Today marks the beginning of the 2020 legislative session.  Kevin Barnhart spoke with a political analyst to see what to expect.

Cut 1 (33) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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Matt Doyle spoke with advocates on both sides of the tort reform issue. who laid lay their cases before the start of the session today.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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Federal legislation is introduced that could undo a law penalizing Louisiana state worker’s social security benefits. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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Today marks the beginning of the 2020 legislative session.  Over a third of the lawmakers are brand new, adding some mystery as to which direction the session may go.  Political analyst Clancy DuBos says what we do know is that there potential for contentious debate over the state budget, something that happens no matter how good the state may be doing.

Cut 4 (09)_ “…money goes where.”

The abolishment of the death penalty is back up for discussion, this time with potentially more lawmakers in favor of ending the practice.  DuBos expects a wide variety of criminal justice reform bills to be looked at in-depth.

Cut 5 (08)  “…on the table”.

DuBos expects the Governor will push lawmakers in the direction of taking action on various bills associated with equal pay for women and increasing the minimum wage.

Cut 6 (06) “…keeps opposing them.”

The lion’s share of legislation is expected to focus on lowering auto insurance rates in Louisiana.

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The 2020 session is expected to be dominated by “tort reform” arguments, and whether or not lawsuit reform would actually lead to lower auto insurance rates.

The session’s omnibus tort reform bill would lower the jury trial threshold to 15,000 dollars. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says we’re one of only 13 states who even have a threshold.

Cut 7 (09) “…system.”

Donelon says 15,000 is still too high and backs a 5,000 dollar threshold instead. The current threshold is 50,000 dollars.

But Real Reform Louisiana Executive Director Eric Holl says lowering the threshold is just a handout to the business lobby, and has nothing to do with auto insurance rates.

Cut 8 (12) “…rates.”

Holl, a former Governor Edwards Campaign staffer, argues passing tort reform would set back real rate reduction efforts by years. Edwards supports the current threshold level.

Instead of lowering the jury trial threshold, Real Reform Louisiana is backing a series of bills that would end insurance rate discrimination policies in Louisiana that are banned in other states.

Cut 9 (13) “…credit score.″

Those bills are being brought by Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau.

But Donelon says overall rates are set on a state by state basis, and if you carve out one segment of the population…

Cut 10 (11) “…public.”

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The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation announces a three-year, $600,000 grant investment into the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Monroe. Foundation President Michael Tipton says money will help expand their Prevention On the Go program with services in 12 parishes.

Cut 11 (11) “…the delta region.”

Tipton says the area is one where there are often late cancer diagnoses due to a lack of prevention screenings.

Cut 12 (07) “…much better outcomes.”

Tipton expects the expansion of services and education to impact thousands of live over the next three years.

Cut 13 (12) “…outcomes for people.”

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Senator Bill Cassidy introduces legislation that would end the “Windfall Elimination Provision” that penalizes public sector workers like teachers on their Social Security benefits.

The Louisiana State Employees Retirement System backs the change, which would reverse the policy that blocks Social Security from counting income you receive from the state for benefits.

Cut 14 (11) “…government.”

If passed, the changes would impact social security checks for current retirees. Cassidy says that likely would mean higher social security checks for many retired teachers.

Cut 15 (10) “…should be.”

Only 16 states have laws that enforce the “Windfall Provision”, Louisiana being one of them. Cassidy says even though it doesn’t impact most of the country, he’s confident it will pass.

Cut 16  (12)  …pass” 

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The LSU men’s basketball team finished the regular season with a 94-64 win over Georgia to finish in a tie for second place with Auburn. Senior Marlon Taylor had 30 points, while fellow senior Skylar Mays had 19 points. Sophomore guard Javonte Smart had 13 points and 10 assists. After the game, Coach Will Wade went on his classic rants against those who do not think Smart is a good point guard…

Cut 17  (19) “point guard” 

LSU’s next game is the late game on Friday in the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament.

The Ragin Cajuns have a second round Sun Belt Tournament game tonight at Georgia Southern. The Eagles won their two meetings against U-L Lafayette earlier this season, including a 20-point win in Statesboro. Cajuns Coach Bob Marlin is looking forward to the challenge of winning a Sun Belt Tournament game on the road…

cut 18  (18) ” as well”   

The winner will play at Georgia State in a quarterfinal game.

