The state’s largest blood center, Lifeshare, reports they are running low on blood due to a lack of donations. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

Governor Edwards has issued several guidelines and closures during the virus outbreak that some claim overstep his authority. Attorney General Jeff Landry offered his input. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

___________________________________________

As the number of COVID-19 cases rises in Louisiana the Governor says the state is looking at all of it’s options to respond to the potentially impending healthcare emergency…

Cut 3 (27)  “…I’m Kevin Barhnart”  

____________________________________________

New Orleans ranks second only to Seattle among US cities in per capita coronavirus cases.  Health experts say Mardi Gras was the ideal combination of factors to dovetail the number of COVID-19 infections.  Chair of the Global Community Health Department of Tulane’s School of Public Health Dr. Richard Oberhelman says the first factor is the international attraction of tourists.

Cut 4 (05)_ “…was being transmitted.”

By greeting others and passing food and drinks around, Oberhelman says hand contamination is likely to have been the main culprit of spread.

Cut 5 (08)  “…to somebody else.”

Oberhelman says the risk of spread wasn’t just limited to indoor activities such as Mardi Gras balls.

Cut 6 (09) “…lead to spread.”

When Carnival season wrapped three weeks ago, there were no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state, but asymptomatic carriers may have relayed the spread to others in the time since.

____________________________________________

Blood centers are reporting that COVID-19 is causing a critical shortage of blood donations.

Lifeshare spokesperson Ben Prijatel says March is usually a busy month for blood centers, but…

Cut 7 (07) “…as well.”

That’s led to a loss of 4,000 scheduled blood donations during March, the biggest hit coming from the suspension of schools. 1 in 5 donors are teens.

Hospitals may be preparing to take an influx of coronavirus patients, but Prijatel says that doesn’t mean your routine procedures and patients won’t still need help.

Cut 8 (12) “…august.”

Blood also cannot be refrigerated for longer than 42 days per the Red Cross, so a steady supply is needed.

Prijatel says they still need people to come in for donations despite the COVID crisis. He says they’re screening all donors, and know you can still socially distance while donating…

Cut 9 (08) “…a time.″

______________________________________________

On Wednesday Attorney General Jeff Landy joined Governor Edwards during coronavirus his update. Some say the Governor is overstepping his authority by closing some businesses and limiting public gatherings. In a bipartisan stance, Landy backs the Governor.

Cut 10 (14) “is yes.”

Republican Congressman Clay Higgins has been extremely vocal about the Democratic Governor’s authority during the pandemic and a Central Church leader is openly defying the Governor with large church services. Landy says the Governor has the authority under the present situation.

Cut 11 (12) “…the public”

Landry also warned the public, especially seniors, that scam artists are taking advantage of the situation and preying on unsuspecting people.

Cut 12 (12) “…our hotline.”

That number is 1-800-351-4889

____________________________

280 Louisianans have tested positive for COVID-19, 196 of those in New Orleans as the state substantially increased it’s testing capacity over the past few days.

Governor Edwards says people should mentally prepare for the possibility of enhanced mitigation measures, as they become necessary to slow the spread of coronavirus.

Cut 13 (11) “place.”

Several cities and counties nationwide have ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses for a several week period as their cases increased.

The state has established a staging area for coronavirus patients who don’t need ICU care at Bayou Segnette. Edwards says they are considering doing that at other state parks as well.

Cut 14 (11) “the state.”

The Governor has deployed 400 National Guard soldiers in response to the crisis, many of whom are manning posts at Bayou Segnette.

Lake Bistineau and Chicot State Park are also being considered for use in COVID quarantines, but Edwards says finding room isn’t the biggest problem, it’s finding enough healthcare workers.

Cut 15 (08) “…task.”
_________________

LSU football Coach Ed Orgeron calls on citizens to follow the game plan in the fight against the spread of COVID-19. Coach O participated in a unified command meeting with Governor Edwards.

Cut 16  (11)  “…get through this.” 

Orgeron says he knows this will be a challenge, but adds this is not the time to be selfish and urges young people to stay home.

Cut 17  (09) “…everybody pulling together.” 

Orgeron says Louisiana residents are tough and resilient adding there is no better way to prove that than by beating down the spread of coronavirus.

Cut 18  (10) “…we will win.”   

