Could a coronavirus vaccine be ready this fall?  Senator Bill Cassidy says after talking with one drug company, he thinks so.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________

New Orleans Police disperse a protest crowd near the Crescent City Connection bridge last night with tear gas. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

Senator Bill Cassidy believes a coronavirus vaccination will be ready by October.   Cassidy says he spoke with one of the companies working on a vaccine and is confident one of them could be available by November

Cut 3 (09)  “…than anybody thought.”  

Cassidy says if studies indicate the product is effective and it receives the green light from regulators, there will be an ample supply ready.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…the next day.”

Cassidy says if the product is not effective, he feels confident that other manufacturers will find a solution.

Cut 5 (08)  …Hepatitis B vaccine.”

_________________________________________________

New Orleans Police fired tear gas at George Floyd protestors last night after some of the people in the crowd allegedly began planning to assault a line of officers. NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson says social media videos back up their claim that some elements were organizing an effort to break through police lines and get onto the Crescent City Connection bridge.

Cut 6 (09) “…officers.”

Ferguson also disputed claims that officers fired pellets or other projectiles into the crowd.

Ferguson says after rolling one tear gas canister and firing another from a launcher the crowd began dispersing.

Cut 7 (11) “…individuals”

Protestors had set up on the interstate near the bridge connecting the East and West Bank of New Orleans.

Ferguson says he is disappointed last night’s protest turned violent. He says up until then New Orleans demonstrations had been a model.

Cut 8 (12) “…that.”

_______________________

Cristobal has been downgraded to a tropical depression as the system has moved into southern Mexico. But State Climatologist Barry Keim says the National Hurricane still predicts Cristobal will move back into the Gulf of Mexico tomorrow night and then it will head towards Louisiana’s coast

Cut 9 (04) “…Monday morning”

A flash flood watch is in effect for all of southeast Louisiana until Tuesday morning. Keim says the forecast calls for up to ten inches of rain in the watch area…

Cut 10 (04) “…watch on”

There are no flood watches posted for southwest Louisiana. Keim says that’s because the National Hurricane Center believes the center of the storm will likely come ashore near the New Iberia-Morgan City area and the heaviest rain will be to the east of the center…

Cut 11 (09) “…across Louisiana”
_______________________________

The state reported 429 new coronavirus cases today to bring Louisiana’s total 41,562. The Bayou State has been reporting around 400 cases every day this month. Assistant health secretary Doctor Alex Billioux says we continue to see hundreds of new cases every day because of an increase in testing…

Cut 12 (10) “more cases”

On Thursday, Louisiana recorded nine-thousand new tests and nearly five percent came back positive.

Billioux says seeing more cases is not enough for them to be concerned that the spread of the disease is getting out of hand

Cut 13 (11) “…nursing homes”  

The state is reporting 613 people are hospitalized. That’s a decline of 134 since May 25th.

Restaurants and bars that serve food are prepping to move to Phase Two Friday, but will it be enough to help them keep their doors open. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

_____________________________________

Senator John Kennedy says what happened to George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis Police was murder.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

Louisiana State Parks were packed over the last two weekends with levels of attendance not seen since 2008. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

_______________________________________________

On Friday restaurants and bars that serve food will be able to open at 50 percent capacity as the state moves into Phase Two.  President of the Louisiana Restaurant Association Stan Harris believes the transition to increase capacity with effective social distancing will help put restaurants on the road to recovery.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…all of us.”

Under Phase One eating establishments were restricted to 25-percent capacity, Friday they can they double that. Harris says Phase One for all practical terms has been a trial run for Phase Two, but as for true economic recovery that won’t be reached until Phase Three.

Cut 5 (10)  …demand builds.”

Tables can be arranged 6 feet apart in Phase Two as opposed to the current eight to ten feet apart. Restaurant workers are still required to wear masks and Harris says even though it makes it difficult to socialize, workers have adapted to the new change.

Cut 6 (06) “…beyond this.”

______________________________________________________

Senator John Kennedy says George Floyd was a victim of murder at the hands of Minneapolis Police but condemns the nationwide rioting and looting in response. Kennedy says the video evidence paints a clear picture.

Cut 7 (11) “…are also culpable.”

Kennedy says he’s all for peaceful demonstrations, but targeting law enforcement officers with violence and aggression is wrong.

Cut 8 (13) “…American as baseball.”

Kennedy believes in Louisiana, demonstrations have gone smoothly but encourages other parts of the country that are seeing an unlawful backlash to activate the National Guard.

Cut 9 (12) “…the business owners.”

________________________________________

Governor Edwards says the state is planning for an active hurricane season and making adjustments to existing preparedness guidelines with COVID-19 in mind.