Louisiana Tech men’s basketball finished in a two-way tie for second place in Conference USA and the Bulldogs will play in the conference tournament on Thursday night in Frisco, Texas against either against Marshall or UTEP. Bulldogs Coach Eric Konkol on their preparation for postseason play…

cut 19 (20) for them”  

The National Science Foundation awards Louisiana Tech a $1.2 million grant to foster computer science education in north Louisiana. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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Daylight Savings Time returns this Sunday and if Haughton Republican Dodie Horton had it her way, Louisiana would stay in Daylight Savings Time.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (27) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart

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A bill is introduced that would require all public schools offer students the hcance to recite the pledge of alliegence. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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Louisiana Tech receives a $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to foster computer science education in north Louisiana. Dean of the College of Education at Louisiana Tech Don Schillinger says the money will help attract students into fields of study to become STEM educators.

Cut 4 (07)_ “…computer science program.”

Schillinger says the money will also help in providing freshmen and sophomore students with internship opportunities to give them a taste as to what it is like to be a STEM educator.

Cut 5 (11)  “…of STEM camps”.

Schillinger says there is a real need for sending graduates into the workforce is less populated areas.

Cut 6 (12) “…understand computer science.”

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This Sunday, time springs forward by an hour for Daylight Savings Time.  If Haughton Republican Dodie Horton had her way, time would never change back.  Horton introduced a House bill that would adopt Daylight Savings Time as the standard all year long in Louisiana.  Horton says three other states have passed similar legislation, but any sort of change would hinge on federal law.

Cut 7 (09) “…my goal is.”

Horton says constituents have requested the change for years and she sees plenty of benefits.

Cut 8 (08) “…more family time.”

Horton says she is not alone in the push at she says Albany Republican Sherman Mack has filed a similar bill.  Horton does not see any hurdles in getting time change legislation passed.

Cut 9 (06) “…me the cons.″

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Denham Springs Representative Valerie Hodges brings legislation that would mandate all Louisiana public schools to provide students the opportunity to recite the pledge of allegiance as a group.

Hodges says if passed students and faculty would not be forced to recite the pledge, but schools must find a time to offer the chance.

Cut 10 (12) “…compulsory.”

Hodges says she brought the bill because American patriotism is being undermined in subtle ways.

Cut 11 (11) “…learn it.”

Hodges says she’s heard of schools in other states that do not recite the pledge but is not aware of any in Louisiana that do not.

Cut 12 (10) “…flag.”

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Coronavirus is on the radar of the Lt. Governor’s office as tourism in Louisiana could see big losses from the spread of the illness.  Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser says one international convention has already decided to pull the plug on their New Orleans event.

Cut 13 (07) “…that convention.”

Some of Louisiana’s biggest festivals, including the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, are happening within the next few months.  While no cases have surfaced in Louisiana yet, Nungesser says an outbreak could be devastating.

Cut 14 (04) “…part of Louisiana.”

Nungesser commends Governor John Bel Edwards for his handling of the preparations for any potential outbreak.

Cut 15 (10) “…is a problem.”

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The 20th ranked LSU baseball team will host U-Mass Lowell for the final weekend series before SEC play begins next week. The Tigers are 8-and-5 and Coach Paul Mainieri would like see his team gain confidence before his team heads to Ole Miss next weekend

Cut 16  (17)  …grows and grows.” 

Mainieri says since getting no-hit on Sunday in Houston, the coaching staff has spent a lot of time talking with their young hitters about hitting the ball the other way….

Cut 17  (24) “ahead of us” 

Inexperience is one of the reasons why LSU has struggled at the plate this season. Freshman catcher Alex Milazzo admits there’s a difference between high school and college pitchers….

cut 18  (18) “used to it”   

Louisiana had to shell out 2.3 million dollars responding to cyberattacks the past year, 1.7 million of it on the November ransomware attack that crippled the Office of Motor Vehicles. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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The United Cajun Navy is helping in the aftermath of a deadly tornado outbreak that killed at least 24 people earlier this week in Tennessee. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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Construction is set to begin later this month for a project to replace the 60-year-old LA 532 overpass over I-20 in Webster Parish.  DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan says the final utility relocation is underway now and once that is finished, the construction will start.

Cut 3 (10)  “…the construction process.”  

The brand new overpass is just east of Minden is expected to be complete in Fall 2021 and will cost $8 million.

The state has received $76 million from the feds to fund several projects.  Buchanan says other projects include replacing three closed bridges in Red River and Bienville Parishes.

Cut 4 (12) “…in those parishes”

The 52-year-old LA 507 bridge between Womack and Castor in Red River Parish is being replaced by a $2.1 million project that is expected to start in April and finish in Spring 2021.

