Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval’s proposal banning handheld cellphone use while driving is up for a critical vote in a Senate committee this morning…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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AAA estimates there will be a 17 percent increase in teen driver fatalities on the road over the next roughly 100 days as summer break means more kids on the road. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…Matt Doyle.” 

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Judges are the governor’s signature away from a 2.5 percent pay raise next year, with potential for 2.5 percent pay raises for the next five years. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 3 (30) “..governor”

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A bill prohibiting handheld use of cellphones while behind the wheel has cleared the House and is being heard in Senate Judiciary Committee C today. It will also need full Senate approval before the session ends on Thursday. Last year, a similar effort got hung up, but Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval is confident this year will be different.

Cut 4 (08) “…last year.”

Current law only calls for no handheld cell phone use while driving in a school zone. Opponents to Huval’s bill say there are other distractions like eating, talking to a passenger or changing the radio station, so why just focus on cell phone use. But Huval says statistics show cell phone use is a factor in many accidents.

Cut 5 (11) “…causing multiple accidents.”

Huval says Georgia has a similar law as his bill and it has saved lives.

Cut 6 (10) “…the driving public.”

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AAA is warning drivers to be extra cautious on the roads this summer as teens off from school pack the roadways. Spokesperson Don Redman says 3,500 drivers nationwide have died in wrecks with teens in a five-year period during the “100 Deadliest Days” between 2013 and 2017.

Cut 7 (10) “…as well”

There’s a 17 percent increase in fatal teen crashes during this period relative to other times in the year. The top three killers of teen drivers are speeding at 28 percent of all fatalities, drunk driving 17 percent, and distraction at 9 percent. Redman says parents need to set a good example, particularly distraction.

Cut 8 (07) “…watching”

52 percent of teen drivers report that they operate their cellphone while behind the wheel.

Redman says there’s one hard and fast rule to keep your teen driver from killing themselves is not letting them chauffeur their friends. Redman says each additional teen passenger in a car driven by a teen doubles the chances of a wreck.

Cut 9 (08) “crash.”

Two thirds of those injured or killed in wrecks involving teen drivers are not the teen drivers themselves.

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Teachers may not know the exact raise they’ll get, but judges will see a 2.5 percent pay raise on July 1st, with potential for additional raises over the next five years gains as a result of bill that has received final legislative passage. Despite ultimately voting for it, Baton Rouge Representative Steve Carter is frustrated that Louisiana chases the southern regional average for state salaries, but not for vital services.

Cut 10 (09) “…salaries.”

A study by LSU Economist Dr. Loren Scott indicated Louisiana judges were 2.5 percent behind the southern regional average in pay.

Erath Representative Blake Miguez grilled Houma Representative Tanner Magee over reports that judges received pay raises from 2013-2017 while the state budget was in chaos. Magee countered…

Cut 11 (12) “…system.”

The raise will cost 1.8 million in the first year and could grow to 9.5 million if the State Supreme Court approves raises in each of the next five years.

The testy exchange between the two continued as Miguez stated it isn’t fair that his constituents have taken years of pay cuts while judges salaries have continued to expand. Magee says that’s just how our government works right now.

Cut 12 (12) “five years.”

The House ultimately voted 87-3 in favor of the bill. Miguez was one of the three in opposition.

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A bill to bring Uber and Lyft ride sharing services to Alexandria and rural areas  is close to final legislative passage. The proposal died in the Senate the last two years, but over the weekend the upper chamber aproved the measure 34-to-1. Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau (Lou-NO) says this legislation can help reduce drunk driving deaths among college students

Cut 13 (08) “…do it.”

The lone Senator to vote against the measure was Kenner Republican Danny Martiny, who questioned why Lyft and Uber would not be regulated by the Public Service Commission, which currently regulates taxi cabs

Cut 14 (10) “…go there”

The bill enacts statewide regulations for ride-sharing services. Supporters say 44 other states have a statewide regulatory framework for Uber and Lyft to operate. Winnfield Senator Gerald Long says this is an important bill for central Louisiana…

Cut 15 (11) “…60 or 70 miles”

The bill still needs House approval of changes made by the Senate, but that is expected to happen.

