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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

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

cut 2 (29) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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

Cut 3 (10) “…move it forward”

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

Cut 4 (06) “…don’t you.” 

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

Cut 5 (10) “…the case”

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

Cut 6 (12) “…room for error.”

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

Cut 7 (10) “…from being killed.”

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

Cut 8 (10) “…life in prison”

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

Cut 9 (10) “…system currently works“.

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

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

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

Cut 10 (10) “…next week”

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

Cut 11 (08)   “…infrastructure.”

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

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

Cut 12 (10) “…to work.”

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

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

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

Cut 14 (05) “…the maximum sentence.”

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

Cut 15 (10) “…get lower sentences.”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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

Cut 4 (08) “…quality or educational.”

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

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

Cut 5 (09) “…3 hours a day.”

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

Cut 6 (12) “…they are older.”

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

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

Cut 7 (07) “…donations.”

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

Cut 8 (12) “…accordingly.”

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

Cut 9 (08) “…bank.″

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

Cut 10 (08) “…services.”

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

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

Cut 11 (08) “…new colony.”

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

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

Cut 12 (07) “…home”

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

Cut 13 (08) “…anywhere in the state.”

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

Cut 14 (09) “…definitely a benefit.”

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

Cut 15 (10) “…will have access.”

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

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

Cut 16  (14) “…lot of times” 

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

 cut 17 (12)   “succeed here” 

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

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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

Cut 3 (12) “…started crying”

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

Cut 4 (07) “ restoring homes” 

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

Cut 5 (10) “…houses”

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

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

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

Cut 6 (12) “…gunna fly”

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

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

Cut 7 (10) “…for it.”

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

Cut 8 (09) “…waiter”

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

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

Cut 9 (11) “…community as well“.

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

Cut 10 (08) “…rural Union Parish.”

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

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

Cut 11 (10)   “…if you will.”

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

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

Cut 12 (12) “…five.”

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

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

Cut 13 (09) “…contracts.”

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

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

Cut 14 (11) “together ”

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

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

cut 2 (33) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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

Cut 3 (12) “…gone”

Williams at least half of the city is without power.

Cut 4 (06) “  are gone” 

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

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

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

Cut 5 (14) “…as well”

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

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

Cut 6 (11) “…some of the parish”

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

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

Cut 7 (10) “…belt.”

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

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

Cut 8 (12) “…capacitors”

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

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

Cut 9 (11) “…interesting“.

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

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

Cut 10 (12) “…government to survive.”

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

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

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

Cut 11 (10)   “…experience has been.”

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

Cut 12 (08) “…want to help.”

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

Cut 13 (08) “…be able to.”

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

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

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

Cut 14 (12) “ fields”

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

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

Cut 15 (11) “…are safe.”

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

Cut 16 (11) “…traumatic”

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

 cut 17 (12)   “here” 

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

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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

cut 2 (32) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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

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

Cut 3 (10) “…happened”

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

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

Cut 4 (11) “  struck” 

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

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

Cut 5 (06) “…incident”

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

Cut 6 (09) “…work it out”

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

Cut 7 (05) “…either side.”

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

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

Cut 8 (07) “…we represent”

The measure heads to the Senate for more discussion.

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

Cut 9 (12) “…laughter.”

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

Cut 10 (12) “…across the ring.”

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

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

Cut 11 (09)   “…to broaden”

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

Cut 12 (12) “…the industry”

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

Cut 13 (08) “…for many”

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

Cut 14 (10) “ to decide”

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

Cut 15 (11) “…do that here.”

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

Cut 16 (07) “…choice issues”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

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

cut 2 (32) I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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

Cut 3 (12) “…for meat ”

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

Cut 4 (10) “     the violation” 

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

Cut 5 (10) “…labeling laws”

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

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

Cut 6 (09) “…everything else”

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

Cut 7 (08) “…our state.”

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

Cut 8 (12) “…gambling”

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

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

Cut 9 (09) “…this bill.”

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

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

Cut 10 (11) “…here.”

