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”

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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”  

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

__________________________________

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.

Essential workers could receive a one-time 250-dollar payment from the state as a result of the legislation heading to the House floor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A UL Lafayette economics professor warns the COVID Recession will hit Louisiana harder than the recent Great Recession. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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A measure that would provide the gaming industry with an 83-million dollar tax break over the next five years is awaiting debate on the Senate floor after a Senate Committee approved the bill. Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns says his proposal is to help an industry that’s been hit hard by the COVID-19 economic shutdown

Cut 3 (08) ” their heels”  

The legislation allows each casino to distribute five-million dollars in free promotional play wagers without having to pay taxes. Johns says the state will make that money up

Cut 4 (10)_ “…using it today”

Johns says casinos use Promotional play wager as a marketing tool to attract customers to their casino. The tax break will cost the state an estimated 11-million dollars a year. Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau expressed his support

Cut 5 (08)  “…I really do”

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A House committee has approved a bill that would result in 250-dollar checks to some front-line employees who were required to work when the coronavirus pandemic began. Shreveport Representative Sam Jenkins says his legislation covers grocery store workers, first responders, health and child care workers…

Cut 6 (05) “…with the public”

Jenkins expects the program will cost 50-million dollars. Jenkins front line workers who earn less than 50-thousand dollars a year will be eligible and the cash will help stimulant local economies

Cut 7 (07) “…bills and expenses”

The only debate was over how the state will pay for this. The plan is to use coronavirus relief dollars from the federal government. Crowley Representative John Stefanski objects using money from a newly created small business grant program.

Cut 8 (13) “…as well”

Those seeking a hazard paycheck will be asked to apply through the Department of Revenue. The measure heads to the House floor for more discussion.

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A UL Lafayette economics professor warns Louisiana’s economic recovery from the COVID shutdown could drag into 2022. Gary Wagner says if the pandemic had not hit, the state would have still experienced a minor economic slowdown, but because of COVID-19, we’re now looking at historic long-term job losses.

Cut 9 (10) “…pandemic.”

The report shows the economic damage will be especially severe in Acadiana, Houma, and New Orleans due to the collapse of oil prices and the tourism industry.

Wagner says the coming recession will be worse than the Great Recession and hit the state hard because our growth heading into the pandemic was already pretty flat.

Cut 10 (06) “…month.”

Wagner notes there are some rosier projections based around the potential to rapidly regain those lost jobs the state begins to reopen, but there’s no consensus that that will happen.

Wagner says the COVID Recession will cost the state about a billion dollars in revenue compared to projections before the pandemic began.

Cut 11 (07) “…people.”

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The numbers are out regarding casino revenue in the month of May and the grand total is $70 million.  While that’s down from the nearly $218 million at the same time last year, Casino Association of Louisiana executive director Wade Duty says the numbers are a positive indicator for the state’s gaming industry, considering all of the hurdles they faced.

Cut 12 (10) “…a downward trend.”

Casinos partially reopened in mid-May and revenues are down only 13% compared to the same two weeks last year.  Duty says returning players have been very cooperative with spread mitigation efforts.

Cut 13 (09) “…within their expectations.”  

Overall, the feeling is the turnout is better than expected, but Duty feels a clearer picture of the pandemic’s impact on the industry will be revealed with June numbers.

Cut 14 (09) “…about getting out.”

June’s numbers will also reflect the reopening of New Orleans casinos which did not see an opening during May.

A study from Scripps Research Institute indicates mutations in the strain of coronavirus circulating the United States may be much more infectious than the Wuhan predecessor. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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A Lake Charles attorney’s push to remove a confederate monument from the Calcasieu Courthouse receives support from a judge. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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COVID-19 hospitalizations have increased for three straight days in Louisiana after nearly two months of consistent declines. Matt Doyle has more on why that may be…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The US Senate’s lone African American GOP member is set to unveil police reform legislation today in response to the George Floyd protests.

The legislation limits use of chokeholds, requires officers to intervene if they see excessive use of force, and provides for more cameras. Senator Bill Cassidy says Tim Scott’s bill is a necessary conversation.

Cut 4 (10) “levels”

Tuesday the President signed his own executive order blocking federal funds from heading to police departments that do not limit the use of chokeholds.

Cassidy says he looks forward to the coming debate over police reforms and wants other states to take a look at New Orleans Police’s use of force policy for guidance.

Cut 5 (05) “…died.”

Outside of one notable incident near the Crescent City Connection Bridge, there has been limited conflict between protesters and the NOPD since Floyd’s death.