The state’s senior Senator, Dr. Bill Cassidy, has a message for his constituents…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

 The restaurant industry is feeling the impact from the fight against COVID-19.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

Unemployment insurance claimants will no longer have to wait a week from their last check to file, and requirements for keeping benefits are being relaxed. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

____________________________________________

Congress and the President are discussing a massive series of potential bailouts and financial aid packages to counter the economic devastation being caused by COVID-19.

A growing number of lawmakers and the President are backing a plan to send every American a check in the next few weeks. Senator Bill Cassidy says that is one of the plans rapidly gaining support…

Cut 4 (11)_ “patch”

Lawmakers are debating how much the check should be, but the most common number proposed is 1,000 dollars.

The clock is ticking on due payments for a growing number of workers who have been laid off by businesses who’ve had to shut their doors. Cassidy is confident this aid will be in people’s hands soon.

Cut 5 (10)  “…etcetera.”

The price tag for this economic intervention is huge, likely over 800 billion dollars, but Cassidy says it must be done and can be done responsibly.

Cut 6 (06) “…higher.”

____________________________________________

The restaurant industry is having to adapt to the precautionary closings of dining areas.  President and CEO of the Louisiana Restaurant Association Stan Harris says there is a fear of the unknown within the industry as questions remain as to how long this could last.

Cut 7 (06) “…part of it.”

The Governor’s proclamation deems operations may be able to resume on April 13, however, the situation will be reevaluated a week prior to that date.

Restaurants are stilled allowed to serve food via drive-thru window, curbside pickup, or delivery.  Restaurants are adapting and Harris says the industry is grateful for these exceptions.

Cut 8 (06) “…to their customers.”

Harris the association’s website, LRA.org is a valuable resources for industry workers who are impacted by the outbreak and says more information will be coming soon for consumers trying to locate open restaurants.

Cut 9 (09) “…times a day.″

______________________________________________

With many workers being laid off the Louisiana Workforce Commission is expediting results on COVId-19 related unemployment insurance claims and loosening requirements for those collecting benefits.

LWC Commissioner Ava Dejoie says understand if you do qualify, you can collect for a maximum of 26 weeks in a year, and just know…

Cut 10 (10) “…dollars.”

LWC is waiving the requirement that workers wait a week from their last paycheck to file a claim.

Dejoie says they are seeing claim volumes multiple times higher than during the same time last year which is causing much longer than usual waits, so…

Cut 11 (10) “…as well”

The number to file a claim is 866-783-5567, and you can also apply online at www.louisianaworks.net/hire.

Not everyone will qualify. Dejoie says keep in mind that if you’re a 10-99 employee…

Cut 12 (13) “…benefits.”

LWC is also waiving the requirement that those receiving benefits prove they are actively searching for work.

____________________________

House Speaker Clay Schexnayder says committee hearings are already scheduled and bills are in order to start moving when the legislative session is scheduled to resume on March 31.  Schexnayder says he and Senate President Page Cortez have worked on a contingency plan in the event that COVID-19 slows down things even worse, but he does not foresee that being an issue.

Cut 13 (04) “people’s jobs done.”

Schexnayder says a big concern is that if a budget isn’t passed, many people will have to go without vital services being funded.

Cut 14 (10) “…to a halt.”

Schexnayder says he’s not too concerned about the number of days that will be left to conduct the remainder of the session.

Cut 15 (10) “…people of Louisiana.”

Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins calls out Governor Edwards for shutting down restaurants, bars, and other businesses because of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

____________________________

The Saints and quarterback Drew Brees have reportedly agreed to a new two-year contract 50-million dollar contract.

cut  2 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

___________________________

Southwest Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins releases a video aimed at Governor Edwards, criticizing his handling of the coronavirus pandemic.  Edwards ordered the closure of bars, movie theatres, casinos, and limiting restaurant service to carry out and delivery.  Higgins says it’s hard to comprehend the Edwards’s decisions.

Cut 3 (10)  “…they’re not stupid.”  

Higgins tells the Governor just because he thinks he knows best, he shouldn’t be limiting the freedom of citizens.

Cut 4 (13)_ “…Chinese virus, okay?”

Higgins says he won’t go down quietly about this and wants to know what statute the Governor plans on charging citizens with for violations.

Cut 5 (13)  “…is our property.”

The Governor’s office has responded saying Congressman Higgins clearly cares more about Facebook views than Louisianans.

