Oil prices rose to a two month high today at over 30 dollars a barrel on rising optimism about the world economy. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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13 people are wounded following a shooting in Bogalusa at a memorial for a recent murder victim.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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A 27-year-old woman is dead and nine others are being treated at a hospital from severe weather that hit a rural area in northeast Acadia Parish last night. The one fatality took place on Prudence Highway north of Church Point.  Sheriff KP Gibson says a suspected tornado damaged several homes.

Cut 3 (09)  “with moderate damage.”  

Gibson says the loss of life could have been much worse as many residents were unprepared for the impact of the severe weather.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…everybody off guard.”

Gibson says the community response in the aftermath has been tremendous.

Cut 5 (07)  “…on their feet.”

Damage has also been reported in Evangeline Parish.

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The price of oil has rebounded to over 30 dollars a barrel after sinking to negative numbers just a month ago.

LSU Center for Energy Studies Executive Director David Dismukes explains why…

Cut 6 (10) “activity”

Dismukes says today’s notable spike was the result of new positive news related to vaccine development.

Oil started the year over 60 dollars a barrel, and while that is unlikely to return this year Dismukes says the industry can sustain at these prices.

Cut 7 (08) “track”

An industry survey indicated producers were bracing for massive layoffs, but Dismukes says if prices stay over 35 a barrel we should only lose 5,000 of the state’s 35,000 oil workers.

Cut 8 (06) “…labor force”

Today’s prices in the low 30s represent a two month high for oil.

_______________________

The search continues for the gunmen involved in a mass shooting that wounded 13 people in Bogalusa on Saturday night. Major Wendell O’ Berry says between 500 to 800 people gathered at an intersection to remember the life of Dominique James, who was recently murdered. O’ Berry says as the crowd grew shots were fired…

Cut 9 (11) “…wounded.”

O’ Berry says 12 of the 13 victims were male and some are critically wounded.

Washington Parish Sheriff Randy Seal is calling on those that have information about shooting to come forward and talk to police, saying it is much more effective that marching in protest of the violence.

Cut 10 (10) “…our community back.”

Seal says various factors contribute to the city’s crime problem that produced the mass shooting.

Cut 11 (13) “…lets talk.”
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Governor Edwards is recommending to legislative leaders to use federal money to close a one-billion-dollar budget hole that’s been caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says a portion of the rainy day fund can be used as well, leaving just 80-million dollars in cuts

Cut 12 (09) “…budget”

Dardenne says most of the projected cuts would occur within the Louisiana Department of Health’s budget. He says many other agencies are taking a two-percent cut, including higher education and there’s also a possibility more cuts will be needed later this year if the economy doesn’t rebound

Cut 13 (08) “be spent”  

Dardenne says their proposal to lawmakers is to keep TOPS fully funded and they are not recommending a reduction in public school funding. Lawmakers have until July 1st to pass a budget, and it may take a June special session to get it done.

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A woman is dead and two juveniles were taken to the hospital after a train collided with their stalled out vehicle in Webster Parish.

State Police Trooper Brent Hardy says 51-year-old Rebecca Woodard of Minden and one juvenile were attempting to push the vehicle when the train came into view.

Cut 14 (13) “…vehcile”

Woodard was transported to the hospital where she later died. The juvenile in the vehicle sustained moderate injuries.

Hardy says Woodard and the juvenile had not managed to get the vehicle very far when the impact occurred.

Cut 15 (08)“ vehcile.”

Hardy says if your vehicle ever becomes stranded on the track, immediate exit and get all other passengers away from the vehicle, then call the number on the nearby white and blue sign.

Cut 16 (10) “…crossing.”

The crash occurred on LA Highway 163 south of LA Highway 164.

Today is the first day casinos can open since a state ordered closure in mid-March. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Movie theaters can reopen under Phase One guidelines, but most stay closed. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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Ochsner  says its treating three children in Louisiana for an illness the CDC believes is linked to COVID-19 infection. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Today is the first day casinos and video poker parlors can open since the governor ordered them closed in mid-March. State Police had to approve each casino’s spread mitigation procedures and operators are looking at whether they can still break even with occupancy limits in place. Casino Association of Louisiana executive director Wade Duty says not every casino will open today.

Cut 4 (06)_ “…them to open.”

Diamond Jacks Casino and Hotel in Bossier City has announced a permanent closure due to market conditions from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, the casino brings in $7.5 million to the state and $1.5 million to Bossier City in tax revenue. More than 300 will be without a job.

