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”

____________________________

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”  

_____________________________________________

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.”

________________________________________________

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.

___________________________________________

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”

_____________________________

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”  

_______________________________________________

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” 

_________________________

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%.

___________________________________________

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.”

_________________________

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”

______________________

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”

____________________________

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”  

_____________________________________________

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.

________________________

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.”

___________________________________________

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.

______________________

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”

Duke legend Zion Williamson is almost certainly set to be a Pelican after the franchise lucked into the first pick in the NBA draft lottery last night. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

____________________________

A proposal to ban abortions in Louisiana when a fetal heartbeat is detected is one step away from final legislative passage. Jeff Palermo has more…

cut 2 (30) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_____________________________________________

The Pelicans are back in a big way after landing the first pick in the NBA Draft Lottery, which is almost guaranteed to be Duke phenom, Zion Williamson, the most hyped college prospect in nearly two decades.

Locked on Pelicans Podcast publisher Jake Madison says it’s impossible to overstate how big a deal it is for New Orleans basketball…

Cut 3 (12) “…overall.”

The Pels only had a six percent chance to win the first pick, and the news has inspired the sale of 2,500 new season tickets.

Williamson quickly became the biggest draw in college basketball last season, and a human highlight reel with multiple dunks a game. The Pels analyst says Zion combines jaw dropping athleticism with a motor that just doesn’t stop.

Cut 4 (10) “…dunk machine” 

Zion gives the franchise a clear future, but GM David Griffin has to sort out a messy present with reports circulating that star forward Anthony Davis still wants off the team. Madison says that issue just got a lot easier to fix with key potential trade partners grabbing good picks…

Cut 5 (12) “…up.”

The draft will be held June 20th.

_________________________________________________

Louisiana’s version of the fetal heartbeat abortion ban bill has cleared another legislative hurdle. The House Health committee voted for the Senate approved measure that seeks to ban abortions when a heartbeat is detectable. The bill’s author is Shreveport Senator John Milkovich

Cut 6 (12) “…be killed.”

No one on the House Health and Welfare Committee objected to the fetal heartbeat abortion ban. But Monroe Representative Katrina Jackson says if lawmakers support this bill, they should also support a measure to abolish the death penalty…

Cut 7 (12) “…of jail.”

Louisiana’s fetal heartbeat abortion ban heads to the full House for final legislative passage. Opelousas Representative Dustin Miller says if legislators vote for this pro life measure, they should also support legislation that guarantees a child quality health care and education

Cut 8 (09) “…quality life.”

The governor is expected to sign this measure, but it will not go into effect, unless Mississippi wins a legal fight over their own fetal heartbeat abortion ban bill.

___________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Transportation broke ground on the I-20/I-220 Barksdale Air Force Base Interchange project in Bossier City today. Governor John Bel Edwards was on hand for the event and says the $72 million comes out of necessity with a bigger and stronger economy.

Cut 9 (07) “…our economy forward.”

Edwards says since January 2016, the state has invested over $2.2 billion in transportation around the state, with over $239 million going towards infrastructure projects in Northwest Louisiana.

Cut 10 (11) “…in the world.“.

Edwards says this project means enhanced security for deliveries onto the base, congestion relief for several other access points and an entrance that is not contingent upon crossing a railroad track.

Cut 11 (08)“…of their operations.”

_________________________

President Trump announced on his visit to Louisiana yesterday that a new I-10 bridge was coming to the Lake Charles area if he is reelected.  DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says the President’s commitment for such a large project came as a surprise.

Cut 12 (09)   “…to deliver it.”

Wilson says the bridge is actually older than the interstate system itself and that the state has been working toward getting a new bridge project moved along for quite some time.

Cut 13 (09) “…very steep structure.”

It’s estimated that up to 75,000 cars a day travel across the bridge.  Wilson says the bridge is of great importance to more than just to those who live in the surrounding communities.

Cut 14 (11) “…most efficient way.” 

A House panel green lights a bill to eliminate the need for inspection stickers. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

____________________________

A bill abolishing the death penalty narrowly clears a House committee amid a fiery debate about racial discrimination in policing and sentencing. Matt Doyle has both sides…

cut 2 (31) I’m Matt Doyle”  

_____________________________________________

A state lawmaker is looking to eliminate inspection stickers, because he says they do no make our roads any safer. Stonewall Representative Larry Bagley says he  recently received a new sticker, despite a crack that ran across his windshield

Cut 3 (12) “…maybe thousands.”

