The House will hear a bill today that would allow minors to work eight hours without a break. Connor Ferrill has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Connor Ferrill”

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 We’re nearly a month away from the end of the 2019 regular session and there’s still quite a few controversial topics left for lawmakers to tackle. Matt Doyle talked with a political analyst about what comes next…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The Louisiana Committee for a Conservative Majority is likely to see more money pumped into its operation with the newly added support of US Senator John Kennedy. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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The House will hear a bill today that would allow minors to work eight hours without a break instead of the current five. The House Labor Committee has already unanimously approved the measure. Author of the bill, Shreveport Representative Raymond Crews says the current law discourages employers from hiring minors as the mandatory break can disrupt a fluid shift…

Cut 4 (12) “…real problem.”

The law also issues employers a 500 dollar fine for violating the break requirement.

Julie Cherry with the Louisiana AFL-CIO is concerned the bill could lead to minors not receiving breaks at all…

Cut 5 (08) “…it can happen.”

President of the Louisiana Restaurant Association Stan Harris said the current law can prevent students in the LRA’s ProStart program from getting the mandatory 400 hours of work experience. Harris said the program is meant to skill students pursuing a culinary career but…

Cut 6 (09) “…program.”

Executive Director of the Louisiana Partnership for Children and Families Susan East Nelson says the bill may open the door for job opportunities but it also could also lead to health issues in developing children…

Cut 7 (12) “…is stand.”

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Governor Edwards is seeking 39 million dollars in new K-12 education funding, but House Republicans say the money is not there to do it. Political Analyst Clancy DuBos looks we have another battle shaping up between the governor and the House.

Cut 8 (04) “…priorities.”

Edwards also continues to push to raise the minimum wage, and DuBos says a proposal to raise it to nine dollars an hour is likely to get further than last year, but he says it’s unlikely any pro worker bills will pass…

Cut 9 (09) “…anything else.″

The recently released Louisiana Survey showed there is strong support among voters for a slight increase in the minimum wage.

So will we see anything substantial approved during this regular session? A proposal to allow sports betting at the state’s casinos and racetracks has been approved by the Senate, but faces opposition from conservative House lawmakers. DuBos says sports betting is no safe bet to pass in this session…

Cut 10 (10) “…controversial.”

The session must end by 6pm on June 6th.

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U-S Senator John Kennedy is teaming up with Attorney General Jeff Landry to lead the Louisiana Committee for a Conservative Majority, a political action committee. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Kennedy brings his fundraising talents to an organization aimed at electing more conservative Republicans to the legislature.

Cut 11 (08) “…get Kennedy involved.”

Pinsonat says the news catches the attention of left leaning state lawmakers.

Cut 12 (10) “…news for them.”

Pinsonat says even some Republicans may also want to take notice if there voting record doesn’t reflect a more conservative set of principles.

Cut 13 (08) “…weight and power.”

Kennedy’s teaming with Landry has the potential to leave a significant mark on the House and Senate terms that begin in 2020, with all 144 seats on the fall ballot.  Sixteen state senators of the thirty-nine are termed out, as is nearly 30% of the House.  The House could face further vacancies with some members choosing to run for Senate.

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The U.S. Coast Guard begins a week long public hearing today regarding the October 2018 barge wreck that resulted in damage to the Sunshine Bridge in St. James Parish. Legal analyst Tim Meche says anytime there is a major incident on a major waterway, there is an investigation followed up by a public hearing.

Cut 14 (10) “…major airplane crash.”

In the wreck, a crane carried on a barge collided with the bridge, resulting in the closure of the bridge for repairs until it was fully reopened in January. Meche says if the final report finds that individuals are implicated as culprits in the cause, they may be liable civilly or even criminally.

Cut 15 (06) “…or criminal prosecution.”

In previous investigations, such as the BP oil spill, the agency was very thorough, with criminal charges stemming from that.  Meche says with the publicly available evidence, it’s likely there will be individuals to take a fall.

Cut 16  (13) “…of that problem.” 

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It could have been one of the great comebacks in LSU baseball history, the Tigers hit back-to-back-to-back home runs in the 9th inning to erase a 5 run deficit, but ended up losing 19-15 in 10 innings to Ole Miss. Coach Paul Mainieri says it was a wild game…

 cut 17 (25)   “to stop” 

Ole Miss responded to the home barrage by LSU scoring by scoring four runs in the 10th inning as Mainieri says losing pitcher Devin Fontenot struggled with his command again.

