of COVID.

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Governor Edwards expects campuses of K-12 schools as well as colleges and universities to reopen in August. Edwards says the latest COVID-19 metrics concerning young people is concerning as to how that will impact heading back to school.

Cut 11 (11) “…do so safely.”

Edwards made the statement during his announcement of the 28-day extension of the Phase Two reopening.

Edwards says the school experience will likely look much different, adding students will not have as much intermingling with those not in their classroom.

Cut 12 (04) “…having school assemblies.”

Edwards says formulating the model for what the school will look like on the first day of class will largely be dependent upon what the circumstances are at that time.

Cut 13 (11) “…for and contengencies” 

Thursday night at 6 o’clock, Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley will tell the Senate Education Committee his plan for reopening K-12 schools.

_________________________________

A Tuesday morning crash in Zachary claims the life of an 11-year-old and results in the arrest of 27-year-old Treasure Charles of Gonzales.  Trooper Taylor Scrantz says Charles was traveling southbound on US Hwy 61 in a box truck when she struck a disabled vehicle in the roadway.

Cut 14 (07) “…killed upon impact.”

The child was unrestrained and has been identified as Wayne Ford of Baton Rouge, who was the rear seat passenger in the disabled vehicle.  The driver and front seat passenger of the Lexus were also unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained moderate injuries. They were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Scrantz says the crash is just the latest in string of fatalities Troop A has responded to in the last week or so.

Cut 15 (09) “…a family member.”

Charles is being charged with negligent homicide, negligent injury, and careless operation.  Scrantz says impairment is not suspected, but says the investigation continues.

Cut 16 (13) “…District Attorney’s office.” 

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Two more members from the Saints Super Bowl team will be inducted into the team’s hall of fame later this year. Offensive guard Jahri Evans and safety Roman Harper were both drafted in 2006 and were starters when the Black and Gold won the Super Bowl a few years later. Saints Coach Sean Payton says Evans and Harper were great players and had a tremendous impact in the lockerroom

Cut 17  (19) “…at safety” 

After being drafted in the fourth round in 2006 out of Bloomsburg, Evans went on to play eleven seasons with the Saints. During that time he was selected to five straight All-Pro teams and selected to six consecutive pro bowls. Evans is appreciative of the honor

Cut 18  (19) “…great season”   

New Orleans selected Harper in the second round out of Alabama. He played in 124 games with the Saints, with 108 starts. Harper recorded 775 tackles, seven sacks, 53 passes defended, 13 forced fumbles, and three fumble recovers. Harper says the Saints have meant so much to his life

cut 19 (17) “…to em”  

The state is monitoring an alarming trend of COVID-19 case numbers increasing among 18 to 29-year-olds in the state. Brooke Thorington explains

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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A Monday crash claims the lives of five people in Avoyelles Parish after a pickup truck crosses the centerline, slamming head-on into an oncoming van. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (27) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Young people ages 18 to 29 lead the state in positive COVID-19 cases for a total of just under nine thousand. That’s approximately 19-hundred more than those 60 and older. Assistant Health Secretary Dr. Alex Billoux says the uptick could due to the age group returning the workforce or a misconception about the virus.

Cut 3 (12) ”…than the flu”  

Due to an outbreak of more than 100 cases linked to Tigerland Bars near the LSU campus, Fred’s bar will offer testing to college students on Thursday in the parking lot.

Billoux says the increase among 18 to 29-year-olds is concerning because of the impact they can have on their families.

Cut 4 (08)_ “…across our state”

Hospitalizations increased from the previous day by 16 for a total of 646 and vent usage is up by 14 for a total of 83. Billoux says the upward trend is concerning.

Cut 5 (08)  “…healthcare capacities”

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Five people are dead and six others are injured following a three-vehicle crash on LA Highway 29 in Avoyelles Parish. State Police Trooper Casey Wallace says it started when a Ford pickup driven by 21-year-old Derrick Kyle, Jr., of Cottonport crossed the centerline, striking an oncoming van.

Cut 6 (12) “…could have happened.”

Kyle and 20-year-old Jada Cook of Marksville were both killed.  A third truck passenger, a juvenile, sustained serious injuries.