Edwards says shelters are a major piece of the state’s response efforts but now is not the best time for congregate mega shelters, so…

Cut 10 (13) “…necessary”

Edwards says another issue they’re trying to solve is the potential lack of help from humanitarian groups the state relies upon to provide aid in a crisis.

Cut 11 (10) “…catagory.”

Edwards says the state is also working to establish new deals with our neighbors to house residents should the occasion call for it, despite COVID-19 still being prevalent here.

Cut 12 (09) “either.”

No evacuations are currently planned for Tropical Storm Cristobal, which Edwards says could, in a worst-case scenario, dump 10-15 inches of rain over a 48 hour period on certain parts of the state.

______________________________

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser celebrates the 20,000 Louisianans who packed into state parks over the last two weekends, numbers not seen since 2008.

The state was offering campers a free night if they stayed in a cabin for several nights and Nungesser says the deal appears to have been a hit.

Cut 13 (08) “…available.” 

Nungesser says one popular attraction led the pack in total attendance…

Cut 14 (06) “…islands.”

Nungesser thanked Louisianans for supporting their local tourism economy and says despite the pandemic they’re hard at work winning back the big conferences the state is used to.

Cut 15 (07) “…Miami.”

The truckers voted 80%-20% to move the conference after the state offered free catered seafood and an authentic Louisiana jazz band to change locations.

Landfall of Tropical Storm Cristobal along the Louisiana coast is possible Sunday night or early Monday morning.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________

Some evictions are set to resume when the state enters Phase Two. Matt Doyle spoke with a housing advocate about the process and your rights…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

Tropical Storm Cristobal is slowly moving inland over eastern Mexico, but it’s expected to get back into the Gulf of Mexico and start heading north on Friday. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a landfall along the Louisiana coast is possible Sunday night or early Monday morning

Cut 3 (09)  “…very, very closely.”  

The National Hurricane Center forecasts the storm will stay at tropical storm strength when crossing the Gulf of Mexico, but Keim says conditions for reaching hurricane strength are favorable.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…realm of possibility.”

Keim says in preparation for the storm’s landfall, flash flood watches have been posted across southeast Louisiana.

Cut 5 (10)  “…this to happen.”

_________________________________________________

Some courts are set to resume operations in Phase Two and with that the resumption of evictions.

Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center Executive Director Cashauna Hill says evictions are a legal process that cannot proceed without a court hearing…

Cut 6 (12) “…their home.”

Landlords with federally backed mortgages will not be able to file for evictions until the federal moratorium ends August 24^th.

Hill says if the court agrees that you should be removed from your home then you will be given a certain amount of time to leave. If a tenant does not leave within the prescribed time period…

Cut 7 (08) “…the home”

Hill warns that landlords have attempted to force residents out of their homes before the process is complete by changing locks, shutting off the water, or killing the power. She says that’s illegal…

Cut 8 (09) “…often.”

If that happens Hill encourages you to reach out to their office.

_______________________

The Louisiana Speaker of the House and Senate President form a joint organization aimed at promoting a unified message about the work both chambers are doing.

Leading Louisiana Executive Director Lionel Rainey says the Governor has a big platform right now and the public deserves to hear a clear message from legislative leaders.

Cut 9 (11) “…the mat”

The organization was formed as a 501 c4. The IRS deems those groups non-profits that are allowed to engage in advocacy and legislative lobbying, along with moderate support for political candidates.

Rainey says the organization will be promoting legislation like the 300 million dollar small business grant fund that was sent to the Governor’s desk.

Cut 10 (11) “…to work.”

Governor Edwards has expressed concern about the bill due to it taking money away a federal funding package meant to help local governments stabilize their budgets.

Rainey says there’s a lot of vital bills set to be discussed this special session and interested members of the public should follow them on social media for updates.

Cut 11 (08) “…Capitol.”
_______________________________

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser says the failure to reappoint Ronnie Jones as the chairman of Louisiana’s Gaming Control Board appears to be bad blood.  Jones has held the position since 2013.  Nungesser thinks it is a case of a lawmaker holding a grudge from being summons for entering a casino unlawfully last year.

Cut 12 (08) “think its retaliation.”

A Louisiana State Police trooper issued Peterson a misdemeanor summons for violating a self-imposed casino ban when she gambled at L’Auberge Casino in Baton Rouge in February 2019, then later admitted she has a gambling problem.  The debate over the confirmation decisions was held behind closed doors in an executive session, with no public discussion on appointments.

Nungesser says the timing of the retaliation could not be worse as everyone needs to be pulling in the same direction to get the state back where it needs to be.

