A record 119 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more during the year-end holidays. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Civil rights groups are urging school districts across the state not to post the Ten Commandments starting January 1st. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Louisiana Department of Education’s upcoming Teacher Exit Data Report says fewer Louisiana teachers are leaving the profession.  Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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AAA expects a record number 119-million travelers over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. That’s 3 million more travelers than last year. Don Redman with Triple-A says with Christmas falling on a Wednesday, peak travel is expected the weekends before and after the holiday.

Cut 4 (11) “…set in 2019.”

Nearly 90-percent of travelers will drive, drawn by the flexibility and affordability of road trips. Though gas prices are lower than last year, the total falls slightly short of 2019’s record. Redman says over 7-million passengers will fly, despite ticket prices being 4-percent higher domestically and 13-percent internationally. So, get there early.

Cut 5 (06) “…long security lines.” 

Redman says if you’re planning on leaving Sunday, you’ll be in good company.

Cut 6 (07) “…the better.”

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Civil rights organizations are urging school districts not to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms starting January 1st as required by a new state law. Alanah Odoms, the executive director of the ACLU of Louisiana, says Judge John DeGravelles (de-GRAVEL) was very clear in his ruling that the posting of the Ten Commandments in public schools is unconstitutional.

Cut 7 (15) “…going to go.”

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, however, ruled that DeGravelles’ injunction only applies to the five districts named in the lawsuit. The state has said it would defend any school district which gets sued over displaying the Ten Commandments. Odoms says the state is wasting taxpayer money in doing so.

Cut 8 (15) “…that it’s unconstitutional.”

Odoms is urging the state to follow its own advice until the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals hears oral arguments on January 23rd.

Cut 9 (13)  “…the school districts.”

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Fewer Louisiana teachers are leaving the profession. The Louisiana Department of Education’s upcoming Teacher Exit Data Report shows a two-percent drop in the number of teachers exiting their positions, with 13-percent leaving in 2023-2024 compared to 15-percent the previous year. LDOE Deputy Superintendent Jenna Chaisson (CHASS-on) says this marks the second consecutive year of decline.

Cut 10 (11) “…leaving the classroom.”

Chaisson emphasized the critical role teachers play in student success and the state’s commitment to supporting them. Initiatives include the “Let Teachers Teach” workgroup and stipends.

Cut 11 (06) “…at the state level.”

Chassion says these efforts aim to recruit and retain quality educators while addressing shortages in critical areas with differentiated compensation for different jobs.

Cut 12 (16) “…some shortages”

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Congress is now in an all-out game of Beat The Clock. If Congress does not reach a budget deal by midnight Eastern time tonight, the federal government will be shut down. New Orleans Democratic Congressman Troy Carter says he thought there was a bipartisan, bicameral deal – until one man who’s not even in Congress threw everything into turmoil.

Cut 13 (07)  “…vote for it.”

But Baton Rouge Republican Congressman Garret Graves says that’s not the complete story.

Cut 14 (09) “…to pass it.”

Carter says if there’s a shutdown, everyone from all walks of life will pay a dear price.

Cut 15 (14) “…for crop losses.”

Graves says the wrong people will be paying the price for a government shutdown.

Cut 16 (09) “…doing its job.”

Lawmakers worked well into the night last night and will work late again today, right up until midnight if necessary, to get a deal done. Graves says Congress is close to reaching one.

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Saints Coach Darren Rizzi has named rookie Spencer Rattler the starting quarterback for Monday’s game at Green Bay, but Rizzi is not closing the book on Derek Carr returning. Carr is trying to come back from a fractured non-throwing hand and reports of him missing the rest of the season are inaccurate…

Cut 17 (16)  “…on the field.” 

Rizzi sounded more pessimistic about Alvin Kamara. The star running back left last Sunday’s game in the fourth quarter with a groin injury. Rizzi says at first they thought the injury was minor, but further imaging has shown the injury is worse than originally thought…

Cut 18 (18)   “…what happens.”

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U-L Lafayette athletics director Bryan Maggard has fired Bob Marlin in the middle of his 15th season. The Cajuns made it to the NCAA Tournament in 2023, but this season they are 3-and-9. In a statement, Maggard said a change is necessary. Host of the Locked on Sun Belt Podcast, Dave Schultz, says there’s been an exodus in talent in Lafayette and they haven’t been able to replace it…

Cut 19 (19) “…those guys.”