After the initial collision and both vehicles came to a stop in the highway, a Toyota Corolla struck the van, with the driving sustaining minor injuries.  Wallace says the van that was hit head-on was carrying seven passengers.

Cut 7 (08) “…a local hospital.”

Those victims were identified as 60-year-old Steven Freeman and 55-year-old Hayward Petre, Jr., both of Ville Platte, as well as 50-year-old Jacoby Mayes of Eunice.

Troop E Troopers have investigated 25 fatal crashes resulting in 31 fatalities so far in 2020.  Wallace says the message to the public is just to keep aware of what is going on when you are on the road.

Cut 8 (07) “…of your surroundings.”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reports a third straight month of over-the-year increases in fishing license sales. LDWF Undersecretary Bryan McClinton says the uptick began in the days following the Governor’s stay at home order in March.

Cut 9 (10) “…engaging in fishing.”

Over 51,000 fishing licenses were sold in May 2020 compared to over 38,000 in May 2019. June is currently on track to continue the sales trend.

McClinton says fishing is a great activity to remain social while keeping a distance from others.

Cut 10 (07) “…go enjoy that.”

McClinton says the purchase of a license will not break the bank and can be done at one of the LDWF’s approved vendors or online at WLF.LA.gov.

Cut 11 (05) “…your actual license.”

Funding from the license sales goes toward safety enforcement on the waterways, biological testing on fish and wildlife, fighting invasive vegetation and other programs.
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Senator Bill Cassidy says Congress is working on another round of federal economic relief but feels the 600 dollar a week federal unemployment benefit must be changed.

Cassidy says the unemployed must not be allowed to collect more in unemployment benefits than they made at their last job.

Cut 12 (06) “…society”

Cassidy says one of his constituents says the unemployment benefits are making it difficult to staff their business as the economy begins to reopen.

Cut 13 (07) “…work.”  

Cassidy says instead of pushing for additional federal benefits he’d like to see unemployed workers moved into job openings that are becoming available.

Cut 14 (10) “…employed”

State leaders warn a 300 million dollar small business grant program set to open sometime in July could go fast. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Governor Edwards is alarmed by the growing numbers in tracking COVID-19, which has resulted in the state not moving to Phase Three. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (27) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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Tort reform legislation clears the Senate and is headed back to the House, but without a past provision that required insurers to lower rates should it become law. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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An estimated 450,000 Louisiana small businesses who’ve been impacted by COVID-19 economic shutdowns could qualify to receive grants from a fund set to start disbursing money next month.

State Treasurer John Schroder says despite the limited funds they’re pushing to make sure every business owner, no matter how small, knows they could be eligible.

Cut 4 (06)_ “….happens”

For the first 21 days, only businesses with one to forty-nine employees as of March 1^st that have received no federal aid can apply.

The 300 million dollars set aside from the program is drawn from 1.8 billion in federal relief dollars sent to the state. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt noted that math…

Cut 5 (05)  “business” 

Not all businesses who qualify may receive grants if the fund runs out. Schroder says the program will hand out grants on a first come first served basis based on the date upon which the company applied.

Cut 6 (08) “…money”

40 million dollars of the program has been set aside specifically for veteran, women, and minority-owned businesses.

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Governor Edwards cites the increase in COVID-19 cases for keeping Louisiana from advancing to Phase Three of economic reopening. Louisiana is among 23 states where cases are increasing. Edwards says most of those states are in the south, so it now debunks the theory that heat and humidity would hinder the virus.

Cut 7 (06) “…of our country.”

Edwards says the percentage of case growth among young people is increasing dramatically in Louisiana and believes that is because that age group may be more hesitant to follow restrictions because they know they are not personally at the same risk level as older people.

Cut 8 (10) “…Orleans and elsewhere.”

Edwards pledges to have officials be more active in monitoring business’s spread mitigation efforts with courtesy visits and suggestions on improvements. Edwards says the state has not shutdown or revoked any permits for failing to follow spread mitigation measures, but…

Cut 9 (11) “…option for us.”

The state will remain in Phase Two for at least another 28 days.

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A cloud of Saharan dust is crossing the Atlantic and is set to arrive in Louisiana by Wednesday bringing with it more COVID-19 concerns.  The dust consists of tiny mineral rock particles from Africa. While it can produce vivid sunsets, the head of environmental sciences at LSU Health New Orleans, Dr. James Diaz, says it poses a risk to those with underlying health conditions.