___________________________________________

The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education is seeking a waiver so they can cancel standardized exams for this year, which would also mean test scores would not be part of a teacher’s evaluation. BESE President Sandy Holloway says with schools closed until April 13th, this is the right thing to do.

Cut 6 (10) “…families and educators.”

Holloway says BESE and the Louisiana Department of Education are also crafting a letter to the United States Department of Education because they have the ultimate authority in granting any sort of flexibility.

Cut 7 (10) “…for a waiver.”

BESE has already decided that annual school performance scores will not be announced next year. Holloway says certain requirements for graduating seniors have also been set aside…

Cut 8 (12) “…them through this.”

____________________________________________________

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry says state companies are getting hammered right now as a result of COVID-19 shutdowns.

LABI President Stephen Waguespack says the crisis is an existential threat to the state’s 450,000 small businesses that employ 900,000 people whose jobs are now threatened.

Cut 9 (10) “…this″

LABI is also encouraging residents to buy gift cards from local impacted businesses, and order online to support them. Waguespack says if you want to see those businesses reopen, you have to support them.

Cut 10 (10) “challenge.”

Waguespack is encouraging every Louisiana citizen to participate in the Giff Card Challenge. He says gift cards will give restaurants the cash they desperately need now.

Cut 11 (07) “near term.”

_________________________________

Drew Brees and the Saints have reportedly agreed to a new two-year 50-million dollar contract to keep the future hall of famer in New Orleans. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says it’s the right move to re-sign the 41-year-old at an affordable price for a star quarterback…

Cut 12 (10) “…some leeway.”

There are some Saints fans who believe the team should turn to backup Teddy Bridgewater. But Bridgewater is reportedly finalizing a deal with Carolina. Detillier says Brees can still win games…

Cut 13 (09) “…this league”

Before announcing that he would play a 20th season, Brees says he’s taking it year-by-year on whether he’ll keep playing. Detillier says a two-year contract benefits the Saints

Cut 14 (10) “…wiggle room.”

The American Veterinary Medical Association is asking those infected with COVID-19 to hand their pets over to family. Matt Doyle spoke with Ag commissioner Strain about the guidelines…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

The state is mandating all resturants provide carry out only, and all bars and gyms close until April 13th to bolster social distancing efforts. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 2 (50) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

LSU Athletics Director Scott Woodward says the coronavirus pandemic raises plenty of questions on the impact on LSU sports. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (28)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________________________

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain is asking Louisianans not to abandon their pets during the COVID-19 crisis and if you do get infected, to hand them over to friends or family.

Strain says unless you absolutely cannot care for your pet, don’t turn it over to the state, or set it loose.

Cut 4 (05)_ “pet.”

These recommendations come from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Strain requests that if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 that you allow a family member to care for the pet, and if no one is available to keep a safe distance from your pet while washing frequently.

Cut 5 (11)  “…body.”

If you are hospitalized and cannot find family assistance in housing your pet, call your local animal shelter or vet clinic.

If you receive a pet from an infected family member, Strain says you need to disinfect it.

Cut 6 (08) “…reccomended.”

Strain says wear gloves, a facemask, and immediately change your clothes after bathing the potentially contaminated pet.

____________________________________________

After the recommendations of the CDC, the Louisiana Legislature has adjourned until at least March 31.  Lafayette Republican Stuart Bishop spoke to the House and says mathematically, there is no way to get business done if following CDC guidelines.

Cut 7 (11) “…to pass anything.”

Lake Charles Republican Phillip Tarver objected to the adjournment saying it is the wrong message to send to citizens and it is the duty as leaders of the state to conduct business.

Cut 8 (08) “…citizens to do.”

The resolution of adjournment was adopted a 100 to 1 vote.    Bishop says the move is in the best interest of the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cut 9 (09) “…people of Louisiana.″

______________________________________________

Governor Edwards announces that through April 13^th, all bars and gyms must close, and all restaurants must go to carry out as Louisiana hits 136 COVID-19 cases, and sees it’s third death.

Edwards also called for the mobilization of 400 guardsmen…

Cut 10 (13) “…week.”

The Governor also tried to allay fears that groceries are running out of food, saying the supply chain is intact and efficient…

Cut 11 (13) “…of time”

Edwards noted the April 13^th timeline could be extended another 13 days depending on how the situation develops.

Edwards made the announcements yesterday at his afternoon press conference, where he introduced Our Lady of the Lake Infectious Disease specialist Dr. Catherine O’Neal who says nearly everyone will be infected over the next few months, but…

Cut 12 (09) “…lives.”