Marlin was 269 and 198 during his time in Lafayette, but Schultz says fan interest in the program has declined…

Cut 20 (16) “…few years.”

Caddo and Bossier parish firefighters now have access to free cancer screenings through a new health initiative by Willis Knighton.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The CDC is continuing to monitor the first severe case of human bird flu in the U.S. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Firefighters from Caddo and Bossier parishes now have access to free annual physicals and cancer screenings through a new state law.  Willis Knighton is partnering with local fire districts and cities on the new health initiative. CEO Jaf Fielder says firefighters are 14-percent more likely to develop cancer because of their job than any other occupation.

Cut 3 (13) “…in the future.” 

This program benefits 1,500 active and retired firefighters, covering the $1,300 cost per participant through hospital donations. Fielder says the initiative aligns with a state law passed earlier this year requiring local governments to provide no-cost cancer screenings for full-time and retired firefighters, effective in 2025.

Cut 4 (07) “…our mission.”

Fielder emphasized the importance of addressing these hidden dangers firefighters face while serving their communities.

Cut 5 (12) “…our local communities.”

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The Louisiana National Guard is celebrating 30 years of its Youth Challenge Program. Lieutenant Colonel Kenny Paul says the Louisiana Guard’s Youth Challenge Program was among the first of its kind and one of the most successful.

Cut 6 (10) “…first initial ten.”

Lieutenant Colonel Paul says the program is an alternative education program for 16 to 18 year olds, emphasizing teamwork, discipline and personal development. 

Cut 7 (13) “…in that arena.”

Paul says in the three decades of the program, more than 28-thousand kids have graduated, many of whom have gone on to do great things.

Cut 8 (12) “…other state schools.”

The latest class of graduates, 118 of them, graduated in a ceremony last weekend.

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In the largest fentanyl bust in Livingston Parish history, four individuals were arrested, and over 100-thousand doses of fentanyl were seized following a multi-agency investigation. Sheriff Jason Ard says Tyrone Broadway was the ringleader of the drug trafficking operation and undercover agents made multiple purchases from his group, uncovering approximately 36-thousand pressed fentanyl pills.

Cut 9 (08)  “…very long time,”

Ard says search warrants were executed at residences in Livingston and Tangipahoa Parishes leading to the discovery of nearly 68-thousand additional pressed fentanyl pills, and 46 pounds of fentanyl…

Cut 10 (11) “…150-thousand people.”

Broadway, along with Eugene Skinner, Donald McCray, and Devonte Skinner, were arrested as a result of the investigation. Ard says he’s pleased these drug dealers are off the street.

Cut 11 (06) “…time in prison.”

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The CDC is continuing to monitor the first severe case of human bird flu in the U.S. Dr. Demetre Daskalakis with the CDC says bird flu has been around for many years, including human cases outside the U.S.

Cut 12 (13) “…50-percent of cases.”

Dr. Daskalakis says there’s something very unique about this case of human bird flu.

Cut 13 (12)  “…their related products.” (First case linked to a non-commercial backyard flock)

Daskalakis says the CDC is monitoring the condition of the patient, who’s from southwest Louisiana.

Cut 14 (10) “…the United States.”

Fallout has begun elsewhere in the United States, with California issuing a state of emergency.

Reading scores are up among the state’s youngest learners. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A National Council on Teacher Quality report says Louisiana teachers are less diverse than its population. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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An Opelousas man was arrested after fleeing a Youngsville mental health facility on foot, stealing a school bus and causing a four-vehicle crash in Lafayette on Sunday night. Lafayette PD Senior Corporal Ashley Wood says  26-year-old Marion Baker has been identified as the suspect.

Cut 3 (10) “…collision with four vehicles.” 

Lafayette P-D reports several individuals received moderate injuries as a result of the crash.

Wood says following the collision, Baker fled the scene and stole a truck from a bystander who had stopped to help.

Cut 4 (11) “…by law enforcement.”

Wood says Baker is currently being held without bail in Lafayette Parish Jail.

Cut 5 (09) “…as well as theft.”

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Students in kindergarten through third grade are improving their reading scores, thanks to a new focus on phonics-based literacy instruction. Dr. Jenna Chiasson (CHASS-on), the deputy superintendent at the State Department of Education, says those students improved their reading proficiency by more than two percentage points.