Chokeholds feature prominently in both today’s Senate legislation and the President’s order, but Cassidy says a total ban warrants further study.

Cut 6 (13) “…about that.”

Democrats have attacked the GOP proposal calling it too narrow, instead touting a more expansive House bill.

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A study from Scripps Research Institute indicates the strain of coronavirus circulating the United States appears to show mutations making the virus more stable and abundant than the original strain from Wuhan, China.  LSU Health New Orleans molecular geneticist Dr. Lucio Miele says viruses that contain a mutated protein are approximately ten times more infectious.

Cut 7 (11) “…life forms evolve.”

With every new infection comes a slight imperfection between the source virus and the new virus protein.  Miele says with the more viruses that are out there, the better there is a chance is that one of them is going to hit on a mutation that makes it more infectious.

Cut 8 (12) “…helps it survive.”

He adds letting the virus spread for herd immunity to develop is more dangerous than originally thought.  Miele believes figuring out how the virus is changing is vital information in the development of vaccines, treatments, and containment.

Miele says one of the drugs being used for treatment right now, remdesivir works by cause more mistakes in the repetition of the virus.

Cut 9 (10) “…a double-edged sword.”

__________________________________

A push is being led by a Lake Charles attorney for the removal of a Confederate monument at the Calcasieu courthouse has also received the support of a judge in that courthouse.  Attorney Todd Clemons says when you are black and entering the courthouse, the monument sends a message that you don’t have equal rights, having a chilling and intimidating effect.

Cut 10 (07) “…to be removed.”

Judge Ron Ware has also been vocal that it is time for the monument to come down.

Clemons says he was surprised to see the support from the judge. Clemmons says his frustration had grown over the years after seeing officials support the removal of confederate installments from other areas, but didn’t see that same energy come up in Lake Charles.

Cut 11 (13) “…that’s on you.”

Clemons says he’s seeing plenty of support for the movement and feels confident with that momentum, the monument will be coming down soon.

Cut 12 (08) “…past four weeks.”
________________________

Louisiana has now seen three straight days of COVID-19 hospitalizations, the metric used by health officials to track the actual rate of community spread.

Assistant Health Secretary Dr. Alex Billioux says their contact tracing data shows this is largely due to increased social interactions in recent weeks, and possibly because of Memorial Day.

Cut 13 (10) “…spreads” 

Billioux says it does not appear this recent increase in transmissions is disproportionately due to new clusters in nursing homes.

Neighboring Texas and Arkansas have seen record-breaking increases in the last week. Billioux says that could be foreshadowing.

Cut 14 (09) “them.”

The growth in cases has been largest in the Lake Charles, Alexandria, and Monroe regions.

Billioux says the recent upward trend here, and the record spikes in neighboring states are important reminders that the pandemic is not over and we need to continue wearing masks and social distancing.

Cut 15 (06) “…or two.”

_____________________

Starting in July, Louisiana small businesses can apply for a state grant worth up to 15,000 dollars to help offset COVID related losses. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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More Louisiana residents will be eligible for medical marijuana treatment under legislation signed into law by the governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Governor John Bel Edwards has vetoed a bill that would have provided companies impacted by COVID-19 a rebate for hiring or rehiring employees. Covington Representative Mark Wright says businesses would be eligible for the program if they hired at least five people and added 40-thousand dollars in total payroll

Cut 3 (07)  “…sticking it out”  

But in the governor’s veto letter, Edwards said the program would create a large pool of eligible businesses and the potential cost to the state could be substantial. But Wright disagrees on the cost of his legislation…

Cut 4 (11)_ “…to it”

The legislation received overwhelming support in the legislature and it could be brought up again in a potential veto session.

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Governor Edwards signs legislation barring residents from suing a restaurant, claiming they got the coronavirus from their business. Covington Senator Patrick McMath says it’s tough to prove where someone contracted COVID-19, but that wouldn’t stop someone from trying…

Cut 5 (10)  “…jobs”

But McMath notes that if restaurants refuse to follow COVID guidelines like mandatory mask wearing for employees they could still get sued.

Cut 6 (09) “…misconduct”

Take-out, drive-thru, and delivery food services are covered under the new law which is retroactive to March 11th. A restaurant could only be sued if there was documented gross negligence.

_______________________

The State Treasury Department will launch a 300-million dollar small business COVID relief grant program in July as a result of legislation signed by the governor. Treasurer John Schroder says once the program gets started, they will take applications from businesses that did not receive federal coronavirus relief funding

Cut 7 (08) “…benefits”

To qualify your business must have fewer than 50 employees and can demonstrate COVID-19 related losses.