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LSU will play in a Super Regional series for a 14th time in program history as the Fighting Tigers won the Baton Rouge Regional last night with a six to four victory over Southern Miss. The Golden Eagles took a lead after trailing 3-0, but Coach Paul Mainieri’s team battled back to secure the victory…

Cut 16  (19) “…they were awesome”  

LSU trailed 4-3 in the 7th inning, but re-took the lead on a Zach Watson two-run single. The bullpen did the rest. Trent Vietmeier was the winning pitcher as he threw two innings of scoreless relief…

cut 17 (08) honest with you” 

A couple of weeks ago, there were some who doubted if LSU would host a Regional, let alone a Super Regional. But junior shortstop Josh Smith says some people forget LSU was ranked number one in the preseason…

The controversy surrounding the bill that bans fetal heartbeat abortions spilled into budget discussions on the Senate floor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Senate-approved bill targeting labeling restrictions for plant-based meats, non-animal-based milks, and cauliflower rice clears another legislative hurdle.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (33) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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The state Senate approves a 30-billion dollar budget for next fiscal year and the controversy over the fetal heartbeat abortion bill spilled into the debate. New Orleans Senator and chairwoman of the state Democratic Party , Karen Carter Peterson, tried to steer more money towards the state’s foster care system, because getting an abortion will be more difficult in Louisiana…

Cut 3 (10) “…raise the child.”

Governor Edwards has signed one of the nation’s most restrictive abortion bills into law. If the federal courts uphold a similar law in Mississippi, than abortions would be outlawed in Louisiana once doctors detects the heartbeat of a fetus, usually six weeks into a pregnancy. Peterson says foster care will need more money…

Cut 4 (07) “…uterus” 

Peterson also proposed to increase state dollars for prenatal care for woman and sex education, but those amendments were defeated by both Republicans and Democrats. Senate Finance Chairman Eric LaFleur says the legislature is getting close to passing a budget the can be proud of…

Cut 5 (11) “…to go.”

The House and Senate still have to settle their differences with the spending plan. The Senate supports an additional 39-million dollars for public schools, but the House seeks a higher teacher pay raise than the one proposed by the governor.

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The House Ag Committee advances a Senate-approved bill that would prohibit Louisiana manufacturers from labeling foods such as of cauliflower rice as rice when it doesn’t contain rice.  Ag Commissioner Mike Strain said the measure aims to ensure proper nutrition and safety for consumers.

Cut 6 (11) “…we have standards.”

Opponents of the bill say it will also be a hindrance to manufacturers who specialize in producing plant-based meat imitation products, but Colfax Representative Terry Brown says that is not the case.

Cut 7 (06) “…this bill does.”

Spokesperson for the plant-based meat producer Impossible Foods, Tyler Jameson says their company would never trick consumers into thinking they are eating meat from livestock, adding the bill would limit the right to free speech.

Cut 8 (08) “…won’t buy it.”

Jameson adds that not only are the current marketing materials clear they offer plant-based meat products, but the consumer demand is there for the products.

Cut 9 (10) “…St. Louis area restaurants.”

The bill moved forward without any objecting votes.

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Houma Representative Beryl Amadee withdraws her bill that would extend Stand Your Ground legal protections to houses of worship amid concerns it creates loopholes that incentivize violence.

Amadee says her legislation had the backing of the Louisiana Family Forum, Louisiana Baptist Association, and even consultation from AG Jeff Landry and the NRA.

Cut 10 (10) “…targets.”

The law stated in the event someone shoots a person in a house of worship and claims self-defense, that there is a legal presumption that force was reasonable, making it harder to prosecute them.

The Terrebone Parish Republican says a limited survey of shootings shows the “good guy with a gun” can save lives in the event of a mass shooting.

Cut 11 (11) “…rate.”

But opponents say the legislation could extend to interpersonal conflicts, and poorly defines what a “justifiable threat” is in a church. Senate Judiciary B Chairman Gary Smith appreciated the gesture, but…

cut 12(11)   “…in it””

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Beer and wine could be available for purchase in the general seating areas in Tiger Stadium this year as the SEC has lifted its stadium wide ban on alcohol sales. Tiger Rag Editor James Moran says LSU has been a driving force behind this rule change

Cut 13 (07) “ policy” 

The policy change gives the 14 schools in the SEC the ability to draw up their own alochol sale policy. Some schools may decide not to sell alcohol in the general seating areas, but Moran says LSU believes beer and wine sales can help keep Tiger Stadium full in the second half of games

Cut 14 (06) “…elsewhere” 

Moran says beer and wine sales at football, basketball and baseball games could be big revenue generator for LSU…

Cut 15 (08) “…at LSU”

A Senate committee rejects a Housed backed bill that proposes to reduce the state’s sales tax rate from 4.45 percent to four-percent over a four-year period. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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There’s one week left in the legislative session. Kevin Barnhart looks at what lawmakers still need to get done…

cut 2 (27) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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The Morganza Spillway opens on Sunday and there are concerns on how this will impact the crawfish industry. LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Professor Greg Lutz says some crawfish ponds in the Atchafalaya Basin will be impacted…

Cut 3 (10) “…from the crawfish.”