But she noted that 80 percent can still infect those in risk groups, like those who have comorbid health problems.

O’Neal says to save your vulnerable friends and family, you need to put COVID-19 on your calendar…

Cut 13 (11) “remotely.”

O’Neal says if we do not observe social distancing our medical system will be inundated with too many cases to provide adequate care to everyone.

____________________________

LSU Athletics Director Scott Woodward is assuring Tiger fans that everyone will be back together again in due time, but the most important thing is the collective effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Woodward says there are still many unknowns revolving around how this could impact fall sports.

Cut 14 (12) “…is being discussed.”

Woodward says there are about 120 student athletes remaining on campus, but that number is dropping.

Cut 15 (09) “…to go down.”

Woodward says the financial impact of sports cancellations are not a concern, adding that ticket holders will see money coming back for games that were not played, it just may take a little time.

Cut 16  (08)  “…refund your tickets.” 

________________________

For the first time in the state’s history, gaming operations for all 20 casinos in Louisiana will be closed for at least two weeks.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

____________________________

Lawmakers adjourn the legislative session until March 31st due to COVID-19 fears. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (25) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

___________________________

Many people are finding ways to work from home in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus.  Tech Gumbo host Haggai Davis says the internet infrastructure is there to handle the influx of web traffic, but other hurdles remain.

Cut 3 (13)  “…into the network.”  

Davis believes a lot more people are going to become more comfortable with working from home as it is becoming an easier process.

Cut 4 (09)_ “…handle this capability.”

Davis says if you work from home, set a work schedule and designating a work area.

Cut 5 (13)  “…different office now.”

___________________________________________

Casinos in Louisiana will be ceasing gaming operations tonight at midnight for at least the next two weeks as the coronavirus continues to impact Louisiana.  Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board Ronnie Jones says the decision comes after discussions with the Governor’s staff throughout the weekend.

Cut 6 (11) “…public health standpoint.”

Governor Edwards has banned gatherings of 50 people or more.  Jones says the casinos were notified this was likely to happen, adding owners have been very supportive.

Cut 7 (13) “…of everything else.”

Jones says the order is only applicable to a casino’s gaming operations.

Cut 8 (08) “…from local government.”

Jones estimates the lost state revenue will be about $1.6 million each day of the closure.

____________________________________________________

Legislative leaders have decided to temporarily adjourn the 2020 session until March 31st due to COVID-19 concerns.  Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says initially the plan was for the session to continue, with social distancing enforced and to check those who enter the Capitol for a fever…

Cut 9 (11) “…contact″

Pinsonat says it’s the right call because it only would have taken one positive test to shut down the Capitol…

Cut 10 (11) “situation.”

Pinsonat says the compressed schedule is likely going to result in non-essential legislation being abandoned. However a budget will still need to be passed by July 1^st, but…

Cut 11 (08) “budget.”

_________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Education will continue serving meals during the statewide school shutdown.  Assistant State Superintendent Catherine Pozniak says food operations will be modified to serve as many families as possible.

Cut 12 (10) “…nutrition and meals.”

Some areas are already providing the services today.  Pozniak says the food service is made possible by waivers from the federal government, adding that more schools are working out the details of exactly how to best serve food.

Cut 13 (12) “…to four days.”

Pozniak says the meals at these sites are open to all children, regardless of where they are enrolled in school.

Cut 14 (11) “…age of 22.”

While coronavirus testing availability may be limited, Surgeon General Jerome Adams feels confident Louisiana has enough testing available in the state.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________________

Louisiana Department of Health is now offering a 24/7 information hotline for COVID-19.  Kevin Barnhart has the details.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

Over 20,000 Medicaid recipients were warned in February they could lose their benefits by mid-March due to income eligibility concerns. Matt Doyle spoke with an advocate who says that’s a bad idea…

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

____________________________________________

The number of the state’s presumed COVID-19 cases has climbed to 19 and while testing availability may be limited, Surgeon General Jerome Adams feels confident Louisiana has enough testing available in the state. But Adams, along with Governor Edwards, stressed that unless you are showing symptoms, you should not try to get tested.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…now for coronavirus.”

Adams says the amount of testing locations is limited and it takes about 4 to 6 hours to run each test.

Cut 5 (12)  “…twice a day.”