Schroder says they’ve also dedicated a portion of the funds so certain business owners can take advantage.

Cut 8 (08) “…buisinesses.”

Qualifying businesses can receive an up to 15,000 dollar grant. Schroder says, assuming you qualify, you don’t have to pay it back like you would a PPP loan. But…

Cut 9 (10) “…Louisiana.”

New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell asked Governor Edwards to veto the grant program because it removed 300 million dollars from a fund that’s set to direct dollars to local governments.

_______________________

New research from personal finance website WalletHub indicates 6 in 10 Americans think COVID-19 has changed the way we work for the better.  WalletHub analyst Jill Gonzales says around a third of Americans feel physical offices are a thing of the past and many will choose where to live based on things other than proximity to the office.

Cut 10 (08) “…nearby outdoor activities.”

About a third of respondents also believe businesses should be held responsible for employees getting sick.

Gonzales says the number of those feeling more productive takes a dip when it comes to parents.

Cut 11 (09) “…being more productive.”

Around 67 percent of Americans think people who do not want to return to the office and would rather work from home should not see pushback from employers, but Gonzales says not everyone is as sympathetic.

Cut 12 (10) “…paid on unemployment.”

______________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards signs a bill that greatly expands access to medical marijuana. Louisiana Association of Therapeutic Alternatives lobbyist Danny Ford says this measure allows any doctor in good standing to recommend medical cannabis to a patient suffering from a debilitating condition…

Cut 13 (11) “…could help”  

Under current law, medical marijuana is only available to a patient suffering from a specific condition or disease. Ford says the requirement that a doctor must have a special license in order to recommend the treatment has also been removed…

Cut 14 (05) “…is necessary”

The legislation that expands the state’s medical-marijuana program will go into effect August 1st. Ford says the supply of medical cannabis might be tight, but it should improve as LSU is the state’s only licensed grower…

Cut 15 (11)“ very soon” 

A new fat-burning substance is discovered in the labs at Pennington Biomedical Research Center. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Monday’s decision by the Supreme Court that LGBTQ people deserve equal treatment in the workplace is being celebrated by some while being a disappointing development to others. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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Revisions to a regular session tort reform bill that was vetoed by the Governor appear to have won the effort a veto-proof majority in the House…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

_______________________________________________

Pennington Biomedical Research Center researchers say a chemical compound called BAM15 shows great promise as a metabolism increasing fat burner.

Pennington Executive Director Dr. John Kirwan says they found the compound in a chemical library and administered it to lab mice. He says the results were impressive.

Cut 4 (07) “potential.”

BAM15 is not a substance that occurs naturally in the human body.

Kirwan says BAM15 infiltrated fat cells in those lab mice and showed weight loss in the test group without any additional physical exertion compared to the control group.

Cut 5 (07) “…leaner.”

BAM15 was also shown to reduce blood sugar and insulin levels in lab mice.

Test results showed BAM15 actively increased passive fat burn in test mice for hours after it was taken. Kirwan says it is also easy to administer as a supplement.

Cut 6 (09) “…diet.”

The substance will have to move to human trial next and would likely not be available for several years should it prove safe and effective.

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The US Supreme Court’s decision on Monday of extending the protections of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to apply to gay and transgender workers is being considered a historic ruling.  Louisiana Family Forum President Gene Mills says it may result in unknown ramifications.

Cut 7 (11) “…releasing an employee.”

Mills says this could result in an uptick of lawsuits between workers and their employers.

Cut 8 (11) “…litigation-rich field.”

Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party Stephen Handwerk says this decision means that LGBTQ individuals can now go to work with the peace of mind knowing that they have every right to be there.

Cut 9 (08) “…over their head.”

The decision came on a 6-3 vote, with two votes coming from conservative judges, including President Trump appointee Neil Gorsuch.  Handwerk says this is another step in the right direction for equality for those in the LGBTQ community.

Cut 10 (09) “…a good day.”

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Louisiana Highway 1 in Lafourche Parish receives $135 million in federal grant money to construct an 8.3 mile elevated highway from Leeville Bridge to Golden Meadow, making it the largest transportation grant in America.  Congressman Garret Graves says the road is vital to get to Port Fourchon.

Cut 11 (13) “…the United States.”

The money comes as part of the FAST Act which requires that projects which support national energy security priority consideration for the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America grant program.