Buchanan says two bridges built in 1968 on LA 4 between Castor and Lucky in Bienville Parish have also closed for several months due to poor conditions.  Buchanan says closures happen out of concern for safety.

Cut 5 (11)  “…was too extensive.”

Those bridges will be replaced as part of a $2.3 million project set to begin in April and are also expected to wrap up in Spring 2021.

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The Louisiana Division of Administration had to spend 2.3 million dollars, mostly on personnel, responding to cyberattacks last year.

Spokesperson Jacques Berry says last year’s series of attacks are evidence that the threat to public sector entities from cyberspace is growing.

Cut 6 (10) “…as well”

Berry says these kinds of attacks require fast responses, and they don’t come cheap.

Cut 7 (10) “…hours”

He says the 2.3 million dollar figure does not include local government spending on the responses.

1.7 million of it went towards response to the massive ransomware attack that crippled the Office of Motor Vehicles in November, but hackers should know they’ll never get a dime from the state…

Cut 8 (07) “…like that.”

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Louisiana volunteers are helping in the aftermath of a deadly tornado outbreak in Nashville, Tennessee.  United Cajun Navy founder Todd Terrell says the organization often recruits volunteers as the need for help arises.

Cut 9 (12) “…we got 43.″

Terrell says they’ve recruited volunteers from Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky to assist in their efforts and expects the number of volunteers to grow.

The United Cajun Navy is no stranger in helping following disasters.  With this deployment, they are currently helping to feed a group of about 500.  Terrell says it is basic hotdogs and hamburgers for now, but Cajun cuisine is on the way.

Cut 10 (11) “…are really effected.”

Terrell says they have partnered with a church in the area to establish a home base where they can receive any sort of contributions that Louisiana residents would like to send to help.

Cut 11 (10) “…Cajun Navy Facebook page.”

At least 24 people are dead as the result of the early Tuesday morning tornado outbreak and many are still unaccounted for.

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The Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested 21-year-old Ashlin Faith Lewis, who was found passed out inside a vehicle with a crying infant in a car seat. Chief Deputy Mike Haley says the engine was running when a deputy approached the vehicle in a field south of Bogalusa

Cut 12 (06) “…soaked in urine.”

Haley says EMS was called to the scene and the infant was transported to Our Lady of Angels Hospital

Cut 13 (11) “…the infant.”

Haley says a deputy woke Lewis up and she failed a sobriety test. He says heroin and drug paraphernalia were found on her possession and now she faces numerous charges….

Cut 14 (12) “…of a juvenile.”

Haley says Lewis was also wanted out of a Bogalusa on a warrant for the alleged assault of a health care worker.

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Cut 15 (07) “…nomination.”

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Cut 16  (12)  …dominate” 

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Three candidates have now surfaced to fill the fifth district congressional seat being left up for grabs by the retiring Ralph Abraham.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.” 

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A big shakeup in the Democratic presidential nomination fight increases the chances Louisiana will have a competitive primary on April 4th. Matt Doyle has the story…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

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Louisiana’s 2014 law that requires abortion doctors to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals went before the U-S Supreme Court today. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says this is the first major abortion case for the Supreme Court since President Trump’s appointment of two conservative judges…

Cut 3 (11)  “…Roe vs Wade”  

A ruling is expected in June. Pro-life advocates say the law ensures the health and safety of the mother. But opponents argue the new regulation would close two of the state’s three abortion clinics. Ciolino on what the justices have to consider…

cut 4 (08) “…seeking abortions”

Reporters who attended today’s hearing say the court appears divided and Chief Justice John Roberts could be the deciding vote.  A federal appeals court in New Orleans upheld the law. Ciolino could see the Supreme Court affirming that ruling, but not overturning Roe versus Wade…

Cut 5 (10)  “…versus wade.”

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A big night last night for former Vice President Joe Biden makes it likely the Democratic primary will remain competitive by the time Louisianans head to the polls April 4^th.

JMC Analytics publisher John Couvillon says Louisianans will likely be picking between Biden, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Senator Elizabeth Warren in April, despite Biden’s big night…

Cut 6 (12) “…states”

Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who had a sizeable presence in Louisiana, dropped out and endorsed Biden this morning.

Couvillion says Biden is the new frontrunner, followed closely by Sanders, but the former VP has the edge in Louisiana…

Cut 7 (11) “…now.”

This primary cycle has seen Democratic primary turnout meet and occasionally exceed 21st-century records. Couvillon expects that trend to hold in Louisiana.

Cut 8 (11) “…presidents.”

Republicans will also be voting in their primary April 4^th.