Cut 6 (09) “…level in literacy.”

Dr. Chiasson says several factors are contributing to the rise in reading proficiency among those children.

Cut 7 (12) “…Science of Reading.”

Dr. Chiasson says tutoring has also helped improve reading scores, with kids getting individualized instruction. She says better reading scores at the early levels will set those kids up for success later in their education and, in effect, later in life.

Cut 8 (14) “…are indeed working.”

Last year’s kindergarten class improved their reading scores by more than 20 points as first graders.

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Louisiana’s teacher workforce is significantly less diverse than its population of college-educated adults, according to a National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) report. Teach for America Executive Director Ge’ron Tatum says some of this is due to limited pathways and elimination of teacher prep programs.

Cut 9 (07)  “…teacher pay is inadequate,”

Louisiana teachers earn 5-thousayd-dollars less than the Southern regional average and 15-thousdand dollars below the national average, deterring people of color from entering or staying in the profession. Tatum stress that representation matters, as research shows teachers of color significantly benefit student outcomes.

Cut 10 (11) “…leads to great results.”

Tatum says to address this, strategies include recruiting from historically Black colleges, offering financial support to prospective teachers.

Cut 11 (15) “…entering the profession.”

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Three people are dead, including two children, as a result of a head-on collision between an SUV and a pickup truck on L-A 25 in Washington Parish. State Police Trooper Marc Gremillion says the adult who was killed has been identified as 42-year-old Tequilla Santee. Gremillion says the two children who died were 11 and three years old…

Cut 12 (10) “…deceased on the scene.”

The three people killed were in 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe and they were from Covington. Gremillion says a Chevy Silverado heading in the opposite direction struck the Tahoe head-on. The 18-year-old driver of the Silverado was critically injured and so were two other passengers in the Tahoe.

Cut 13 (07)  “…or speed.”

Senator John Kennedy wants to give teachers who spend their own money on school supplies a bigger tax break. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Crawfish lovers are hopeful for a better crawfish season this year.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The 2024 Prep Classic saw three teams from the Acadiana area win state championships. Jeanne (ZHAHN) Burns has more…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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Senator John Kennedy introduced a bill that would double the maximum that teachers can deduct from their taxable income for spending their own money on school supplies.

Cut 4 (15) “…to 600 dollars.”

Kennedy says teachers spending their own money on school supplies is unfortunately very common.

Cut 5 (10) “…their income tax.” 

Kennedy says it’s a shame that he would have to propose such a bill in the first place.

Cut 6 (12) “…an unlimited deduction.”

Kennedy says he introduced the bill mainly to get a head start on it. He acknowledges that there isn’t enough time in the current session to take it up, and he will not advance it this year. He says he will reintroduce it when the 119th Congress convenes next month.

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Crawfish farmers are expecting the 2025 mudbug season to be night and day from this year.  The historic drought of 2023 led to a delayed season with low supplies this year, but LSU AgCenter Crawfish Agent Todd Fontenot says recent rainfall should lead to a better 2025…

Cut 7 (12) “…normal like conditions.”

Fontenot reassures crawfish enthusiasts that the upcoming season is on track to recover. He attributes this optimism to improved conditions, including recent rains and a strong crop of young crawfish emerging from their burrows in recent months.

Cut 8 (08) “…into the ponds.”

Fontenot anticipates a robust harvest for 2025, with boiling spots beginning to open, allowing people to plan their crawfish boils for March, April, and May. This promising outlook should ease concerns among crawfish lovers eager to enjoy their seasonal delicacy after the challenges of the previous year.

Cut 9 (12)  “…they will grow.”

The LSU AgCenter remains hopeful that the improved environmental conditions will support a return to normal for the crawfish industry.

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Late last week, the Louisiana Department of Health detected the first possible human case of the highly pathogenic strain of Bird Flu. The state says the person lives in southwest Louisiana and is hospitalized. State Epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says while public risk is low, the risk is there.

Cut 10 (09) “…from infected cows.”

Sokol says the symptoms of bird flu are not unlike those for human flu.

Cut 11 (13) “…headaches, fatigue.”

But Sokol cautions that in order for it to be bird flu, the person must have come into contact with an infected animal such as a bird or a cow.

Cut 12 (10) “…not bird flu.”