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

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

Cut 11 (09)   “…U.S border”

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

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

Cut 12 (11) “…in the mansion”

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

Cut 13 (09) “…enforce that”

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

Cut 14 (09) “ important thing”

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

Cut 15 (11) “…do that here.”

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

Cut 16 (11) “…get it done”

Should LSU promote a second place finish? A national sports reporter doesn’t think so. Jeff Palermo has more..

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Community college students are being given a pathway to a career in agriculture with a new program that lets them transfer two years of credits to LSU Ag. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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Law enforcement agencies participate this week in the “Buckle Up in Your Truck” campaign, an effort to get more drivers and passengers in pick up trucks to wear seat belts. Deputy Director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Dortha Cummins says pick up truck passengers are less compliant of seat belt laws

Cut 3 (06) “…a crash ”

Cummins says 89-percent of drivers and passengers in passenger vehicles follow the state’s seat belt laws, but the percentage drops to 81-percent for pickup truck drivers and passengers

Cut 4 (12) “      usage rate” 

Cummins says the Buckle Up in Trucks law enforcement campaign means state troopers, deputies and police officers will increase their efforts to make sure those in a pick up truck are buckled up…

Cut 5 (07) “…through awareness”

Pickup trucks make up a quarter of the vehicles on our roadways and Cummins says stats show men are more likely not to buckle up then women.

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A national reporter is criticizing LSU for a billboard that congratulates the school’s gymnastics team for finishing as national runner ups. Sports Business Reporter for the Action Network Darren Rovell appeared on ESPN Radio in Baton Rouge, Alexandria and New Orleans said  you shouldn’t celebrate a second place finish…

Cut 6 (08) “…to go”

Rovell tweeted on Sunday that a school should not put up a billboard for coming in second, which resulted in over one-thousand comments, many from LSU fans who disagreed. But Rovell would not back down from his tweet when he appeared on a morning show based out of Baton Rouge…

Cut 7 (07) “…of time.”

LSU sports information director Michael Bonnette tweeted back to Rovell and said the billboard recognizing LSU’s second place finish helps promote the brand. But Rovell says his message on the billboard would have said something different…

Cut 8 (10) “…runners up”

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The state hopes to get more students involved in the Ag industry by letting eligible two year college grads transfer directly to LSU’s College of Ag, and start as a junior. Louisiana Community and Technical College President Monty Sullivan says the 2+2 program will help get a wider range of skilled workers into the industry…

Cut 9 (11) “…a science.”

Students looking to make the jump to LSU Ag for their last two years need to have a 2.5 GPA, and an associate degree in certain fields of study.

Sullivan says while any student is eligible for the program, they’re hoping it’s influence more Louisianans with rural backgrounds to stick around their communities.

Cut 10 (12) “…economy.”

The LCTC President says 2+2 is an economical program that gets kids out of college in four years with a lower debt load and bright prospects for a high paying job in a vital field.

Cut 11 (09)   “…of college”

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A House committee approves legislation to create a Team Gleason specialty license plate in honor of former Saints star and now ALS advocate. New Orleans Representative Walt Leger says Gleason, who was diagnosed with A-L-S in 2011, says his work to help people with wheelchair bound disabilities is courageous

Cut 12 (12) “…devastating disease”

Gleason is set to receive the Congressional Gold Medal this year. Leger says Gleason’s fight against A-L-S has helped raise public awareness about the disease and the Team Gleason Foundation has also helped those who suffer from neuromuscular diseases or injuries

Cut 13 (11) “…independent lives”

The House Transportation committee gave the Team Gleason specialty license plate unanimous approval and Leger says if it becomes law, it can also help in the fight against A-L-S…

Cut 14 (11) “…they do”

A ten-million dollar proposal to exempt feminine products and diapers from the state sales tax will be heard in a Senate committee today. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Governor Edwards says if it reaches his desk, he would sign legislation concealing the identity of companies that sell the state lethal injection chemicals. Matt Doyle spoke to the bill’s sponsor…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Juniors and Seniors at public high schools may soon have the chance to take two college courses, free of charge starting next year.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Kathleen Blanco’s family wants the public to know the former governor is not as close to death as reports indicated last week when it was announced she was in hospice care. Advocate Reporter Tyler Bridges spoke with Blanco’s husband, Raymond Blanco, and he says his wife is still active despite her terminal cancer

Cut 4 (12) “…those visits.”