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The US Army is investing over $26 million into Fort Polk for barracks renovations and infrastructure replacements.  Congressman Mike Johnson says he has been pushing for the investment since last year.

Cut 9 (05) “…this very need″

Johnson calls it a huge win for the soldiers at Fort Polk.

Cut 10 (07) “…are long overdue.”

Johnson says the needs were critical and this is just the beginning of continued investments.

Cut 11 (07) “…recognized that need.”

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There are now three announced candidates seeking to replace the retiring Ralph Abraham as Louisiana’s Fifth District Congressman. State Representative Lance Harris of Alexandria entered the race today. Harris says after eight years in the state legislature, he’s ready to go to work with President Trump

Cut 12 (06) “…have more freedom.”

The other announced Republican is Ouachita Police Juror Scotty Robinson, who aims to bring more federal dollars back to the fifth district.

Cut 13 (11) “…good broadband internet.”

Abraham’s chief of staff Luke Letlow is also expected to throw his hat into the ring.

Candy Christophe of Alexandria is the lone announced Democrat in the race as she classifies herself as a moderate progressive and says the people of the district are in dire need.

Cut 14 (10) “…among the darkness.”

The 5th Congressional district covers Monroe and Alexandria, plus northern parishes of Acadiana and parts of the Florida parishes.   Qualifying for the race is in July and the primary is in November.

Should college athletes be able to cash in on their name and likeness? Marrero Republican Patrick Connick thinks so. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.” 

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Twenty-one individuals from around the country have applied to become Louisiana’s next education superintendent. Jeff Palermo has more…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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LSU Ag Center researchers are warning farmers that stink bug numbers will be high this year because of a series of mild winters. LSU Entomologist Doctor Sebe Brown says it takes temperatures below 20-degrees to kill off the redbanded stink bug which is from South America

Cut 3 (09)  “…this year”  

Stink bugs are capable of destroying soybean fields and other crops. Brown says early season control is vital…

Cut 4 (10) “…of damage”

Brown says stink bugs are able to survive a mild Louisiana winter by living under clover and weeds…

Cut 5 (09)  “…they go.”

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Should college athletes be able to cash in on their name and likeness? Marrero Republican Patrick Connick files a Senate bill that would allow compensation in Louisiana. Connick says one potential revenue stream is merchandise sales.

Cut 6 (10) “…university is getting.”

The topic of financial benefits for student-athletes is a nationwide issue, with 30 other states filing legislation making the push for compensation. Connick says his measure is also vital for Louisiana schools to remain competitive.

Cut 7 (12) “…of their future.”

Opponents say compensation taints the student-athlete culture. However, Connick says times have changed.

Cut 8 (10) “…treat them fairly.”

If passed, the proposal would go into effect January 1, 2023. Just a few years ago, the NCAA exceeded one-billion dollars in revenues, but the association does not allow college athletes to receive money for what they do on the field or court.

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Twenty-one people have applied to be the state’s next education superintendent. Jefferson Parish school superintendent Cade Brumley and Central Louisiana Technical Community College Vice-Chancellor Heather Poole are among the local candidates. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says there’s also several out of state candidates as well

Cut 9 (08) “…good candidates″

The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education will meet in April to pick a successor to John White, who will step down next week. Governor Edwards says he hopes BESE will select someone who has worked in a variety of education roles, including as a teacher. But Erwin doesn’t think classroom experience is necessary…

Cut 10 (06) “ legislature approve”

Erwin says he’s surprised to see 21 individuals apply to be the leader of Louisiana’s K-through-12 public education system

Cut 11 (07) “…outside of the state”

It will take at least eight of the eleven BESE members to agree on a new superintendent.

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LSU-Shreveport Poli Sci Professor Jeff Sadow says polls show the democratic primary could be all but over by the time Louisianans vote on April 4^th.

Sadow says the consolidation of candidates and the number of delegates up for grabs today, Super Tuesday, likely means…

Cut 12 (06) “…Louisiana.”

Current polling shows either Senator Bernie Sanders or VP Joe Biden could gain an insurmountable lead within the next few weeks.

Louisiana usually holds it’s primary the weekend after Super Tuesday, but Sadow says we got kicked back about a month because other local elections on the ballot could lead to an inconvenient time for potential run-offs.

Cut 13 (10) “…essentially.”

Biden entered today with momentum but Sadow says polls show Sanders putting away the race with strong showings in California and the northeast.

Cut 14 (07) “…nomination.”