Cut 13 (07) “…kind of action”  

Tattoo enthusiasts can get inked again on Friday as part of Phase Two, but the experience will be a bit different.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________________

Governor Edwards says he appreciates that citizens have kept protest civil across the state and supports their right to do so. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

___________________________________________

 Authorities are hunting the killer of a black bear found south of Franklin, and offering a 6,000 dollar reward for information leading to an arrest…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

_______________________________________________

Tattoo shops are reopening in Phase Two and the artists behind the ink are ready to get back to work on Friday.  Glynn Morace is the owner of Platinum Innovations Tattoo Studio in Baton Rouge and says it was tough on shops to be closed when he feels they are historically more sanitary than gyms.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…a weight lifted.”

Morace says the business has been overwhelmed with hundreds of customers contacting him throughout the closure with questions about reopening.

Cut 5 (11)  “…I can do.”

Those customers will need to set an appointment as walk-in business will not be available in the near future.

Morace says there will be changes in the experience with face coverings being provided to be worn by artists and customers.

Cut 6 (10) “…or touch anything.”

______________________________________________________

As the nation reacts to the violent death of George Floyd, Governor John Bel Edwards says he appreciates citizens of Louisiana keeping protests civil and nonviolent. Edwards says Floyd’s death was unnecessary and he describes what he saw on the video of his arrest.

Cut 7 (13) “…were acceptable.”

Edwards, whose family has a background in law enforcement, says the procedure used to restrain Floyd is not approved in police training.

Cut 8 (12) “…Floyd’s death.”

Edwards says citizens in the state handled themselves appropriately in 2016 and he vows to work with protesters in the same manner now.

Cut 9 (11) “…obviously sincere.”

________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is offering a 6,000 dollar reward for information leading to arrests in the shooting death of a black bear just south of Franklin.

LDWF spokesperson Adam Einck says the bear was discovered in a ditch by passersby May 17^th…

Cut 10 (10) “…guess”

The Humane Society along with the Acadiana Chapter of Safari Club International pitched in for the reward.

Einck says the bears were taken off the endangered list a few years ago but are still protected.

Cut 11 (09) “…stiff.”

Those with information are encouraged to call the Game Thief Hotline at 1-800-442-2511.

Einck says there’s really no excuse to shoot a bear in Louisiana.

Cut 12 (09) “…with them.”

The bear was found off of Hunting Road south of Franklin.

______________________________

The casino industry is responding to the Senate’s decision not to confirm the re-appointment of Ronnie Jones as chairman of the state’s gaming control board. Casino Association of Louisiana executive director Wade Duty was surprised by the decision and says Louisiana benefitted from his time at the helm of the board.

Cut 13 (10) “…in the state.” 

The retired state police deputy superintendent has held the job since 2013.

Duty says Jones captured the respect of those within the state’s gaming industry and beyond.

Cut 14 (09) “…by his counterparts.”

Duty says the timing is tough for having a void left by the absence of Jones.  Duty hopes to see the next chairman have an appreciation for the industry’s role in the state and have a background in regulatory framework.

Cut 15 (10) “…would look for.”

Since the decision was made during executive session, there’s no public record on why Jones was ousted.

____________________________________________

Tropical Storm Cristobal forms near the southern Gulf. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________

 A political analyst expects Governor Edwards to veto the session’s signature bill aimed at lowering auto insurance rates through lawsuit reform. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

President Trump calls on governors to deploy the National Guard in sufficient numbers to “dominate the streets” in the wake of lawlessness following nationwide police brutality protests.

Senator Bill Cassidy backed the President’s statement. He says Americans have the right to protest peacefully, but not violently.

Cut 3 (11)  “…response”  

The protests were triggered by the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis Police last week. The officer seen on video kneeing into Floyd’s neck has been charged with murder.

The President has been criticized for using inflammatory language to describe the protests, but Cassidy says Trump’s focus right now is on restoring order.

Cut 4 (09)_ “together”

The President came under fire yesterday after police were seen clearing a seemingly peaceful protest outside the White House with teargas to make room for a press conference.

Cassidy says the President’s statements were in response to protests that the Senator says have been infiltrated by anti-government elements.

Cut 5 (10)  “community”.

President Trump announced over the weekend his call for ANTIFA, or anti-fascists, to be designated a terrorist organization. It’s currently unclear what that designation would mean, or who is would apply to.

_________________________________________________

Tropical Storm Cristobal forms in the Bay of Campeche, but it’s expected to remain stationary over the next few days. The system is expected to eventually move north, but State Climatologist Barry Keim says there is much uncertainty when it comes to forecasting the track and intensity.