Lutz says for crawfish farmers in the Atchafalaya Basin area, it could mean bad news if water spills over their levees.

Cut 4 (09) “…in there too.” 

Farmers will not be able to fix the problem of trash fish and replenish their crawfish population until the water goes down, which means some farmers could be out of production for a season.

Lutz says while the industry will feel impact, with some farmers feeling it worse than others, he says the crawfish population should be okay after the flooding.

Cut 5 (07) “…kind of thing.”

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An effort to reduce the state sales tax from 4.45 percent to four-percent over a four-year period died in a Senate Committee. Lawmakers settled on a 4.45 percent sales tax rate last year as part of a budget deal to avoid significant cuts. Lafayette Senator Gerald Boudreaux says it’s too soon to change a tax deal that stabilized the budget…

Cut 6 (09) “…money back”

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris authored the House-backed measure. Harris argues the state is running a surplus of tax revenue and should give that money back. But Gonzales Representative Eddie Lambert says the state needs these tax revenues, especially for roads…

Cut 7 (09) “…address that”

New Orleans Senator Karen Carter Peterson says residents are expecting the state to pay for a variety of things and the tax deal approved last year, helps the government fund those wishes…

Cut 8 (14) “…their prisoners.”

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An East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s deputy is dead following a single vehicle crash in Zachary around 6:30 this morning.  42-year-old Lt. Steven Whitstine was on his way to work when his car veered off of Pride Port Hudson Road.  Sheriff Sid Gautreaux says the accident is still under investigation.

Cut 9 (07) “…in a canal.”

Whitstine worked with the K-9 division and had spent eight years with the Sheriff’s Department and more than nine years with Baker Police prior to that.

Gautreaux says he will be sorely missed by many.

Cut 10 (10) “…the Sheriff’s office.”

Gauthreaux says he worked with Whitstine for many years and has fond memories of the man behind the badge.

Cut 11 (11) “…than he impersonated.”

Whitstine’s K-9 partner, Sixx, was also in the vehicle at the time of the crash and is being treated for minor injuries.

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A Senate approved resolution that contains a 1,000-dollar teacher pay raise and an additional 39 million dollars for public education passes through the House Education Committee. But House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry wonders if the state can afford both the pay raise and additional money for schools…

cut 12(07)   “…something””

The resolution includes a 500 dollar support personnel raise.

The Senate says the state has the money to afford the 39-million-dollar block grant, but Henry says that will be confirmed when the proposal moves next to the House Appropriations Committee.

Cut 13 (06) “…came from”

BESE President Dr. Gary Jones revealed that the 39 million could be used by local school districts to further increase teacher pay if a poorer school district prioritizes that over classroom investment.

Cut 14 (06) “…more” 

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An 11-year-old boy is facing a juvenile life sentence following the shooting death of his 9-year-old brother.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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A Senate committee has killed a bill that sought to help the state carry out lethal injections. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut 2 (30) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Senate Finance has approved a spending plan for next fiscal year that contains a one-thousand dollar teacher pay raise and 39-million dollars in block grant funding for school districts. The House budget proposal calls for a higher pay raise for teachers, but no additional dollars for public schools. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says lawmakers have until June 6th to agree on a budget

Cut 3 (10) “…the wire.”

Multiple special sessions were needed last year to pass a budget. Erwin expects the legislature can get its work done this time before the regular session concludes…

Cut 4 (08) “…a compromise” 

Erwin says election year politics is playing a role in the dispute over education funding…

Cut 5 (11) “…teacher pay raise”

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An 11-year-old boy has been charged with negligent homicide following the shooting death of his 9-year-old brother in a Baton Rouge home on Saturday.  Authorities believe the shooting was unintentional. Legal analyst Franz Borghardt says the complexities of the case raise more questions on if the charge will stick.

Cut 6 (09) “…or weak case.”

Borghardt says the child will be tried in the juvenile system and he could be released to his parents without making a bond or he could receive a juvenile life sentence, meaning he would be detained up until he turns 18.