The House Transportation Committee approved Bagley’s bill on an eight to six vote. Colfax Representative Terry Brown says inspection stations are bit of a joke…

Cut 4 (12) “…least 10 years” 

Bagley says instead of paying a 10-dollar fee for a one-year inspection sticker, his bill would add 10-dollars to your vehicle registration fee and the money would pay for 150 new state troopers

Cut 5 (13) “…patrol units.”

House Transportation Chairman Terry Landry argued against the bill, saying there is a safety value in inspection stickers as they make sure motorists are insured and have working headlights.

_________________________________________________

The House Criminal Justice Committee passed a bill to end the death penalty amid an intense debate that got personal at times.

Bill author New Iberia Representative Terry Landry took some harsh criticism, but held firm to belief that racial disparities in arrests and sentencing, and the number of death sentences that have been overturned justify ending the practice…

Cut 6 (12) “…for you.”

The measure passed 8-7.

But some members of the public opposing the legislation took issue with Landry’s, and other’s accusation that discriminatory policing effects the integrity of the death penalty. Death penalty proponent Michelle Perkins went after the New Iberia Democrat…

Cut 7 (12) “…Louisiana.”

Landry is the former State Police superintendent and is a Vietnam vet.

Supporters of the bill weren’t just arguing against the morality of the death penalty, but also the extensive costs that go along with it. Death penalty opponent Jessica White cited research that shows the death penalty costs the state 15.4 million dollars a year…

Cut 8 (11) “…dollars.”

Wayne Guzzardo takes offense to argument about cost. Guzzardo’s daughter was gunned down in a 1995 robbery, and has expressed disappointment that the murderer’s sentence has not been carried out. He says the cost of the death penalty does not outweigh the value of justice…

Cut 9 (10) “…me.”
_______________________

US News & World Report has released its third annual ranking of the “Best States” and Louisiana is ranked last for the third year in a row. ULM Poli Sci Professor Joshua Stockley says many of the contributing factors boil down to widespread poverty in the state.

Cut 10 (11) “…criminal justice system.“.

Among the factors considered, Louisiana ranked last on crime, opportunity, and the environment. Louisiana’s highest ranking was in fiscal stability, where the state is ranked 43^rd. Stockley says the increased fiscal stability could positively impact other areas.

Cut 11 (13)“…educational rankings increase.”

When it comes to the election for Governor, Stockley says the findings will likely find value in Governor Edwards’ campaign, showcasing the progress the state has made, but his opponents could potentially use the data to their advantage as well.

Cut 12 (08)   “…be to do.”

_________________________

President Donald Trump told the seven-thousand workers at the 10-billion dollar Sempra Energy LNG facility in Cameron Parish that they are helping to make America the energy superpower of the world

Cut 13 (12) “…need anybody”

The President says once the Cameron LNG facility is fully operational it will export up to 15-million tons of liquefied natural gas every year. Mr. Trump took credit for helping this energy facility and others become a reality

Cut 14 (11) “…were under assault” 

Before leaving Cameron Parish, the president promised a major infrastructure upgrade in southwest Louisiana if he’s re-elected

Cut 15 (14) “…we want to be prepared”

Louisiana native Laine Hardy is on the door step of winning American Idol. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

____________________________

A federal judge conditionally dismisses a lawsuit filed by three Angola inmates who complained about excessive heat on death row. Matt Doyle has more……

cut 2 (28) I’m Matt Doyle”  

_____________________________________________

Senator Bill Cassidy has spoken with President Tump about his plan for ending surprise medical billing costs for patients. Louisiana’s Senior Senator says he’s working on legislation and regulations that would require hospitals to be upfront with the total cost of treatments…

Cut 3 (11) “…over it.”

Cassidy pinpointed the surprise that many patients face when they receive treatment supposedly is covered by their insurance and get stuck with a bill you might expect if you are uninsured.

Cut 4 (10) “…a bill” 

The Republican says he’s been inspired to take on his issue after repeatedly hearing about overcharging incidents from his constituents.

Cut 5 (11) “…their hand.”