Vice President Mike Pence says the way religious leaders are working towards rebuilding the St. Landry Parish churches burned down by a suspected arsonist is inspirational. Connor Ferrill has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Connor Ferrill”

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The flagship newspaper of New Orleans, The Times Picayune, has been purchased by their Baton Rouge rival, The Advocate. Matt Doyle talked with a veteran reporter about the papers’ merger…

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Vice President Mike Pence says he’s inspired by the faith that continues to be shown in St. Landry Parish where three historically black churches burned down by a suspected arsonist. Pence made his comments in the front of the ruins of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Opelousas

Cut 3 (11) “…express that to you ”

The son of a sheriff’s deputy, 21-year-old Holden Matthews, has been charged with setting fire to the churches. An extensive investigation led by the State Fire Marshal’s office led to Matthews’ capture and Pence applauded the hard work of the investigators…

Cut 4 (11) “…to justice” 

Over two-million dollars was raised on GoFundMe to pay for the rebuild the churches. Pence says he’s glad to hear construction will start soon on new places of worship…

Cut 5 (14) “…the country”

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New Orleans’ historic newspaper, The Times Picayune has been purchased by their Baton Rouge based rival, The Advocate.

Manship School Professor Len Apcar, a 40 years veteran journalist who’s worked at the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, says the merger will increase the quality of reporting in the Crescent City.

Cut 6 (08) “…years.”

The Advocate received it’s first Pulitzer Prize for it’s reporting on the history of Louisiana’s non-unanimous jury verdict law that was overturned at the ballot box last year.

The Advocate has published a daily paper in New Orleans since 2012, and the merger will use “brands and features of both publications” starting in June. Apcar thinks the new publication will feature the strengths of both of the previous papers.

Cut 7 (08) “…merger.”

The Picayune traces it’s roots back 182 years, and gained widespread acclaim for continuing to report on Hurricane Katrina online even as the paper’s building was surrounded by water.

Employees of the Picayune and it’s online service, Nola.com, have been given 60 days notice that they will be fired, and it is not certain how many, if any of them will be retained in the new publication. Some say it’s a sign of an increasingly unfriendly job market for would-be journalists, but Apcar is optimistic.

Cut 8 (11) “…work out”

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Legislation that would require Louisiana businesses to provide employees with paid leave to deal with family or medical issues cleared its first legislative hurdle. The Senate Labor committee approved the measure on a 4-to-1 vote after hearing about the benefits of the proposal. This new dad believes its a great idea

Cut 9 (11) “…exception.“.

The measure heads to Senate Finance, because it requires a small payroll tax paid by both the employee and employer. The revenue would  create a fund within the Louisiana Workforce Commission to provide the temporary paid leave.

Bossier City Senator Barrow Peacock says businesses could be left paying higher taxes, if there’s not enough money to cover all the requests for paid family leave

Cut 10 (08) “…that difference”

Peacock was the only “no” vote in Senate Labor. Dawn Starns state director of the National Federation of Independent Business also object to the measure…

Cut 11 (08)   “…about that.”

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The LA Wallet app, which allows Louisiana drivers to present their license on their smartphone, is now free, but only until the end of May.  The app normally requires a $5.99 fee to activate a license.  OMV field administrator Paige Paxton says the offer is not just a 30-day free trial.

Cut 12 (06) “…of their license.”

The decision to make LA Wallet available for free for a limited time comes after recent safety concerns involving rideshare programs like Uber and Lyft, as now riders can scan the app to confirm they are in the vehicle with the correct driver.

Paxton says the app is accepted at many locations in place of a traditional physical identification card.

Cut 13 (12) “…couple of elections.”

Paxton says law enforcement will also accept the app as a valid ID, but she recommends drivers keep their physical ID on them just in case their brush with Johnny Law intensifies.

Cut 14 (07) “…at that time.”

Louisiana is the first state to allow the use of a smartphone app as a picture ID.  Currently TSA does not accept LA Wallet, but looking at how they will eventually be able to begin accepting the app.

Almost 7000 families impacted by the duplication of benefits issues stemming from will soon have access to Restore grant money.  Kevin Barnhart has the details.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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The Superdome Commission has selected a construction firm to plot out the first of a four-phase 450 million dollar dome renovation, set to be completed before the 2024 Superbowl. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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One year after the state legislature restored voting rights for some convicted felons, there’s an effort to allow some convicts to be eligible for jury duty. Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says his legislation would allow convicted felons to be called for jury duty once they are off parole or probation for five years

Cut 3 (09) “…made mistakes ”

The House Criminal Justice Committee sent the proposal to the full House after a 9-6 vote. Bossier City Republican Raymond Crews says his constituents are against this bill…

Cut 4 (09) “…with you” 

But New Orleans Representative Royce Duplessis says former inmates can provide valuable knowledge to the criminal justice system…

Cut 5 (09) “…voir dire process”

The House could vote on this proposal as early as next week.

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The House health committee approves legislation that would allow medical marijuana patients to receive the drug through an inhaler, instead of a liquid or pill. Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says his measure gives patients the option to take medicinal cannabis in a metered inhaler, similar to an asthma inhaler…

Cut 6 (12) “…other conditions.”

Medical marijuana is expected to be available at nine licensed dispensaries by the end of May. Doctors can prescribe the drug to those who suffer from chronic pain, epilepsy, seizure disorders, PTSD and other conditions. Marijuana physician, Dr. Victor Chou, says inhalation delivery can produce results in less than a minute

Cut 7 (11) “…this program.”