Cut 7 (07) “…becomes an adult.”

The investigation continues into the shooting and the parents are not facing charges.  Borghardt says without facts and data in place, it is a difficult call on how to charge the parents.

Cut 8 (09) “…directly or indirectly.”
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A fatal blow was delivered to a pro death penalty bill at the State Capitol today. A proposal to shield the identity of the drug companies that supply lethal drugs for the state to carry out death penalty sentences failed on a 3-2 vote in Senate committee. New Orleans Senator J-P Morrell says the legislation opens the state to lawsuits, if an execution is botched

Cut 9 (10) “…of dollars”

Several came to the meeting to speak out against the proposal. Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops executive director Rob Tasman

Cut 10 (12) “…in the process”

The last execution held in Louisiana was in 2010. The state corrections department says they can’t purchase drugs to carry out a lethal injection, because drug manufacturers do not want to be associated with killing people. But New Orleans Senator Karen Carter Peterson says offering confidentiality is not the way to go…

Cut 11 (09)“ this body”

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The House Appropriations Committee rejects a proposal to legalize sports betting, after the bill got swamped with special interest amendments. Video poker, horse breeders, software producers, and others wanted a piece of the gaming pie. The bill’s author, Metairie Senator Danny Martiny questioned whether the additions are in good faith.

cut 12(10)   “…posture””

The bill originally only called for sports betting at racetracks, riverboat casinos, and Harrah’s Casino in New Orleans, but an amendment was added to allow for the activity at the state’s thousands of video poker facilities.

Louisiana Casino Association Executive Director Wade Duty initially supported the legislation, but says the proposal got so laden down with pork and new taxes even his industry couldn’t back it anymore…

Cut 13 (11) “…support”

It wasn’t just special business interests who fought the bill. Louisiana Baptist Convention Director for Office of Public Policy Dr. Will Hall spoke in opposition…

Cut 14 (11) “…that hope” 

Fantasy sports regulation is halfway through the legislative process and advocates are prepping for a fight against video poker interests in the Senate. Conner Ferrill has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Connor Ferrill”

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Louisiana honors Gold Star Families and their fallen loved ones today for Memorial Day. Brooke Thorington has the story…

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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House approved Fantasy sports regulation is halfway to final passage as a bill that would tax the activity will soon receive a hearing in a Senate committee.  As it stands the tax rate for fantasy sports is currently at 15 percent, which Fairness for Fantasy Sports spokesperson Ryan Berni says would be the highest in the nation.

Cut 3 (09) “…winnings”

Opponents argue it’s a lower rate than what other gaming activities in the state must pay.

The bill has seen stiff opposition from other gaming interest groups who say fantasy sports should only be accessible from within a casino, or a video poker facility. Berni says so far they’ve held those interests at bay, but…

Cut 4 (11) “… fantasy sports”

Over 60 percent of voters, and 47 parishes approved the activity last fall, and Berni says it would be a tragedy to see the will of those voters overturned by gaming lobbyists in the Senate.

Cut 5 (11) “…this point”

Berni says if the regulatory bill is signed by the Governor this session, fantasy sports could be available by the start of the football season.

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Tomorrow, the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority will begin sinking a barge in Bayou Chene in southern Assumption to act as temporary flood gate. It’s needed to prevent backwater flooding after the Morganza spillway is opened. Chairman of the Coastal Protection Restoration Authority Board Chip Kline…

Cut 6 (08) “…backwater flooding.”

Officials say the installation of the barge would begin May 28th and any water flow from the spillway would not arrive in the area until two weeks after it is opened.

Kline says the Morganza’s opening in 2011 was problematic, but this time wildlife and people in the area will have time to adjust to the spillway…

Cut 7 (09) “…livestock.”

Opening the spillway will flood thousands of acres of farmland, but Kline says if the Morganza is not opened it could have devastating effects on the Bayou State…

Cut 8 (10) “…astronomical.”

The U.S Army Corps of Engineers will make the final decision of whether to open the spillway May 28^th.

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On this Memorial Day many will consume some beef. CEO of Cattle Producers of Louisiana Dave Foster says turning on the grill should be a priority…

Cut 9 (09) “…your list.″

62,000 pounds of beef were recalled due to a possible E. coli contamination, but Foster says if you go to the store today to buy your meat, don’t worry about recalls…

Cut 10 (09) “…used up.”

