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.

_____________________________

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.

_________________________________

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.”

__________________

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” 

___________________________________

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”

__________________________________

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.

_____________________________

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.

_____________________________

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.”

________________________________

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…

The House approves a bill allowing the Legislative Auditor access to the tax records of Medicaid recipients. The proposal sparked an intense floor debate between Republican Tony Bacala and Democrat Gary Carter, who says its unfair to the poor…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Matt Doyle”

____________________________

At 3.5%, the state saw the lowest not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate on record in April. Jeff Palermo has the story.

cut 2 (30) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_____________________________________________

The House voted 66-32 in favor of allowing the Legislative Auditor to access income tax records of Medicaid recipients, sparking a testy back and forth between bill author, Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala and New Orleans Representative Gary Carter, who voted against it.

Carter called the legislation an assault on working class Medicaid recipients…

Cut 3 (13) “…benefits.”

Bacala says a recent audit discovered 1,672 people were enrolled in the program making six figures.

Carter accused Bacala of subjecting poor people to scrutiny he wouldn’t subject businesses too…

Cut 4 (14) “…gunna find” 

Other opponents of the legislation argue the proposal would result in the expulsion of tens of thousands of Medicaid recipients from the program who make just above the 16,764-dollar yearly limit.

The argument veered into national efforts by Democrats to secure the President’s tax returns…

Cut 5 (10) “…thank you.”

The bill heads to the Senate, where previous similar efforts have failed.

______________________________

The state’s not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is the lowest on record dating back to 1976.  The rate dropped to 3.5% in April in the numbers that come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  Workforce Commission Director Ava Dejoie says it is welcomed news for the state.

Cut 6 (08) “…a good sign.”

The area seeing the most growth is New Orleans with 1,600 jobs over the month, followed by Baton Rouge with 1,300.  Dejoie says the sectors seeing the largest growths are education and healthcare sector as well as the professional and business service sector.

Cut 7 (08) “…shown significant increases.”

Dejoie says the seasonally adjusted rate of unemployment is down as well.  That number has dropped to 4.5% in April.

Cut 8 (08) “…number as well.”

The previous low was eleven years ago in April 2008 at 3.6%.

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The House Labor Committee advances a Senate-approved bill to address PTSD and mental health among firefighters and police, adding the mental illness to the list of injuries eligible for public employee benefits.  One Madison Parish firefighter testified saying he has suffered from depression since 2014, adding he had suicidal thoughts while on leave for PTSD related to his job.

Cut 9 (08) “…was going on.”

The discussion highlighted the detrimental effects of not treating PTSD including substance abuse and marital issues.

The firefighter says that his PTSD was not caught early and now is disabling.

Cut 10 (12) “…keep me alive.“

A Jefferson Parish firefighter also spoke in the discussion, saying he also did not catch the symptoms early enough, even going as far to say the activity among lawmakers were triggering flashbacks.

Cut 11 (12)“…of body bags.”

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Another round of severe weather is on its way. Most of north, central and southwest Louisiana are under a slight risk for severe weather on Saturday and the Shreveport-Bossier area is under an enhanced risk. Brandi Richardson with the National Weather Service says we’ll see scattered storms during the day and stronger storms will move in later in the day

cut 12(09)   “…some tornadoes””

North Louisiana has already experienced two tornado out breaks this Spring and Richardson this latest storm system has the potential to produce more twisters…

Cut 13 (11) “…time of year”

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Select movie theaters nationwide will show Steel Magnolias this weekend, as a way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the movie’s release. The legendary film was shot in Natchitoches and Director of Marketing for the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau Kelli West says the film’s popularity continues to attract tourists…

Cut 14 (12) “…moments” 

West says Steel Magnolias will also be shown in various theaters around the state. She says they’ll have a display at the Perkins Rowe theater  in Baton Rouge…

Cut 15 (08) “…state”

The film will be shown by Fathom Events at select theaters Sunday through Wednesday.

West says many are upset the Louisiana classic will not be playing in Natchitoches this upcoming week. The actual 30^th anniversary is November 5^th and West says it will be shown again in a Natchitoches move theater shortly after that…

Cut 16 (08) “…initial release”

Legislation that would undo a 1997 law prohibiting local government’s from raising the minimum wage above the state level fails to get out of the House Labor Committee. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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The statewide average price for a gallon of gasoline has dropped to $2.48.  What does that mean for the summer driving season?  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (30) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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The House Labor Committee rejects a proposal to allow local governments to set their own minimum wage. A 1997 Louisiana law prohibits parishes and cities from setting their own local minimum wage rates. But New Orleans Representative Royce Duplessis says local government bodies know what their workers need…

Cut 3 (09) “…economies.”

The City of Birmingham has filed a suit against the State of Alabama, alleging racial discrimination, after the city attempted to raise the minimum wage, but was blocked by the state.

But the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry opposed the measure. VP of Governmental Relations Jim Patterson says the proposal would place undue burden on statewide businesses.

Cut 4 (07) “…untenable” 

Shreveport City Councilwoman LeVette Fuller expressed support for the legislation, saying working people cannot live on 7.25 an hour and need a raise, but every city’s needs are different, and this legislation addresses that.

Cut 5 (11) “…New Orleans.”

But Patterson warned that allowing those cities to raise wages to what they consider “live-able” levels would result in layoffs that would make those worker’s living situation even worse…

Cut 6 (07) “…let go.”

The state minimum wage is the federal minimum of 7.25 an hour.

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Motorists are seeing a bit of relief at the pump, which is welcomed news as the summer driving season draws closer. AAA fuel analyst Don Redman says the current the statewide average price for a gallon of regular gas is 14-cents cheaper than this time last year.

Cut 7 (09) “…$2.48 a gallon.”

Redman says the drop is due to both Louisiana being an oil producing state and seeing ease in demand.

Cut 8 (05) “…the main thing.”

Redman says going into the summer, AAA is forecasting the price of fuel to be similar or cheaper than last year, but the price is ultimately subject to the news of the day.

Cut 9 (08) “…the picture today.”

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An explosive rumor that presumptive 1^st pick in the NBA Draft, Zion Williamson, would refuse to play in New Orleans had some cold water thrown on it by the Duke legend’s stepfather in an interview this morning with ESPN Baton Rouge.

Lee Anderson, Zion’s stepfather, told Off The Bench Hosts that his son is looking forward to his upcoming pro career.

Cut 10 (12) “…considered.“.

Reports circulated that Williamson would have preferred New York or Atlanta, and cameras caught the prospects less than enthusiastic reaction seeing New Orleans win the first pick.

Bourbon Street Shots writer Jesse Brooks says outburst of rumors can likely be attributed to salty fans and media personalities and added that kind of action would be out of character for Zion.

Cut 11 (11)“…sense.”

Brooks says there’s “no way” Zion refuses to play for the pels given his personality, the injury risks, the amount of money he’d leave on the table, and…

Cut 12 (10)   “…year.”

The theory proposed that Williamson could return to Duke or sit out for a year and try his luck again next year in the draft.

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The House Labor committee voted nine-to-six against legislation requiring  private employers to pay men and woman the same for similar work. Studies show that Louisiana has the largest gender wage gap in the country, but Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews says men are more willing to work on holidays, work longer hours and perform more dangerous work

Cut 13 (07) “…pay better.”

Shreveport Representative Barbara Norton says the panel should approve this legislation to help out their female relatives

Cut 14 (11) “…love them today” 

Abita Springs Representative Scott Simon shot back at proponents of the bill, who suggested that lawmakers would vote against this legislation to hurt women…

Cut 15 (11) “…kill anyone”