Cut 6 (08) “…taking this storm.”

The system is started off as Tropical Storm Amanda in the Pacific, but as it crossed over Central America it weakened and ended up in the Bay of Campeche and has been renamed with an Atlantic storm name.

Keim says the current forecast calls for the storm to move to about 200 miles south of Morgan City on Sunday morning and tracking northward.

Cut 7 (10) “…surrounding the storm.”

Keim says this storm is a reminder that it is never too early to be prepared for hurricane season.

Cut 8 (12) “…of the season.”

This is the earliest date for an Atlantic third named storm formation on record.

_______________________

Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat believes Governor Edwards will veto legislation headed to his desk aimed at lowering auto insurance rates through lawsuit reform.

Pinsonat says GOP lawmakers scrambled to pass the bill in the last minutes of the session, failing to make their case effectively to the public.

Cut 9 (11) “…on it”

Edwards says he’s concerned the legislation will not lower rates. Proponents disagree, claiming it would lower rates by at least 10 percent.

The legislation is a few votes shy of a supermajority needed to override a veto. Pinsonat says some of the lost support came from compromise changes made over the weekend.

Cut 10 (09) “…similar.”

Pinsonat says tort reform supporter’s inability to pass the legislation with veto-proof majorities may have doomed their effort, despite a mandate from voters to lower auto insurance rates.

Cut 11 (09) “…rates.”
_______________________________

The Legislature signs off on a 300 million dollar grant program for small businesses funded with cash set aside to help local governments whose revenue was impacted by the shutdown.

National Federation of Independent Business State Director Dawn Starns says with the 50 percent cap on occupancy still in effect for Phase Two, the bill is timely.

Cut 12 (08) “loss”

If signed by the Governor the program would begin taking applications from businesses with fewer than 50 employees July 1^st. Eligible businesses could receive up to 15,000 dollars.

New Orleans Representative Gary Carter opposed the grant program saying the Louisiana Congressional Delegation sent us that money to aid local governments.

Cut 13 (10) “response”  

The 300 million for the grant program is being drawn from an 811 million dollar fund for local governments.

Amite Representative Robby Carter says Louisiana businesses have already received 7 billion dollars in Payroll Protection Program funds…

Cut 14 (07) “…the dollar”

Governor Edwards has indicated he’s not a fan of using the local money for the program. It did not pass the Legislature by a veto-proof majority.

The special session sees lawmakers take on a series of proposals aimed at assisting businesses crippled by the COVID shutdown. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

 Louisiana enters Phase Two Friday and that means more access to more of your favorite businesses. Matt Doyle the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

LSU outlines a roadmap to the return to physical class settings this fall. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_______________________________________________

The special session has begun and lawmakers are set to tangle over proposals aimed at rebooting the state’s economy.

Chairman of the Louisiana Economic Recovery Task Force Jason Decuir says first up is codifying relief passed by executive order during the early days of the pandemic, and then things like…

Cut 4 (09)_ “their own”

Legislators will also consider a temporary, and possibly permanent repeal of the franchise tax.

Tax, fee, and regulatory assistance for business will not come free, but Decuir says despite our current budget woes the cost of inaction will ultimately be even higher.

Cut 5 (12)  “coffers”

41 items were scheduled to be discussed when the call for the special session was first made.

Decuir says many of the proposals are aimed at helping businesses that were closed under the stay at home order, but if possible the scope of this state assistance needs to expand.

Cut 6 (09) “…rolling”

______________________________________________________

Starting Friday restaurants can operate at 50 capacity and bars can open in a limited fashion as the state enters Phase Two.

Assistant Health Secretary Doctor Alex Billioux says the 50 percent capacity in restaurants still requires groups to be seated six feet apart.

Cut 7 (07) “…resturant.”

He notes “high risk” individuals should still treat this as Phase Zero and continue to isolate themselves.

Billioux notes normal bar settings are high risk for COVID transmission so they’ll only be allowed to open at 25 percent capacity with a six-foot separation between groups.

Cut 8 (08) “…seated.”

Bars with LDH food permits will be allowed to operate as restaurants.

Billioux says bars aren’t the only new businesses that can open. He notes children’s museums can open in a controlled manner, along with…

Cut 9 (06) “…swimming.”

The state will remain in Phase Two at least until June 26^th.

________________________________________

LSU outlines a roadmap to the return to physical class settings this fall.  Cleaning, handwashing, and physical distancing will see a continued emphasis.  LSU Interim President Thomas Galligan expects the CDC will also still recommend face coverings, so the university will contribute to that need.

Cut 10 (11) “…additional face coverings.”