Foster says with cheap prices available for steaks, now is the time to stock up on all kinds of cuts of beef…

Cut 11 (11) “…little bit.”

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We observe Memorial Day today, a day set aside for the nation to pay it’s respects to the roughly 1.2 million service members who’ve died in the line of duty. Louisiana Veterans Affairs Secretary Joey Strickland asks the public to be aware of how difficult this day can be for Louisiana families whose loved ones have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Cut 12 (11) “…honor them”

Strickland says on Saturday morning hundreds of current and former military personnel planted 11-thousand flags in front of the State Capitol, one for each serviceman or woman from Louisiana who died in the service. He says if you’re in the Baton Rouge area, you should stop by and pay respects…

Cut 13 (07) “…division”

There will also be ceremonies taking place at all five veteran’s homes across the state and at all four state veteran’s cemeteries.

The Secretary, and Vietnam veteran says If you’re interested in honoring the fallen, but can’t make it to any of today’s ceremonies, there’s a few simple ways you can contribute.

Cut 14 (11) “…sacrifice.”

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25,000 acres of farmland could be destroyed if the Morganza Spillway is opened in Point Coupee Parish…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Connor Ferrill”

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The Legislature passes a proposal to add an HOV lane to a 15 mile stretch of I12 between Walker and the 10/12 split in Baton Rouge. Matt Doyle talked to the bill’s author…

cut 2 (29) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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It’s Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer. State Climatologist Barry Keim says it took a little later this year, but hot and humid conditions have arrived for the holiday weekend

Cut 3 (11) “…the summer.”

Keim says we can also say goodbye for the time being to low temperatures in the low to mid-60s

Cut 4 (12) “…to stay” 

Keim says not only has the summer heat return, but we’ve hit a dry weather pattern

Cut 5 (10) “…next Thursday”

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An estimated 25,000 acres of farmland is expected to be destroyed if the decision is made to open the Morganza Spillway in Pointe Coupee Parish. LSU Ag Center county agent Mike Carriere (Carry-aye) says farmers who own property that could soon be swamped by diverted Mississippi River water will take a bath financially…

Cut 6 (05) “…season”

Livestock will also have to relocate which can overcrowd land and drive up hay and feed costs.

Carriere says seepage from the Mississippi along the levees has already brought standing water to fields…

Cut 7 (07) “…this year.”

Carriere says news that the Morganza could possibly open soon comes on the heels of a difficult planting season, because of wet conditions.…

Cut 8 (08) “…spillway”

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A proposal to add an HOV lane to a heavily trafficked stretch of I-12 between Walker and the I-10/12 split in Baton Rouge heads to the Governor’s desk. Livingston Senator Dale Erdey (Err-dee) says this should shave time off the commute of everyone driving in and out of Baton Rouge from the east.

Cut 9 (10) “…right now”

Before any work can begin a study must be completed, and the project OK’d by the feds, but Erdey says expect work to begin sometime in the fall.

HOV lanes are rare in Louisiana, but are all over major cities like Houston. Erdey says DOTD will begin an educational effort to get Bayou State motorists up to speed on the lanes that are not legal for solo drivers.

Cut 10 (11) “…route”

I-12’s large shoulder lanes will be used to create the new lane, signage will be put up along the 15-mile stretch, and heat sensing cameras will be installed to prevent drivers from skirting the law by putting a dummy in the passenger seat…

Cut 11 (10)“ driver”

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A State Police trooper working an I-10 construction zone in East Baton Rouge is recovering from injuries after an alleged drunk driver slammed into the back of his vehicle. L-S-P spokesperson Taylor Scrantz says drivers need to respect trooper and worker safety if they see a cop car’s blue lights on in a construction zone…

cut 12(12)   “…workers””

31-year-old Volha Tryshyna was charged with a DWI, Vehicular Negligent Injuring, and Careless Operation.

After the wreck, the trooper was transported to Our Lady of the Lake in Baton Rouge. Scrantz says despite the nasty wreck, a full recovery is expected.

Cut 13 (08) “…in time”

With record numbers of cars expected to be on the road for the Memorial Day weekend, Scrantz is asking all motorists to drive with an abundance of caution, particularly in construction zones…

Cut 14 (11) “…Iberville Parish” 

Federal forecasters are predicting a slighter weaker hurricane season than last year. Connor Ferrill has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Connor Ferrill”

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A proposal to raise the legal age to purchase cigarettes, dip, and vape products from 18 to 21 is defeated on the House floor 24-55. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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For only the third time in history the US Army Corps of Engineers may have to open the Morganza Spillway in early June because of the rising Mississippi River. That means water will be released into the Atchalfalya Basin raising the concern for flooding in several parishes. Terrebonne Parish President Gordon Dove

Cut 3 (14) “…and all.”