Duty says getting fully staffed is tricky.

Cut 5 (12)  “…taken other positions.”

Casinos are allowed to open with 50% of their gaming positions in operation, but an over occupancy limit of 25-percent. Duty says they are optimistic players will visit Louisiana casinos and they should get out of state visitors too.

Cut 6 (09) “ …first to benefit.”

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Movies theaters are allowed to welcome customers back under the Governor’s Phase One reopening plan, however, most of the marquees remain dark. President of the Tristate Independent Theatre Association, Adam Holland says theatres didn’t know when Phase One would actually go into effect until the announcement on May 11^th and they also have to coordinate with studios for product.

Cut 7 (08) “…mid-July.”

Due to a lack of new releases to show and business procedures that must be implemented to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Holland says most theaters will open next month.

Cut 8 (12) “…this virus”

Holland says when theaters do reopen, you’ll see some changes like sneeze guards at the concession stand and more ushers.

Cut 9 (10) “…by the orders.”__

Holland is confident the industry will survive because many people still like to watch movies in a theaters.

__________________________________

The CDC warns physicians to be on the lookout for a possibly COVID-linked illness that has impacted over a hundred children across the country.

Ochsner Lafayette Pediatric Cardiologist Dr. Katherine Lindle says the symptoms do not look like COVID-19 in adults.

Cut 10 (10) “…breathing.”

Lindle says other symptoms include rrashes and inflamed tongues that look like strawberries.

Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome appears to take hold in many patients after their initial COVID-19 infection has passed. Lindle says sometimes it’s several weeks later.

Cut 11 (07) “…symptoms”

Ochsner reports having treated three such cases in Louisiana, and Lindle says fatal outcomes for children afflicted by the disease are rare.

Cut 12 (09) “…aware.”

More than half of the reported cases have been found in New York.

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The full Senate is scheduled to tackle two major bills today, one being tort reform aimed at reducing auto insurance rates and the other revoking local governments’ ability to sue oil companies for coastal damages. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says there are enough votes in the upper chamber to pass tort reform…

Cut 13 (12) “…states” 

Opponents of the tort reform bill say it would not lower auto insurance rates and would make it harder for victims of negligence to be properly compensated.

The coastal land loss lawsuit legislation had strong GOP support, but Pinsonat says local leaders are pushing coastal Republicans away from the bill.

Cut 14 (09) “…debt”

Pinsonat says it is possible the bill will be shelved today due to a lack of votes. He says the governor does not support both of these proposals…

Cut 15 (11)“…weaken it.”

The Senate will convene today at 2 PM.

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With the return of Bo Pelini as LSU’s defensive coordinator, the Tigers will also move to a four-three defensive front. During the Tiger Athletic Foundation’s Virtual Coaches tour, Pelini said there are enough talented defensive ends on the roster to make the switch

Cut 16 (23) “…be special”

Pelini says they will have some schemes that are the same ones used by former defensive coordinator Dave Aranda, but there will be some new packages as well

Cut 17  (25) “…any offense” 

Pelini is excited to have Jacoby Stevens back in the defensive secondary

Cut 18  (20) “…of guy”   

A real estate expert predicts the COVID Crisis will have a lasting impact on the way office spaces are laid out. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The Lt Governor says saving the state’s tourism economy starts with getting more Louisianans to take in-state road trips. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Parts of southeast Louisiana are drying out today after over a foot of rain fell in an area north of Lake Ponchartrain. Phil Grigsby with the National Weather Service in Slidell says their highest rainfall total was 15 inches

Cut 3 (11)  “ten inches”  

Grigsby says up to ten inches of rain fell in St. Charles Parish. Officials say floodwaters entered over 120 homes in the Destrehan area.

Rivers continue to rise and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff deputies were still conducting water rescues on Friday morning.

Grigsby says the Tchefuncte River, which starts in Tangiaphoa Parish and drains into Lake Pontchartrain in St. Tammany will crest at major flood stage level. He says water has flowed into some homes

Cut 4 (11)_ “…St. Charles Parish.”

A handful of people had to be rescued from their homes last night as the water kept rising. High water has also closed some roads and there are also power outages.
Grigsby says heavy rain bands from a low-pressure system produced the flooding and more rain is in the forecast…

Cut 5 (09)  “…last evening.”

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Many of Louisiana’s 450,000 small businesses are struggling to make rent amid the COVID-driven economic crisis.

Beau Box Commercial Real Estate New Orleans VP Cress Gardner says the divide between which sectors are and are not having trouble paying rent is significant.