LSU also plans to test 10 to 16 percent of the populations of the campuses statewide for the virus this fall, with voluntary participants selected at random.

Cut 11 (10) “…contact tracing protocol.”

Anti-body testing will be offered to employees who are returning to campus in phases.  LSU also hopes to launch a mobile app that would include a symptom checker for users and a contact tracing function.

The current plans would see the fall semester starting on schedule.  Galligan says they are exploring the idea of holding physical classes on campus through Thanksgiving, then after the holiday, using online courses to finish the semester.

Cut 12 (10) “…risk of exposure.”

______________________________

Legislation aimed at lowering auto insurance rates by enacting lawsuit reform is headed to the Governor’s desk.

Bill sponsor River Ridge Senator Kirk Talbot says the bill brings our legal climate in line with other states. He pointed to an exchange he had with Nationwide as evidence of how badly the bill was needed…

Cut 13 (10) “…model” 

The bill extends the prescriptive period for filing suits and lowers the jury trial threshold to 10,000 dollars among other changes.

Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson voted against the bill. She says the bill does not address the reasons why our auto insurance is the second-highest in the nation.

Cut 14 (07) “…decrease”

Proponents argue the legislation is written to require at least a ten percent reduction in rates if passed.

Amite Representative Robby Carter says the GOP lawmakers refused to compromise on the legislation with plaintiffs’ attorneys who represent those who stand to lose the most under lawsuit reform.

Cut 15 (04) “pig”

The legislation cleared the Senate with a veto-proof majority but fell four votes short in the House. Governor Edwards has indicated he does not support the bill, which may lead to a veto.

____________________________________________

LSU announces it will play Grambling and Southern for the first time ever in football. The Tigers will host the Jaguars in 2022 and in 2023 Grambling will travel to Tiger Stadium. LSU’s Executive Deputy Athletics Director Verge Ausberry says after a weekend of civil unrest, they thought it was appropriate to announce these future match-ups against tradition-rich black college football programs

Cut 16 (12)  of Louisiana”

Ausberry says they began discussing with Southern and Grambling a couple of years ago about playing these schools in football. He knows the fan bases for these two schools will be fired up to see their teams play in Tiger Stadium…

Cut 17  (08) “…great bands” 

The games mean Southern and Grambling will receive big paychecks to play LSU in football. Ausberry says if they are playing an F-C-S school, they’d like it to be an in-state school, especially schools like Southern and Grambling who have great college football traditions

Cut 18  (19) “…Doug Williams”   

The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness recommends adjusting your hurricane season prep to the new normal of dealing with COVID-19. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

____________________________

Legislation allowing any patient with a debilitating condition to receive medical marijuana is headed to the governor’s desk. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

_____________________________

Today marks the official start of the 2020 hurricane season and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness wants you to get prepared for a projected busy season.

GOHSEP spokesperson Mike Steele says the state is actively preparing to have to respond to a severe weather event in the midst of a pandemic.

Cut 3 (08)  “…support”  

Steele says now is the time to start making your hurricane prep kit, but consider adding COVID-related items like masks, wipes, and sanitizer, along with the standard items.

Cut 4 (07)_ “…kit”

For a pamphlet printout with a checklist of needed items visit get-a-game-plan-dot-org

There’s a good chance the Gulf could see its first system within the next few days. Steele says everyone needs to be keeping an eye on that development.

Cut 5 (08)  “…threat.

_________________________________________________

A small plane crashed shortly after takeoff in Pineville yesterday, claiming the lives of two highly respected men from Alexandria and leaving a 7-year-old in the ICU. President of the Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Deborah Randolph says the deaths of twin brothers Ben and Blake Cooper is devastating news…

Cut 6 (11) “ …in the community.”

Blake Cooper was the executive director of the Central Louisiana Regional Port Authority and Ben Cooper was an administrator at Oceans Behavioral Hospital in Alexandria. Randolph says the Tioga High grads were very active in the community.

Cut 7 (10) “…in the future”

Randolph says the sole survivor, 7-year-old Mason Cooper, was the son of Blake Cooper, adding he has a long road to recovery ahead.

Cut 8 (09) “…expected to live.”

The NTSB is investigating the crash that happened near Lake Buhlow.

_______________________

Legislation allowing any patient with a debilitating condition to receive medical marijuana from any state licensed doctor is headed to the governor’s desk. The bill’s author Stonewall Rep. Larry Bagley has previously voted against the use of medical pot, but says now that it’s legal, it should be an option for more people.

Cut 9 (08) “…pretty easy jump.”