The Morganza spillway was completed in 1954 and opened for the first time 1973 for 56 days and 55 days in 2011. Dove says just like they did in 2011, a barge will have to be installed in Bayou Chene to prevent backwater flooding in Terrebonne and several other parishes…

Cut 4 (08) “…anything” 

Dove says they began preparing for possible flooding in February and they have several pumps working around the clock…

Cut 5 (11) “…we can”

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NOAA predicts a near-normal 2019 hurricane season. US weather officials say that means between  9 to 15 named storms, 4 to 8 hurricanes and 2 to 4 major hurricanes. Lead hurricane season forecaster Gerry Bell says the near-normal hurricane outlook is occurring because of competing climate factors…

Cut 6 (12) “…more activity”

Bell says the prediction is made with a 70 percent likelihood…

Cut 7 (06) “…we see.”

The other 30 percent leaves a chance for a stronger or weaker season.

Bell does not expect any major hurricanes in June or July. Named storms may roll across the Atlantic in the early months of the season but Bell says anything like a category 3 hurricane won’t be on the way until peak months like August…

Cut 8 (12) “…season”

Last year there were 15 named storms, highlighted by two major hurricanes, Florence and Michael.

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Legislation that would have increased the legal age to purchase cigarettes, dip, and vape products to 21 dies on the House floor amid concerns the bill infringes on  individual liberties of adults. Bill author, West Monroe Representative Frank Hoffman, argued the bill could save lives…

Cut 9 (09) “…lives”

The proposal was met with stiff opposition from Alexandria Representative, Lance Harris, who grilled Hoffman on why 18-year-olds can buy a house, get a tattoo, or make any number of other crucial life decisions, but not be allowed to smoke….

Cut 10 (08) “…to smoke”

The bill led to an animated back and forth between Hoffman and Harris. Hoffman argued we already bar 18-year-olds from purchasing alcohol, but Harris countered, saying only one of those two substances can kill you overnight…

Cut 11 (08)“ overtime”

The final vote was 24-55.

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A Bossier City man is behind bars after he allegedly offered to fly a child in from Wisconsin for sexual purposes. State Police Trooper Brent Hardy says L-S-P got involved in the arrest of 49-year-old William Karmer after receiving a call from the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office….

cut 12(11)   “…in Louisiana””

Kramer is facing seven counts of indecent behavior with juveniles. Hardy says more charges are possible, because they found evidence that Kramer chatted online with multiple underage children and some of the victims could live in the Shreveport-Bossier City area

Cut 13 (10) “…make a report”

Hardy says this case is a reminder that parents need to look for suspicious text messages on their children’s phones and apps on a phone can help lure child predators…

Cut 14 (11) “…safeguard their children” 

A new opioid developed by researchers at Tulane and the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Healthcare System is showing it can increase recovery time and a decrease pain-sensitivity among animals. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

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A new survey from the Water Quality and Health Council is a reminder that the local pool is likely being used as a communal bathtub. Connor Ferrill has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Connor Ferrill” 

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The Louisiana House is expected to vote on a few high profile bills before they take a break for the Memorial Day weekend. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Researchers at Tulane and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Healthcare System say they’ve developed a new type of opioid that speeds up recovery without increasing pain sensitivity or risk of chronic pain. Senior Study Author Dr. James Zadina says these results are encouraging…

Cut 4 (10) “… do nothing.”

Government and law enforcement officials say they are dealing with an opioid increase, because the addiction to pain killers is leading to an increase in suicides and overdose deaths. But Zadina says the opioid they developed possibly reduces addiction.

Cut 5 (07) “…to humans”

Zadina says they’ve tested their new drug on rats and hope to begin human clinical trials soon….

Cut 6 (09) “…in humans.”

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The Water Quality and Health Council’s Healthy Pools survey shows your local pool is likely being used as a bathtub by swimmers. Public Health Expert for the council Chris Wiant says the survey reports 48 percent of swimmers never shower before getting into the pool…

Cut 7 (11) “…admit it.” (2x)

Wiant says when swimmers don’t wash off before getting in the pool it can raise the risk of waterborne illnesses…

Cut 8 (09) “…disinfectant.”