Ochsner Health has designated three urgent care locations devoted to COVID-19 testing in New Orleans, Houma, and Mandeville. Tests will only be provided if recommended by the Louisiana Department of Health.

Adams says once samples get to a testing lab, there is a need to slow down the process as to not use up all the wells in a test kit.

Cut 6 (11) “…in the process.”

____________________________________________

Louisiana Department of Health is now working with the statewide 211 network to answer questions about the coronavirus outbreak.   Office of Public Health Assistant Secretary Alex Billioux says the 211 service is one of the most trusted points of information for the public when it comes to health and human services.

Cut 7 (11) “…their loved ones.”

The 211 service has previously been used in natural disasters like hurricanes.  Billioux says the department has previously had a 1-800 information line for COVID-19, but it was only staffed from 8am to 4:30 PM.  211 will answer questions 24/7.

Cut 8 (10) “…where resources are.”

Billioux says the service can be used to debunk misleading information about the virus that may be spreading on social media.

Cut 9 (07) “…their loved ones.″

There is also a text alert system available by texting LACOVID to 898-211

______________________________________________

All SEC sports have been canceled through March 30^th at all member schools, and spring sports championships are set to be pushed back.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey says it wasn’t easy to cancel the SEC Basketball Tournament. He says some of the students playing won’t have another chance to win one…

Cut 10 (12) “about.”

Automatic full ticket refunds will be made by March 31^st for all sports.

Sankey says the decision was made after experts consulted the SEC and told them the risks. He says he heard those consultations just as the NBA had announced it was suspending it’s season.

Cut 11 (11) “…myself”

Soon after all other NCAA conference basketball tournaments were canceled.

When asked if he expects sports to resume after March 30^th, Sankey said he just doesn’t know.

Cut 12 (11) “…beyond.”

LSU announced it will transition all remaining spring classes to online.

________________________________

Roughly 24,000 people were warned in mid-February they could lose Medicaid eligibility due to income requirements, with those cancelations set to happen mid-March right as COVID-19 is ramping up.

Louisiana Budget Project Executive Director Jan Moller says it would be hard to find a worse time to kick people off of Medicaid. He’s calling for the program to freeze all coverage suspensions.

Cut 13 (12) “…sick.”

The deadline to respond to the letter warning of cancellations passed in late February.

Moller says the new automated income eligibility check is punishing those who didn’t fill out the right paperwork, and those who make just over the 18,000 dollars a year max when they need it most.

Cut 14 (12) “…they need”

Moller says kicking these folks off Medicaid isn’t just a risk to their health. He says Medicaid is populated by service industry people who interact with you every day.

Cut 15 (08) “…people.”

LDH Health Secretary Stephen Russo told the advocate when asked about the topic that “there has not been any talk that we would delay any of that.”

Stress levels are rising as the number of COVID-19 cases grows. Matt Doyle spoke with an LSU Health New Orleans expert about how to manage that stress…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

____________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards says everybody in Louisiana has a role to play in slowing down the spread of the coronavirus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

___________________________

COVID-19 is provoking anxiety in many as the number of cases continues to grow internationally, and locally.

LSU Health New Orleans professor of Clinical Psychology Michelle Moore says one way to reduce anxiety is to make sure that you are getting your news from a legitimate source.

Cut 3 (12)  “…fact”  

Moore says logging off of social media, for the time being, is another way to reduce anxiety.

Cut 4 (09)_ “…sites”

Moore says the best way to handle the stress of this growing pandemic is to approach it like you would a hurricane.

Cut 5 (10)  “…from it.”

She adds talking to your children about the virus may be a difficult conversation, but teaching them how to stay safe at this time is important.

___________________________________________

The COVID-19 outbreak continues to pummel the stock market as today trading was halted after the DOW was down more than 2100 points.  Tulane Professor of Finance Peter Ricchiuti says for those investors who have their money tied up in the market and are feeling uneasy, it is understandable to want to offload some of that stock.

Cut 6 (08) “…really that uncomfortable.”

Ricchiutti says for older investors, investment allocation is important as most advisors would recommend decreasing the percentage of investment in volatile stocks as an investor gets older.

Cut 7 (11) “…the stock market.”

Ricchiuti says for younger investors, he’d be hesitant to recommend making any moves because of a built-in advantage.

Cut 8 (09) “…make it up.”