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Whereas Friday’s action at the Prep Classic at the Superdome featured three riveting contests, the two games Saturday were blowouts. Both got so out of hand that they went to running clocks in the second half. In the Division One Select Championship, Edna Karr out of New Orleans beat Alexandria Senior High, 53-8. ASH coach Thomas Bachman says that one loss does not take away from the team’s accomplishments all season long.

Cut 13 (09)  “…proud of them.”

Edna Karr coach Brice Brown says the win speaks to the talent that kids from New Orleans have.

Cut 14 (21) “…but great academics.”

Later, in the Division One Non-Select title game, Central, out of Baton Rouge, annihilated Ruston, 42-0, denying Ruston its second straight state title in its third straight appearance in the Prep Classic. Ruston Head Coach Jerrod Baugh took responsibility for his team’s performance.

Cut 15 (19) “…out to be.”

Central won its second state title, the first coming in 1966. Central coach David Simoneaux said his team proved a lot of people wrong.

Cut 16 (20) “…close-knit group.”

Cecilia, Sterlington, South Plaquemines, Archbishop Shaw, Catholic New Iberia and Vermilion Catholic also won state championships.

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To boost NIL efforts at LSU, head football coach Brian Kelly announced the one-million dollar match challenge. Kelly says he and his wife will match up to one million dollars in new money donated through NIL for football. Tiger Rag magazine editor  Glenn Guilbeau says it’s refreshing to see Kelly put up his own money to boost NIL efforts with the football program.

Cut 17 (14)  “…his own money.” 

Guilbeau says one thing that may have motivated Kelly to put up his own money is better job security.

Cut 18 (13)   “…from getting fired.”

The one-million dollars from the Kellys will go to the Tiger Athletic Foundation A-D’s Excellence fund.

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The Saints fell one point short of pulling off a huge come-from-behind win over the Washington Commanders, but ended up losing 20 to 19. New Orleans trailed 17-zip in the third quarter, but the offense came alive when Spencer Rattler replaced Jake Haener at quarterback. Rattler threw a touchdown pass on the final play of regulation to get within one point. Coach Darren Rizzi decided to go for the win with a two-point conversion but they could not convert…

Cut 19 (15) “…right thing.”

Saints running back Alvin Kamara injured his groin and the fourth quarter and did not return. Haener started but only completed four passes and threw an interception. Rattler was 10 of 21 for 135 yards and a touchdown. Rizzi on why he made the change…

Cut 20 (17) “…first half.”

The Social Security Act is moving forward in the Senate. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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It’s a Christmas miracle…crawfish season has begun in Louisiana.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The Social Security Fairness Act will get a vote in the Senate, as the bill has been placed on the legislative calendar. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves, who sponsored the House bill, says Senator Chuck Schumer will be bringing it up for a vote as a standalone bill, and that’s the last hurdle before heading to President Biden’s desk.

Cut 3 (09) “…through the Senate.”

And Graves says as long as it’s brought up for a vote, getting it through the Senate is a mere formality.

Cut 4 (11) “…the president’s desk.”

Graves says while he’s been given assurance that a vote will be held before the end of the session, the exact date of the vote is still to be determined.

Cut 5 (16) “…mid next week.”

The Social Security Fairness Act would eliminate the Windfall Elimination Penalty and the Government Pension Offset, which have the effect of lowering Social Security benefits for public sector workers like teachers, police officers and firefighters. Graves says they’ve disproportionately affected Louisianians. The vote in the House was 327 to 75, with a majority of both Republicans and Democrats voting yes.

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It’s December, but crawfish season is already underway, even as holiday decorations remain. Laney King, co-founder of The Crawfish App, explains that while last year’s season was delayed three months due to a drought, it’s not unusual to see crawfish vendors operating around the holidays.

Cut 6 (08) “…early as Thanksgiving.”

King says the Crawfish App helps users find local vendors, sorted by the lowest price per pound, making it a convenient tool for seafood enthusiasts.

Cut 7 (12) “…not a huge supply.”

While the timing may seem unusual to some, King emphasizes that an early crawfish season is not out of the ordinary in Louisiana.  This year, vendors are off to a strong start, with many offering live and boiled crawfish.

Cut 8 (14) “…crawfish for Christmas.”

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The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is asking deer hunters to be on the lookout for deer exhibiting signs of chronic wasting disease. This, as a deer at a captive deer farm in Jeff Davis Parish tested positive for the disease last month.