Members of the House Health and Welfare committee heard moving testimony from veterans. An 11-year combat veteran from Belle Chasse says he’s using medical marijuana to treat P-T-S-D and he’s seeing positive results…

Cut 8 (12) “…V-A.”

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The Trump Administration has agreed to rewrite the regulations so Louisiana RESTORE grant money can get in the hands of 2016 flood victims, who also received an S-B-A loan.  Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says after months of delays, he expects the process to move quickly now.

Cut 9 (11) “…state of Louisiana.“.

Congress approved legislation to fix the duplication of benefits loophole and it was signed into law by President Trump in October 2018.  Graves says the funding will help almost seven-thousand families in Louisiana who have been juggling the costs associated with flood recovery.

Cut 10 (11) “…the end zone”

Members of Congress from other areas of the country impacted by natural disasters pulled together for the effort, as this fix will also help victims of Hurricanes  Harvey, Maria, and Florence.  Graves says it was persistence from the group that helped push the effort along.

Cut 11 (10)   “…have been waiting.”

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A construction firm has been selected to manage the first phase of what would, if approved, ultimately be a 450-million dollar Superdome renovation.

Superdome Commission spokesperson Mike Hoss says they’re still a few months away from anything concrete, but the ultimate plan is to bring the Dome into the 21st century…

Cut 12 (10) “…events”

One of the sought after additions will be a ticketed standing room “bar” section, like the one in Dallas, that Hoss says is aimed at younger fans.

The first phase of construction will cost about 100 million dollars, and Hoss says it focuses on making the dome easier to traverse, and bringing the food up to New Orleans standards…

Cut 13 (12) “…Superdome”

80,000 square feet of ramps will be removed in phase one.

A final funding plan has not been ironed out yet, but the Saints have agreed to pay for a third of whatever the total cost is. That means the remaining two thirds would be split between the Superdome, and the State. Hoss says hopefully the taxpayers won’t have to foot much of the bill.

Cut 14 (06) “…this.”

The plan is for all four phases of renovation to be completed before the 2024 Superbowl in New Orleans, and preferably before the 2023-2024 season starts.

An investigative report from WWL-TV questions expenses made by Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Storm weary Louisiana Tech is holding its first ever Giving Day today. Kevin Barnhart has more…

cut 2 (30) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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A WWL-TV report says Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser has State Police troopers drive him everywhere he goes, but he still receives 84-hundred dollars in annual salary to drive a personal vehicle to work. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the  investigative report is not  a good look for Nungesser…

Cut 3 (10) “…State Police ”

The Lt. Governor says he rides with troopers only part of the time. The WWL-TV report also claims that his staffers were getting paid by taxpayers while work on his re-election campaign. Pinsonat says legislative auditor should look into this…

Cut 4 (12) “…him around” 

Nungesser is up for re-election this year, but no major challengers have surfaced. Pinsonat says Nungesser has some explaining to do….

Cut 5 (07) “…for Nungesser”

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Louisiana Tech has launched the school’s inaugural Giving Day. Donor support makes it possible to help students attend Louisiana Tech through scholarships, plus it helps rebuilding portions of the school that were impacted by an EF-3 tornado last week. President of the Student Advancement team Maddie Patton says the fundraising effort has been in the planning stages for about four months.

Cut 6 (10) “…is about to celebrate.”

However, that goal was easily surpassed early this morning. Patton says that donors can select if they want their money going toward the general school fund or toward rebuilding the damage from the tornado.

Cut 7 (10) “…and ladies soccer.”

Patton says the donations have come in from around the country.

Cut 8 (09) “…have already given.”

To donate, visit LouisianaTechGivingDay.org.

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A bill that would have required producers of “almond milk” to label their product something other than milk has had an amendment added that would only allow the law to go into effect if similar regulations are approved at the federal level.

Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says the legislation now represents a show of support for federal efforts.

Cut 9 (07) “…United States“.

There were concerns that having different names for the same products across state lines would create confusions. Houma Senator Norby Chabert says you’d end up having almond milk called one thing in Louisiana…

Cut 10 (12) “…product”

Strain says they look forward to the feds requiring almond milk to change it’s name, because it’s confusing parents.

Cut 11 (11)   “…of age.”

The measure was approved in Senate Health and Welfare and heads to the full Senate.

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On a narrow vote, the House Criminal Justice Committee approves a bill that expands the state’s stand your ground law to protect an individual who may have to use deadly force in churches. Houma Representative Beryl Amedee says current law allows residents to use deadly force to prevent unlawful entry or force an unlawful intruder to leave

Cut 12 (10) “…to work.”