Cut 10 (10) “…of getting COVID-19.”

Those with asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, and heart conditions should be most cautious.  Diaz says the dust can also impact pollen allergy sufferers and possibly increase the transmission of COVID-19.

Cut 11 (10) “…a dust particle.”

Diaz says the best defense is keeping tabs on air quality alerts and staying indoors or be ready with a face covering if you do have to be outside.

Cut 12 (12) “…pre-existing lung condition.”

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The Senate passes lawsuit reform legislation that supporters believe may help lower auto insurance rates.

The bill lowers the jury trial threshold to 10,000 dollars, prevents insurance company’s names from being mentioned in court, and removes a gag order on whether a crash victim was wearing a seat belt. Bossier City Senator Barrow Peacock says it’s not as strong as past efforts, but…

Cut 13 (04) “…triple” 

Past tort efforts had jury trial thresholds of 5,000 dollars and barred plaintiffs from suing auto insurance companies as opposed to just keeping their name secret in court. They also included a two year prescriptive period for filing suits.

Democrats fumed over the legislation’s lack of any wording requiring auto insurance rates to go down if the bill were to pass. Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau says it does nothing for drivers…

Cut 14 (08) “…support it”

This stripped-down legislation removed pieces of prior efforts that Evangeline Parish Senator Heather McCloud says would address the state’s sky-high commercial auto insurance rates.

Cut 15 (12) “…crisis.”

McCloud ultimately supported the legislation. The vote was 29-9 and the bill will now return to the House for a final vote.

_________________________________

Louisiana has surpassed 50-thousand COVID-19 cases and three-thousand deaths. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Tulane researchers develop a potential synthetic antibody treatment that could provide COVID immunity for one to two weeks at a time. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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A Senate-approved bill that would provide an 83-million dollar tax break over five years for the state’s casinos and race tracks moved closer to final passage as the House Ways and Means Committee approved it today. Crowley Representative John Stefanski voiced his support for the bill and the gaming industry

Cut 3 (11) ”…good idea”  

Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns’ legislation would allow each casino to give customers five-million dollars in free promotional play wagers without having to pay state taxes on those amounts. Johns says such a move will help attract people back to casinos, which would lead to more tax revenue from the gaming industry

Cut 4 (08)_ “…we’re doing”

The bill passed the Senate last week on 26-8 vote. There are some lawmakers who oppose tax breaks for businesses because the state is experiencing a decline in revenues. But Johns says providing a tax break on promotional play wagers will help the gaming industry bounce back from the COVID shutdown

Cut 5 (10)  “…state revenue”

The measure heads to the full House for more discussion.

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The Department of Health is aiming to prevent crisis situations with the launch of the Behavioral Health Recovery Outreach Line. Assistant secretary of the Office of Behavioral Health Karen Stubbs says this line is aimed at relapse prevention in those struggling with stress during the pandemic.

Cut 6 (12) “…or co-occurring disorders.”

Louisiana does have other crisis lines and Stubbs says the hotline model is one that has proven to be an effective resource for those with mental health disorders. Calls received range from those having a tough day to those self-identifying the warning signs of mental or emotional changes.

Cut 7 (07) “…to the caller.”

Stubbs says those working the line are also equipped with the general information about COVID-19.

Cut 8 (06) “…lack of information.”

The phone number is 1-833-333-1132.

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Saturday was the first day of early voting for the July 11th Presidential Preference Primary and election officials say they’ve already received 48-thousand mail-in ballots. Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin says for this election, Louisiana has expanded the acceptable reasons for eligible voters to request an absentee ballot

Cut 9 (09) “…career”

Pollster John Couvillon says the 48-thousand mail-in votes is the highest first-day mail in volume dating back to 2008.

Anyone who is at a high risk of severe illness from COVID-19, caring for a high-risk person, or experiencing COVID symptoms, can also request an absentee ballot. He says more than 116-thousand absentee ballots have been requested…

Cut 10 (08) “…July 10th.”

Louisiana’s presidential primary is not the only item on the ballot for the July 11th. There are also local races in 24 parishes and party committee positions. Ardoin says returning your mail-in ballot is simple…

Cut 11 (04) “…voters office.”