A pre-swim shower helps remove dirt, perspiration, and personal care items like deodorant.

Wiant says the risk of waterborne illness is a problem when almost a quarter of swimmers surveyed would swim within an hour of having diarrhea.

Cut 9 (11) “…time.″

More information is available at Healthypools.org

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A bill requiring restaurants to inform customers the country of orgin of their  shrimp and crawfish is advancing at the state capitol. Louisiana Restaurant Association lobbyist Eldon Rogillo says they had some concerns, but he’s worked with the bill’s author, LaRose Representative Truck Gisclair

Cut 10 (12) “…some compromise.”

The Louisiana Restaurant Association says they don’t have an issue telling customers the country of origin of the seafood they serve, but how it would appear on the menu has been their biggest concern…

Cut 11 (11) “…run by.”

For restaurants that don’t use menus, a sign at their entrance would need to disclose where their crawfish and shrimp came from.

The bill has already been approved by the House and on Wednesday it received the backing of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee. Gisclair says the legislation has also been endorsed by several coastal parishes that rely on the fishing industry

Cut 12 (11) “…out there”

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US Senator John Kennedy slams his Democratic colleagues in the other chamber who are contemplating whether to impeach President Donald Trump. Kennedy’s message on the Senate floor was direct

Cut 13 (04) “…off the pot”

Kennedy made his comments after President Trump’s meeting with Congressional democratic leaders fell apart and led to the president holding a news conference telling the American people he will not work with Democrats unless they stop their investigations into his administration. Kennedy says if House leadership wants to impeach the President then do it

Cut 14 (17) “…court system.”

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she came to meet the President to talk about infrastructure projects, but instead he took a pass. Kennedy hopes both sides can move past their political differences in order to produce significant legislation to improve our transportation system

Cut 15 (11) “fighting”

Once again an effort to increase the minimum wage fails to gain support in the legislature. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The state transportation department says a worker was killed while in a work zone on the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. Don Molino has more…

cut 2 (29) I’m Don Molino”  

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The full Senate approves legislation that would give voters a chance to declare that abortions are unconstitutional. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says voters would have a chance in October to add the anti-abortion language to the state constitution…

Cut 3 (09) “…in DC.”

Supporters of House Bill 425 say it will make sure abortions are not legal in Louisiana if Roe versus Wade is overturned. Opponents say constitutions are meant to protect a persons right. But Monroe Representative Katrina Jackson says Louisiana has shown to be a pro life state…

Cut 4 (11) “…supreme court” 

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An effort to give voters a chance to decide if the minimum wage should be raised to nine dollars an hour has died in the Louisiana Senate. New Orleans Senator Troy Carter says the 26 votes needed to send his proposal to the House are not there…

Cut 5 (08) “…do not have the votes”

It’s a legislative defeat for Governor John Bel Edwards who has backed legislation to increase the minimum wage, but the Republican controlled legislature does not support it.

But New Orleans Senator Wesley Bishop says that’s a shame, because a recent LSU poll found Louisiana voters support a higher minimum wage

Cut 6 (07) “…turn out”

Bishop says he knows he’ll hear from his constituents who are disappointed that the legislature failed again to increase the minimum wage…

Cut 7 (10) “   of Louisiana.”

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A House approved bill to certify veteran-owned businesses advances out of the Senate Commerce committee. Any business that is majority owned by veterans would be provided a statewide insignia to display. Governor John Bel Edwards says the bill will also create a database of veteran-owned business…

Cut 8 (06) “…trade with”

To be certified as a veteran owned business, Edwards says safeguards are in place to prevent abuse of the program…

Cut 9 (12) “…do this”

Census data indicates Louisiana has 42,000 veteran-owned businesses. Edwards says as a former army ranger he hopes House Bill 391 will connect these businesses with unemployed veterans…

Cut 10 (12) “…designation.”

If the bill authored by Baton Rouge representative  Franklin Foil passes, the Louisiana Economic Department will create the application and certification process. No set launch date has been set for the program.