Cut 9 (10)  “…been detected there,”

Johnathan Bordelon, the deer program manager at the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, says chronic wasting disease is 100-percent fatal and is highly transmissible.

Cut 10 (07) “…to other deer.”

Bordelon says deer which are infected with chronic wasting disease undergo changes in behavior.

Cut 11 (12) “…test the animals”

Therefore, Bordelon says if people encounter a deer exhibiting signs of chronic wasting disease, they should not take matters into their own hands. They should contact the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and let them handle it.

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Hank Tierney believed his coaching days ended in December 2021 after Ponchatoula’s loss in the Class 5A state final at the Superdome. Planning to retire, he instead became Shaw High School’s head coach by January. Now in his third season back at Shaw, Tierney leads the 11-2 Eagles to the E.D. White Division II state final.

Cut 12 (10) “…everyone involved.”

Under Tierney, Shaw’s program doubled its roster, claiming district titles, and producing talented athletes like RB Jasper Parker, who committed to Michigan.

Cut 13 (12)  “…good player.”

A coaching legend with 330 wins across 37 seasons, Tierney’s career spans his first Shaw tenure from1982-2001, a state title in 1987. Tierney says a second state title would mean a lot to the school and the community.

Cut 14 (13) “…that will do.”

Small Business optimism is the highest it’s been since June 2021. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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With the holiday season here, make sure you protect yourself from potentially deadly illnesses. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Optimism is the highest it’s been for small business owners since June 2021. That’s according to the latest national survey of small business owners. NFIB State Director Leah Long says the results of the Presidential election signal a major shift in economic policy…

Cut 3 (13) “…small business owners” 

Long says positive changes made here in Louisiana are lowering the personal income tax to 3-percent, and no longer have to pay an inventory tax are great news for small businesses, and says reform was a move in the right direction.

Cut 4 (07) “…in general.”

Challenges persist, as some owners reported unfilled job openings, and inflation remains the top concern.

Cut 5 (11) “…of how high inflation is.”

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The holiday season is here; and with that, there will be many celebration gatherings. The holiday season is usually the time when flu and COVID-19 cases tick up. Dr. Gabrielle Givens with St. Tammany Hospital says the very best way you can protect yourself is getting vaccinated.

Cut 6 (11) “…or influenza vaccines.”

Dr. Givens says the vaccines are in abundant supply and have been updated for this winter.

Cut 7 (08) “…influenza or COVID-19.”

Givens says while neither the flu nor the COVID-19 vaccine can prevent someone from contracting either virus, they can minimize symptoms and complications.

Cut 8 (07) “…case scenario, death.”

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It’s Prep Classic week as 16 high school football teams will play for state championships in the Caesars Superdome starting on Thursday. The division four select title game kicks-off the Prep Classic at noon and Vermilion Catholic head coach Broc Prejean (PRAY-ZHAWN) is hoping to lead the school to its third title…

Cut 9 (11)  “…home for,”

Vermilion Catholic will face Ouachita Christian at noon Thursday. It’s a rematch of the 2022 state title game that saw O-C-S win 28-14. V-C is led by quarterback Jonathan Dartez who set a state record for total touchdowns for a career in last week’s shutout win over Kentwood. The four-year starter wants to cap his high school career with a championship…

Cut 10 (11) “…blessed to be back.”

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Franklinton will play for a state championship on Friday night when they face Cecilia. The Demons are seeking their first state title since 2010 and the second in history. Demons head coach Nick Saltaformaggio says he has the best kept secret in Louisiana, his starting quarterback Jacob Crain who has thrown for 24 touchdowns..

Cut 11 (13) “…really really talented.

The Demons also have a running back in Sy Austin that’s rushed for nearly two-thousands and has 28 touchdowns on the season. Saltaformaggio says Austin has gotten stronger since he arrived as the head coach at the Washington Parish school in 2023…

Cut 12 (10) “…offensive line.”

The Division two non-select state title game between Franklinton and Cecilia is at 7 PM.

Parts of the state were under a cold weather advisory Friday morning. Andrew Greenstein explains what that means…

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Saturday is Election Day in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo recaps the four amendments that all voters will be deciding.

Cut 2 (32) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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With Old Man Winter bearing down on Louisiana, there’s some new terminology from the National Weather Service to get used to.

Cut 3 (08) “…wind chill warnings.” 