Bridges says Blanco can no longer walk, but is getting around with the help of an electric wheelchair

Cut 5 (11) “…going forward.”

Bridges says no one knows how many days the former governor has left, but she’s trying to live them to the fullest. She was first diagnosed with a rare eye cancer in 2011. Blanco announced in 2017 that the cancer had returned and Bridges says it appears she’s in the final stages of her battle

Cut 6 (07) “…her body.”

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A Senate Committee is set to hear a proposal today that would exempt feminine hygiene products and diapers from the state sales tax. Louisiana Budget Project Executive Director Jan Moller says the proposal would cost the state 10-million dollars in revenues, but that’s not a lot of money in a 30-billion dollar budget…

Cut 7 (11) “…relief.”

There’s two versions of the proposal, one a bill, and one an amendment that would require two thirds legislative support and over 50 percent of the vote on the October ballot. Moller says this legislation would help a lot of working class mothers.

Cut 8 (10) “…budget.”

An NPR report showed goods marketed to women can have as much as a 13 percent markup, known as the “Pink Tax”.

Moller says the precedent for the legislation is already there, as the state constitution exempts “necessities” like groceries, prescriptions, and utilities. Moller says ask any women or parent if these products are optional.

Cut 9 (07) “…by men.″

The legislation is being proposed by New Orleans Senator JP Morrell.

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Hammond Representative Nicky Muscarello has legislation that would conceal the identities of companies that sell lethal injection drugs or equipment to the state. Louisiana has not performed an execution since 2010, and Muscarello says a big reason why is drug companies fear retaliation from anti-death penalty consumers.

Cut 10 (11) “…them private.”

The legislation is similar to that which is in place in neighboring states like Arkansas and Texas.

The Tangipahoa Parish Republican says he was inspired by the testimonies of the families of victims who’s attackers are awaiting their final moments. Muscarello says those families were promised an execution, and this would help increase the odds of that happening.

Cut 11 (07) “…progress.”

Courts, tribunals, commissions, agencies and individuals would not have access to the information if this law were to pass.

Muscarello says the death penalty is law, and it’s the legislature’s responsibility to make the enforcement of law as feasible as possible.

Cut 12 (08) “…with that.”

Governor Edwards says he would sign the legislation if it were to reach his desk.

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A Senate Bill up consideration in the legislative session would allowing every junior and senior public high school students to take two college courses free of charge starting next school year.  It’s an effort that has the support of Gov. John Bel Edwards.  Higher Ed Commissioner Kim Hunter Reed says while Louisiana does offer dual enrollment, there isn’t universal access.

Cut 13 (10) “dual enrollment courses.”

Hunter Reed says the state Board of Regents is looking into ways to keep the students from having to foot the bill on dual enrollment classes following a fee-shaming study that was conducted last year.

Cut 14 (08) “…around dual enrollment.”

Hunter Reed says emphasizing the importance of college through easier access to dual enrollment is a message that needs to be given to students.

Cut 15 (10) “…is important.”

Only 23-percent of Louisiana high school students participated in dual enrollment in 2017-2018.

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After losing the series opener 16-9, the LSU Tigers roared back over the next two games to beat Florida 13-1 in Game two and then 11-2 in the rubber game on Saturday. Eric Walker was the winning pitcher in the series finale and had plenty of run support, as the Tigers scored nine runs over the first three innings. Coach Paul Mainieri is pleased with his team’s performance…

Cut 16  (13) “…we can play” 

For the series, LSU scored 33 runs. Antoine Duplantis had a career best nine hits over a three-game series. Mainieri says you need your best players to perform well in order to win…

 cut 17 (17)   “.contributing” 

Josh Smith also had a big weekend and finished off the series by hitting his sixth home run of the season and driving in four runs. The shortstop says the Tigers knew they had to step up after losing the series opener…

Baton Rouge native Scott Woodward is the new LSU athletics director, after spending the last four years leading the Texas A-and-M athletic department. Matt Doyle talked with a Lone Star State writer about what to expect…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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The latest data from the Louisiana survey shows how Louisiana residents feel about recreational marijuana and sports betting.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

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Baton Rouge boy Scott Woodward is coming home to take over LSU Athletics after a four-year run as Texas A&M’s Athletic Director. Woodward made a big splash in College Station by hiring football coach Jimbo Fisher and basketball coach Buzz Williams. Robert Cessna with AggieSports.com says he’s a real winner.