_________________________________________________________

Tulane researchers develop a synthetic antibody treatment for COVID-19 that’s shown promising results in lab mice. Tulane Internal Medicine Chair Dr. Jay Kolls says their protein, MDR504, is able to get into the lungs and neutralize coronavirus in the place where it is most likely to do damage.

Cut 12 (06) “…cells”

Kolls says the treatment is similar to antibody treatment for RSV, a respiratory illness most commonly seen in preterm infants.

Kolls says this treatment is not cost-effective enough to replace a vaccine, but…

Cut 13 (10) “…canidates.”  

Data from the study indicates patients would receive a dose of the antibody every one to two weeks to maintain immunity.

Kolls says the hope is to get this treatment into human trials sometime in the fall, which is impressive considering they started work on MDR504 in March…

Cut 14 (08) “…project”

____________________

Governor Edwards announces the state will not move into Phase 3 of reopening its economy and it will remain in Phase 2 for another 28 days. Edwards says Louisiana is one of 23 states experiencing an increase in cases and hospitalizations are also on the rise…

Cut 15 (13) “…be hospitalized.” 

Health officials say there are 41 more people hospitalized compared to the day before. That’s the single biggest jump since April 20th.

Edwards made the announcement on the day Louisiana surpassed 50-thousand COVID-19 cases and three-thousand deaths

Cut 16 (10) “…COVID-19”

An E Pluribus Unum survey shows a majority of southern whites do not believe blacks have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards is urging residents to participate in the 2020 US Census.  Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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Governor Edwards will announce whether or not the state will move into Phase Three this afternoon. Brooke Thorington has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”  

_______________________________________________

A Sports Illustrated report says at least 30 LSU football players have been isolated after they either tested positive for COVID-19 or had contact with players who tested positive. Some of the quarantined players admitted they visited nightclubs near LSU’s campus, which has been the source for over 100 new cases. Tiger Rag Editor Ron Higgins says players have to stay away from large crowds…

Cut 4 (06)_ “….inexcusable really”

The state health department has received at least 100 reports of patrons and staff from multiple Tigerland bars testing positive for COVID-19. Anyone who visited Tigerland bars that weekend should consider themselves exposed to COVID-19 and self-quarantine for 14 days.

Higgins says LSU put in a lot of effort to provide a safe environment for players to train and Coach Ed Orgeron says maybe forced to tell his players they are prohibited from entering bars…

Cut 5 (11)  “ keep you safe” 

Numerous other schools have also reported multiple players testing positive for COVID-19. Three Ragin Cajuns athletes have also tested positive. The football season is still more than two months away and Higgins says schools will continue to make the effort to play football this year…

Cut 6 (06) “…I don’t know” (2x)

LSU says the players who have tested positive are showing minor symptoms or no symptoms at all.

______________________________________________________

A survey of southerners shows while nearly all whites have heard news about blacks being disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, the majority don’t believe it.

GBAO Strategies Pollster Jim Gerstein says over 75% of white respondents reported being previously told by media that blacks suffered disproportionately from the disease…

Cut 7 (08) “…true”

In Louisiana, 53 percent of COVID deaths have been African Americans, who make up just 32 percent of the population.

Gerstein says their survey showed that a majority of respondents feel that blacks suffer worse economic outcomes due to a lack of opportunity rather than poor personal choices.

Cut 8 (09) “…groups”

Gerstein says that appears to be the first time a majority of whites have expressed that opinion.

Respondents were also asked about the COVID recovery and whether lawmakers should use the opportunity to pursue racial justice reforms in healthcare and education, or just restore the status quo…

Cut 9 (08) “…direction”

The survey was conducted during a seven day period starting the day after the death of George Floyd and was created by E Pluribus Unum.

__________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards is encouraging Louisiana residents to be counted as part of the 2020 census. There are three ways to participate: online, by phone, or by mail. Edwards says the state’s response rate is lagging.

Cut 10 (11) “…the deep south.”

The census only happens once every ten years, so Edwards stresses the importance of getting it right. Edwards says the census means more than just a headcount of the population as the data is used to determine the allocation of federal dollars for various programs.