Cut 6 (09) “ 50/50”

Gardner says if your business is struggling to make rent reach out to your landlord with detailed accounting demonstrating how your business will bounce back after the crisis cools.

Cut 7 (11) “.accsessed”

Gardner says if you’ve been a reliable tenant than it’s unlikely your landlord will want to let you go over a few months of delinquency.

Gardner also expects when workers are cleared to return to office spaces those environments will reflect the New Normal.

Cut 8 (09) “…Thursday”

Gardner also expects the future of office spaces will be a return to less dense spacing with more personal offices.

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The National Federation of Independent Business indicates optimism as Louisiana begins phase one of the economic reopening.  But NFIB state director Dawn Starns says there are still challenges, such as limiting businesses to 25-percent capacity.

Cut 9 (09) “…past few months.”

Starns says the phase one proclamation creates winners and lowers. She says bowling alleys are still closed, while movie theatres can reopen.

Cut 10 (10) “…up and running.”

Spas, massage and tattoo parlors are not allowed to open under phase one guidelines. Starns says bars that do not serve food also remain shuttered…

Cut 11 (12) “…challenges with it.”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser calls on Louisianans to kick start the tourism economy by making 2020 the “Year of the Louisiana Road Trip”. South Louisianans are missing their spring festivals but Nungesser says you can still have some quality time with the family and social distance by loading up the car and heading north…

Cut 12 (12) “…meat pie”

Nungesser says you can extend your north Louisiana excursion by wrapping up your trip at Poverty Point World Heritage Site in West Carrol Parish.

And while south Louisiana’s iconic festivals have been canceled, Nungesser says you can still enjoy the coast’s natural offerings.

Cut 13 (11) “Basin”  

Nungesser says tourism dollars saved every Louisianan 1,100 dollars in taxes last year, and if Louisianans can prove you can safety tour the state more out of state visitors will return.

Cut 14 (08) “…Louisiana”

You can built an itenerary at LouisianaTravel.com/RoadTrip.

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Governor Edwards says if you get a call from a number that reads 877-766-2130, it’s a contact tracer. Edwards says it’s important you answer the contact tracer’s questions because they will inform you that a person you’ve been in contact with has tested positive for the coronavirus. He says it’s been used in Louisiana before…

Cut 15 (07)“ hepatitis A.”

The state previously had 70 contact tracers employed, but they’ve just trained about 300 more.

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This is the first weekend of loosened restrictions on businesses since the coronavirus pandemic began. Governor Edwards thinks the state can do this and still keep cases down and manageable…

Cut 16 (15) “…their opportunity.”

The state reported 348 new cases on Friday and 31 more COVID-19 deaths. But hospitalizations dropped by 102 to less than eleven-hundred.

As of last week, 325,000 Louisianans qualified for unemployment insurance placing a heavy burden on the Louisiana Workforce Commission…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Governor Edwards says as the state begins to reopen its economy, it’s important to remember we are still battling a public health crisis. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Louisiana sees 40,000 new unemployment insurance claims last week and the House Labor Committee tells Louisiana Workforce Commission Executive Director Ava Dejoie her department is handling the crush of claims well.

Natchitoches Representative Kenny Cox is impressed…

Cut 3 (07)  “appropriately.”  

The increase of 40,000 new claimants is lower than the previous week’s increase of 50,000 new claimants.

Alexandria Representative Ed Larvadain passed along his constituent’s thanks…

Cut 4 (10)_ “…appriciate it.”

Today the US reported three million unemployed workers, bringing to national total to 36.5 million.

Haughton Representative Dodie Horton thanked LWC for agreeing to implement work search requirements in the coming weeks…

Cut 5 (11)  “…balance.”

As of last week, 325,000 qualified for unemployment insurance benefits in Louisiana.

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Governor Edwards releases a proclamation today that will officially loosen restrictions on restaurants and churches starting tomorrow. Gyms, movie theaters, nail, and hair salons can reopen. Edwards says the proclamation spells out that residents should continue to wear masks, social distance and practice good hygiene

Cut 6 (08) “ wrong direction”

Edwards says moving to phase one doesn’t mean life returns to pre-coronavirus. He says if too many people go beyond what the CDC and state health department recommends, we will be back to square one

Cut 7 (10) “.would”

The COVID-19 death toll in Louisiana has reached 23-hundred and the state is reporting over 33-thousand cases as the state prepares to reopen a portion of its economy. Edwards says the rate of transmission in some parts of the state is lower than one and he hopes to keep it that way

Cut 8 (09) “…do that”

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The Louisiana Senate votes 31-5 to ban the hand-held usage of cell phones while behind the wheel and the bill is heading to the House for further discussion.  Bill sponsor Covington Sen. Patrick McMath says measure contributes to this session’s focus on lower auto insurance rates.