_________________________________________________

A study in Louisiana looks for a connection between blood sugar levels early in life and mid-life brain health. The study is called the Bogalusa Heart Study and began in the 70s with about 200 child volunteers.  Co-principal investigator Dr. Owen Carmichael, with LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center, says now they will test those same volunteers now that they are in their 50s.

Cut 6 (11) “…is actually true.”

The research is the only study to collect assessments of the community members’ metabolic status from early childhood through midlife and is supported by a federal grant. Carmichael says the researchers will use MRI and PET scans to take measurements in the brain, looking for the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s.

Cut 7 (09) “…towards Alzheimer’s disease.”

A collection of scientists with LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Tulane University and Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center are working on the research.  Carmichael says these results could lead to new blood sugar management guidelines for children.

Cut 8 (10) “…tightly low level.”
_______________________

A case filed by Angola death row inmates that accused the facility of cruel and unusual punishment for it’s refusal to air condition their cells has been conditionally dismissed after the two sides came to an agreement.

Legal analyst Tim Meche says there will be no A/C, but the state has agreed to provide the inmates with “comfort” activities.

Cut 9 (11) “…water“.

Inmates say heat indexes exceeding 88 degrees triggered the case.

The state did not want to provide air conditioning to the inmates, and had disagreed with the inmates on what constitutes cruel and unusual punishment. Meche says the implications of this case are clear.

Cut 10 (11)“…humane.”

Meche says the state fought tooth and nail to keep from having to buy window units for the prisoners, wracking up over a million dollars in legal fees, and is likely now spending even more money on the remedial activities than they would have if they agreed to the initial demands…

Cut 11 (10)   “…this case.”

The dismissal could become final by November.

_________________________

A proposal to gradually return the state sales tax to four-percent, where it was for many years prior to the Edwards administration clears out of the House Ways and Means Committee. The current state sales tax rate is 4.45 percent, but Alexandria Representative Lance Harris says it’s helping to produce surpluses

Cut 12 (09) “…to them”

The state sales tax increased to five-percent in 2016 to to address a massive budget shortfall. It was lowered to 4.45 percent last year as part of a budget deal and Marksville Representative Robert Johnson is concerned Harris’ legislation will return the state to budget deficits…

Cut 13 (10) “…somewhat refreshing.”

According to Harris’ bill, the state sales tax would return to four percent in July 2023, it would start to gradually lower in July 2020, costing the state 87-million dollars in its first year of implementation. Harris says the state’s budget is growing and the average taxpayer is not seeing a benefit…

Cut 14 (07) “…on everything”

______________________

The average cost of being a new mom in Louisiana is cheaper than all but two other states in the nation. Connor Ferrill has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Connor Ferrill”

____________________________

Senator Kennedy is pushing to force the Social Security Administration to get more dead people off the rolls, to cut back on benefit fraud. Matt Doyle has more…

cut 2 (31) I’m Matt Doyle”  

_____________________________________________

According to research from Move.org, Louisiana is the third least expensive state to be a new mom. Move.org spokesperson Cosette Jarrett says their study factored the cost of childcare for the first year of a child’s life as well as the medical cost of delivery.

Cut 3 (10) “…in the nation.”

Only two other states have lower costs as Mississippi is the cheapest $11,364 and Alabama is second at $11,522.  Jarrett says the breakdown of the basic costs came down to two contributing price tags.

Cut 4 (12) “…is $5,747.” 

Jarrett says at $12,103, the combined Louisiana cost of childbirth and childcare is cheaper than daycare alone in DC, Massachusetts, New York and Connecticut.

Cut 5 (07) “…doing so much.”

_________________________________________________

Flash flood watches are in effect across Louisiana through Saturday as another two to four inches of rain is expected. Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness spokesperson Mike Steele says keep a close eye on the roads, and do not attempt to cross flooded streets…

Cut 6 (06) “…drown”

The same system has already caused localized flooding in the northwestern portions of the state, flooding the required rescue operations.

Steele says if at all possible, reschedule your plans for the next two days.

Cut 7 (07) “…the way.”

The Boot’s been getting pounded with severe weather events over the last few weeks, and Steele says after talking with meteorologists, it’s a pattern we could see continuing even after the rains stop late Saturday.

Cut 8 (09) “…future.”