Cut 11 (11) “…you name it.”

Edwards says the data also feeds into the redistricting that takes place once every ten years.

Cut 12 (10) “…information back in.”

Due to COVID-19, the deadline to fill out the census has been extended until October 31^st and can be done at My2020Census.gov.

________________________

Governor Edwards is expected to announce whether or not the state will move into Phase Three this afternoon.

Public Affairs Research Council President Robert Travis Scott says Edwards has a lot to consider given our new upward trajectory of case growth…

Cut 13 (12) “…making.” 

A majority of the state’s health regions are seeing a growth in new cases.

Scott says it’s likely state officials knew numbers would creep up once we moved into Phase Two, but they now have to contend with lowering levels of compliance on masks and social distancing.

Cut 14 (10) “…relaxing.”

Scott notes even with the recent spike over the past ten days we’re still nowhere close to overtopping our healthcare capacity.

We don’t’ know exactly what Phase Three will look like in Louisiana but Scott says federal guidelines indicate it would further loosen capacity restrictions and allow for larger crowds at events.

Cut 15 (10) “…Phase Two.”

LSU’s Troy Middleton Library will be renamed after a unanimous decision by the Board of Supervisors. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Early voting for Louisiana’s presidential primary begins on Saturday. Jeff Palermo reports election officials are taking extra precautions because of COVID-19…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Louisiana health officials say about a third of the nursing homes in the state are not regularly testing their staff and residents. State health officer Doctor Jimmy Guidry says facilities who fail to follow the state’s testing guidelines could be hit with sanctions…

Cut 3 (08) ”…withholding payment”  

Guidry says they are asking nursing homes to conduct weekly tests on all of their residents and staff if there are known COVID cases in the facility. He says it’s critical we stay on top of the virus and testing is a critical step in protecting people who are vulnerable to this disease…

Cut 4 (06)_ “…answer the question”

The state failed to reach its goal to test all nursing home residents and workers by the end of May. Guidry says the virus has shown it’s not slowing down in the summer…

Cut 5 (11)  “…not worse.”

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The LSU Board of Supervisors unanimously approves a resolution to remove Troy Middleton’s name from the school’s library due to the namesake’s vocal support for segregation.

Governor John Bel Edwards spoke strongly in support of the decision to pull the former LSU President’s name from the library.

Cut 6 (09) “…worthy”

Former lawmaker Woody Jenkins spoke on behalf of the Middleton family, who opposes the decision. Jenkins called Middleton an American World War One and Two war hero.

Cut 7 (12) “…Bastogne”

But Governor Edwards, a former Army paratrooper, says that’s no excuse for Middleton’s views on race.

Cut 8 (11) “…beliefs” (2x)

During the meeting, a board member read a letter written by Middleton in 1956 where he said “I do not want negro students in LSU, I believe in the segregation of the races, and no matter what may come I shall not associate with negros.”

But Jenkins says Middleton’s support for segregation in the 50s and 60s was just a snapshot of who he was. He says Middleton later worked with the President of Dillard on integration.

Cut 9 (09) “…career”

The library was named after Middleton in 1978 after his death in 1976. Crews removed the name from the front of the library on Friday afternoon.

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Today is Juneteenth, a commemoration of a milestone in the ending of slavery in the United States.  The date is getting more recognition this year.  LSU Chief Diversity Officer Dereck Rovaris says today is a celebration of the final group of enslaved African Americans learning of their emancipation.

Cut 10 (10) “…rejoicing and celebration.”

Rovaris says Juneteenth is often confused with being a celebration of the emancipation proclamation.  While it is not officially a national holiday, Rovaris feels that may not be far off.

Cut 11 (12) “…for the employees.”

Rovaris says the celebration of the day can be done like another recognizable summer holiday.

Cut 12 (08) “…Americans from slavery.”

Governor Edwards says we should use this day to recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight for equity and justice.
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Early voting begins Saturday for the presidential primary election. The voting experience will be different because of COVID-19. Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin encourages voters to practice social distancing while at the polls, adding the state will be offering extra spread mitigation efforts.

Cut 13 (08) “…gloves as well.”  

This election has been delayed twice due to COVID-19. Ardoin says this early voting day period will be longer in an effort to reduce the risk of large crowds congregating at polling places.