Danielle Manning, the lead meteorologist at the National Weather Service in New Orleans, says that’s all changed. Now, the service issues “cold weather advisories” and “extreme cold warnings.” Manning says the thresholds depend on where in the state you’re at.

Cut 4 (14) “…the northern area.”

Manning says they made the change, because people didn’t care whether it was the temperature or the wind chill factor that’s causing conditions to be brutally cold outside.

Cut 5 (06) “…you go outside.”

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The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office has broken ground on a three-million dollar training facility designed to benefit law enforcement agencies across Louisiana.  Major Ginny Higgins says the facility will provide critical training—much of it at no cost—for agencies that cannot afford similar resources.

Cut 6 (11) “…that will be there.”

Higgins highlighted the regional impact, stating the facility would not only enhance law enforcement capabilities in Acadiana but also strengthen community and inter-agency collaboration. “It’s good for the community and for other agencies to come here and learn,” he said.

Cut 7 (07) “…things like that.”

Higgins says its crucial for law enforcement to be well rounded and this facility aims to train all aspects of law enforcement.

Cut 8 (12) “…really exciting.”

The facility is set to open next October.

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A 30-year-old Lafayette man is facing charges for killing a black bear in Concordia Parish. Wildlife and Fisheries Lt. Chad Watts says over the Thanksgiving weekend Christopher Buck, a convicted felon, was booked into jail because he was in possession of a shotgun on the Richard Yancey Wildlife Management Area. Last Sunday a dead black bear was found at that same W-M-A, so investigators went back and spoke to Buck

Cut 9 (08)  “…black bear”

Watts says Buck told agents he thought he shot a pig, but investigators didn’t buy that story…

Cut 10 (08) “…he thought it was a pig.”

Watts says the bear was shot in buckshot, which was a critical piece of evidence in their investigation…

Cut 11 (11) “…containing buckshot.”

Taking a bear during a closed season carries up to a 950-dollar fine and up to 120 days in jail. Buck faces several years in prison because he was a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Sgt. Cole Cupit and agent Andrew Lemoine were also involved in the investigation. LDWF Veterinarian Rusty Berry performed the necropsy on the bear.

The first legal black bear season in Louisiana since 1987 begins Saturday and runs through December 22nd. Only ten hunters have been awarded tags and each hunter can only harvest one bear.

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Tomorrow is Election Day in Louisiana, and every voter in the state will be deciding on four constitutional amendments. Amendment 1 would increase the number of people on the state Judiciary Commissions from nine to 14. Public Affairs Research Council president Steven Procopio says the purpose is to speed up investigations of judges.

Cut 12 (07) “…citizens on there.”

Procopio says the argument against is that it would politicize the process, with the five additional members being appointed by the legislature – two each by the House and Senate and one by the governor.

Cut 13 (05)  “…at the case.”

Amendment 2 would require a 48-hour waiting period before the legislature can vote on budget-related bills. Amendment 3 would allow for up to three, two-day extensions of the session to finish budget work. And Amendment 4, which Procopio says is the most complex of them all, would establish a tax lien system for delinquent properties, in which investors would only be purchasing the debt and not the property itself. Procopio says it would take many aspects out of the constitution and into statute.

Cut 14 (12) “…be against this.”

Two of the four amendments on Saturday’s ballot have to do with passing budgets in the legislature. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU Coach Brian Kelly says National Signing Day felt more like Tax Day instead as money is becoming more of a factor in getting players to sign with a school. Sean Richardson has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “….I’m Sean Richardson” 

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Two of the amendments you’ll be voting on on Saturday have to do with passing budgets in the legislature. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala (BAH-ka-lah) authored amendments 2 and 3. Amendment 2 would require a 48-hour waiting period before voting on budget-related legislation. Bacala says a situation arose in the 2023 regular session that prompted this amendment.

Cut 3 (09) “…even review them.” 

Amendment 3 would allow a session to be extended by two days to finish work on the budget if necessary, and it would permit up to three such extensions. Bacala says under the current law, failing to pass a budget bill on time would trigger a lengthy – and costly – special session.

Cut 4 (10) “…as we could.”

Bacala says the two amendments are designed to work hand-in-hand.

Cut 5 (05) “…both passed together.”

The legislature passed both amendments nearly unanimously, clearing the way for their placement on the ballot.