_______________________

Senator John Kennedy is once again bringing legislation aimed at getting dead people off the social security rolls. The Republican says every year the federal government spends 144 billion dollars on improper payments, through Social security, Medicare, and other social programs.

Cut 9 (12) “…them“.

Kennedy says his legislation would address the long running issue by tackling the two biggest drivers of fraud, starting with Social Security’s list of deceased citizens…

Cut 10 (12)“…agencies.”

The Senator cited a case from last year in Louisiana where an instance of Social Security fraud by a relative cost the taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars…

Cut 11 (11)   “…cashing them.”

Six Democratic Senators have signed onto the legislation as well.

_________________________

House Ways and Means will hear a bill Monday that would repeal the .45 percent state sales tax levied in the last legislative session to plug a budget deficit. But Haughton Representative Dodie Horton says the nearly half-a-cent sales tax is producing a surplus..

Cut 12 (08) “…operate”

The bill is authored by Alexandria Representative Lance Harris.

The state sales tax was four percent for many years before Governor Edwards took office, and in his first year it jumped to five percent to cover a significant budget gap, before falling to 4.45 percent last year. But Horton says census figures show our population is declining…

Cut 13 (05) “…population.”

State census figures indicate the population fell by 10,840 residents between July 2017 and July 2018.

Removing that .45 percent sales tax would likely mean cuts to state services, but Horton says Louisiana needs to learn to live within it’s means.

Cut 14 (12) “…done that”

______________________

A New Orleans teenager allegedly shot a woman dead and injured her husband while attempting a car robbery last night. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

____________________________

Another tornado outbreak has hit Louisiana.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (31) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_____________________________________________

New Orleans Police say a teenager fatally shot a woman and injured her husband in an attempted car robbery in Mid City last night.  Police Chief Shaun Ferguson says the couple went outside of their home when their car alarm went off and  another suspect in a nearby getaway car shouted to the teen to start shooting…

Cut 3 (11) “…between the two.”

The woman was shot in the head, the man in the arm and the teen also suffered a gunshot wound.

Ferguson called the shooting a tragedy, but one that could have potentially been avoided if the homeowner had not attempted to confront the alleged shooter outside his house.

Cut 4 (10) “…is for.” 

A wounded 17-year-old Emanuel Pipkins reportedly was later apprehended at a local hospital, and is facing multiple charges.

The chief says he’s seen an uptick in juvenile crime in the city over the past few months, specifically car robberies. He calls on parents to keep a closer eye on their children, and everyone needs to help keep kids from entering into a life of crime.

Cut 5 (09) “…parents”

_________________________________________________

The House approved a 30-billion dollar budget. It contains money to give public school teachers a 12-hundred dollar raise. There’s a concern the raise is actually a one-time bonus. But House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says the pay raise will be permanent once the funding formula for public schools is approved…

Cut 6 (12) “…become permanent.”

The M-F-P is making its way through the legislative process. The spending plan does not contain the 39-million dollars in block grant funding that the governor and the state’s education board. Bogalusa Representative Malinda White raised her concern about the lack of additional funding for K-12 education

Cut 7 (06) “…put on them.”

The budget is a 300-million dollar increase over spending during the current fiscal year. Henry says additional dollars have been allocated to help the public…

Cut 8 (13) “…60 individuals.”

The budget heads to the Senate, where money will be shifted around, requiring House and Senate leaders reaching a compromise in the final days of the session.

_______________________

The state has been hit with another tornado outbreak.  Meteorologist Brandi Richardson says the National Weather Service Shreveport office has deployed tornado survey teams to Natchitoches, Caddo, and northern DeSoto Parishes.

Cut 9 (09) “…of next week“.

Richardson says in addition to tornado damage, there have been various road closures as flash flooding is a big concern.

Cut 10 (10)“…is so full.”

Rep. Jack McFarland says in Jackson Parish residents are dealing with the aftermath of what appears to be two different tornados.

Cut 11 (11)   “…on the home.”

Some roads are impassable due to fallen trees.  McFarland says about 20,000 residents were without power after storms passed through last night.

Cut 12 (10) “…without power again.”

No serious injuries have been reported.  Governor Edwards is scheduled to speak at the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office at 3:30. There’s also a tornado watch in effect until 6 PM in southeast Louisiana that covers Baton Rouge and the northshore.