Non-Democrats have until March 14 to register online at geaux-vote-dot-com as a Democrat if they’d like to participate in the closed primary. Republicans will also be holding their closed primary on the 4^th with the same rules as well.

Deadlines to register to vote in the upcoming Presidential Primary in Louisiana are fast approaching. Brooke Thorington spoke with Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards names his three non-budgetary legislative priorities for the year. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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A Franklinton Senator brings legislation that would bar trans women from playing women’s sports at Louisiana schools. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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With voter registration deadlines fast approaching, Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin is reminding Louisianans that only registered Democrats and Republicans are eligible to vote in the upcoming Presidential Primary or April 4th.  Ardoin says the Deadline for in person or by mail registration for the primary is tomorrow…

Cut 4 (09)_ “…registration.”

Ardoin says early voting will begin Saturday, March 21 and end Saturday March 28^th, except for Sunday, March 23^rd.

Cut 5 (12)  “…April 4th.”

There are 24 parishes that will have local elections on the ballot and are open to eligible voters., regardless to party. However, if you plan to vote in the Presidential Primary, Ardoin says the respective parties have established rules.

Cut 6 (11) “…for Republicans.”

For more information visit www.GeauxVote.com

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Governor John Bel Edwards laid out his top legislative priorities yesterday at the Baton Rouge Press Club, naming minimum wage, pay secrecy, and auto insurance as his primary, non-budgetary focuses.

Edwards threw his weight behind New Orleans Senator Troy Carter’s minimum wage bill that would lift the state from 7.25 to nine an hour by January 2021 and ten dollars an hour by July 2021.

Cut 7 (09) “…on that”

Edwards made raising the minimum wage a pillar of his 2015 election, and 2019 reelection efforts.

The Governor is also back supporting a push to prevent employers from firing workers who openly discuss their salary with other workers, and allow workers to keep their previous job’s pay secret.

Cut 8 (09) “employer”

He came out in favor of a series of bills by Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau that bars auto insurance companies from charging customers more based on their gender, credit, or military service.

Cut 9 (10) “…to do″

Republicans are pushing to lower the jury trial threshold to 15,000 dollars, but Edwards says he believes the current 50,000 dollar level is adequate.

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State Police have found the body of a missing deaf and mute Ville Platte woman and have made an arrest in the case. Trooper Thomas Gossen says 53-year old Phillip Dewoody of Opelousas has been arrested in connection with her disappearance.

Cut 10 (11) “…was his photo.”

Search teams found the body of Joyce Thomas along I-49 between Sunset and Opelousas. Gossen says he is unsure of a previous connection between the victim and the suspect, adding the woman had been reported missing on February 26^th.

Cut 11 (07) “…a remote wooded area.”

The Advocate newspaper reports that court documents show the suspect has been in and out of prison after convictions including two armed robberies and escaping prison at knifepoint.

Cut 12 (10) “…with his background.”

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The legislature will consider a bill that bans schools from allowing transgender athletes who were not assigned as a woman at birth to play on women’s sports teams.

The legislation was brought by Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell who says women’s sports are a women’s rights issue and should be for women only.

Cut 13 (09) “…for women.”

She says she’s concerned about the competitive advantage that trans women have over someone who was assigned female at birth.

Cut 14 (08) “…that.”

Louisiana Trans Advocates President Dylan Waguespack opposes the bill and says a similar ban functionally already exists at the high school level, but this would target all Louisiana trans students.

Cut 15 (12) “…with”

Waguespack says the legislation, and it’s companion bill in the House, is imported from radical national anti-trans groups, and is discriminatory.

Cut 16  (11)  …can’t’   

The bill provides for the “Save Women’s Sports Act”.

Investigators say it may take several days before they determine a cause to a fatal fire in Alexandria on Saturday night that killed four people, including three children. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Gov Edwards addresses members of the Baton Rouge Press club about the formation of the state’s response to the coronavirus. Brooke Thorington has more.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The investigation continues today into the weekend house fire in Alexandria that killed four people, including three children. Alexandria Fire Department Chief Larry King says the deadly blaze started late Saturday night and half the home was engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived…

Cut 3 (10)  “…family sake”  

King says there were no working smoking detectors in the home.

Cut 4 (11) “…the house”

An autopsy is scheduled today on the bodies. The family has identified the victims as 48-year-old Verlana Cooper, seven-year-old Jayda Cooper, four-year-old Brooklyn Cooper, and four-month-old Dreya Russaw. King says the fire started in the living-dining room and no one was able to escape

Cut 5 (11)  “…the fire.”