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Republican Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming announced his 2026 U.S. Senate candidacy, challenging incumbent Sen. Bill Cassidy. Fleming, a former naval officer and senior Trump advisor, emphasized his dedication to America First principles, highlighting his service in Trump’s administration. ULM Political Science Professor Dr. Pearson Cross says it will be an interesting race.

Cut 6 (12) “…come after him.”

Fleming, who served as a U.S. Representative from 2009 to 2017 and co-founded the House Freedom Caucus, criticized Cassidy for voting to convict Trump during his impeachment trial, arguing Cassidy betrayed Louisiana conservatives. Cross says its likely Flemmings has gotten assurances Trump will endorse Flemming…

Cut 7 (05) “…consider him loyal.”

Congressman Clay Higgins may be another challenger to Cassidy for his Senate seat in 2026. Cross suggests Trump’s endorsement will likely determine the race’s outcome among Republican contenders.

Cut 8 (05) “…Clay Higgins.”

Cassidy’s spokesperson questioned Fleming’s motives, citing his brief tenure as state treasurer and alleging his eagerness to leave Louisiana for Washington.

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LSU football coach Brian Kelly sounded off on the NIL landscape that’s dominating recruiting. The veteran head coach says recruiting used about relationships, now it’s about the dollars…

Cut 9 (07)  “…live in”

The Tigers signed 23 players to start the early signing period. Recruiting services rank LSU’s class anywhere between sixth and eighth. Kelly is pleased with the class he brought in, but it will take more financial support from Tiger fans to remain competitive…

Cut 10 (08) “…one or two guys.”

LSU lost out on a few elite prospects in the final two weeks leading up to the early signing period. LSU can make up for those losses by signing players out of the transfer portal, but again it will take money….

Cut 11 (12) “…live in.”

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Governor Landry signs the tax reform bill this afternoon in a ceremony at the Capitol. Standing before lawmakers, Landry said passing the complex was a true team effort.

Cut 12 (15) “…our job creators.”

The package that Landry signed includes an across-the-board tax cut to a flat three-percent and the elimination of the corporate franchise tax. Landry says this tax reform package is the dawn of a new era.

Cut 13 (11)  “…pro-business environment.”

Landry says thanks to this overhaul of the tax code, Louisiana can now bridge the gap with neighboring states and keep its home-grown talent here.

Cut 14 (10) “…it’s frustrated us.”

Landry, however, did not get the broadening of the sales tax base he had been seeking. Instead, the tax package calls for an increase in the state sales tax rate to five-percent.

LSU signs some big names on this, the first day of the early signing period. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Governor Jeff Landry announces 10-billion dollar investment of a Meta AI Data Center coming to Richland Parish.  Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 2 (34) “….I’m Colleen Crain” 

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Outgoing Louisiana Congressman Garret Graves’ name has surfaced as a possible choice to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Graves says he has spoken to Donald Trump’s transition team about various positions with the new administration, but FEMA director is not one he’s excited about…

Cut 3 (08) “…that position.” 

Graves believes for FEMA to be effective in responding to disasters, it needs to be cabinet level agency and not tucked inside the U-S Department of Homeland Security…

Cut 4 (08) “…of community.”

Graves is in his final days as a U-S Representative for Louisiana’s Sixth Congressional District. The Baton Rouge Republican was also rumored candidate for U-S Transportation Secretary. But former Wisconsin Congressman and Fox Business Host Sean Duffy is Trump’s nominee.

Graves says he’s not a fan of FEMA’s structure and wanted to see Trump implement reforms in his first term

Cut 5 (12) “…Homeland Security.”

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It’s national signing day and LSU has signed the top two running backs in the state. Zach Nagy, the publisher of LSU Tigers on S-I, says the top one is Harlem Berry from St. Martin’s High School in Metairie, whom he calls the best running back LSU has signed since Leonard Fournette.

Cut 6 (10) “…down the field.”

Nagy says LSU also signed the number-two running back in the state – J.T. Lindsey from Alexandria Senior High School, who he says has blossomed in his senior season.

Cut 7 (11) “…for that program.”

On the defensive side, LSU signed Aiden Anding of Ruston High School, the top cornerback and the number-13 player overall in the state.

Cut 8 (15) “…like Aidan Anding.”

When all is said and done, LSU is expected to have a top ten recruiting class.