The measure passed on a nine to eight vote as Democrats on the panel voted against the legislation. Baton Rouge Representative Ted James has concerns about the bill…

Cut 13 (12) “…belong there”

In Louisiana, people can bring a concealed weapon into a house of worship if the person or group in charge of the facility authorizes them to do so. An attorney for the firearm professionals of Louisiana explains why the legislation is needed…

Cut 14 (12) “…stop the attack.”

The measure heads to the House floor.

The Louisiana House approves legislation that would prohibit banks from refusing to do business with companies that sell or make firearms. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

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A constitutional amendment to abolish the death penalty in Louisiana heads to the Senate floor after advancing out of a Senate committee…

cut 2 (29) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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The Louisiana House passes a bill that says banks with gun control policies can not refuse to do business with companies involved in the manufacturing and selling of guns and ammunition. Erath Representative Blake Miguez says his legislation protects against a discriminatory action

Cut 3 (10) “…move it forward”

The House approved the measure on a 66-27 vote and it heads to the Senate for more discussion. Democrats oppose the legislation. Franklin Representative Sam Jones says the legislation infringes on the First amendment rights of banks…

Cut 4 (06) “…don’t you.” 

Miguez’s legislation is in response to policies enacted by Citigroup and Bank of America that restricts their business dealings with certain companies in the firearm industry. During floor debate, Baton Rouge Democrat Denise Marcell asked Miguez if he thought his bill was fair

Cut 5 (10) “…the case”

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A constitutional amendment to abolish the death penalty in Louisiana passed a Senate committee on 4-2 vote.  Co-author of the measure, New Iberia Representative Terry Landry, says the punishment is immoral and the system is far from perfect.

Cut 6 (12) “…room for error.”

New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says if prosecutors seek the death penalty, the state has infinite resources to defend that decision compared to a person who is handed the sentence.  Morrell highlights that if it wasn’t for the intervention with extra resources of advocacy groups, the state has previously held exonerated people on death row.

Cut 7 (10) “…from being killed.”

21^st Judicial District Attorney Scott Perrilloux spoke in opposition of the measure, saying the option of the death penalty is needed for the most severe homicide cases.

Cut 8 (10) “…life in prison”

Perrilloux says the intricacy that goes into death penalty cases today ensures the accuracy of the current system.

Cut 9 (10) “…system currently works“.

The measure heads to the Senate floor. It will need two-thirds approval in both the House and Senate. If it gets legislative approval, then it would appear on the November 2020 presidential ballot.

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Governor Edwards is confident tornado ravaged Ruston and Louisiana Tech will receive federal disaster recovery funds once damage assessments are complete, and an application for aid has been filed.

Louisiana Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness spokesperson Mike Steele says assessment teams are preparing to survey the damage.

Cut 10 (10) “…next week”

Steele says there is no timeline currently for when the federal aid will make it to effected areas, but the state is working to get an accurate idea of just how much aid will be requested on the application.

Cut 11 (08)   “…infrastructure.”

The threshhold to secure federal disaster assistance is 6.8 million dollars, and the Governor says initial estimates are that Tech suffered atleast 20 million in damage alone.

State Fire Marshal Butch Browning reportedly has already identified at least 1,200 damaged structures, and Steele says they’re hoping to get started on the assessment process, but some areas still need to be checked for safety before the crews go out.

Cut 12 (10) “…to work.”

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A former St. Landry Parish priest was sentenced to seven years in prison today and also received three years probation. Michael Guidry pleaded guilty in March to giving a 16-year-old boy alcohol and then sexually molesting him. Legal analyst Tim Meche says it’s a harsh sentence

Cut 13 (12) “…for significant reduction.”

Meche says with human nature being what it is, it’s difficult for a judge not to be impacted by the scrutiny and publicity these cases received.

Cut 14 (05) “…the maximum sentence.”

In addition to the 7 year sentence, Guidry was ordered to register as a sex offender in Acadia Parish where he lives and St. Landry Parish where his church is located and turn over his passport.

Cut 15 (10) “…get lower sentences.”

The World Health Organization issues its recommendation on how much screen time is appropriate for kids, and it’s not much.  Brooke Thorington has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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 An LSU entomologist has some good tips for keep your house termite free this season…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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A bill that would establish a statewide framework for rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft is scheduled to for floor debate today in the House.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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The World Health Organization has for the first time issued guidance on how much screen time is acceptable and it’s not very much. LSU Health New Orleans pediatrician Dr. Kyle Fulton says the recommendations indicate kids ages 2-5 should have their screen time limited to less than one hour per day.

Cut 4 (08) “…quality or educational.”

Children ages 6 and older are recommended to have less than two hours per day, not including homework time at a computer.

Fulton says research shows children who spend too much time in front of a screen tend to spend less time playing, and the less time they are playing, the more likely they are to have health problems later on in life.

Cut 5 (09) “…3 hours a day.”

The guide is similar to the advice given by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Fulton says he recommends parents spend time reading books with children instead of letting them spend time in front of a screen.

Cut 6 (12) “…they are older.”

The report adds that children younger than 18 months old should not have any screen time at all other than video chats.