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An employee for a DOTD contractor was killed Wednesday morning while working on the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. The state transportation department says a vehicle collided with equipment that ultimately made impact with the worker. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says State Police is investigating, but they have this advice for motorists

Cut 11 (07)“   doesn’t happen”

Mallett says they are not sure what led to today’s tragic incident, but distracted driving has been a big problem on this stretch of highway…

cut 12(10)   “…distracted driving””

Mallett says in this particular work zone on the Atchaflaya Basin Bridge contract workers are conducting joint repairs during non-peak driving hours…

Cut 13 (10) “…crash occurred”

The House will hear a bill Tuesday that would restrict online fantasy sports playing to over-21 establishments. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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The Louisiana Department of Education seeks advice on installing silent alarms in schools across the Bayou State. Connor Ferrill has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Connor Ferrill”  

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Louisiana state parks are helping those with disabilities and special needs gain employment this summer.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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The online fantasy sports regulatory bill has an amendment on it that stipulates you can only play if you’re at card checking over-21 only establishments like video poker stops, bars, or casinos.  Video poker lobbyist Alton Ashy advocated for the amendment and says legalizing the activity without restrictions provides no benefits to Louisiana businesses.

Cut 4 (09) “… of Louisiana.”

But fantasy sports advocates are sounding the alarm. Fairness for Fantasy Sports Louisiana spokesperson Ryan Berni says it subverts the intent of the 47 parishes that voted to authorize the activity.

Cut 5 (11) “…for any medium”

But Ashy says as it stands local business won’t only be missing out on the economic benefits of legalization, the proposed tax rate on online fantasy sports is so low, which is why the bill should be used to push more foot traffic into the high tax gaming houses…

Cut 6 (10) “…fantasy sports.”

Berni says the requirements are so unfeasible that it raises questions as to whether the amendment is just a bad faith effort to kill the activity, or cripple it in favor of local gaming…

Cut 7 (08) “…fantasy sports.”

The legislation will be discussed on the House floor Tuesday.

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The Louisiana Department of Education is requesting to get feedback on silent alarms in schools. The Louisiana Legislature has requested that D-O-E look to see  how viable and cost-effective the safety measure would be. State Education Assistant Superintendent Erin Bendzily says they want to hear from school leaders and safety experts…

Cut 8 (12) “…technology.”

Bendzily says around a quarter of schools nationwide use the silent alarm systems but Louisiana only has a handful of schools that utilize the technology…

Cut 9 (06) “…aware of any.″

Bendzily says as the mother of a 10-year-old son she understands finding the most efficient way to keep kids in school safe is the top priority…

Cut 10 (12) “…critical”

The Department of Education wants to receive the information by June 14 to present to the Louisiana Blue Ribbon Commission on School Safety assembled by Governor John Bel Edwards.

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For the second year, Louisiana state parks will be partnering with the Workforce Commission to hire people with disabilities and special needs to fill jobs for the summer season. Assistant Secretary for the Office of State Parks Brandon Burris says the idea came from Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser.

Cut 11 (11) “…the same time.”

Burris says the program was popular last year, and many of those that were hired for the summer season ended up staying on beyond the tourist season.

Cut 12 (05) “…with disabilities.”

If someone with disabilities or special needs is interesting in the summer work, Burris recommends contacting one of the twenty one state parks or eighteen historic sites around the state. He adds the information can also be found on the Louisiana Workforce Commission website.

Cut 13 (08) “…how to apply.”

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The House is set to consider a recreational marijuana regulation and decriminalization bill in the Criminal Justice committee before the end of the session. The bill would authorize 15 grower permits, and would place them under the Department of Agriculture.

Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan says decriminalizing and taxing marijuana is a popular idea nationwide…

Cut 14 (06) “…leading.”

Nine states have legalized the purchase of regulated recreational marijuana.

Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says refusing to legalize weed won’t keep kids from getting their hands on untested street product.

Cut 15 (11) “program.”

Sales would be restricted to 21 and over.

James says pot is a safer choice than many currently legal substances you can get at the corner store…

Cut 16  (10) “…guessing” 

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LSU baseball finished the regular season on Saturday with a tough extra inning loss to Auburn. Was that the final game at Alex Box Stadium or will LSU host a regional? Coach Paul Mainieri believes they have solid resume to be a Top 16 seed and host a regional

cut 17 (23)   “great to come back” 

Zack Hess gave up a game tying home run on Saturday in the loss to Auburn and then gave up the go-ahead run in the 11th inning. Mainieri says he still has confidence in Hess, even though he’s been victimized lately by the home run ball…

Possible tornadoes caused damage in Iberia, Allen, Beauregard and Evangeline Parishes on Sunday morning. Governor John Bel Edwards toured storm damage in Ville Platte, where about 50 homes sustained damage. Edwards says three people suffered non-serious injuries and it might take awhile to get the power back on…