Cut 14 (08) “…and early vote.”

Ardoin says while mask-wearing is not mandated, it will be encouraged. The state’s famous “I Voted” stickers will not be distributed as an added precaution.

Only registered Republicans can vote in the GOP primary and even though Joe Biden is expected to accept the nomination in August, registered Democrats can select between the 14 candidates up for the Democratic presidential nomination.

Cut 15 (05) “…from the race.” 

Ardoin says in addition to the presidential primary, voters in 24 parishes will have local items on their ballot.

Cut 16 (13) “…not on all”

For those that qualify for vote by mail, the cut off to request an absentee ballot is July 7th.

Governor Edwards says he is concerned about the state’s growth in COVID numbers and asks the public to take the pandemic as seriously as they did when we first flattened the curve…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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A generic steroid using dexamethasone appears to cut risk of death for COVID-19 patients on ventilators by a third. Kevin Barnhart spoke with a local doctor who has used it on patients.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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A football player suspended for one year lawyers up against LSU. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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The House unanimously approves legislation sending a 250 dollar check to some essential workers who worked the early days of the pandemic. To qualify workers must earn under 50,000 a year.

A prior version had the limit at 70,000 a year but bill author Shreveport Representative Sam Jenkins says that just wasn’t fiscally feasible.

Cut 4 (10) “stores”

The legislation targets health care workers, first responders, childcare workers, grocery store employees, and more.

Ponchatoula Representative Bill Wheat ultimately supported the legislation but says it’s disappointing that the income limit was lowered.

Cut 5 (11) “…for.”

Up to 50 million dollars in checks can be disbursed, with the potential for another 50 million if the need arises. Federal coronavirus relied aid will fund the program. 25-million dollars from a small business grant fund and another 25-million from a pot of money that’s set to go to local governments.

Eunice Representative Phillip Devillier says his constituents have been begging the state for some help.

Cut 6 (12) “direction.”

The bill passed to light cheers from House members and is headed to the Senate.

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State officials call the recent rise in COVID-19 case numbers “alarming” as we near next week’s announcement on potentially moving into Phase Three.

Neighboring states are starting to see record COVID cases, and Assistant Health Secretary Dr. Alex Billioux says if current trends hold we won’t be far behind.

Cut 7 (08) “…act”

Billioux says they are seeing an increase in cases in central Louisiana and southwest Louisiana, including the Acadiana area.

Governor Edwards says these numbers should be a gut check for Louisianans to reevaluate if they have been slacking on their social distancing and mask-wearing. He says the threat has not passed.

Cut 8 (09) “…first wave.”

Since June 10^th the state has reported 4,200 new positive tests when adjusting for backlogged cases from previous weeks. The state also did not report new numbers Thursday.

Billioux says 91% of the new cases are not nursing home related and most of those are being linked to social gatherings or households, but not to protests.

Cut 9 (11) “…do both.”

Billioux says the risk for transmission is low if protestors all wear masks and try to keep their distance.

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Medical experts in the United Kingdom indicate that a steroid treatment has provided a glimmer of hope in treatment of COVID-19. Dexamethasone appears to cut the risk of death for ventilator patients by a third. Tulane Medical Center pulmonary care Dr. Joshua Denson says he has used this therapy to treat a handful of COVID patients.

Cut 10 (08) “…most severe patients.”

The steroid also appears to cut the risk of death for patients on oxygen by a fifth.

Denson has his reservations and believes it should not become standard of care until experts are able to fully vet and review a full manuscript presenting the data and undergoes peer review in an organized fashion.

Cut 11 (10) “…that with dexamethasone.”

Denson feels overall hospitals are getting better at figuring out how to manage patients and says that could be because they aren’t seeing the onslaught of patients coming through the door they once did.

Cut 12 (10) “…making some progress.”

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A suspended LSU football player files a federal Title IX complaint accusing the university he was unjustly suspend on an accusation he had non-consensual sex with another student.  The unnamed player’s attorney Susan Stone says their client was not given access to evidence until after being determined guilty by LSU.

Cut 13 (11) “…that includes cross-examination.” 