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The Shreveport-based Community Foundation of North Louisiana has started a fund to raise money for relief efforts in Ruston, which is recovering from a deadly tornado. Spokesperson Emily Smith says they are identifying needs and will distribute funds to organizations that can address them.

Cut 7 (07) “…donations.”

Smith says their board is familiar with charitable organizations in Lincoln Parish and she says if you’re not sure where to send monetary support, their umbrella fund will direct your money to the most pressing needs.

Cut 8 (12) “…accordingly.”

To donate, drop by C-F-N-L-A.O-R-G slash Ruston and hit the donate now button. Smith says there are also local spots you give checks to.

Cut 9 (08) “…bank.″

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It’s termite season in Louisiana and for most folks that means turning off your lights before dusk, but LSU AgCenter Entomologist Karen Sun has a few tips to keep the bugs from damaging your home, but you can’t treat your house for termites yourself…

Cut 10 (08) “…services.”

The swarms begin at dusk and Sun says generally dissipate by 10:30 PM, at which point you should be able to turn back on outside lights.

Another tip for keeping your house termite free is cleaning up any moisture and pipe leakage, so that if a termite does breach your gates, they can’t start a family under your roof.

Cut 11 (08) “…new colony.”

The bugs will be swarming for roughly the next two to three months, notably starting in early May.

A lot of folks know about clearing dead wood from the perimeter of your home, but Sun says many resident’s don’t realize that gardening mulch can pose just as much of a threat to your foundation.

Cut 12 (07) “…home”

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The full House is scheduled to hear a bill today creating a statewide framework for ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft. Louisiana is one of only a few states without statewide regulations, meaning some areas do not have access to the services. Lyft Public Policy Manager Carter Stern says passage would be beneficial to drivers who drive in various areas of the state.

Cut 13 (08) “…anywhere in the state.”

Stern says the access to rideshare services not only offer the ability for drivers to put some extra money in their pocket, but also helps people get to and from work, and is helping in keeping intoxicated drivers off the roads.

Cut 14 (09) “…definitely a benefit.”

Stern says Lyft is only available in six cities in Louisiana, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lake Charles, Monroe, Shreveport, and Lafayette.

Cut 15 (10) “…will have access.”

A similar bill was killed in the Senate last year over objections from the taxi cab industry.

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Despite only having one pick in the first three rounds, Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis says the team selected three players rated in the top 70 on their board. New Orleans made two trades during the seven round draft to move up. In round two, they made a deal with Miami to take Texas A&M Center Erik McCoy and in the fourth round they executed a deal with the Jets to take Florida safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson. General Manager Mickey Loomis says they were calculated moves

Cut 16  (14) “…lot of times” 

Heading into the draft, tight end was considered a postion of need and in the seventh round, New Orleans selected Notre Dame tight end Allze Mack. In 2015, he was rated as the number one rated tight end in the nation coming out of Las Vegas, but only caught four touchdown passes during his collegiate career in South Bend. Loomis says they like Mack’s potential

 cut 17 (12)   “succeed here” 

Out of the five member draft class, McCoy has the best chance to start in his rookie season, because of the retirement of starting center Max Unger. Loomis says McCoy is the type of interior O-lineman they were looking for….

Ruston is beginning the recovery from an EF 3 tornado that damaged hundreds of homes and left a mess to clean up in its path. Jeff Palermo has the latest…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 A bill to legalize the delivery of low content alcohol passes committee and is headed to the House. Matt Doyle talked to the bill sponsor.

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker says they are bouncing back after an EF-3 tornado ripped through their town Thursday morning. Walker says the volunteerism has been unbelievable, especially from Louisiana Tech students. He relayed this story from a woman who lost several trees on her property

Cut 3 (12) “…started crying”

Walker says the biggest immediate concern is restoring the power by the end of the weekend and also getting trees off of homes…

Cut 4 (07) “ restoring homes” 

Walker estimates the damages to homes and businesses in the hundreds…

Cut 5 (10) “…houses”

The EF 3 tornado also produced damage in Union Parish. Officials there say about 80 structures damaged, including 15 to 20 chicken houses.

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The House will consider whether or not delivery services should be allowed to bring low alcohol content booze with their food to your front door.

Shreveport Representative Thomas Carmody says his legislation specifies that the alcohol must be brought with food, and must be in the original manufacturer’s seal container, so that means no margaritas…

Cut 6 (12) “…gunna fly”

The bill is the result of recommendations of the E-Commerce Committee’s fall recommendation about how to allow alcohol delivery, and deal with the potential liability issues.

Carmody says delivery people would be authorized to refuse to drop off the order if they’re suspicious about the recipient’s age, or level of inebriation.

Cut 7 (10) “…for it.”

Currently food delivery services do not require their workers to have all of the same certifications that a waiter has, but Carmody says under this legislation…

Cut 8 (09) “…waiter”

The same committee that passed this bill also passed other alcohol related legislation like allowing delivery people to accept the LA Wallet app.

