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”

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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”  

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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”

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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”  

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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”  

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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”

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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”

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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”  

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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”

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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”

President Trump is scheduled to tour Sempra’s Cameron LNG Export Facility next Tuesday, highlighting energy-related job growth during his third trip to Louisiana since taking office.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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 Legislation that would allow increase the number of hours a minor can work without receiving a break stalled out on the House floor after a heated debate. Matt Doyle has sound from both sides…

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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President Trump is scheduled to visit Louisiana next Tuesday to highlight job growth of the energy sector in Cameron Parish as he’ll tour Sempra Energy’s 10-billion dollar liquefied natural gas export facility. Cameron Parish Assistant Administrator Darrell Williams says they are elated for the visit.

Cut 3 (06) “…places to visit.”

Williams says since the Trump took office, the energy industry has grown in the parish with businesses like Sempra Energy

Cut 4 (09) “…in Cameron Parish.” 

Williams says the latest jobs numbers in the parish have reflected positively upon the LNG industry.

Cut 5 (09) “…in Cameron Parish.”

President Trump will also visit New Orleans for a fundraiser following his time in Cameron Parish. This is his third trip to the bayou state since taking office.

_________________________________________________

A bill that would up the amount of time a minor has to work before getting a break from five hours to eight hours has stalled in the House after a heated argument on the lower chamber floor.

Tensions built up from other labor bills spilled over into this debate, as the premise shocked lawmakers like New Orleans Representative Gary Carter.

Cut 6 (10) “…break”

Bill writer, Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews, says the legislation would improve adolescent employment opportunities, as service industry jobs often require six or more hour shifts. He added that teens aren’t forced to work at these businesses…

Cut 7 (10) “…opportunity.”

Houma Representative Beryl Amedee supported the legislation, adding that neighboring Texas and Mississippi have similar laws.

Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle says the legislation would endanger teen’s education, and it’s unfair to push them to work seven and a half hours straight while paying them 7.25 an hour. Crews countered saying teenagers have not proven their worth yet, leading to this confrontation…

Cut 8 (12) “…which one”

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CenLA Law enforcement believe there are women out there who was held captive by a man identified as 56-year-old Justin Walters of Colfax. Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain says Walters is behind bars, accused of physically restraining three women, beating them for days and raping at least one of the victims…

Cut 9 (07) “…sexually abused“.

McCain says the suspect used social media to start a relationship with his victims…

Cut 10 (11) “…victims”

McCain says Walters moved to Grant Parish in 2014 from Rapides and has extensive criminal history that started in 2010. The sheriff believes there are more victims out there and encourages them to come forward

Cut 11 (12)   “…behind bars.”

Anyone with information should call (318) 627-2017.

____________________________________

One day after the Senate rejected legislation to abolish the death penalty, the House Governmental Affairs Committee approved a bill that would allow the state to keep it a secret on where they purchase lethal drugs to carry out an execution. Alison McCrary, a nun for the Sisters for Christian Community spoke in opposition

Cut 12 (09) “…human being.”

Louisiana has not carried out an execution since 2010 and a major stumbling block is the state’s inability to acquire the drugs needed to perform a lethal injection, because pharmaceutical companies do not want to be associated with it. Covington Representative Mark Wright is in favor of the secrecy bill, because he says the death penalty can be used to deter crime

Cut 13 (12) “…rampage”

Opponents argue it’s wrong for the state to keep drugs used in a lethal injection a secret. Scott Sternberg with the Louisiana Press Association says Louisiana should be transparent when it carries out an execution

Cut 14 (06) “…constitution”

After a lengthy discussion, Haughton Representative Dodie Horton was ready to send the bill to the House floor

Cut 15 (12) “…bill favorably.”

It passed on an 8-2 vote. It now faces more discussion on the House floor. It’s also been approved by House Criminal Justice.

The Appropriations Committee sends a budget to the House floor that contains money for teacher pay raises, but it doesn’t have additional dollars for public schools. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

____________________________

Debate has begun in the legislature about whether or not the state should invest hundreds of millions into renovating the Superdome. Matt Doyle has more…

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Today marks the 12 year anniversary of one of the longest, continually active criminal cases in the State Fire Marshal Office’s history.  In 2007 a Ruston home fire that resulted in the death of 25 year old Ronia Washington was determined to be arson and her death a homicide.  Fire Marshall Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says it has been a multi-agency investigation for years.

Cut 3 (12) “…to an arrest.”

Rodrigue says the family is offering a $25,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.

Cut 4 (09) “…line after that.” 

Rodrigue says over the years, people have had information, but they were afraid to say something.

Cut 5 (08) “…than their fear.”

_________________________________________________

The House Appropriations Committee approves a 30-billion dollar budget for next fiscal year that contains funding for a teacher pay raise that’s more than the governor’s proposed one-thousand dollar pay hike. Metairie Representative Cameron Henry says the state can do better than a one-thousand dollar raise…

Cut 6 (10) “…500 or 600”

Henry’s proposed budget does not include an additional 39-million dollars for school districts, which is funding that the governor wants to see included. New Orleans Representative Walt Leger says local school leaders say the extra money can go towards school supplies and teacher retirement costs…

Cut 7 (11) “…with it.”

Henry says school districts are receiving a lot of money, while teachers are underpaid…

Cut 8 (14) “…Southern average”

The full House is set to vote on the budget Thursday.

_______________________

The Superdome is hoping to complete a 450 million dollar renovation before the 2024 Superbowl, but questions abound about whos going to pay for it, and that sparked an animated discussion in Senate Finance today.

LSED Commissioner Hillary Landry says the renovation will spur more intrastate commerce.

Cut 9 (11) “…incalculable“.

But Metairie Senator Conrad Appel says a strong majority of economists agree that providing state and local subsidies to build stadiums for professional sports teams costs taxpayers more than any economic benefits that are generated. Appel says there’s better ways to spend a few hundred million dollars.

Cut 10 (12) “…Superdome”

The Saints have agreed to pay for a third of the cost of the renovation.

Baton Rouge Senator Bodi White says there’s just not enough information available right now to make an informed decision about whether or not the state should fork over the cash for this sought-after renovation.

Cut 11 (10)   “…back.”

New Orleans Senator Wesley Bishop, whose district includes the Superdome, says lawmakers from outside of the Crescent City may be undervaluing just how important the structure is.

Cut 12 (13) “…city.”

The debate over financing will likely take shape in full before the next legislative session.

_____________________

Governor John Bel Edwards and New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell announce a funding deal that will provide the city with 67.5 million dollars up front to fix streets and the drainage system.  Edwards says the agreement also calls for 26-million dollars in annual recurring funding…

Cut 13 (12) “…infrastructure”

For the agreement to be finalized, the legislature will need to approve three pieces of legislation. One of the bills would place a one-percent tax on hotel room rentals and another calls for nearly a seven-percent tax on short-term housing rentals.

The announcement of the deal comes after a 114-year-old water main busted, flooding roads and closing schools…

Cut 14 (06) “…essence”

Mayor Cantrell says this is a historic day for her city…

Cut 15 (10) “…absolutely great.”

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”

______________________________

 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”  

_______________________________________________

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”

__________________________________

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.”

_____________________

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.

__________________________________

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.

______________________________________

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.” 

_____________________________________________

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”

____________________________

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”  

_____________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________

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”

_______________________

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.”

______________________

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.