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One person is dead after being shot in the chest with a crossbow and two others have been arrested by Caddo Parish deputies in connection to the killing.  Caddo Parish Sheriff’s spokesperson Cindy Chadwick says the body was discovered by two teens shortly after 4PM Saturday near Wallace Lake in Shreveport.

Cut 6 (04) “…to come out.”

The victim has been identified as 33-year-old Rodney Christopher Nordby and the two arrested have been identified as 24-year-old Daniel Haire and 27-year-old Dillon Brown.

Chadwick says the investigation indicates the victim was at the Shreveport home of Haire when a disagreement occurred on Thursday night.

Cut 7 (09) “…of the body.”

Chadwick says the body was left near the parking lot at Cameron Park early Friday morning.

Cut 8 (10) “…teenagers found it.”

Both Haire and Brown were arrested on Sunday morning.

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Federal and state officials are ramping up preparation efforts for a possible Coronavirus outbreak in Louisiana. Cassidy is proposing legislation that would change telehealth practices so doctors can send healthcare workers out to those who feel they might have the symptoms of the virus, so they out of waiting rooms and not expose others.

Cut 9 (12) “…infection″

After his experience with Katrina, Cassidy is also proposing a bank account where public health has immediate access to funds in order to speed its response.

Cut 10 (12) “care of”

Edwards announced the creation of a coronavirus task force today and says if a case develops in Louisiana the state it will be announced by his administration…

Cut 11 (11) “…announce that”

Edwards encourages citizens not to panic over the news of reported deaths in the U-S but to gather facts from reputable sources like the CDC and the Louisiana Department of Public Health.

Cut 12 (08) “…the facts.”

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Houma Republican Tanner Magee files a House bill that would allow local companies to use independent contractors to deliver alcohol. Current law says alcohol home deliveries have to be conducted by an hourly-wage employee of the business.

Cut 13 (10) “…deliver their products.”

Rouses Supermarket facilitates deliveries through independent contractors. Recent changes for food delivery service Waitr now follow that same model. However, Magee says originally, Waitr had its delivery methods in compliance with the current law.

Cut 14 (10) “…Rouses’ business model.”

Magee says his bill is important because of the state’s need to keep up with modern times adding one of the problems that have held the state back is the unwillingness to change.

Cut 15 (11) “…the United States.”

A brutal allergy season is ahead for allergy sufferers. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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Congressman Ralph Abraham tells Matt Doyle his support for term limits guided his decision not to seek a 4^th term in office…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

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According to the annual AccuWeather spring allergy forecast predicts we’ll see a brutal allergy season. In Louisiana, the forecast calls for an above-average season.  LSU Health New Orleans Professor of Allergy/Immunology Dr. Sanjay Kamboj says the pollen is already here.

Cut 3 (10)  “…end of January”  

Kamboj says humidity, hot weather, and carbon dioxide from cars all contribute to this being a brutal season.

Cut 4 (07) “…by the plants.”

In order to prevent an allergy flair up, Kamboj recommends not opening windows and doors until the early afternoon. If an allergy sufferer goes outside, there are steps to take upon getting home.

Cut 5 (11)  “…home from outside.”

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U.S. Representative Ralph Abraham will not seek a fourth term in office, citing a promise he made before being elected in 2014 that he would term limit himself.  Abraham says the decision to serve only three terms in the House is one he made six years ago on the campaign trail….

Cut 6 (09) “good thing.”

The Congressman says the decision was not hard, and he’s proud of the votes he cast on behalf of Louisiana’s sprawling 5^th district.

Cut 7 (09) “…Iraq”  

Abraham isn’t completely ruling out future public service, and assuming the President were to win reelection, he would be interested in a position in his administration if offered.

Cut 8 (10) “…history”

Abraham finished third in the gubernatorial primary last October.

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A House bill filed by Jonesboro Republican Jack McFarland aims to allow nighttime hunting for feral hogs on private property any time of the year.  Similar legislation has been attempted in the past, but McFarland believes the problem has gotten worse and feels it would have more support this year.

Cut 9 (12) “…out of it.″

A hunter would need a basic hunting license and as well as permission from the land owner.  McFarland says the bill would also extend to other damaging species.

Cut 10 (11) “…that you did.”

Current law McFarland says feral hogs will eat anything and have a negative impact of row crops as well as other wildlife, but adds the problem isn’t just limited to rural communities.

Cut 11 (11) “…hog problem now.”