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The National Weather Service has survey teams looking at the impacted areas from the Wednesday night into Thursday morning tornado outbreak. Ruston was the hardest hit area and NWS forecaster CS Ross says their experts say the damage falls in line with an EF-3 tornado.

Cut 9 (11) “…community as well“.

Ross says the current count of tornadoes for the area is at seven, but the number can still rise.

Cut 10 (08) “…rural Union Parish.”

A storm team is also surveying rural La Salle Parish today from a separate storm cell.

The storm started over Texas, moving northeast into Louisiana.  Ross says this week’s severe weather will likely go down as a significant event in history for the National Weather Service’s Shreveport office coverage area if the storm also produced tornadoes in Arkansas as well.

Cut 11 (10)   “…if you will.”

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The LSU Board of Supervisors approves new Athletic Director Scott Woodward’s six year, eight million dollar contract.

LSU Vice President for Legal Affairs Thomas Skinner says the contract includes hundreds of thousands of dollars in bonuses, and includes a base pay that increases every year.

Cut 12 (12) “…five.”

Woodward also receives a $250,000 relocation bonus and $250,000 if he stays on the job for five years.

The Baton Rouge native is the first LSU AD to make over one-million dollars a year. But Skinner says only $525,000 of it comes from taxpayer dollars.

Cut 13 (09) “…contracts.”

The contract is also is a higher salary than Woodward’s old job as Texas A&M’s AD.

Board member Valencia Jones thanked Woodward for his decision to join the Purple and Gold, and says the AD is a high caliber talent who will bring success to the Ole War Skule…

Cut 14 (11) “together ”

The board also approved the amendments made to basketball coach Will Wade’s contract, which takes away his bonus pay for winning an SEC title and reaching the NCAA Tournament. Wade’s new contract also allows LSU to fire him, if the NCAA determines he committed violations.

A mother and son were killed from a tornado that ripped through Ruston causing significant damage to the city and the Louisiana Tech campus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Following a 5-1 vote, an amendment that aims to raise the minimum wage in Louisiana to $9 an hour on July 1^st, 2020, is headed to the Senate floor.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (33) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Two people are dead, a mother and her son, from a powerful tornado that swept through Ruston in the early morning hours. Chief Deputy with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s office, Stephen Williams, says trees are down, power lines mangled and several businesses are destroyed

Cut 3 (12) “…gone”

Williams at least half of the city is without power.

Cut 4 (06) “  are gone” 

Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker told the Associated Press that a quarter of the city will likely remain without power for rest of the day.

A shelter has been set up at Glenview Elementary for those without electricity. .

National Weather Service forecaster CS Ross says at least an EF-3 tornado struck Ruston just before two A-M…

Cut 5 (14) “…as well”

Ross says there’s also been reports of damage in the Sabine Parish town of Converse and Downsville, which is located on the border of Lincoln and Union parishes. Wind damage has also been reported in rural Morehouse Parish.

The most extensive damage is in Ruston. State Police Troop F spokesperson Michael Reichardt says the clean up effort will take some time

Cut 6 (11) “…some of the parish”

State officials say the two victims died when a tree fell on their Lincoln Parish home.

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A bill to legalize the growing and processing of Industrial hemp is on it’s way to the full House after unanimously passing in the House Agriculture Committee. Gonzales Representative Clay Shexnayder says hemp is  a highly profitable, and renewable crop.

Cut 7 (10) “…belt.”

According to PEW, 19 states harvested industrial hemp last year, but only 25,000 total acres.

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says colonists began harvesting hemp in the early 1700s, and had a number of uses for it, including paper. He says these days hemp can be found in a range of products.

Cut 8 (12) “…capacitors”

The first few drafts of the Declaration of Independence were on hemp paper.

Jennings Representative John Guinn says he supports the legislation, and in a back and forth with Strain, says the banning of hemp production in America can be traced to the rise of their competitors in big plastic…

Cut 9 (11) “…interesting“.

The 2018 Farm Bill allowed states to regulate the production of industrial hemp, which while related to marijuana, has a THC level far below the amount necessary to get you high.

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Following a 5-1 vote, a constitutional amendment that aims to raise the minimum wage in Louisiana to $9 an hour on July 1, 2020, is headed to the Senate floor, where the effort died last year. New Orleans Senator Troy Carter says a bump in the minimum wage would show that the state is serious about helping its working poor.

Cut 10 (12) “…government to survive.”

Governor John Bel Edwards has sought an increase in the minimum wage since taking office in 2016.

Since its a a constitutional amendment, it will need a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate and voter approval in the fall.

President and CEO of Ochsner Health System Warner Thomas spoke in favor, saying Ochsner has decided to raise its own minimum wage to $12 an hour.

Cut 11 (10)   “…experience has been.”

NFIB Louisiana director Dawn Starns says a mandated wage increase would negatively impact small businesses and result in a net loss of 36,000 jobs in the state.

