Governor John Bel Edwards spoke at the commencement ceremony for the graduating LSU class of 2017. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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According to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey, Mother’s Day spending is expected to reach an all-time high. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A 35-year-old man is facing three counts of attempted first degree murder after shooting at law enforcement during a standoff in Avoyelles Parish yesterday. State Trooper Scott Moreau says Brandon Carpenter of Elizabeth barricaded himself inside a residence in Moreauville and during negotiations, Carpenter fired at officers

Cut 3 (12) “flying debris”

The Trooper and the Marksville Police Officers were transported to a local hospital where they received treatment for non-life threatening injuries. Moreau says Carpenter was taken into custody just before 7:30 on Thursday night….

Cut 4  (12) “maybe likely”

KALB-TV reports that Carpeneter is an Army veteran who suffers from PTSD. He reportedly had a warrant for domestic abuse battery and Moreau says police officers began to pusue Carpenter, which led to the standoff…

Cut 5  (09)  “LA 114”

The trooper shot has been identified as 26-year-old Nick Ducote. Ducote has been with LSP for over two years and is expected to make a full recovery.  

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Waitr is growing its presence in Lafayette, as the fast growing food delivery app is opening its own permanent facility. Waitr CEO Chris Meaux says moving into their own facility will create new jobs in the Lafayette area.

Cut 6 (12) “400 employees”

The app launched in 2015 in Lake Charles and now the company operates over 20 cities in five states and employing more than 1,200 people nationwide. Meaux says when they opened its initial Lafayette site at the Opportunity Machine, supported by the Lafayette Economic Development Authority, it allowed them to focus on their growth without worrying about the details.

Cut 7 (10)  “a startup”

The app also provides food delivery service in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and New Orleans. Meaux says he never thought he could start and build a technology company in Louisiana. He says Opportunity Machine enabled him to pursue his dream of starting this company in his home state, without having to relocate to Silicon Valley.

Cut 8 (09) “in technology”

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Governor John Bel Edwards gave the commencement address at LSU today, as the school is handing out a record 4,163 degrees. Edwards says this class also sets records for diversity.

Cut 9 (11)  “47 states” 

Edwards says it’s great of an honor it is to stand before the class of 2017 as the governor of Louisiana, but he had his eyes on another job…

Cut 10 (09) “Orgeron”

The class of 2017 had more TOPS recipients than any other class in the history of the scholarship program. Edwards says these graduates have made it, but that can be very bitter sweet. He says his message to all the students is…

Cut 11 (08) “this point”

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Consumers are planning to spend more than ever on Mother’s Day this year, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey. NRF spokesperson Anna Serafin Smith says 85 percent of consumers plan to celebrate the holiday, spending a total of more than $23 billion. She says that’s a record high for the survey’s 14-year history.

Cut 12 (07) “Mother’s Day”

The survey finds 56 percent of consumers plan to spend a combined $4 billion on special outings like dinner or brunch, and 69 percent of consumers will buy over $2 billion in flowers. Other popular items include clothing, electronics, and gift cards. Smith says a lot of moms are hoping to get some sparkle on their special day.

Cut 13 (10) “this year”

According to the survey, 35 percent of consumers will find mom’s gift at a department store, while 30 percent will shop online. Another 31 percent will shop at specialty stores like florists, and 24 percent plan to support local businesses. Smith says this year’s record high spending is being driven primarily by two areas.

Cut 14 (08) “to this year”

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An early morning crash in the Village of Tangipahoa claimed the lives of two people, including the former Mayor of the Village of Tangipahoa and retired NFL player Michael Dyson, according to State Police. Trooper Dustin Dwight says the 48-year-old Dyson was traveling down US 51 on his motorcycle at a high rate of speed.

Cut 15 (11) “motorcycle”

Dwight says although Dyson was wearing a DOT approved helmet and Gordon was wearing her seat belt, both died in the collision.