Bagley says the bill’s removal of the need for doctors to register with and receive authorization from the State Board of Medical Examiners to recommend cannabis to patients will open up a patient’s access to a doctor who can make that decision.

Cut 10 (07) “…than your doctor.”

Bagley says the measure has the opportunity to combat the opioid crisis.

Cut 11 (10) “…were telling me.”

With a 74-16 vote, the bill heads next to the Governor’s desk, who is expected to sign it.
_______________________________

A bill that sets up the regulations so Louisiana residents can participate in online fantasy sports contests for cash prizes is headed to the governor’s desk.

Fairness for Fantasy Sports spokesperson Ryan Berni says they’re confident Governor Edwards will sign the legislation and hopefully lawmakers will approve the taxation in the June special session.

Cut 12 (08) “this year

If both the taxation and regulation are passed and approved by the Governor Louisianans in the 47 approved parishes could use services like DraftKings and FanDuel for online fantasy play.

Berni says the upcoming battle over the tax bill for fantasy sports in the special session will likely be more contentious than this regulatory bill.

Cut 13 (07) “debate”  

Last year’s effort to legalize fantasy sports got tied up on the tax issue. Berni says he believes the legislature will ultimately give approval…

Cut 14 (09) “…package”

Detractors last year said the proposed tax rate was too low and noticeably lower than the tax rate for other gaming activities.

_____________________

Governor Edwards announces the state will move into phase two of reopening of the economy, beginning on Friday. Edwards says he made the decision after analyzing several metrics like the number of people who are hospitalized which continues to decline

Cut 15 (10)“      the state” 

Phase two means bars can reopen at 25-percent capacity, while restaurants and other businesses can increase capacity from 25 to 50-percent. Pool halls, bowling alleys, tattoo parlors, recreational pools and spas can open for the first time since March. Edwards reminds the public the state’s fight against COVID-19 is not over

Cut 16 (12) “…contact tracing”

A Tulane social worker warns people may experience a new wave of COVID-related anxiety as states reopen and people experience the new normal. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

The deadline is nearing for families of children that received free or reduced-price meals at Louisiana schools to apply for Pandemic EBT cards. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

___________________________________________

 The legislature is expected to give final passage today to tort reform legislation aimed at lowering auto insurance rates. Matt Doyle has more on how that could spark a fight with the Governor…

Cut 3 (30)  “…Matt Doyle”  

_______________________________________________

Mental health advocates warn that the reopening of the economy may lead to more anxiety as people try to adapt to the new normal. Dr. Tonya Hansel with the Tulane School of Social Work says, to start, limit your news intake, so as not to overstimulate yourself while trying to safely navigate the outside world.

Cut 4 (10)_ “able to”

She says if you log in and don’t see any new news to read, put down your phone and don’t check it for a few hours.

Hansel says another way to relieve stress is to reconnect with friends and family outside of your household in safe, outdoor environments…

Cut 5 (04)  “able to”

Experts say viral transmission is a lot less likely outdoors than it is indoors.

Hansel also says another good way to fight stress is to volunteer or donate to causes aimed at helping those impacted by the virus.

Cut 6 (09) “…the end” 

She also mentioned wearing a mask while in public can help lower your stress levels when having to leave the house.

_______________________________________________________

Families of children who receive free or reduced-price meals are eligible for Pandemic EBT cards to help offset those meals lost when schools closed early, but they need to act fast. Syndi Dunn, Louisiana Department of Education spokesperson says applications must be completed by June 8^th.

Cut 7 (11) “…$285 per child.”

More than 600-thousand children normally receive free and reduced-price meals at schools and any child, prekindergarten through 12^th grade is eligible for the Pandemic EBT card.

Dunn says even students who attend Community Eligibility Provisions schools, regardless of income, also qualify for the card.

Cut 8 (09) “…media pages.”

Participation in other relief programs will not disqualify students from the P-EBT program. Dunn says so far approximately 60 percent of eligible families have applied for the benefits and they want to make sure no one is missed.

Cut 9 (11) “…not required.”

For more information go to the Louisianabelieves.com and click on Covid-19 Information and Resources or call 1-888-524-3578

________________________________________

Tort reform legislation that supporters say will lower auto insurance rates is expected to be sent to the Governor today.

Governor Edwards is not in favor of the bill and UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross says if it hits Edwards’ desk he expects it to be vetoed even though it passed by veto-proof majorities.

Cut 10 (10) “…override”

Cross says a veto override has not been completed in Louisiana since 1993.

Cross says if this bill is passed and vetoed the Governor will likely go to work trying to pick off a few votes in both chambers to avoid a veto override.