____________________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards says every Louisiana resident has a role to play in slowing down the spread of the coronavirus. The state is up to 14 presumptive cases and Edwards says the virus can be spread by a person who doesn’t have any COVID-19 symptoms

Cut 9 (06) “…loved ones.″

Edwards also says cover your cough and stay home if you’re sick. U-S Surgeon General Jerome Adams visited with Louisiana leaders today and said if you believe you should be tested for coronavirus, call your health care provider…

Cut 10 (14) “…back quick.”

Adams says it usually takes 24 to 48 hours to get the results of the test back. The governor says he has not been tested since he has no symptoms and has not come into contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19.

Adams says while young people might not get sick from the coronavirus, they still need to be smart in order to protect the elderly…

Cut 11 (16) “…to Europe.”

_______________________________________

Sporting events are being wiped out across nation due to the coronavirus and LSU has not been exempt.  All SEC sports events have been axed through March 30^th.  LSU Baseball coach Paul Mainieri talked to reporters upon hearing the breaking developments.

Cut 12 (10) “…to Oxford today.”

Mainieri says after the hard work being put in by everyone involved with the team, the timing is discouraging but says he’s explained to the players about putting this into perspective.

Cut 13 (08) “…baseball games canceled.”

Mainieri says he is sad for the players as this time in their life they’ll never be able to relive.

Cut 14 (12) “…in the world.”

State officials announce in a Wednesday afternoon press conference the presumptive cases of coronavirus in Louisiana has grown to 13. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________________

The public is advised against visiting nursing homes by the Louisiana Nursing Home Association. Matt Doyle spoke with LSU Health New Orleans about the request…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

LSU is encouraging the campus community not to travel this Spring Break. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

____________________________________________

Louisiana now has 13 presumptive cases of COVID-19, a number that’s ballooned from just one reported case Monday.  The elderly are at risk for the most devastating impacts of coronavirus, so Governor Edwards says recent developments at a New Orleans nursing home are raising concerns.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…Lambeth House.”

Cases are now being found around the state and Office of Public Health Assistant Secretary Alex Billioux says it appears people are now contracting the illness within Louisiana.

Cut 5 (12)  “…New Orleans area.”

The NBA has suspended the season and the NCAA says spectators will not be present at March Madness games, including the Women’s Final Four that is scheduled to take place in New Orleans.  Governor Edwards expects the announcement of more event changes, postponements, and cancellations will be coming in the next few days.

Cut 6 (12) “…with local governments.”

____________________________________________

Lawmakers in D.C. are considering their options for potential economic stimulus if coronavirus fears lead to a prolonged economic slowdown.

President Trump has floated the idea of a substantial payroll tax cut. Senator Bill Cassidy says they haven’t seen any firm plans for it yet, and he’s unsure about the idea.

Cut 7 (10) “…anyway”

Cassidy says the best way the country could avoid an economic slowdown would be if Congress came together to pass a robust infrastructure package.

Cut 8 (12) “…jobs”

There are growing fears the lack of sick days and hourly pay of the service industry could result in sick workers spreading the virus because they can’t afford to miss work. Cassidy says that’s a real concern, and…

Cut 9 (08) “…child.″

______________________________________________

There are three presumptive positive COVID-19 cases at a New Orleans nursing home, and The Louisiana Nursing Home Association is asking it’s members to restrict access to facilities.

The statement asks the public not to visit a nursing home until further notice. LSU Health New Orleans Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Fred Lopez says that means even if you aren’t showing symptoms…

Cut 10 (11) “…transmitting it.”

A Seattle nursing home housing 108 patients has been on lockdown, and experts say it was the perfect environment for the virus’s spread. Lopez says we can’t let that happen here.

Cut 11 (05) “…of COVID-19.”

Emotional health is critical to elderly nursing home residents, and Lopez says, unfortunately, that’s likely to be impacted by these restrictions.

Cut 12 (08) “…the nursing home.”

Nursing homes in Louisiana will be expected to update their infection control procedures, and implement an extensive screening process for employees and visitors.

________________________________

Spring Break is coming and LSU is asking the campus community to consider canceling any travel plans they may have.  Students on campus were recently asked about the idea of changing travel plans and some say they are now staying put.  Reese from New Orleans says his Spring Break travel plans have already fallen through due to a Miami music festival cancelation.

Cut 13 (09) “…first world problem.”