____________________________________

State Police arrest a man following a 911 call claiming the suspect pointed an AR-15 style pellet rifle at another vehicle on I-10. Trooper Taylor Scrantz says they eventually caught up to 40-year-old Jason Jarreau of Baton Rouge and stopped his vehicle on I-10 near Bluebonnet Blvd. He was later booked on several charges.

Cut 13 (08) “…of the vehicle.”

Scrantz says they ask anyone who may have witnessed the activity to contact authorities. As far as a motive…

Cut 14 (10) “…rifle at someone”

Scrantz says Jarreau had an outstanding warrant.

Cut 15 (09) “…back in 2015.”

Much of Louisiana will see several inches of rain over the next few days raising the concern for potential flooding. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

____________________________

New polling indicates the Governor Edwards is in favorable standing with just over 5 months left until the election.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (30) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_____________________________________________

Forecasters expect several inches of rain to fall over Louisiana over the next few days and there’s also a chance for severe weather today and tomorrow. Matt Hemingway with the National Weather Service says rainfall totals are the highest south of I-20 and north of I-10

Cut 3 (10) “…time frame.”

A flash flood watch is in effect through seven AM tomorrow for northwest and north central Louisiana. Hemingway says rainfall totals for the next 12 to 24 hours range from two to four inches for Shreveport, Homer and Ruston…

Cut 4 (06) “…as well.” 

River flooding is a concern with all of this rain. The National Weather service says the Ouachita River at Monroe is expected to rise to Major flood category near 46 feet on Saturday. Flood stage is 44 feet.

Hemingway says damaging winds, large hail and isolated tornadoes are also possible for much of Louisiana over the next couple of days

Cut 5 (08) “…into Thursday”

_________________________________________________

A statewide poll funded by Harris, Deville & Associates indicates that Governor Edwards leads the October primary with 38% voter support, followed by Congressman Ralph Abraham with 23%, and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone has 7%.  32% of respondents are undecided. JMC Analytics pollster John Couvillon says results are favorable for Edwards.

Cut 6 (08) “…be a run-off.”

Support for Edwards rises to 40% in a run-off with Abraham who gets 36% with 24% undecided.  Edwards gets 41% in a run-off with Rispone who gets 28% with 31% undecided.  Couvillon says the individual percentages that the two Republican candidates are receiving are not yet relevant.

Cut 7 (08) “…against Governor Edwards.”

Couvillon says the low numbers for Rispone is not yet troubling, because he’s still building name recognition, but….

Cut 8 (06) “…to the voters.”

_______________________

The House unanimously approves legislation that would legalize industrial hemp, and regulate the sale of hemp based CBD. The state government has indicated that sales of CBD oils and tablets  are illegal in Louisiana. Gonzales Representative Clay Shexnayder says the bill legalizes those sales.

Cut 9 (08) “…products“.

Hemp CBD is not psychoactive.

Many Louisiana farmers are pushing the state to legalize the growing of  industrial hemp, which is allowed under the 2018 federal Farm Bill. Shexnayder says Hemp can grow almost anywhere, with minimal resources…

Cut 10 (09)“…of it”

Shreveport Representative Sam Jenkins says both of these products have created a new marketplace, and it’s time for Louisiana to jump in and compete.

Cut 11 (08)   “…our state.”

The bill heads to the Senate.

____________________________________

A House approved constitutional amendment stating there is no legal right to an abortion in Louisiana heads to the Senate floor. If it gets two-thirds approval by the Senate, the measure would share an October ballot with the gubernatorial primary. Monroe Representative Katrina Jackson says her legislation will allow voters to show the rest of the nation that Louisiana is the “number one pro-life state.”

Cut 12 (11) “…holistically.”

The measure would only have a practical effect if Roe vs. Wade were to be overturned in the US Supreme Court.

New Orleans Abortion Fund Outreach Manager Steffani Bangel spoke in opposition, saying the proposal’s passage would endanger the right for women to have control of their own bodies.

Cut 13 (13) “…freedom”

Opponents argue the wording of the measure does not cover protections in the case of rape, incest, or to save the mother’s life. Jackson disagrees, saying the legislature would still have the right to add any exceptions in a post-Roe world.

Supporter and Shreveport Senator John Milkovich says the constitutional amendment would blunt pro-choice lawsuit’s effectiveness at a state level.

Cut 14 (07) “…this term”