Cut 11 (08) “…give out”

Among other things, the legislation lowers the jury trial threshold to 5,000 dollars. The insurance lobby says this will result in fewer costly settlements, savings that can be passed on to drivers.

If Edwards does veto the legislation GOP lawmakers will have plenty of time in the upcoming special session to attempt an override. Cross says the additional time significantly improves their odds.

Cut 12 (08) “…session.”

The special session will begin today after the session ends.

______________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards is expected to announce at 2:30 today whether the state is ready to move into Phase 2 of reopening the economy. Edwards says the metrics used to make the decision to move into phase one are still in play for determining whether the state is ready for phase two

Cut 13 (13) “…cases” 

Edwards says they are also looking at active cases and testing capacity, which he says continues to improve. He says even if the state goes to phase two that doesn’t mean COVID-19 has left the state…

Cut 14 (10) “…it remains deadly”

The state reported six more deaths yesterday to bring the total to 2,686 statewide.

_______________________________________________

Today is the first day of the 2020 hurricane season and there’s the possibility we could see a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico later this week. National Weather Service Forecaster Stephen Carboni, says  what was Tropical Storm Amanda in the Pacific is moving over Central America and

Cut 15 (10) “southern gulf”

The National Hurricane Center says there’s a medium chance we’ll of something developing in the southern Gulf of Mexico over the next five days. Carboni says if it does develop into a storm, it will be called Cristobal, the third named storm of 2020 and the hurricane season is just starting

Cut 16 (11)      of that”

Health and safety measures will be in place across UL System campuses in the Fall, Jeff Palermo has more on what students and staff can expect.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

____________________________

Legislation barring local governments from suing oil and gas companies for coastal damages will not pass this session. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

Legislation allowing delivery services that use contract workers to deliver alcohol is headed to the Governor.

Bill sponsor Franklin Senator Bret Allain says it is timely legislation.

Cut 3 (11)  “…crazy”  

Restaurants are still limited to delivering sealed beer or wine, and grocery stores may deliver any type of packaged alcohol.

Allain says he is confident allowing contract workers the right to deliver booze won’t be a problem.

Cut 4 (08)_ “…happens”

The bill amends last year’s alcohol delivery law. The delivery industry says barring contract workers from delivering drinks disqualified most delivery services, like Waitr, from participating.

Allain says if this is signed into law it could really take off in a state like Louisiana.

Cut 5 (06)  “…do it.

_________________________________________________

There will be several changes when college students return to campus in the Fall due to COVID-19. University of Louisiana System President Jim Henderson says it’s all designed to protect the students, staff, and faculty. For example, changing the calendar so students will complete the semester before Thanksgiving.

Cut 6 (12) “ …after Thanksgiving”

The population of dorm rooms could change on campus, for example, a communal space that was reversed for four students before could be now be limited to two.

Henderson says this spring they learned how to improvise and implement technology, and it will be part of the changes designed to assist those at high-risk.

Cut 7 (10) “…possible”

Henderson says masks are going to be prevalent on UL System campuses.

Cut 8 (10) “…is available”

_______________________

Legislation barring local governments from suing oil and gas companies for coastal damage dies in the House.

Louisiana Oil and Gas Association President Gifford Briggs says the failure to pass this legislation will cost the state thousands of potential new jobs because oil companies will refuse to invest here.

Cut 9 (07) “…lost revenue”

Proponents believe the coastal damage lawsuits should be handled by the state, and not local governments.

Briggs says the lawsuits will never lead to a windfall for local governments and is just a trial lawyer scheme.

Cut 10 (08) “…pay day”

But St. Bernard President Guy McInnis says the oil and gas industry has to pay for the damage they’ve done to the coast

Cut 11 (05) “…wetland”

McInnis pointed to their success honing in on a 100 million dollar settlement with Freeport-McRoran for damages.

McInnis says the lawsuits are very much a local issue and they are not trying to run oil companies out of the state.

Cut 12 (11) “…of life”

____________________________________

The Louisiana House approved on Friday afternoon a proposal that will change the legal system for cases involving car accidents. Chalmette Representative Ray Garofalo says this tort reform bill will lower auto insurance rates

Cut 13 (09) “much higher”  

But Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says nowhere in the bill does it say that insurance companies must reduce rates if this reform effort becomes law

Cut 14 (09) “…guarantee”

Garofalo says every insurance company has told them they’ll lower rates by at least 10-percent if this bill passes.