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Oil prices continued to fall today as demand weakens over concerns from the coronavirus. The U-S West Texas Intermediate crude fell below 46-dollars a barrel, it’s lowest level since January 2019. LSU Energy Studies Director David Dismukes says there’s a lot of uncertainty right now

Cut 12 (10) “…globally”

Dismukes says if oil prices continue to drop, it will cause problems in the oil patch for businesses who are already struggling to make a profit

Cut 13 (12) “…balance sheet.”

With oil prices dropping, motorists are seeing gas prices for regular gasoline just above two-dollars a gallon and the cost of natural gas has also declined. But Dismukes Louisiana’s economy is at its best when energy companies are making money and profits are hard to pull off right now

Cut 14 (06) “…coastline”

U-S Senator John Kennedy has a tense exchange with acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf over the coronavirus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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If you file a restraining order in Louisiana and fail to show to appear at court the judge could order you to pay court costs. Brooke Thorington spoke with a domestic violence advocate.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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U-S Senator John Kennedy is not happy with the lack of answers from acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf over the coronavirus. Kennedy’s frustration grew when Wolf couldn’t say how many respirators and masks are available or if there’s an estimate on how many cases we might see in the U-S…

Cut 3 (14)  “…security”  

The tense line of questioning came during a hearing on Homeland Security’s budget. Kennedy’s blood pressure rose when Wolf said a vaccine could be available in a few months, but C-D-C officials said it could take 12 to 18 months…

Cut 4 (12) “…everyday.”

During Tuesday night’s 2020 Democratic presidential debate, the candidates hammered President Trump’s response to the Coronavirus. Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says the Trump administration is on top of it and has proposed spending two-point-five billion dollars as part of a response plan…

Cut 5 (08)  “…dollars in it”

U-S Health officials say it’s only a matter of time before the coronavirus spreads to the United States. So far there have been 14 confirmed cases in the US, but none in Louisiana.

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If victim a of domestic violence fails to appear at court in Louisiana during the filing of a temporary restraining order for any reason the judge could deem it frivolous and charge the victim court cost. In a state that has the second-highest rate of women murdered by men in the nation, Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence Director Mariah Wineski says this practice needs to stop.

Cut 6 (11) “…victim safety.”

Wineski says the potential burden of court costs could have a chilling effect across the state for victims of domestic abuse and those who so desperately need to file protective orders.

Cut 7 (10) “…first place”  

There are many reasons why a victim might not be able to attend a hearing, unable to get time off work, a sick child or intimidation from their assailant. Wineski says then the judge could turn around and order the victim to pay court costs.

Cut 8 (11) “…protect them”

If you are a victim of Domestic Abuse you can call the Louisiana Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-888-411-1333

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Governor Edwards calls for the resignation of 23^rd Judicial District Judge Jessie LeBlanc following her admission to using racial text messages. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says it’s outside of the Governor’s reach to make such a call.

Cut 9 (08) “…of a judge.″

LaBlanc’s lawyer Jill Craft released a statement saying her client’s statements were made in a private conversation and in response to a threatening situation. If that is now the litmus test for any public official, then every one of our public officials should be immediately held to the same standard.

Ciolino expects the matter to be referred to the Judiciary Commission of Louisiana…

Cut 10 (13) “…onerous as removal.”

Ciolino says the private nature of her use of the slurs makes it an extrajudicial comment rather than something that happened in the court room. But that doesn’t make her exempt from discipline as in 2004, a Houma judge was suspended for a one-year without pay after he dressed in blackface for a private Halloween party.

Cut 11 (12) “…or racially motivated.”

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Visitation begins tonight for former state lawmaker Butch Gautreaux who passed away Saturday at the age of 72. Gautreaux represented the Morgan City area for 16 years in the state legislature. Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party, Stephen Handwerk, says Gautreaux was a strong voice for the less fortunate

Cut 12 (10) “…get done”

Gautreaux also served in the Navy from 1968 to 1972 after graduating from Central Catholic High School. He was also a small business owner for 30 years in Morgan City. Handwerk says Gautreaux worked well with both sides of the aisle when it came to managing the state’s finances

Cut 13 (10) “…from Butch.”

Handwerk says Gautreaux worked with former US Senator Mary Landrieu on funding for our coast

Cut 14 (07) “…coastline”

The funeral service is Thursday morning at 10 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Morgan City.

Matt Doyle spoke with a Marrero Democrat who says Louisiana’s working-class deserves a raise and he’ll push to increase the minimum wage when lawmakers convene for the legislative session…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Ash Wednesday is the start of the Lenten season and the supply of seafood is looking good. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.” 