Cut 3 (10) “…everybody ”

Cessna also praised Woodward for his work on getting a softball stadium ready in time for the senior class.

LSU tried and failed to lure Fisher in 2015, but Woodward sealed the deal a year later with a ten-year, 75 million dollar deal. Woodward will be tasked with beating a school he just helped rebuild, but for now he’ll do it with a coach he didn’t hire…

Cut 4 (08) “…to beat”

The LSU/A&M rivalry has been heating up over the years, and last year exploded in a physical altercation between coaches at the end of a controversial Tiger loss to end the regular season. Cessna says get ready for an even more heated competition.

Cut 5 (11) “…other side”

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The latest data released from the Louisiana Survey shows majority support for both legalized sports betting as well as the legalization of recreational marijuana use.  LSU Public Policy Research Lab Director Dr. Mike Henderson says sports betting received support from 59% of residents while recreational marijuana received the approval of 55% of residents.

Cut 6 (08) “…social issues.”

Henderson says there is a big generational gap on recreational pot support.  A majority of support comes from younger residents.  80% of those ages 18-29 support the idea of legalization, but those 65 and older showed a 69% opposition.

Cut 7 (10) “…to the idea.”

Legislation to legalize sports betting in Louisiana is up for discussion in the session.  Governor Edwards has voiced his support for the activity.  Henderson says in addition to the latest data, there is a history of public opinion in the state that would indicate support.

Cut 8 (12) “…support for this”

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A tornado watch is in effect for this afternoon for much of south Louisiana, a portion of central Louisiana and delta parishes in northeast Louisiana. National Weather Service meteorologist Mike Efferson says the big concern is that the unstable atmosphere has the potential of producing strong tornadoes…

Cut 9 (08) “…part of the area”

A strong line of storms is making its way across Louisiana. Efferson says tornadoes are the biggest threat, but we can also see other forms of severe weather…

Cut 10 (08) “…pretty significant.”

Efferson says the area covered by the tornado watch is under an enhanced risk of severe weather…

Cut 11 (08)   “…means”

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Ground has been broken on the 450-million dollar Comite River Diversion project. It’s a 12 mile long canal running from the Comite to the Mississippi River, diverting water out of northern East Baton Rouge Parish waterways that present a flood risk for E-B-R and Livingston parishes. Central Mayor David Barrow says it’s long overdue.

Cut 12 (12) “…damage”

Locals have been paying taxes towards a diversion project since 1983, but the construction just kept getting pushed back as the state’s backlog of flood prevention initiatives grew larger and larger. Barrow says at least now there appears to be an end in sight.

Cut 13 (11) “…three years”

The canal would run between the town’s of Baker and Zachary.

But the Mayor was quick to note that even after it’s completed, it’s still possible the area could flood, it just likely will not be as devastating as the 2016 event.

Cut 14 (10) “…relief”

Construction is expected to be complete by 2021.

Another round of bad weather is hammering much of the state today.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

 Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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 A family advocacy group is bringing legislation that would guarantee Louisianans 12 weeks of paid parental, family emergency, or long term illness leave. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Thinking about getting a bunny or a chick as gift for someone this Easter? The Louisiana SPCA says you may want to reconsider. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Another round of bad weather is impacting Louisiana today, starting this morning. There’s an enhanced risk for severe weather in the forecast for East Carroll Parish all the way down to the Cameron Parish and all parishes east of that stretch. State Climatologist Barry Keim says expect strong thunderstorms.

Cut 4 (08) “…of Louisiana today.”

The storms will likely continue into the early evening hours.

Keim expects the front to clear the state by tomorrow morning. The rain potential is anywhere from one to two inches.