The legislation lowers the jury threshold from 50-thousand to five-thousand dollars. But Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle says this will actually hurt an injured person’s ability to recover damages they deserve and in a timely manner…

Cut 15 (09)“ court system”

Supporters say the state’s high jury threshold is a big reason why our auto insurance rates are the second-highest in the nation. Freshman Representative Larry Frieman from Abita Springs says when he campaigned, voters complained about our high rates and this measure is our best vehicle to lowering premiums

Cut 16 (07) “…to do it”

The vote was 72-28 in favor of the measure and heads back to the Senate to see if they agree to House changes to the bill.

LSU pathologists make a new discovery that helps healthcare providers understand what can make COVID-19 so deadly. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

The Louisiana High School Athletic Association is investigating 12 schools for allowing sports teams to begin training before the summer start date. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

___________________________________________

The Louisiana House approves legislation that would create a 300 million dollar grant program for small buisinesses who did not receive federal assistance. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 3 (31)  “…Matt Doyle”  

_______________________________________________

Autopsies on African American COVID-19 victims by LSU researchers find new information on how the disease damages your lungs by causing hemorrhaging. LSU Health New Orleans head of Pathology Research Dr. Richard Vander Heide says they’ve performed 26 autopsies and surveyed the victims’ lungs…

Cut 4 (10)_ “clots”

Vander Heide says they found heart disease, obesity, and other comorbidities in nearly all of those studied which may be linked to the blood clotting.

Cut 5 (09)  “..benefit”

Vander Heide says those clots and hemorrhaging can result in complications like strokes, and…

Cut 6 (10) “…recover” 

The victims were autopsied at University Medical Center in New Orleans.

_______________________________________________________

The Louisiana High School Athletic Association delayed summer training dates due to the COVID-19 pandemic but 12 schools are under investigation for violating the start date. The association changed the date from May 17th to June 8th to fall in line with the Governor’s proposed timeline of reopening the state. LHSAA Executive Director Eddie Bonine says they were notified about the violations by other schools and…

Cut 7 (09) “…the right thing.”

Bonine said he’s extremely disappointed that the association is having to look into the matter. He says they have received time-stamped photographs and videos of the alleged practice sessions.

Cut 8 (08) “…survelliance.”

Bonine, who declined to name the 12 schools, says the executive committee will meet June 3^rd to discuss the situation. Schools and coaches could receive, fines, suspensions, or placed on probation.

Cut 9 (09) “this point.”

________________________________________

Fallen State Trooper George Baker was laid to rest yesterday following a private memorial service at the University Center on the Southeastern Louisiana campus. Baker was killed at the age of 33 while assisting in the chase of a suspect in Hammond last week. His sister, Stephanie Smith, spoke on behalf of the family…

Cut 10 (13) “…overwhelming”

The suspects involved in the chase are facing several charges.

Baker served in the military. That included a deployment to the Middle East. He also served in the Greensburg Police Department and the St. Helena Parish Sheriff’s office. Governor Edwards says Trooper Baker was a true public servant

Cut 11 (11) “…service continues”

Trooper Baker is survived by his wife Heather, daughter Harper, his parents, sisters and extended family. Edwards had this message to the family….

Cut 12 (12) “…legacy alive.”

______________________________

The Louisiana House has approved a bill that would create a 300 million dollar grant program for small businesses. The measure still needs Senate approval on changes made to the bill by the House.

The money will be drawn from 811 million dollars the state received from the federal CARES Act. New Orleans Representative Gary Carter argued this money is intended to help local governments…

Cut 13 (11) “…dollars” 

The Louisiana Congressional Delegation sent Governor Edwards a letter asking the 800 million be sent to local governments to cover COVID-related revenue loss.

Houma Representative Jermone Zeringue says these grants are crucial for propping up businesses that fell through the cracks when it came to the big federal stimulus programs.

Cut 14 (11) “…loan”

Companies that received other federal programs will be barred from receiving funds for the first 21 days as well. Businesses must have fewer than 50 employees to qualify.

Initially, the proposal only called for 200 million to be used for the grant program. River Ridge Representative John Illg questioned why the additional 100 million was added.

Cut 15 (07) “stop”

New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell slammed the legislation, saying it damages local government’s ability to provide crucial COVID-related healthcare.

_________________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech plans to begin voluntary football workouts on June 8th. Athletic Director Tommy McClelland says players are allowed back on campus next week…

Cut 16 (18) “in general”

McClelland says players will be screened daily for coronavirus symptoms and that includes answering a questionnaire and temperature checks. He says masks will also be required during meetings.

McClelland says its their hope fans will be allowed to attend football games, but not decisions have been made yet…

Cut 17  (30) “…very understanding” 

College athletics will likely change because of the coronavirus pandemic. There’s been some speculation that Conference USA and Sun Belt could merge as a result. McClelland doesn’t see it happening…

Cut 18  (20) “…of interest”