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Central Intermediate School’s assembly transformed into a milestone celebration as Ashley Davis, a fourth-grade math teacher, was awarded the 3,000th Milken Educator Award. Founder Lowell Milken presented Davis with the prestigious honor and an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize, praising her dedication to raising academic achievement and fostering a love for learning.

Cut 9 (08)  “…wait what?”

Her creative approaches, like “Lemonade Day,” integrate real-world applications, fostering both academic and social-emotional growth.  Davis has significantly influenced Central Intermediate’s inclusion model, creating a supportive environment for general and special education students to thrive.

Cut 10 (15) “…it doesn’t matter.”

Beyond the classroom, Davis mentors fellow teachers, leads professional learning communities, and serves on the Instructional Leadership Team. Davis also actively supports her community by coaching youth sports.

Cut 11 (13) “…form of teaching.”

Davis, the first recipient in Central Community School System and 51st in Louisiana, joins the national Milken Educator Network, celebrating exceptional teaching and leadership.

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Governor Jeff Landry has announced a Meta, the operator of Facebook and Instagram, will invest $10 billion  dollars to build an Artificial Intelligence Optimized Data Center in Richland Parish near Rayville. Landry says the project is expected to result in 500 or more direct jobs and more than one-thousand indirect jobs, plus thousands of construction jobs.

Cut 12 (10) “…technology and innovation.”

Landry says this is investment is a game changer for Louisiana…

Cut 13 (14)  “…Louisiana’s landscape.”

Landry says this facility is the largest of more than 20 Meta Data centers…

Cut 14 (08) “…our state.”

Construction begins immediately and Entergy will meet add clean, power efficient power plants to its system to meet growing power demands.

Four years after an investigative report uncovered serious allegations against LSU’s Title Nine office, a new report suggests that little has been done about it. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU football has lost a five-star commitment on the eve of national signing day. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (33) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Four years ago, in the wake of an explosive investigative report by USA Today, LSU promised to make improvements to its Title Nine office. However, a new report by the Louisiana Illuminator says there’s been little to no progress. Piper Hutchinson is conducting the investigation for the Illuminator in conjunction with Tiger Rag Magazine. She says employees within the office are alleging a hostile work environment, which is causing a slowdown in Title Nine complaints.

Cut 3 (11) “…office right now.”

Hutchinson notes that universities in general, not just LSU, receive a fair number of Title Nine complaints. Among the complaints at LSU is one in which a professor who allegedly covered up sexual assault allegations against a graduate assistant.

Cut 4 (11) “…to these abuses.”

Hutchinson says among the Title Nine complaints at LSU involved the Title Nine office itself.

Cut 5 (11) “…Department of Education.”

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Today the state is breaking ground on the Maurepas Swamp Project in St. John the Baptist Parish.  A freshwater divergence that will reconnect the Mississippi River to Maurepas Swamp.   Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana Communication Director James Karst says CRCL is also working in conjunction with the state…

Cut 6 (09) “…in the swamp.”

River reintroduction involves redirecting fresh water and sediments from the Mississippi River into the swamp via engineered channels. This process replenishes nutrients, improves water quality, and mitigates subsidence by restoring natural sediment deposition. Karst says the reintroduction aims to counteract decades of wetland loss and create a healthier environment for native species.

Cut 7 (11) “…very long time.”

Volunteers and environmental groups will plant bald cypress and water tupelo trees, species essential for stabilizing the ecosystem and providing resilience against hurricanes and flooding. Karst says these trees also enhance carbon sequestration and support diverse wildlife habitats.

Cut 8 (11) “…swamp land again.”

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Former Catholic priest and admitted serial child molester, pleaded guilty to kidnapping and raping a boy in the 1970s.  93-year-old Lawrence Hecker’s plea is a rare conviction linked to the Catholic Church’s long-standing abuse scandal. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams says Hecker plead guilty to every count…

Cut 9 (05)  “…to a life sentence.”

Williams says Hecker’s victim, who was assaulted in a church bell tower converted into a weightlifting room, had reported the attack to his school principal, who failed to inform authorities.

Cut 10 (14) “…predator to run.”

Hecker’s guilty plea was welcomed by survivors prepared to testify about decades of abuse. Williams described the plea as significant for survivors seeking justice.

Cut 11 (13) “…hurt other people.”

Investigations have expanded into whether the archdiocese concealed systemic abuse. No senior clergy have been charged in connection with Hecker’s crimes.