Cut 12 (08) “…want to help.”

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry is also in opposition. Vice president of government relations Jim Patterson applauds the businesses that have decided to raise their minimum wages, but not all businesses have the resources to do it..

Cut 13 (08) “…be able to.”

The current minimum wage is set at $7.25 an hour.

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The Louisiana Tech campus is recovering from significant damage suffered from a tornado that ripped through the area around two this morning.

Tech President Les Guice says thankfully the tornado skirted the edge of the core academic buildings, but the residential halls weren’t so lucky.

Cut 14 (12) “ fields”

Most of the campus still has power, but classes have been canceled today to allow students to recover, and check in on family.

Despite the heavy damage, which Guice says may create long term roofing issues, the President celebrated the fact that everyone on campus appears to have avoided the worst.

Cut 15 (11) “…are safe.”

The pictures from the campus are startling, with trees ripped up by the roots, and debris littering the grounds. Guice says walking the halls and fields that are usually teeming with students was heart-wrenching.

Cut 16 (11) “…traumatic”

Students and locals have begun recovery efforts as the entire campus will need to be cleared of debris and uprooted trees removed. Guice says one of those locals pitching in is none other than Bulldogs basketball legend, the Mailman himself, Karl Malone.

 cut 17 (12)   “here” 

The Louisiana National Guard has mobilized a unit to assist with recovery. They are equipped with chain saws, dump trucks and bobcats.

A mental health patient who attacked a nurse at a Baton Rouge hospital has been arrested in Lake Charles and charged with manslaughter after the nurse passed away from her injuries. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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The House Health and Welfare committee sends a proposal to raise the legal smoking age from 18 to 21 years old to the House floor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut 2 (32) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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54-year-old Jessie Guillory, who allegedly attacked a nurse at a Baton Rouge hospital has been arrested in Lake Charles after the nurse passed away a week after the assault.

Baton Rouge Police Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says initially they were not certain Lynne Truxillo’s death was related to the attack, but…

Cut 3 (10) “…happened”

Truxillo died of blot clots, and had torn a leg muscle and had other injuries in the attack.

McKneely says the investigation discovered that Truxillo was attempting to save a fellow nurse who had been pinned in a corner by Guillory…

Cut 4 (11) “  struck” 

Truxillo was allegedly grabbed by Guillory, who slammed her head into a desk.

Guillory has been charged with manslaughter, and was staying at a Lake Charles health facility, and McKneely says BRPD arranged to have him transferred to the Capital City.

Cut 5 (06) “…incident”

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The House approve legislation that supporters say addresses the factors that result in high auto insurance rates in Louisiana. River Ridge Representative Kirk Talbot has several provisions, one would extend the period of time a lawsuit can be filed after a car wreck from one to two years, in an effort to avoid a trial…

Cut 6 (09) “…work it out”

Talbot’s bill also lowers the jury threshold from 50-thousand dollars to five-thousand dollars, which Talbot says would lead to more cases settled out of court and lower costs for insurance companies. But LaPlace Representative Randal Gaines is skeptical Talbot’s legislation will lower premiums…

Cut 7 (05) “…either side.”

And there’s a concern among opponents that this legislation will restrict a car crash victims’ access to the courts and lower settlements.

Despite those criticisms the bill passed 69-30. Shreveport Representative Barbara Norton was one of the legislators who voted against it….

Cut 8 (07) “…we represent”

The measure heads to the Senate for more discussion.

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A bill that removes professional wrestling from the State Boxing and Wrestling Commission’s overview is headed to the House after clearing the House Commerce Committee on a 14-2 vote. Houma Representative Beryl Amedee says regulation is not necessary for an event that is more theatrical than sport…

Cut 9 (12) “…laughter.”

Amedee says professional wrestling does not need to be regulated because what happens in the ring is choreographed and rehearsed. But the Chairman of the Boxing and Wrestling Commission Buddy Embanato says deregulation can create a health risk, and pro wrestling does involve physical contact…

Cut 10 (12) “…across the ring.”

The commission also requires viral testing for things like HIV and Hepatitis C.

The WWE hosted their super bowl, called WrestleMania, in New Orleans twice in the past four years. New Orleans resident Brett Landry says states like Texas and Florida have no pro wrestling regulation and house WWE training facilities. He says that could expand to the Big Easy…

Cut 11 (09)   “…to broaden”

Embanato says the commission does receive a promoter’s fee from wrestling organizations but they have lowered it to push the industry forward…

Cut 12 (12) “…the industry”

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The House Health and Welfare committee approves legislation to increase the legal age to smoke from 18 to 21-years-old.  West Monroe Representative Frank Hoffman believes this proposal will result in fewer people choosing to smoke, resulting in a healthier Louisiana…

Cut 13 (08) “…for many”

The measure also raises the legal age to vape to 21-years-old. That brought opposition from individuals who own vaping stores

Cut 14 (10) “ to decide”

Stonewall Representative Larry Bagley also couldn’t support raising the legislation, because he didn’t think it was right to prohibit an 18-to-21-year-old from smoking even though they can fight for our country

Cut 15 (11) “…do that here.”