Shola from Baton Rouge says she’s also scrapped any travel plans.  She says developments in recent days have changed her outlook on just how serious the virus is.

Cut 14 (11) “…get a notification.”

A statement from LSU says they are considering closing the school after spring break as they realize that students may still choose to travel.  Gabe from Lafayette believes the worst is still to come and says he’s got no issue with the school halting on-campus classes.

Cut 15 (10) “…that pretty easily.”

State Health officials briefed Senate health this morning on important questions related to COVID-19. Matt Doyle covered the hearing…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

____________________________

The Lt. Governor disagrees with New Orleans Mayor Layota Cantrell’s decision to cancel many city events in the face of a growing number of COVID-19 cases…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

___________________________

State health officials went before the Senate Health and Welfare Committee to give a COVID-19 update as the number of cases in Louisiana rises to six.

The virus is shuttering schools around the world, but State Health Officer Jimmy Guidry says kids seem to handle the virus well, and there’s risks in sending them home…

Cut 3 (09)  “…older person”  

Guidry says unless teachers begin to fall ill, schools should maybe stay open.

Health officials are begging business owners to prepare work-from-home options, and to not pressure workers into coming in sick. Guidry says know that your workforce is likely to shrink…

Cut 4 (11)_ “…of operations”

Guidry adds use of facemasks is not advised for those not in high-risk groups. He says their effectiveness is questionable, and there’s an ongoing shortage.

The outbreak is centered in New Orleans right now, and the city has canceled St. Patrick’s Day events this weekend. Guidry says there’s another festival that may need to be reconsidered.

Cut 5 (09)  “…festival.”

Festival International is currently set for April 22^nd-26^th.

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Parks Senator Fred Mills files legislation to raise the minimum age to buy tobacco products from 18 to 21, which would align state law with the federal law that was enacted in December 2019.  Mills says the clock is ticking to comply with the federal legislation.

Cut 6 (10) “…law is presently.”

The federal law holds retailers responsible for underage sales.  Mills says the law aims at keeping tobacco products out of the hands of those that are within the age range most susceptible to addiction.

Cut 7 (13) “…welfare of people.”

The law would apply to vape related products as well.  Mills says he could foresee some pushback in getting the law pass.

Cut 8 (12) “…it into law.”

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Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to 23 years in prison today in a case that fueled the global me-too movement and encouraged women to speak out against sexual assault and harassment. Weinstein was sentenced 20 years for first-degree criminal sexual act and three years for third-degree rape. Kelli Knight, an outreach coordinator with Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault says today’s sentencing sends a message.

Cut 9 (09) “…assaulted.″

Knight says on average one out of five women have been raped or sexually assaulted. Not every woman chooses to come forward and if they don’t come forward immediately are often criticized for waiting. Knight says the general public doesn’t understand the trauma of the situation.

Cut 10 (11) “…do it.”

The maximum sentence Weinstein could have been received was 29 years and the New York Judge sentenced him to 23 years. Knight says she hopes judges in Louisiana will take note.

Cut 11 (09) “…with that.”

If you are a victim of rape or assault you can visit the Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault website at LAFASA-dot-org for resources.

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser addressed concerns that COVID-19 could cause a significant disruption in the state’s tourism industry.

Nungesser says he doesn’t see a need to announce any festival cancellations unless the feds or Governor call for cancellations. He says we owe it to the industry not to disrupt tourism unless necessary.

Cut 12 (10) “…trip.”

To compensate for potentially declining international tourism, the Lt. Governor plans to reallocate advertising to areas within driving distance of the state.

Nungesser says prematurely ending the spring tourism season without good cause could put a lot of companies out of business…

Cut 13 (09) “…year.”

The state’s six presumptive cases all center on the New Orleans area, and Mayor Layota Cantrell canceled a number of city events in response. Nungesser disagrees with that call.

Cut 14 (08) “…New Orleans.”

The St. Patricks Day Parade was one of the events canceled, but just up the road in Baton Rouge the celebration is still on.

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The World Health Organization has declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. In Louisiana, there have been six presumptive cases of COVID-19 and Governor Edwards told the Baton Rouge Rotary Club that we expect to see more

Cut 15 (11) “…help anything.”

Edwards urges residents to wash their hands frequently and practice social distancing, which includes not shaking hands.

Edwards says once they get a presumptive positive case, health officials try to determine when the patient contracted the virus

Cut 16  (12)  …so forth”