Cut 9 (10) “…premiums as well.”__

Similar measures have failed to make it to the Governor’s desk in the past.

McMath says he has spent a significant amount of time drafting the legislation to make it less burdensome on drivers when it comes to being able to still utilize the phone in the vehicle.

Cut 10 (10) “…all that stuff.”

McMath says Louisiana’s current law prohibiting texting and driving is impossible to enforce because if the police pull someone over for texting and driving, a driver can say they were using the phone for some other function.

McMath says there is language in the bill to prevent a cell phone violation from leading to a violation of constitutional rights.

Cut 11 (09) “…in this bill.”

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LSU executive deputy athletics director Verge Ausberry says it will not be the NCAA who will determine if the Tigers will kick off their football season in September. Ausberry says that decision will be made by the SEC and university leaders. He says they are planning for numerous scenarios

Cut 12 (11) “…on that”

Ausberry says it’s also too soon to decide if fans will be allowed inside Tiger Stadium for games

Cut 13 (10) “of things”  

Ausberry hopes student-athletes can get back on campus in June. He says the football coaches returned to their offices about two weeks ago

Cut 14 (10) “…back in shape”

The Louisiana Senate votes 31-5 to ban the hand-held usage of cell phones while behind the wheel and the bill is heading to the House for further discussion.  Bill sponsor Covington Sen. Patrick McMath says measure contributes to this session’s focus on lower auto insurance rates.
Cut 9 (10) “…premiums as well.”__
Similar measures have failed to make it to the Governor’s desk in the past.
Governor Edwards releases a proclamation today that will officially loosen restrictions on restaurants and churches starting tomorrow. Gyms, movie theaters, nail, and hair salons can reopen. Edwards says the proclamation spells out that residents should continue to wear masks, social distance and practice good hygiene
Cut 6 (08) “ wrong direction”
Edwards says moving to phase one doesn’t mean life returns to pre-coronavirus.

Not every buisiness will be open for buisiness Friday when the stay at home order lifts. Matt Doyle has more on why places like bars will remain closed…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser announces the reopening of 18 of the 21 state parks this Friday.  Nungesser says the park rangers and attendants will be on the job as visitors come to the parks.

Cut 15 (11)“…back to Louisiana.”

A backlog of haircut needs and social distancing may result in the need to set a hair appointment. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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 Not every buisiness will be open for buisiness Friday when the stay at home order lifts. Matt Doyle has more on why places like bars will remain closed…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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Some of Louisiana’s state parks are reopening exclusively to residents just in time for the weekend. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Barbershops and hair salons will partially reopen Friday and the experience is expected to be drastically different. Setting hair appoints may become necessary. Director of the State Board of Cosmetology Steve Young says social distancing will be paramount and it’ll impact the convenience of a quick snip.

Cut 4 (09)_ “…the appointed time.”

Capacity limits will likely mean that waiting inside the business will not be an option, so waiting in the car will be the next best thing.

Barbershops and salons have been closed since March, so the backlog of those in need of a haircut may create the need for extended business hours. Young says that should not be an issue.
Cut 5 (09)  “…sure many will.”

Young says mask-wearing and other spread mitigation efforts will be mandated during a hair appointment.

Cut 6 (09) “…to be sanitized.”

_______________________________________

Congressman Ralph Abraham pens a letter to Tesla founder Elon Musk inviting the tycoon to relocate his California based company to north Louisiana.

Musk reopened his Tesla production facility in spite of California’s statewide stay a home order shuttering all non-essential businesses and is facing potential legal action.

Cut 7 (11) “…What’s right.”

Abraham says a 1,400-acre site called Franklin Farm in his home parish of Richland would be perfect for the electric car manufacturer.

Cut 8 (11) “…business”

The Franklin Farm property is currently state-owned.

Abraham says the I-20 corridor is ripe for a tech boom given the nearby technical schools and recent high tech investments.

Cut 9 (10) “…here”__

__________________________________

Some business advocates are frustrated that tattoo parlors, bars, and spas will not be allowed to open for business Friday.

But Louisiana Department of Health Assistant Secretary Alex Billioux says it’s just not safe to open those sectors yet, and cited White House guidelines recommending places like bars remain closed.

Cut 10 (12) “…the state.”

Billioux says they have three criteria for when, and how businesses can open: The number of potential COVID contacts in a facility, how long you would have contact with a COVID case, and whether the business model could be adapted to limit contact.

Cut 11 (10) “…together”

Billioux says the Phase One reopening still calls for extensive social distancing and only focuses on businesses deemed “low risk”.

Billioux says some establishments, like restaurants, lend themselves well to adapting to social distancing guidelines, and some business models just could not make it work.

Cut 12 (11) “…that setting”

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Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser announces the reopening of 18 of the state’s historical sites, and 18 of the 21 state parks this Friday.  Nungesser says state parks have lots of cancellations, so there has never been a better time for locals to enjoy what state parks have to offer.

Cut 13 (09) “…by Louisiana residents.” 

Nungesser says state parks are incentivizing residents to staycation and check out all the trails, the fishing, and more.

Cut 14 (12) “…4^th night free (x2).”

Three state parks, Chico State Park, Lake Bistineau State Park, Bayou Segnette State Park, will remain closed as they are quarantining COVID-19 positive patients.

Nungesser says the park rangers and attendants will be on the job as visitors come to the parks.

Cut 15 (11)“…back to Louisiana.”

On Saturday, the state’s nine museums will also reopen at 25% capacity.  Welcome centers will reopen in phase two.

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The full Senate has approved a bill giving voters a chance to decide if they want sports betting legalized in their parish. Metairie Senator Cameron Henry says if his proposal gets full legislative approval, the proposition will appear on the November third ballot

Cut 16 (13) “…moving forward.”

The proposal passed on a 29-to-8 vote. An effort to legalize sports wagering last year failed as conservative lawmakers were concerned about expanding gambling. Henry says if residents in a parish vote for this proposition, then the legislature will decide how it will be taxed and regulated during the 2021 fiscal session…

Cut 17  (14) “…you on it” 

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During the Tiger Athletic Foundation’s virtual coaches caravan, LSU athletics director Scott Woodward could not provide an answer on whether fans will be allowed in Tiger Stadium this season. Woodward says they still have several weeks before they make a decision…

Cut 18  (29) “…proper fashion.”   

LSU’s season opener is September fifth when they host U-T San Antonio. Woodward says they are doing everything in their control to open the season that day and play 12 regular season games.

LSU is hoping the players can return to campus in June. Coach Ed Orgeron is looking forward to Myles Brennan leading the offense. The coach admits Brennan has big shoes to fill…

cut 19 (18) “…pressure on him”  

Senator Bill Cassidy is pushing legislation that could help address some of the state’s expected billion-dollar budget deficit resulting from the COVID economic collapse. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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When Casinos and gaming facilities reopen on Monday as part of Phase One across the state it won’t be business as usual. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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 Lawsuit reform advances to the House floor. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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State lawmakers are facing the prospect of having to implement deep cuts in the next budget unless the feds bail out Louisiana.

Senator Bill Cassidy is pushing to address some of Louisiana’s, and other states’, COVID-related deficits by directing 500 billion dollars to state and local governments over the next two years.

Cut 4 (7)_ “…tremendously”

The SMART Act has been introduced in partnership with New Jersey Democratic Senator Bob Menendez.

Cassidy says Louisiana isn’t the only state facing dire budget conditions but without funding key government services he says the economy will never recover.

Cut 5 (11)  “…months.”

Cassidy says Louisiana is owed at least some federal budget assistance because it was federal policies and recommendations that tanked the state’s economy in particular.

Cut 6 (11) “…tourism”

Louisiana legislators are facing the prospect of crafting a budget for the fiscal year starting July 1^st with a billion-dollar shortfall compared to this fiscal year.

_______________________________________

Casinos and video poker facilities are waiting until Monday to welcome gamblers back. But Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Jones is not sure every casino will reopen. Jones says getting workers to return might be a challenge…

Cut 7 (08) “…right now.”

Louisiana has 20 casinos and nearly 200 video poker facilities. Each property will be required to limit occupancy to 25-percent and only 25-percent gaming positions can be in operation.

Jones says every casino is also required to submit a reopening plan to State Police that will feature a series of mitigation measures…

Cut 8 (11) “…on the floor.”

Patrons should expect temperature checks, be prepared to answer a series of health questions, and wear a mask while on the property. The casino will also have masks on hand and social distancing is a requirement on the gaming floor.

Jones says casino operators are not sure if a lot of their players are ready to return…

Cut 9 (12) “…wait awhile”__

__________________________________

The session’s major lawsuit and insurance reform effort passes House and Senate Committees.

The legislation lowers the jury trial threshold from 50,000 to 5,000 dollars, and House bill sponsor, Chalmette Representative Ray Garofalo says auto insurers have promised rate reductions if it passes.

Cut 10 (05) “…this bill.”

Proponents believe the legislation will allow the Insurance Commissioner to require auto insurance companies that save money from the reforms to implement a minimum 10% rate reduction.

Garofalo says now is a great time to push for legislation that will put more money back in people’s pockets.

Cut 11 (11) “…rent.”

The legislation also extends the prescriptive period for allowing suits to be filed to two years.

Lawyer and former Congressman Don Cazayoux spoke in opposition. He says the changes will pressure victims into settling for less than they deserve by requiring lengthy jury trials.

Cut 12 (12) “…amount”

Shreveport Representative Sam Jenkins says now is not the right time to take on such impactful and controversial legislation due to travel and Capitol restrictions.

Cut 13 (11) “…the most.” 

The twin bills head to the full House and Senate.

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The longstanding tradition of the Louisiana Farm Bureau holding its annual convention in New Orleans is not happening this year.  Under normal circumstances, 1500 members and their families would congregate, but Farm Bureau spokesperson Avery Davidson says the 98^th annual convention will be replaced by an event that looks much different.

Cut 14 (12) “…a physical location.”

This year, a new Farm Bureau president will be named as in February, outgoing president Ronnie Anderson announced his retirement after 31 years of leadership.

Davidson believes the only other disruption to the annual New Orleans convention’s near-century-long history happened in the 90’s.

Cut 15 (08)“…one day event.”

During the convention, farmers and ranchers get to discuss policy that impacts them on the state and federal levels.  Davidson says the Farm Bureau is ironing out the details of how that policy discussion will take place this year.

Cut 16 (11) “…how we’re doing.”

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Tonight the SEC Network airs a documentary covering LSU’s 2019 championship season.  Entitled “One for the Ages,” the 60-minute tribute showcases footage captured for other televisions programs from summer training camp through the National Championship victory.  Documentary producer Jim Jorden…

Cut 17  (16) “…of the season.” 

In all, LSU defeated seven teams ranked in the Top 10 in 2019.  While many may have been taken by surprise by the success of the season, Jorden says those on the team showed their confidence in their ability to be a championship squad early and the program showcases why.

Cut 18  (21) “…of the year.”   

There will be no shortage of Heisman Trophy winning QB Joe Burrow.  Jorden says having so many highlights from the Tigers made it tricky to select the ones to make the final cut.

cut 19 (14) “…in this show.”  

The program airs tonight at 6:30 Central on the SEC Network.

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cut 20 (22) “  ordinarillyl”  

Plans are now in place for students to be in the classroom this fall throughout the University of Louisiana System. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________

A legislative attempt to prevent the governor from enforcing his statewide stay at home order is halted after the annoucement that Louisiana will move to Phase One starting Friday. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

The University of Louisiana System announces plans to resume in-person instruction this fall at all nine member institutions.  UL System President Jim Henderson expects things to look much different from what students and faculty have been accustomed to in the past.

Cut 3 (10)  “…and responsibly get.”  

A system-wide framework will be put in place, but each institution will have the ability to optimize safety measures to work best for each community.

Henderson says exact plans are not set in stone, indicating as more information becomes available, there will be modifications made to incorporating mitigation efforts into the college setting.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…pinpoint our interventions.”

Henderson says there are hurdles in the logistics of obtaining resources for temperature checks, increased testing, and a heightened focus on sanitation.

Cut 5 (07)  “…are in place.”

_________________________________________________

The state faces a billion-dollar deficit for the fiscal year starting July 1^st with the possibility that deficit could rise if the economy continues to deteriorate.

Governor Edwards says that unpredictability makes it likely any budget passed this session would have to be changed in the fall.

Cut 6 (10) “year.”

The Revenue Estimating Conference projects a 316 million dollar loss in sales tax, a 351 million dollar decline in severance taxes, and 172 million dollars in gaming revenue losses due to COVID-19. Another 150 million in lost taxes and fees are also expected.

Despite the uncertainty, Edwards does not believe a special session will be necessary to pass a budget, because we won’t have a much clearer picture in June than we have now.

Cut 7 (08) “.budget”

But Edwards says if the feds bail out state and local governments it’s possible the deficit could shrink significantly by fall…

Cut 8 (10) “…to it”

Senator Bill Cassidy is spearheading a federal effort to get 500 billion dollars sent to local and state governments.

_______________________

One person is dead after fleeing from law enforcement following the discovery of apparent street racing activity in Shreveport.  Trooper Brent Hardy says around 2am Monday, State Police showed up to disperse the crowd and a pursuit ensued with a Chrysler 300 driven by 19-year-old Lakendrick O’Neal.

Cut 9 (09) “…struck a tree.”

O’Neal was pronounced dead at the scene and the vehicle’s five other passengers, ages 16 to 20, sustained a range of moderate to serious injuries and were sent to local hospitals.

Hardy says the search for answers continues as the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 10 (12) “…impairment was involved.”

It is unknown if the driver or passengers were buckled up.  Hardy says street racing is a problem on the national level and is never a good idea.

Cut 11 (11) “…a safe idea.”

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The author of a House resolution aimed at stopping the governor from enforcing the stay at home order will not move forward with the legislative measure. House GOP Caucus Chairman Blake Miguez says he will only revive the effort if Governor Edwards does not swiftly move the state through the federal reopening plan.

Cut 12 (10) “…his job.”

The resolution cleared a House committee last week and was scheduled for full House debate on Wednesday.

Miguez believes protests, letter-writing campaigns, social media posts, and his resolution pressured Edwards into loosening restrictions.

Cut 13 (12) “legislators”  

Edwards says he moved the state into Phase One only after the numbers, and his medical experts, indicated it was safe to do so.

Miguez says if the reopening does lead to a spike in cases it should not result in the entire state being put back on lockdown.

Cut 14 (10) “…Phase Two”

Governor Edwards said if a strict stay at home order is needed again, he’ll use a regional approach, instead of statewide.

Grocery shoppers have noticed some empty shelves since COVID-19, Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Edwards says starting Friday the state will move into Phase One of the federal economic reopening plan. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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Louisiana’s business lobbyists are cautiously optimistic about moving into phase one of economic reopening, but feel more needs to be done. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (28)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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At the grocery store you have probably noticed some empty shelves since COVID-19. LSU Ag Center Professor of Nutrition and Food Science Louise Wicker says before the outbreak more than 50 percent of the food Americans’ consumed was from restaurants.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…were distributed.”

Wicker says an average of 13 percent of our food dollar was spent dollar at the grocery store, and COVID-19 changed the dynamic of food distribution overnight. Wicker says even the packaging of the food you see on the shelves now might even look different.

Cut 5 (10)  “…use now.”

As for a predicted meat shortage, Wicker says it is not for a lack of meat, it is due to outbreaks of COVID-19 at meat processing plants, but she says there is meat available in frozen storage.

Cut 6 (12) “…the hoarding.”
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Starting Friday restaurants, churches, gyms, casinos, and other establishments closed by the stay at home order will be allowed to open at 25 percent capacity.

Governor Edwards says the numbers show it is safe to end the stay at home order and implement federal Phase One guidelines.

Cut 7 (07) “…protocols.”

Social gatherings will still not be recommended.

Edwards says employees dealing with the public must wear a facemask and the 25 percent number is based upon gross square footage and the particular use of your building.

Cut 8 (12) “…this week.”

The proclamation will be issued Thursday and is effective Friday.

Phase One is not a full reopening. Edwards says many businesses will still need to remain closed in the interest of public health.

Cut 9 (10) “…permits.”__

The state is scheduled to remain in Phase One until June 5^th, with a decision about potentially moving to Phase Two being made June 1^st.

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Attorney General Jeff Landry wants to see a probe of the Chinese government’s role in the COVID-19 pandemic.  Landry says it is time the House to put the same energy used in investigating the President into focusing on something that is actually impacting the country.

Cut 10 (09) “…is still questionable.”

Landry is among 18 state AGs to write a letter to the US House and Senate Foreign Relations Committee and other Congressional leaders asking for Congressional hearings to help better understand the origins of the virus.
Cut 11 (12) “…letter is about.”

Landy cites recent reports suggesting that the Chinese government willfully and knowingly concealed information about the severity of the virus while simultaneously stockpiling PPE.  Landry says before it is known what accountability looks like for China, there are many questions that need to be answered.

Cut 12 (11) “…at the time?”

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Louisiana’s business lobbyists are cautiously optimistic about the reopening of some of that state’s businesses but feel more needs to be done. National Federation of Independent Business State Director Dawn Starns says operating at 25% of capacity is still a huge hurdle, and doesn’t believe employees should count against that number.

Cut 13 (06) “…open to customers.” 

Starns says some of the logic behind why some businesses can reopen and others can’t is unclear. Starns adds that the guidance set by the White House doesn’t fit for small business.

Cut 14 (11) “…winners and losers (x2)”

Currently, the Governor’s administration says they will not be revisiting the decisions of reopenings until June 1^st. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says he’s glad the beginning of the recovery has begun, but it’s a steep curve as over 300,000 are unemployed in the state.

Cut 15 (10)“…confidence back up.”

Employees are required to wear face masks when they are dealing with the public and Waguespack says businesses are okay with adapting to guidelines aimed at mitigating the spread.

Cut 16 (11) “places like that.”

The state Revenue Department reports tax and fee collections for the month of April were 494-million dollars lower than the previous April. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 1 (25) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A resolution is headed to the full House that would suspend hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes on the oil industry for one year. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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A report from the state Department of Revenue finds that tax and fee collections for the month of April were 494-million dollars lower than the previous April. State Treasurer John Schroder says this paints a dismal picture of the economic situation, adding that next month will be worse.

Cut 3 (09)  “…in pretty bad.”  

Governor John Bel Edwards’ stay at home order went into effect March 23, which closed many businesses. That’s led to a decline in income and sales tax collections. Schroder expects tax collection numbers to remain low for several months…

Cut 4 (10)_ “…any of that.”

Schroder believes raising taxes would make things harder on businesses, further sending the economy into a tailspin, so the state needs to prepare to slash its spending.

Cut 5 (11)  “…attention to that.”

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A House Ways committee approves a resolution that would suspend severance taxes for the oil and gas industry for one year. Ways and Means Chairman Stewart Bishop says his legislation would give one of the state’s largest employers a substantial tax cut…

Cut 6 (11) “…come back.”

In a normal year, the suspension would cost the state 514 million dollars, but with the current oil price collapse, that number would likely be lower this year.

New Orleans Representative Jason Hughes has received hundreds of emails in opposition from his constituents…

Cut 7 (08) “.devastating”

The state budget is facing a potentially massive revenue hit due to the COVID shutdown, but Bishop says we can’t afford to let the industry disappear.

Cut 8 (07) “…to work”

A recent survey of Louisiana oil and gas companies indicates massive layoffs and production shut-ins are imminent due to the oil price war and COVID shutdown.

Hughes opposed the resolution, asking if the industry could cash the windfall and still lay off workers…

Cut 9 (09) “…would not”

The vote was 11-5 and the proposal moves to the House floor.

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The Revenue Estimating Conference has agreed to dramatically lower the revenue forecast for the fiscal year that begins July 1st, which will mean at least a billion-dollar reduction in state spending next fiscal year. The Legislature’s Chief Economist Greg Albrecht says what is happening to the state’s budget outlook is unprecedented

Cut 10 (06) “…will last”

Tax collections have taken a significant hit as many businesses have been shuttered as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Albrecht says there are no signs for economic recovery anytime soon in Louisiana…

Cut 11 (12) “…one here.”

Albrecht says we could be looking at four really bad quarters, before it starts to get better.

He says not only are tax collections down, but 310-thousand people have filed for unemployment and a recent study found that one out of every four people are out of work in New Orleans…

Cut 12 (11) “…has claimed.”

State lawmakers will use this estimate to begin crafting a budget for next fiscal year. There will be a billion-dollar cut in state spending, which means health care and higher education are on the chopping block, unless the federal government provides the state with financial assistance.

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Governor John Bel Edwards is lifting the stay at home order and that means Phase one of reopening of the economy will begin on Friday and last for at least 21 days. Edwards says that means restaurants, coffee shops and cafes can re-open to the public for indoor table service at 25-percent of their capacity

Cut 13 (08) “…between tables”  

Churches cans also have religious services inside at 25-percent capacity. Edwards says hair salons, nail salons, gyms, casinos, and movie theaters can also re-open at no more than 25-percent of their capacity…

Cut 14 (10) “…move forward”

Edwards says Louisiana meets the criteria laid out by the White House for phase one reopening. He also expects many of these businesses will put protective measures in place for the safety of their customers and employees…

Cut 15 (07)“statewide.”

Edwards says businesses and churches can go to open-safely-dot-la-dot-gov to find out how the new order will impact them. Tattoo parlors, amusement parks, bars and spas will remain closed.