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New data shows gun death rates in the Bayou State continue to rise. Brooke Thorington spoke with Violence Policy Center, Legislative Director Kristen Rand about the disturbing trend.

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

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A significant cold front is blasting into the state today. National Weather Service Shreveport meteorologist Brad Bryant says gusty, northwest winds will make it worth your while to dress warm.

Cut 4 (06)_ “…feel pretty chilly.”

Bryant says sustained winds between 15 and 20 miles per hour will get your attention today…

Cut 5 (04)  “…30 mph occasionally.”

Bryant says over the winter, the state has seen multiple cold fronts creep through and stall at the coast, but…

Cut 6 (08) “…there for sure.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards wants to raise the state’s minimum wage and Marrero Representative Kyle Green has filed legislation that would increase the minimum wage from $7.25 to nine dollars an hour in 2021. He says since the economy is booming, there’s no reason businesses can’t afford to pay their workers fairly.

Cut 7 (07) “…of this state.”

Arkansas rose its minimum wage to 10 dollars this year. It’s set to rise to eleven dollars in 2021. Green says nine dollars an hour is still not a living wage, but he’s willing to work with opponents who might refuse a higher number.

Cut 8 (07) “…a pay increase.”

Democrats running for President back a 15 dollar minimum wage by 2025.

The last increase in the minimum wage for Louisianans happened in 2009 under the Obama Administration. Green says we’re long overdue to increase it again.

Cut 9 (09) “…their basic necessities.″

The move is opposed by the business lobbyists.

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Ash Wednesday begins the Lenten season and seafood becomes a popular dish.  Chairman of the Gulf Seafood Institute Harlon Pearce believes there should be plenty available.  Pearce says high water levels and weather conditions have resulted in a bountiful crawfish harvest.

Cut 10 (10) “…into the season.”

Pearce says oysters went through a rough phase with the high Mississippi river levels, but now there are more than enough to go around and prices are leveling out much better than what they were.

Cut 11 (05) “…good right now.”

Pearce says wild-caught Louisiana catfish are gaining in popularity among restaurants.

Cut 12 (09) “…farm raised shrimp.”
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New data from the CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control shows Louisiana ranks fifth in the nation among states with the highest per capita gun death rates in 2018. The states with the highest rates are Mississippi, Alabama, Wyoming, Missouri followed by the Bayou State. Violence Policy Center, Legislative Director Kristen Rand explains what these states have in common.

Cut 13 (09) “…gun ownership.”

Rand says there are several studies that show a correlation between areas that have stronger gun violence prevention laws and lower rates of gun deaths. Also, a key factor is lower exposure to firearms as represented by household gun ownership in having lower death rates.

Cut 14 (10) “…since 2009.”

The nationwide average for gun deaths is 12 per 100-thousand, in Louisiana the death rate is 21 per 100-thousand, significantly above the national average. Rand says it’s time for Louisiana to get proactive and prevent gun deaths.

Cut 15 (10) “…death rate.”

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LSU basketball coach Will Wade is not happy with the SEC schedule makers. The Tigers are at Florida tonight for an 8 PM tip and then they’ll host Texas A-and-M  Saturday at 11 AM. Wade says it’s the second time his team has had to play late on Wednesday and turnround and play their next game on Saturday morning….

Cut 16  (20)  …cold’   

The first time LSU played a late Wednesday night game, followed by an early Saturday morning contest, they lost to Vanderbilt and Auburn. Wade says it’s not fair they’ve had this scheduling inequity twice

Cut 17  (20) “not right” 

LSU will bring a 10-4 SEC record into Gainesville and they are tied for second place with Auburn. Florida is 9-5 in league play and Keyontae Johnson leads the Gators in scoring as he averages 14 points and seven rebounds a game. He also shoots 53-percent from the field. Wade says the six-foot-five sophomore is tough to handle

cut 18  (12) “against us”   

Last month, LSU beat Florida 84-82 in the PMAC. Last season, the Gators won two of the three games played between the two teams.

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The 11th ranked LSU baseball team welcomes Louisiana Tech to Alex Box Stadium tonight. The Tigers are 5-3 and through eight games Coach Paul Mainieri has been shuffling the line-up and getting mixed results. Mainieri says with SEC play starting in a couple of weeks, he intends to use a similar lineup over the next four games to see if they can win with that group…

cut 19 (21) can handle it”  

In tonight’s game, left-hander Brandon Kaminer will start on the mound for LSU. Kaminer has not allowed a run in three appearances. Mainieri says after a rough fall, the Florida native has pitched well…

cut 20 (17) “     keep it up”