The player is remaining anonymous. In court documents he’s referred to as “John Doe” and is a resident of Alabama. He was suspended in February and it’s a year-long suspension. Stone says he cannon attend school, he’s lost his scholarship and she says this could have a long-lasting impact on the player’s life.

Cut 14 (11) “…would be recruiters.”

Kristina Supler is another attorney working on the case and she says the school’s actions are a due process violation and the message is clear: be fair.

Cut 15 (07) “…in the school.”

The player’s legal team hopes LSU will vacate their decision, restore his scholarship and allow him to return to the football team in good academic standing. LSU says they do not comment on pending litigation.

A United Way survey breaks down Louisiana residents’ top concerns during the pandemic. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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A Senate-approved resolution that seeks to create a task force to study police law enforcement policies and make recommendations on how to improve receives unanimous support from a House committee. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A survey from the Louisiana Association of United Ways finds that two-thirds of Louisiana residents need help in paying everyday bills during this COVID-19 pandemic. President of the non-profit Sarah Berthelot says households with annual incomes less than $35,000 face the most setbacks and challenges.

Cut 3 (10) ”…on low-income workers”  

Berthelot says another major finding in the study is that 47-percent of residents say their child care situation changed after the stay at home order.

Cut 4 (08)_ “…of work hours”

Berthelot says when it comes to the top concerns, 8% say it’s paying bills, 10% say it’s children’s issues, 12% say it’s housing, 20% says it’s their community and at 32%, the top concern is avoiding the coronavirus.

Cut 5 (12)  “…was contracting COVID-19.”

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Governor Edwards signs three gun rights bills, one dealing with concealed carry in churches, another targeting local gun restriction ordinances, and the last addressing rights during a public emergency.

Edwards says the first bill rewrites Louisiana law to specify that conceal carry is permissible in houses of worship if it is approved by that facility’s administrator.

Cut 6 (03) “…have it”

That bill was opposed by the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana and other church representatives testified against it in committee.

The mayors of Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and the Louisiana Municipal Association objected to another bill that would prohibit local governments from establishing gun-free zones in parks, playground and other public areas. Edwards doesn’t see the legislation to be controversial…

Cut 7 (10) “…issue”

The final bill outlaws state and local restrictions on the sale of guns and ammo during public emergencies. The bill sponsor says it was inspired by actions taken by the City of New Orleans during Katrina and other emergencies.

Edwards says his support for these bills should come as no surprise to anyone.

Cut 8 (10) “…moderate side”

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A House committee approves a proposal to create a Police Training, Screening, and De-escalation Task Force. The panel will study police department policies and make recommendations on how they can be improved. Law enforcement supports the resolution and Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle took note of that…

Cut 9 (08) “…the nation”

Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields is the author of the resolution and he says recent research shows black men are three times more likely than white men to be killed by police intervention. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala is a retired deputy and made a statement that caused a brief uproar

Cut 10 (12) “…State Capitol.”

Bacala says he supports the resolution and believes the state needs to put a stop to police brutality…

Cut 11 (12) “…force.”

The Senate approved measure heads to the House floor for more discussion.

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A Calhoun man is in the Ouachita Parish correctional center charged with 400 counts of child porn and 100 counts of sexual abuse of an animal.  Trooper Brent Hardy says the investigation of 40-year-old Keith Taylor began in April when the Special Victims Unit received information that Taylor in possession of, and possibly distributing, inappropriate content online.

Cut 12 (08) “…children and animals.”

The investigation was conducted with the help of multiple agencies including the FBI, the Louisiana AG’s office, and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s office.  Hardy says the allegations have likely shaken the community.

Cut 13 (07) “…knows Mr. Taylor.”  

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28-year-old Cordale Richard was arrested today in the shooting deaths of 21-year-old Aliza Gabriel and 20-year-old Tanasa Francis at a large party in Raceland Sunday.

Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Lt. Brennan Matherne says Richard was involved in a fight at the party, and once the police arrived he allegedly began firing indiscriminately into a crowd.

Cut 14 (09) “…the scene.”

Francis and Gabriel are believed to have been uninvolved bystanders.

Matherne says Richard admitted to the shootings after police tracked him to his home and arrested him without incident.

Cut 15 (11)“ shooting” 

Richard faces two counts of First Degree Murder along with several other charges.