Cut 5 (05) “…careful with that.”

Once the front is out of the way, expect cool and dry weather starting Friday and continuing through the weekend.

Keim says this part of spring is notorious for severe weather as the atmosphere is very unstable this time of year.

Cut 6 (07) “…makes perfect sense.”

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A bill is being introduced that would guarantee all Louisianans 12 weeks of paid family or medical illness leave, along with legal protections against being fired while out. Berni Consulting partner Caitlin Berni says it would allow you to draw from a fund managed by the Workforce Commission, and paid into by you and your employer every paycheck.

Cut 7 (08) “employer”

The bill includes parental leave, leave to take care of a close relative who has fallen ill, and long term medical leave for events like chemo therapy in cancer patients.

Berni says the pot of leave money would grow overtime, and mechanisms would be put in place to cover expenses of young workers who need to take the leave before they’ve built up enough money to cover 12 weeks. Berni says the leave is transferable between jobs.

Cut 8 (10) “…four quarters.”

The leave pay would come directly from the fund, and not your employer while you were out.

Louisiana Families First is beginning a statewide effort to push support for the proposal. While it would functionally be an income tax increase of about about a quarter of a percent on most workers, she says 82 percent of those polled were on board.

Cut 9 (09) “…employee″

The bill is being brought by New Orleans Senator JP Morrell.

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For the last two years, more than 60 pet rabbits have been turned over to the Louisiana SPCA following the Easter holiday from owners with buyer’s remorse.  While rabbits can be great companion animals, Louisiana SPCA spokesperson Rebecca Melanson says many people do not realize the commitment of rabbit ownership.

Cut 10 (09) “…in your family.”

Melanson says each year, in addition to the hundreds of rabbits that are turned into shelters and some people even try release rabbits in the wild in an effort to relinquish ownership.

Cut 11 (05) “…from wild rabbits.”

Melanson says there are great alternatives to giving bunnies and baby chickens as gifts at Easter.

Cut 12 (07) “…for real chicks.”

The average rabbit lifespan is 10-12 years.

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Texas A&M Athletic Director Scott Woodward is reportedly set to take over as LSU’s new AD. Woodward has been in charge of Aggies athletics since 2016, but Glen Guilbeau, who covers LSU for the USA Today Network, says he’s a local boy who may have been itching to get back to his roots in the boot.

Cut 13 (06) “Louisiana.”

Woodward is leaving one of the richest programs in all of college athletics for an LSU that isn’t exactly known for it’s free spending, evidenced by the fact that current football coach Ed Orgeron is not one of the highest paid in the SEC. Guilbeau says this could be signaling a change.

Cut 14 (12) “…Scott.”

Woodward presided over the hiring of football coach Jimbo Fisher at A&M, a 10 year 75 million dollar contract.

This wraps up a wild week for the school that saw basketball coach Will Wade’s suspension lifted, and a long time AD axed. Guilbeau says Alleva was not a popular figure in the program, and it’s remarkable he stuck around for over ten years.

Cut 15 (09) “…he did.”

Nola.com reports the hire was made less than an hour after it was announced that former LSU AD Joe Alleva was set to “transition” into a new role at the school while his contract runs for another year.

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LSU is set to begin a three-game series tonight against Florida and there’s good news on the injury front. Coach Paul Mainieri says he’s shocked by it, but he’s been told Zack Hess, Zach Watson and Chris Reid could return from injury and play in this series…

Cut 16  (14) “…three weeks” 

LSU is not sure if Hess will start on the mound tonight, but could come in as a reliever. Hess has a groin injury and so is Watson. Mainieri says he’s not sure how effective Watson will be, but it would be great to get him back on the field…

 cut 17 (18)   “.got hurt” 

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Cut 18 (22)  of your life” 

Griffen doesn’t expect his conversation with Davis to be very complicated…

Cut 19 (11)    looks like” 

Griffen was the general manager of the Cavaliers when that franchise won their first championship in 2016. Griffen says Cleveland and San Antonio are excellent examples of how a small market city can be successful in the NBA…

Cut 20 (24) “…here for”