Cut 16  (08)  “Ms. Gordon”

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A bill heading to the Senate would make it easier for Louisiana voters to recall elected officials. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Former Sons of Guns star Will Hayden will spend life behind bars for raping young girls. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The full House approves a measure that would make it easier for Louisiana voters to recall elected officials. The proposal comes just months after a failed attempt to recall Jefferson Parish President Mike Yenni amid a teen sexting scandal. Covington Representative Paul Hollis says he saw a similar attempt in his own district years ago.

Cut 3 (10) “were necessary”

The measure would reduce the number of signatures required for a recall petition to 25 percent of the registered voters for districts with less than 100,000 voters and 20 percent for districts with more than 100,000 voters. Hollis says Louisiana has the highest threshold necessary to effect a recall election.

Cut 4  (08) “in a district”

Current law requires signatures from one-third of the registered voters in in large districts and 40 percent of voters in smaller districts. Hollis says that just isn’t feasible in 180 days.

Cut 5  (08)  “or greater”

The bill passed on a 70-27 vote and now heads to the Senate.

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The University of Louisiana System President announces a contest for one student to receive a 500-dollar scholarship by coming up with his 10-thousandth tweet. Dr. Jim Henderson, who is an avid fan on twitter, says it’s a very small milestone in the grand scheme of things but thought this would be a good way to get students involved. He says the process of selecting the tweet is a very rigorous process.

Cut 6 (10) “we serve”

Henderson says he came up with the idea as he saw his 10-thousandth tweet was approaching.

Cut 7 (08)  “tweet”

Henderson says he determined twitter would be the best way to reach students in a fun way that also has a valuable purpose.

Cut 8 (08) “we serve”

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A measure approved by the House would give voters the chance to decide if they want to prevent a convicted felon from running for office until 8 years after they served their sentence, now moves to the Senate. Norco Representative Gregory Miller is the author of the constitutional amendment…

Cut 9 (10)  “of trust 

If approved, the vote would be placed on the November 6^th ballot. Miller says Louisianans already have a hard time trusting elected officials…

Cut 10 (10) “good bill”

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A St. Landry Parish cold case becomes a murder case after an inmate confesses to killing his great uncle in 2011. Sheriff Bobby Guidroz says Dale LaFleur has been missing since 2011 and his great nephew 23-year-old Phillip LaFleur was incarcerated in LaSalle Parish on a separate murder charge. He says Phillip LaFleur passed a note to the guards saying he wanted to speak with St. Landry Parish detectives.

Cut 11 (07) “the river”

Guidroz says they have an audio and video confession from LaFleur stating he killed his great uncle and dumped his body in the Atchafalaya River because the uncle was delaying giving him money. He says search efforts are underway to retrieve the body from the river.

Cut 12 (10) “int the water now”

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A Southern Media and Opinion Research Poll finds Governor John Bel Edwards’ approval rating has dropped nine percentage points since September of 2016. It now stands at 54-percent. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says the public is sick and tired of the governor and legislature not coming to an agreement on how to fix the state’s budget woes.

Cut 13 (09) “they’re saying”

Pinsonat says Edwards’ honeymoon is over. He says African American residents continue to give Edwards’ a positive rating, while only 44-percent of white voters feel that way about the governor.

Cut 14 (09) “popularity”

The survey also finds more than half of Louisianans believe the state is headed in the wrong direction. Pinsonat says in their September poll, 42-percent said the state is moving in the wrong direction and in this latest survey 52-percent feel that way.

Cut 15 (11) “more revenue”

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A report from Wakefield Research finds more couples than ever are fighting over politics since President Trump was elected. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A measure to require the photo ID of a parent for a minor to receive an abortion passes out of a Senate committee. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana moves up three spots to number 47 on United Health Foundation’s report on the healthiest states for seniors. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A report from Wakefield Research finds more couples than ever are fighting over politics since Donald Trump took office. The data found 24-percent of Americans in a relationship say they’ve argued more about politics than any other time they’ve been together. