Republican lawmakers are concerned that Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin’s plan for Louisiana’s presidential primary is too broad, allowing anyone over the age of 18 to vote by mail. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

____________________________

16 residents at a veterans’ home in Reserve that tested positive for COVID-19 have died, an outbreak that is driving St. John the Baptist Parish’s high per capita death rate. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

The Senate Governmental Affairs Committee has asked Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin to revise his plan for the July 11th presidential primary over concerns that his proposal that expands mail-in voting gives that option to too many people. Shreveport Senator Barry Milligan is concerned about voter fraud…

Cut 3 (06)  “…than ever”  

The emergency election rule would allow anyone to mail in an absentee ballot if they are concerned they could be exposed to the coronavirus. Ardoin says, unfortunately, it’s necessary so that register voters have the constitutional right to vote. Milligan asks Ardoin if the wording of the rule can be changed…

Cut 4 (12)_ “…not valid”

On a five to one party-line vote, the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee has asked Ardoin to bring another emergency election proposal to them that would lower the number of people would be eligible to vote with a mail ballot. Milligan pushed for a new proposal

Cut 5 (11)  “…same way”

Ardoin says he needs legislative approval of his emergency election plan by April 26th in order for the presidential primary to take place in July.

__________________________________________

St. John the Baptist remains one of the highest county/parishes per capita in COVID-19 deaths largely because of an outbreak at a veterans’ home in Reserve that’s killed 16.

Deputy Secretary for the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs Julie Baxter-Payer says the facility saw its first resident show symptoms March 19^th, and…

Cut 6 (12) “…homes.”

The statewide stay home order was put into place on March 22^nd.

Baxter-Payer says the facility has 26 positive tests so far, and those who’ve been infected are all in the high-risk group.

Cut 7 (09) “…seeing.”

The state’s other four homes in Jackson, Jennings, Monroe, and Bossier have not reported any COVID-19 cases.

Baxter-Payer says all of their facilities have been inspected by state and federal health officials, and they are doing everything they can to keep residents safe while supporting them emotionally.

Cut 8 (12) “…day.”

Four veterans have recovered of the 26 who tested positive so far. Seven employees have been able to return to work after testing positive.

___________________________________________________

Governor Edwards says Louisiana will make more medical services available when the state begins the transition of reopening the economy. Elective surgeries such as colonoscopies and arthroscopic surgery are not allowed under the stay at home order, but the governor says you can only postpone those procedures for so long…

Cut 9 (09) “rather than later ″

The governor’s current stay at home order lasts through April 30th and Edwards has indicated he could extend it. He says when the green light is given to open up more businesses, social distancing will continue, along with other measures…

Cut 10 (09) “state”

Edwards says the new normal will also have reduced occupancy limits…

Cut 11 (10) “…go into this”

________________________________________________

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the state is working on a set of guidelines to potentially get restaurants and other service industry businesses open in May.

Nungesser says if it is safe to lift the stay at home order next month, restaurants could come back under strict guidelines…

Cut 12 (09) “mask”

But Nungesser warns that even if we do reopen next month an estimated 5.9 million tourism-related jobs will have already been lost nationwide.

Cut 13 (09) “…towards that”

And Nungesser adds that even if we start reopening service industry businesses, it’s unlikely we will see many out of state people coming to visit them for awhile.

Cut 14 (10) “…gone away”

Nungesser says polls show once the shelter in place order is lifted people are most likely to do “staycations” in their local area than to travel.

Louisiana gets sued by abortion-rights advocates for designating abortion services as non-essential and requiring those services to be shut down as part of the Governor’s stay at home order…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_____________________________________

The coronavirus pandemic is giving about 12-hundred non-violent inmates a chance for medical release. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

1,013 Louisianans have died of COVID-19 as of today, with a record 129 COVID deaths being reported yesterday. Matt Doyle has reaction from the Governor…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

____________________________________________

Congressman Ralph Abraham and the Aeroshell Aerobatic Team will take to the skies over Monroe and West Monroe in aerial tribute to first responders and healthcare workers.  Abraham says a team pilot contacted him about performing the tribute after the area was impacted by Sunday’s tornado outbreak.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…in the backseat.”

The flyover will take place at 1pm this afternoon.  Abraham says there is a chance that spectators could get a little bit more than just flying in formation.

Cut 5 (08)  “…that’s aerodynamically possible.”

Abraham says the team is one of the top aerial teams in the world, with four vintage aircrafts to put on the tribute.

Cut 6 (13) “…times, sometimes not.”
______________________________

The Center for Reproductive Rights is suing Louisiana for the state’s attempts to close abortion clinics as part of a shutdown of all services deemed non-essential.

President Nancy Northup says attempting to force clinic closures violates due process and equal protection. She says abortion services are time-sensitive and essential.

Cut 7 (09) “…services”

Ohio, Oklahoma, and Alabama have had similar suits filed against them.

Kathleen Pittman, administrator for the Shreveport Clinic, says her facility should not be closed because it is compliant with safety measures designed to restrict the spread of coronavirus.

Cut 8 (08) “…issued.”

Attorney General Jeff Landry says clinics are non-essential facilities and should not be in operation right now, but Northup says medical experts disagree.

Cut 9 (13) “…care″

____________________________________

The Department of Corrections has created a review panel that will determine if certain inmates nearing the end of their sentence should be released in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus within jails.  1,200 inmates are eligible for the program.  Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc says the first group of inmates up for consideration have a pre-existing medical condition and meet certain criteria.

Cut 10 (10) “to receive them”

A second group without medical concerns will require the same criteria, plus having already served at least six months.

LeBlanc proposes a panel compromised of himself, Director and Executive Director of Probation & Parole Board, a victim’s advocate as appointed by the Governor, Executive Director of the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association, and Executive Director of the District Attorney’s Association or a designee of any of the panel members.

Cut 11 (12) “…public health emergency.”

The efforts to alleviate the crowding in jails locally mirrors the same actions being taken at the federal level based on the order of US Attorney General William Barr.

LeBlanc says if an inmate is furloughed, they will not have the same freedoms as someone being released.

Cut 12 (07) “of the furlough.”

Reviews begin Friday.

_________________________________

Governor Edwards struck a somber tone yesterday as the state reported crossing the 1,000 COVID-19 death mark, but noted the curve of new infections has flattened.

A single day record 129 COVID deaths were logged yesterday, and while Edwards says much of the spike was the result of a reporting backlog, it is not any easier to process.

Cut 13 (10) “…anyone.”

But with the rate of new cases declining Edwards is looking forward to the loosening of some restrictions in the future. He says one of the first things is making more medical services available.

Cut 14 (08) “long.”

Many “non-essential” medical facilities were shuttered to conserve PPE and needed medical equipment, and to free up healthcare workers for a potential surge in cases.

Edwards says even if some services reopen this spring, schools will not be one of them so the state has to make an effort to expand access to distance learning.

Cut 15 (06)“…should.”

All physical school locations will be closed in the state through the term ending May 20^th.

______________________________________________

The PMAC at LSU has turned into a production facility for PPE. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

____________________________

National Weather Service indicates at least seven tornadoes ravaged north Louisiana and that number is expected to grow. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

_____________________________

There’s activity underway again at the PMAC on LSU’s campus but it’s not the norm. Ashley Arceneaux, Chief of Staff for the LSU President says the university community is working together to support medical providers and the facility has become a production center for PPE, like reusable gowns from billboard vinyl with locally donated materials.

Cut 3 (10)  “…themselves.”  

Arceneaux says the vinyl is donated by Lamar Advertising and Circle Graphics.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…frontline.”

Also being manufactured are masks from materials donated by Baker Hughes. GOHSEP then takes the gowns and masks that are produced and distributes them to facilities in need.

For health and safety precautions no more than 40 employees can be in the PMAC at one time, but Arceneaux says it’s a joint effort of hundreds of employees and outside vendors coming together for the greater good.

Cut 5 (10)  “…operation works.”

Arceneaux says the project has brought together multiple experts at the university for example engineering, biomedical engineering, medical physics, facilities services and sewing machines from the theater department.

__________________________________________

The National Weather Service has confirmed at least seven tornadoes ravaged north Louisiana on Easter Sunday. N-W-S Meteorologist Brad Bryant says the most powerful twister started in West Monroe and traveled for about eight miles.

Cut 6 (10) “…low-end EF-3 damage.”

Bryant says tornadoes also impacted Northwest Louisiana in De Soto Parish.

Cut 7 (09) “…up embedded tornadoes.”

Unlike neighboring Mississippi, Louisiana had no fatalities from the storm activity.  Bryant says it is surprising that there was no loss of life in the state.

Cut 8 (11) “…it’s a win.”

___________________________________________________

LSU Health New Orleans has enrolled its first patient in a clinical trial that will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine alone or with Azithromycin as a treatment for COVID-19. Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Meredith Clement says they are enrolling patients who meet these criteria…

Cut 9 (11) “prior″

The study may enroll up to 600 at University Medical Center, if they have enough patients eligible.

Patients will be sorted into three groups that either get the treatment or don’t, and Clement says once admitted…

Cut 10 (09) “state”

Patients receiving the treatment will do so for five days.

Clement says the drugs are not without their side effects, so patients will be closely monitored.

Cut 11 (09) “…restoration.”

Hydroxychloroquine is an anti-malarial drug, and Azithromycin is an antibiotic. Clement says there is some evidence that these medications can shorten the disease and decrease the amount of virus in respiratory samples.

________________________________________________

Covington Representative Mark Wright joins Oil City Representative Danny McCormick in calling for the stay at home order to end April 30th as currently scheduled.

The Northshore Republican says businesses should be allowed to implement rules that allow for partial reopening, including dine-in options for restaurants.

Cut 12 (10) “economy”

He pointed to other examples like small retail stores allowing shoppers to enter one at a time.

Wright says those who are most vulnerable to the virus are aware of their risk factors and can make their own decisions.

Cut 13 (10) “…open”

Wright says the state needs to look at easing restrictions like our neighbors in Texas and Oklahoma and starting May 1^st reopen as much as possible.

Cut 14 (08) “…future”

Federal models call for the continuing of stay at home orders nationwide through May to avoid another major reoccurrence of COVID-19.

_____________________

Louisiana hit a somber milestone today as it reported a single-day high 129 additional deaths from COVID-19, bringing the state’s death toll past a thousand to 1,013. Governor Edwards says the virus is nothing to mess with, so it’s incumbent that residents follow the Stay at Home order…

Cut 15 (06)“…the order”

The state health department says most deaths come eleven days after the onset of symptoms. Assistant Health Secretary Alex Billioux says if are someone in the high-risk group of individuals who can die from the coronavirus, take extra precautions…

Cut 16  (14)  …people” 

Oil producing nations agree to cut production by 9.7 million barrels in an effort to cool a worsening price war, but one expert warns it’s not nearly enough to save the state’s oil industry…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_____________________________________

Governor Edwards says we will see a new wave of COVID-19 cases if people begin to take a flattening of the curve as an excuse to ignore social distancing orders…

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

The Governor indicates a proclamation is coming today to leave schools closed for the remainder of the school year.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

____________________________________________

OPEC and Russia reach an agreement with the US to cut production of 9.7 million barrels of oil a day in an effort to stop the ongoing rapid oil price collapse.

But LSU Center for Energy Studies Executive Director David Dismukes warns it’s just not enough of a reduction to save oil prices, and too little too late given the scope of the problem.

Cut 4 (08)_ “…million”

Russia and OPEC ramped up production earlier this year in a move that American oil companies say was a targeted attack on their interests.

After the announcement was made the price of a barrel of oil barely budged from its holding pattern in the low 20s, and Dismukes says that is because this may be the last “big” agreement we get for a while…

Cut 5 (09)  “…teens”

For every dollar below 55 dollars a barrel, the state budget stands to lose an estimated 11-12 million dollars.

Dismukes says the deal will likely not prevent a substantial reduction in investment in new oil projects in Louisiana or the loss of more oil sector jobs locally.

Cut 6 (11) “…effectively”

______________________________

Governor Edwards says the curve has now been flattening for at least a week, but it won’t stay that way if residents go out and ignore social distancing like they did over the Easter weekend.

Edwards says it appears as the rate of new infections slow, many people are taking that as an excuse to stop staying home. He says Unacast tracked resident’s movement patterns, and recently…

Cut 7 (11) “…moving.”

The Governor says he’s trying to set an example by wearing masks in public, and not doing his usual glad-handing with constituents, but that policy made his trip to the tornado-ravaged Monroe difficult.

Cut 8 (12) “…part.”

A storm system tore through north Louisiana Sunday, leaving many still without power and crippling the Monroe Regional Airport.

Edwards says you need to stay indoors at least until May 1^st. As to whether, or how the state will open after that, he’s leaving it up to experts.

Cut 9 (11) “…as well″

____________________________________

Governor Edwards indicates he will issue a proclamation today, keeping school campuses closed for the remainder of the school year and having education continue from home.  Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says CABL is supportive of the school closures.

Cut 10 (11) “…kids as possible.”

Only 39 of the 69 school districts offer distance education.  Erwin says BESE and the Department of Education need to use a broader approach to continue the education experience for districts that struggle with a lack of online capabilities or other obstacles.

Cut 11 (12) “…into the home.”

Erwin says if kids start out behind in the fall, which he believes many will, steps need to be taken to help them catch up or they may face life long consequences.

Cut 12 (10) “…in the fall.”

_________________________________________

The beef industry is feeling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as processing plants are slowing down.  Chair of the Louisiana Beef Industry Council Amelia Kent says some of the slowdown is coming from sick workers while others are pausing operations to undergo deeper sanitation measures.

Cut 13 (08) “…lengths of time.”

Kent says the disruption is trickling back to the farm level as cattle are coming out of feed yards having no way to advance into harvesting.

Cut 14 (09) “…to do so.”

Much like toilet paper and disinfectant products, there has been a large consumer demand that has seen shoppers buying up all the meat at the store.  Kent says the slowdown at the processor level will only intensify meat shortages.

Cut 15 (11)“…ordinarily would be.”

The coronavirus presents new challenges for sheltering those in Ouachita Parish who have lost their homes from the Easter tornado outbreak. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

____________________________

6,900 Ouachita Parish residents and thousands of other customers were still without power as of 10 AM this morning due to Sunday’s devastating tornadoes. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

Families and businesses are picking up the pieces following a tornado outbreak on Easter.  President of the Ouachita Parish Police Jury Shane Smiley says the devastation is widespread.

Cut 3 (11)  “…to their homes.”  

The coronavirus has presented challenges in how people are sheltered following the storm and Smiley says they are taking a new approach to sheltering in an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…a permanent location.”

Smiley says two public housing communities took a significant hit, including one about a mile from the airport.

Cut 5 (10)  “…were damaged there.”

__________________________________________

A suspected tornado did an estimated 25-30 million in damages at the Monroe Regional Airport. Congressman Ralph Abraham says he saw debris littered runways, destroyed buildings, and the remains of small jets poking out from under a collapsed hangar.

Cut 6 (08) “repair”

Abraham says they’ve reached out to both state and federal officials to begin the process of getting aid for the airport and other businesses that have been destroyed.

Cut 7 (11) “…supplies”

The airport is closed today and Abraham says it could be some time before it gets back up and running.

Cut 8 (09) “airport“

___________________________________________________

Thousands in north Louisiana are without power a day after powerful storms ripped through the region. Entergy Louisiana spokesperson David Freese says at the Sunday afternoon peak 26,500 customers were without power, but that number has come down over the last 24 hours.

Cut 9 (11) “…area″

Entergy reports 200 poles, 450 spans of wire, and 50 transformers will either need to be repaired or replaced. Freese says they’re pulling in emergency workers to get it done.

Cut 10 (09) “state”

Freese warns some customers may not have their power back on until later this week due to the extensive amount of damage to infrastructure.

Cut 11 (09) “…restoration.”

SWEPCO is reporting eight-thousand of its Louisiana customers are without power as well. It may take until Wednesday afternoon before most of their Shreveport customers have electricity.

________________________________________________

The state health department reported 44 more COVID-19 deaths today, bringing the total number of deaths to 884. There are over 21-thousand positive cases. Louisiana does not report on how many people have recovered from the coronavirus. Governor Edwards says capturing that information is difficult

Cut 12 (06) “recovered individual”

Louisiana residents who are receiving unemployment should see a substantial increase in assistance starting today. Edwards says previously unemployed workers were only eligible for up to 247-dollars from the state

Cut 13 (06) “…July 31st”

Edwards says gig workers and 10-99 employees can begin receiving 600-dollars in unemployment assistance starting today. He encourages all Louisiana residents who have lost work or hours to file for unemployment at Louisiana-works-dot-net

Cut 14 (10) “…about this”

Senator Bill Cassidy says the Trump Administration is looking to implement mass coronavirus immunity testing within the next one to three months. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_____________________________________

Oil City Republican Rep. Danny McCormick feels that businesses need to open sooner than later and May 1st should be that hard date.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

LSU Health Shreveport is recruiting patients that have recovered from COVID-19 to be plasma donors to help critically ill patients. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

____________________________________________

Senator Bill Cassidy says the feds are drawing up plans to conduct mass coronavirus immunity testing as one way to expedite a return to normal life. Cassidy says for life to return before a vaccine is created, we need to know who is and is not a potential coronavirus carrier.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…masks”

Immunity is thought to last for at least a year, meaning a person could interact with others without fear of getting sick or getting others sick.

Coronavirus testing kits may be in short supply, but Cassidy says potential nationwide antibody testing is feasible and is being pursued by the Trump Administration.

Cut 5 (09)  “…widespread”

Cassidy says outside of antibody testing it’s likely that in a few months you could begin allowing those under 30 without co-morbidities back out into the world because they rarely have severe symptoms.

Cut 6 (11) “…know it.”

______________________________

Business owners are feeling the pressure of the halted economy. Oil City Republican Rep. Danny McCormick feels that businesses need to open sooner than later.  McCormick says small business owners have reached out to him indicating the state absolutely must start to get back to normal by May 1st.

Cut 7 (11) “…government overreach approach.”

McCormick says he is planning around small businesses reopening by May 1st as he believes they are a vital contributor to the state’s economy.

Cut 8 (11) “…to do something.”

McCormick says the economic recovery has to start soon and it can be done with the public health’s best interests in mind…

Cut 9 (08) “…logic we are following.″

____________________________________

LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor Dr. G.E. Ghali urges those who have recovered from COVID-19 to donate their plasma so it can be used to treat critically ill patients. Ghali says donors must have tested positive for the virus, but are now symptom-free for two weeks and tested negative, or symptom-free for 28 days.

Cut 10 (10) “…ill patients.”

Ghali says it’s early, but so far results are encouraging and recruiting donors is vital.

Cut 11 (08) “…months away.”

Ghali says the antibodies counteract the antigens of the virus in the body to keep the body’s immune system from overreacting to fight off the virus.

Cut 12 (11) “…the lungs.”

To participate your physician must complete documents verifying your diagnosis and recovery before donating to a Lifeshare Blood Center.

_________________________________________

A survey of the state’s childcare providers shows that roughly a third of childcare facilities that closed do not see a path to reopening.  Louisiana Policy Institute for Children Executive Director Libbie Sonnier-Netto says a majority of childcare centers have reported losing revenue.

Cut 13 (07) “…lost $1.7 million.”

Sonnier-Netto says over 90% of childcare providers have indicated that grants to pay employees during the closures would support their responses to the pandemic.

Cut 14 (11) “…retain their workforce.”

She adds that more funding will be needed that goes beyond SBA loans and Payroll Protection in order to ensure the stability of what she says is an important factor in the economy.

Sonnier-Netto remains hopeful the childcare sector can hold on to its current level of funding, and if there is the ability to put more into programs for children, that will be done.

Cut 15 (09)“…of this crisis.”

______________________________________________

If the world had not been hit by COVID-19, LSU football would play a spring game on Saturday. Instead, the players are working out on their own. LSU strength and conditioning coach Tommy Moffitt says for players who do not have weights, they have to be creative to stay in shape

Cut 16  (18)  “…stay busy” 

Moffitt says based on what he can tell 60-percent of the players are doing what they should be doing when it comes to staying in shape, but everyone is falling behind

cut 17  (30) “…that” 

Moffit says as it stands now, the earliest LSU football players could return to campus will be June 1st. He says it would take about a month to get the players ready for the grind of a football season…

Cut 18  (22) “…the key”   

Un and underemployed Louisianans can expect to see a much bigger unemployment insurance payments starting Monday…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

____________________________

Outdoor plans for Easter Sunday are now in jeopardy due to severe weather in the forecast. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

_____________________________

Starting Monday, Louisianans who lost their jobs or had their hours reduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic will receive federally enhanced unemployment insurance payments in addition to the unemployment they already receive from the state.

State Workforce Commission Director Ava Dejoie says the higher payments should be automatically added to your benefits if you’ve recertified your hours.

Cut 3 (07)  “…Congress”  

State benefits cap out at 247 dollars a week, but the feds are now throwing an extra 600 dollars a week on top of it.

Dejoie says contract workers who did not previously qualify for the state’s unemployment now qualify for the federal benefits…

Cut 4 (10)_ “are.”

Self-employed, gig economy, and workers whose employer’s hadn’t paid into the trust fund will now qualify.

Dejoie says the state received the federal funds this week, and so many recipients will receive two weeks’ worth of benefits on their Monday check.

Cut 5 (06)  “…payment”

__________________________________________

54-year-old Lafourche Parish Freshman Representative Reggie Bagala passed away Thursday from COVID-19.

Bagala succeeded former Representative Truck Gisclair in House District 54. Gisclair says Bagala was an energetic public servant, excited to serve his first term at the Capitol.

Cut 6 (06) “the road”

Gisclair says he doesn’t remember ever seeing Bagala without a smile on his face, and he was known for his distinctive chuckle.

Cut 7 (09) “…guy”

Gisclair says the Republican went into state politics inspired to create higher-paying jobs for Louisianans after his son had to leave the state to find employment.

Cut 8 (10) “leaving”

Bagala’s diagnosis was made public April 1^st by his family. He was on a ventilator for more than a week.

___________________________________________________

Be prepared for severe weather on Easter Sunday.  State climatologist Barry Keim says the Storm Prediction Center has south Louisiana under an enhanced threat on Sunday and the northern half is under a moderate risk on Sunday.

Cut 9 (13) “…hail and tornadoes.″

Keim says the severe weather threat will materialize late Saturday night and heavy rainfall is possible as well

Cut 10 (09) “…of the coronavirus.”

The Storm Prediction Center only has five risk levels for severe weather, so Keim says for Louisiana to be second from the top indicates a serious situation on Sunday.

Cut 11 (11) “…so brace yourself.”

________________________________________________

Governor Edwards says the state will look at its options for potentially partially reopening Louisiana next month as coronavirus infections continue to level off.

The curve is flattening, but fatalities remain high. Edwards says tough times are still ahead and acknowledged Thursday’s COVID-linked passing of state representative Reggie Bagala.

Cut 12 (13) “right now”

Edwards also saluted the brave medical workers who’ve been pulling incredibly long hours keeping patients alive during the epidemic.

Cut 13 (12) “…Louisiana”

And says the state has been working hard to try and secure as much PPE as possible for those on the frontlines.

Cut 14 (10) “…there”

Two abortion clinics have been cited for maintaining operation in the state amidst the Governor’s stay at home order. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_____________________________________

Leadership from the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has sent a letter to the Governor supporting such a move by the Governor to close schools for the remainder of the year. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

Ponchatoula-based candy maker Elmer Chocolate says the pandemic isn’t impacting the availability of their holiday candy. Brooke Thorington has the story.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

____________________________________________

Governor Edwards says the state continues to flatten the curve but warns life is unlikely to go back to normal anytime in the next few months.

Federals projections show a steep drop-off in expected COVID deaths in Louisiana relative to projections at the start of the month, but…

Cut 4 (07)_ “…May.”

Edwards says that’s not an official announcement that the stay at home order is being extended, but a warning that it’s being considered.

The Governor says when the order is lifted, it will be lifted in stages, and the rate of new infections will be closely monitored. If new infections increase too fast, the state will shut down again.

Cut 5 (10)  “…period”

The governor’s current stay at home order lasts until April 30th.

__________________________________

The Attorney General’s Office is investigating reports of elective surgical centers, including abortion clinics, continuing their operations despite the Governor’s stay at home order.

Spokesperson Deanna Fortin says at least two of the state’s three clinics are reported.

Cut 6 (03) “… Rouge.”

An endoscopy center in Shreveport was also reported.

Fortin says the Governor’s order calls for the suspension of all elective and non-emergency medical procedures. She says some cancer surgeries have had to be delayed, and…

Cut 7 (08) “…cancer”

Similar situations in other states have been reported, and advocates argue that abortion is not something you can put off for several weeks.

Fortin says facilities that do not comply with the Governor’s order will be eligible to receive a citation.

Cut 8 (12) “…this.”

____________________________________

Governor Edwards indicates it is likely that school will remain closed for the rest of the school year.  Leadership from the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has sent a letter to the Governor supporting such a move.  BESE president Sandy Holloway says research shows closures would be in the best interest of public health.

Cut 9 (07) “…facilities too soon.″

Holloway says although on-campus operations have halted, the educational process has not.

Cut 10 (13) “…of learning.”

Director of education policy at the Pelican Institute Ethan Melancon says while the fight to contain COVID-19 is an important one, parents need reassurance that their child’s education will not fall victim to the virus.

Cut 11 (10) “…valuable instruction time.”

Melancon says a lack of a clear game plan for the rest of the school year is raising more questions than answers.

Cut 12 (10) “…students are wondering.”
_________________________________________

Easter is different this year, but Easter baskets can be filled with traditional candy favorites. CEO of Ponchatoula-based candy maker Elmer Chocolate Rob Nelson says the Easter Bunny should not experience any disruptions in the supply chain as they got their candies prepped early.

Cut 13 (07) “…back in February.”

Nelson says Easter candy sales have slumped recently with residents focused on shopping for essential items, but he’s optimistic sales will pick up this weekend.

Cut 14 (06) “…and Heavenly Hash.”

The Gold Brick and Heavenly Hash are consistently neck and neck for being the most popular of the brand’s varieties of candy eggs, and is followed closely by Pecan Eggs.

Nelson says over the last week, the company has donated about 15,000 candy eggs to those battling the pandemic.

Cut 15 (06)“…two food banks.”

______________________________________________

The LHSAA’s 2019-20 athletic season is over as executive director Eddie Bonine cancels the seasons for the various spring sports. Baseball, softball, track and field and other sports have been on hold since mid-March. Bonine says they hoped that those seasons could resume, but the continuing spread of the coronavirus left them with no choice but to end high school sports for this school year

Cut 16  (19)  “…the money” 

Bonine feels horrible for the seniors…

cut 17  (19) “…recommendation” 

Bonine hopes the fall sports season will start on time. He says football teams maybe given an extra week of preseason practice, but eligibility issues will have to be addressed…

Cut 18  (14) “…senior year”   

Bonine says the LHSAA’s executive committee will meet again in June to discuss the fall sports seasons.

Crawfish boils have been canceled for Easter due to coronavirus, and Louisiana Crawfish Farmer’s Association says farmers are set to take a devastating hit…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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State health officials reported 50 more COVID-19 deaths the total number of fatalities to 702. Jeff Palermo reports the climbing death toll is why Governor Edwards urges residents to stay away from large gathering this Easter weekend…

Cut 2 (27) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The state health department reports that at least 130 nursing home residents are among the 702 people in Louisiana who have died from COVID-19. Office of Public Health director, Doctor Alex Bilioux, says it’s critical that employees at these facilities practice social distancing when they are away from work

Cut 3 (11)  “…that reason”  

COVID-19 cases have been reported in 93 nursing homes in Louisiana. Bilioux says they are working with the C-D-C. He says these facilities where clusters have developed, you have residents who have the virus, those who are suspected of having COVID-19 and those who are free from having the coronavirus

Cut 4 (09)_ “…tight spaces.”

Bilioux says the state is working with nursing homes and senior care facilities to make sure they have personal protective equipment…

Cut 5 (09)  “…new communities”

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Louisiana Crawfish Farmer’s Association President David Savoy says sales for crawfish are at 40-percent of what they were last year. Savoy says Easter is the industry’s Super Bowl, but this weekend they project a massive drop-off relative to what they would normally sell.

Cut 6 (12) “phone calls”

Savoy says the biggest problem they are facing is the cancellation of major 100-150 bag corporate events, and the reduction of family boils from 12 bag events to three to four bag boils.

Cut 7 (11) “…outside that.”

Many farmers use peeling factories as a buyer of last resort when private sales are down, but Savoy says the peelers are so inundated with crawfish that you can’t sell to them at a profit.

Cut 8 (06) “dollar.”

Savoy says the industry needs federal and state assistance for all struggling farmers, and soon.

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Governor John Bel Edwards says this Easter holiday will not look like other years.  Edwards urges continued social distancing efforts.  The Easter holiday does not create an exemption from mitigation efforts of virus spread.

Cut 9 (10) “…of the virus.″

Edwards has no issues with crawfish boils for families that live together, but it shouldn’t be turning into a block party or a family reunion.

Cut 10 (13) “…can avoid it.”

Despite the lack of traditional holiday gatherings, Edwards recommends finding a meaningful and significant way to worship and celebrate.

Cut 11 (10) “…ten person limit.”

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Zachary police report a tragic double-murder suicide where it’s believed a man shot and killed his two stepchildren the day after his wife, their mother, died.

Zachary Police Chief David McDavid says it appears 77-year-old James Brannon was distraught over the loss of his wife and shot 48-year-olds Deborah Ross and Beverly Watts.

Cut 12 (10) “before”

McDavid says officers reported seeing the family out in their yard during their community policing rounds.

Cut 13 (07) “…area”

McDavid says they’ve had an uptick in mental health-related calls in the past few weeks.

Cut 14 (10) “…worried”

A team from LSU is creating personal protective equipment for healthcare workers from the basic everyday items.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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Religious congregations face an unprecedented dilemma approaching one of the holiest times of the year for different faiths. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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Starting Monday Louisiana will start paying an additional 600 dollars a week in unemployment insurance benefits to those who qualify. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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A team from LSU is creating personal protective equipment for healthcare workers including much needed masks and gowns.  LSU Biomedical Engineering senior Meagan Moore says they’ve been hammering out ways to do field expedient work with base-level materials including cardboard, hot glue, and trashbags.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…protection for physicians.”

Moore says they even got a call from Lamar Advertising, who is donating old billboards to make gowns.

Cut 5 (12)  “…out of it.”

Moore says they have set up a website, onelouisiananow.org, where the public can connect with the team if they believe they’ve got materials to contribute.

Cut 6 (12) “… can help additionally.”

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The COVID-19 lockdown has resulted in an unprecedented dilemma for Christian, Jewish, and Muslim congregations during one of the holiest times of the year.  LSU Associate Professor of Religious Studies and History Michael Pasquier (pass-cay) says some religious communities are more prepared than others for the challenge of conducting services for an audience at home.

Cut 7 (12) “…celebration of Easter.”

Pasquier says a message from religious leaders to congregation members can go a long way in letting them know they are doing the right thing by their faith by staying home.

Cut 8 (10) “…a religious obligation.”

Despite the insistence of scientists, medical professionals, and elected leaders that churches stop congregating to help mitigate the spread of the virus, some are still pushing forward.  Pasquier says the mindset of those that are still going to church is usually set by the pastor.

Cut 9 (08) “…go, it’s church.″
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Governor Edwards announces the state has received the federal funding necessary to pay enhanced unemployment benefits to the tune of an extra 600 dollars a week on top of the state’s 247 dollars.

Edwards says the expanded benefits begin Monday and will also include workers who did not previously qualify.

Cut 10 (11) “…yesterday”

The Governor implored people to apply for unemployment at Louisianaworks.net and if possible between the hours of 10 PM and 4 AM to avoid peak traffic.

The cash influx will be a big boon for the hundreds of thousands who’ve filed in the last month. Edwards says between March 1^st and April 4^th there were 277,000 claims filed.

Cut 11 (06) “…thousand.”

Edwards says the Louisiana Workforce Commission Trust Fund is being put to work, paying out 25.5 million dollars in benefits last week, and the federal funds will greatly increase that number.

Cut 12 (09) “…million dollars.”

The enhanced benefits will be available until August.

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Senator John Kennedy anticipates Congress will authorize additional funding for a Small Business Administration loan program designed to prop up companies during the coronavirus shutdown. The 349-billion dollar Paycheck Protection Program is so popular that Kennedy says more dollars are needed…

Cut 13 (09) “…relief”

Companies that qualify the loan can have it partially, or fully forgiven if it is used mostly to maintain payroll.

The Senate isn’t scheduled to meet again for several weeks, but Kennedy says this legislation could get passed by “unanimous consent” so that Congress could abide by social distancing guidelines.

Cut 14 (07) “job.”

Kennedy says it’s a lot of money to throw around but it’s vital it be done so that the economy can be saved. He says COVID-19 kills, but so does poverty.

Cut 15 (07)“…shut down.”

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The question is being asked more and more, will there be a college football season in the fall. College football insider Brett McMurphy at the Stadium Network has surveyed the 130 F-B-S athletic directors and he believes the best option is a football season starting in the spring

Cut 16  (20)  “…the fall” 

McMurphy says if they don’t play football until the spring, it could result in some of the top players in the game not playing…

cut 17  (20) “…NFL draft” 

McMurphy says an option will be to play games in the fall without fans, but he believes A-D’s would prefer to wait until the spring so they can sell tickets

Cut 18  (25) “…do it”