Sections of the highway are so low that the road can go under water with a high tide or a strong wind, but experiences the most trouble with storm surge from tropical systems.  Graves says shutdowns of the roadway have widespread impacts.

Cut 12 (12) “…of extended period.”

Graves says the plans have been in the works since the mid-90’s and the total construction time would likely span 18 to 24 months.

Cut 13 (11) “…quarter of 2021.” 

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The House passes legislation making revisions to the tort reform effort that was vetoed by the Governor, winning a veto-proof majority for the bill in the process.

Bill sponsor Chalmette Representative Ray Garofalo says the legislation requires insurance companies to meet with the Insurance Commissioner to see how much money this legislation has saved them…

Cut 14 (04) “…accordingly.”

The bill makes a few adjustments relative to legislation that was vetoed by Governor Edwards, namely decreasing the jury trial threshold further to 5,000 dollars from the previous bill’s 10,000 dollars. The current threshold is 50,000 dollars.

New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry says just because companies are required to meet with the Commissioner, doesn’t mean he can, or will force them to lower rates.

Cut 15 (10) “…zero.”

Landry noted even the ten percent promised reduction in rates would still give us some of the top five highest rates in the nation, which needs to be addressed through other legislation.

Erath Representative Blake Miguez they’ve worked hard to make sure this bill ensures Louisiana’s legal system more closely reflects our neighbors who pay much lower premiums.

Cut 16 (09)  rates” 

But Amite Representative Robby Carter tore into the bill over how it would impact our ability to fund court systems and ensure injured victims receive just compensation.

Cut 17  (08) “…beginning” 

The bill heads to the Senate.

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Housing advocates warn today’s expiration of the eviction moratorium could lead to a public health and homelessness crisis. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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With a season full of restaurant closures that devastated their sales, wild crawfish fishermen are feeling left out after not receiving any CARES Act funding.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Housing advocates ask the Governor to again extend the eviction moratorium that lapsed today warning the state could face a public health and homelessness crisis if not.

Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center spokesperson Max Ciardullo says mass evictions will hamper social distancing efforts.

Cut 3 (11)  “…wave”  

Ciardullo says the evictions put people at high-risk of COVID in a bad spot. He says if you are high-risk and get an eviction notice, know your rights.

Cut 4 (10)_ “…disabilities”

Ciardullo says 41 percent of Louisianans in the end of month Census Household Pulse Survey say they feared not being able to make rent for June. Two months from now it could be far higher.

Cut 5 (09)  “…to”

Louisiana has roughly 600,000 renters.

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Authorities are seeking those responsible for gunfire that left two people are dead at a large gathering in Raceland.  Just after midnight on Sunday morning, Lt. Brennan Matherne says the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office received a call about a disturbance on St. Louis Street.

Cut 6 (10) “…shots ring out.”

Matherne says two females, 21-year-old Aliza Gabriel and 20-year-old Tanasa Francis, both of Raceland, were shot and pronounced dead at the scene.

Cut 7 (10) “…at this time.”

Matherne says investigators strongly urge eyewitnesses to come forward with information, video, or photos from the scene.

Cut 8 (09) “…people arrived in.”

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Crawfish farmers may have received funding from the CARES Act, but wild crawfish fishermen are feeling left out as they will not receive any stimulus money.  Wild crawfish fisherman Jody Meche says he and his peers produce just as much and just as good or better crawfish compared to farmers and there should be no difference in funding.

Cut 9 (09) “…red blooded Americans.”

Meche says he spends hundreds of dollars a day on bait and fuel to harvest the mudbugs and the relief money would help with the expenses of not being able to sell his catch because restaurants have not been buying.

Cut 10 (12) “…3 or 4 times.”

Meche says this is the one time where fishermen can get money to spread out over the rest of the year and that conditions were favorable for this to be a big season, adding that this may shut down some in the industry.

Cut 11 (10) “…any relief money.”

Meche says he’s reached out to the congressional delegation about the issue.

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The U-S Supreme Court has ruled a worker can not be fired because they are gay or transgender. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says the ruling means the Civil Rights Act of 1964, covers sexual orientation and transgender status.

Cut 12 (12) “same feeling”

Ciolino says the ruling has added meaning in Louisiana because state law did not protect gays and transgender individuals from workplace discrimination…

Cut 13 (10) “…face legal liability”  

The vote was six to three in favor of this ruling. Ciolino says based on polling, the public supports the decision…

Cut 14 (10) “…overturn this”

Ciolino says the ruling means Louisiana employers can be sued if an employee believes they were fired because of their sexual orientation or transgender status.