The measure passed on a 10-2 vote. Kenner Representative Joseph Stagni voted for the legislation, because he says many young adults who choose to smoke end up costing the state billions of dollars in health care costs…

Cut 16 (07) “…choice issues”

The state senate unanimously approves a truth in labeling law for ag products. Brooke Thorington tells us what this mean…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

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A bill that would allow voters to decide if sports betting should be legal in parishes that have riverboats, race tracks and land-based casinos clears a Senate committee 3-1.

cut 2 (32) I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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Delhi Senator Francis Thompson’s truth in labeling law of ag products receives unanimous support from the state senate and moves to the House for more discussion. Thompson’s bill would impact products such as cauliflower rice…

Cut 3 (12) “…for meat ”

The proposed law would also protect other ag products like rice and meat, so no more tofu burgers….

Cut 4 (10) “     the violation” 

Food manufacturers in violation of this proposed law would be fined 500-dollars. Thompson says they have until October 2020 to properly label their packages…

Cut 5 (10) “…labeling laws”

Thompson also has a bill that prohibits the mislabeling of milk, like soy and almond milk. That measure is awaiting a hearing in the Senate Health committee.

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The state legislature took a step in bringing back sales tax holidays as the House approved a measure to reinstate three separate sales tax holidays for school supplies, guns and hurricane preparedness. Monroe Representative Jay Morris says his bill would cost the state five million dollars a year, which brought this question from Natchitoches Representative Kenny Cox

Cut 6 (09) “…everything else”

Legislators inadvertently suspended sales tax holidays for seven years when they approved a tax deal last June. Morris says the state’s budget is in much better shape and these tax holidays should not have been halted…

Cut 7 (08) “…our state.”

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A proposal to allow a parish by parish vote on the legalization of sports gambling at the state’s 15 riverboat casinos, four racetracks and New Orleans land based casino passed a Senate committee on a 3-1 vote. First Baptist Church of Ponchatula Pastor David Cranford says this bill will cost lives.

Cut 8 (12) “…gambling”

Another opponent of the legislation says studies show there are 278,000 problem gamblers in the state, and that 98,000 fall into the most severe variety of “pathological gamblers”. He quoted a Baylor study that claims that group costs the state 875 million annually.

But Metairie Senator Danny Martiny says the activity would raise 40-60 million dollars a year that could be put twoards early childhood education, and that failing to legalize sports betting won’t stop addicts from betting.

Cut 9 (09) “…this bill.”

Reports from other states have noted the amount of revenue generated by sports betting has come up far short of initial estimates.

Gambling addicts, including New Orleans Senator Karen Carter Peterson, the only dissenting vote, spoke about the need to increase gambling addiction recovery services, especially if the law were to pass. Former LSU basketball player Randy Livingston spoke about his addiction, which went back to his time in purple and gold.

Cut 10 (11) “…here.”

The sites that would be authorized are the state’s 15 riverboats, four race tracks, and the land based casino in New Orleans, and gambling on high school athletics would be prohibited.

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State Police announce 34-year-old Reynard Green of Baton Rouge was able to get into the governor’s mansion last Wednesday and broke an antique table. Green was arrested on multiple charges after he was discovered sleeping on the couch.  The mansion is enclosed by a tall iron fence with only one entrance gate but security expert Joshua Nicholson says a tall fence is not always effective…

Cut 11 (09)   “…U.S border”

Governor John Bel Edwards was asked about the incident today and says more information will come out soon and says at no time were they anything but safe.

Nicholson says the break-in will force state police to look at their protocols…

Cut 12 (11) “…in the mansion”

Louisiana State Police troopers and Department of Public Safety officers are assigned to the Governor’s Mansion 24 hours a day, year-round. Nicholson says even with officers in place expanding security with things like motion detectors may be the next step…

Cut 13 (09) “…enforce that”

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Baton Rouge native Scott Woodward says it’s an incredible opportunity to take over as LSU’s athletics director. The LSU alum said at his introductory press conference that LSU will win SEC and NCAA championships and do so with integrity. He says resources to pay good coaches and have great facilities will be important…

Cut 14 (09) “ important thing”

Woodward was asked about improving fan experience at LSU football games, and the man who once sold peanuts at Tiger Stadium as a kid says he does not want to screw up what’s good…

Cut 15 (11) “…do that here.”

The FBI wire tap scandal that led to the suspension of basketball coach Will Wade was also brought up during Q-and-A. Woodward says he doesn’t know a lot about the situation, but he says Wade is LSU’s basketball coach and has his 100-percent support. Woodward also gave football coach Ed Orgeron a ringing endorsement…

Cut 16 (11) “…get it done”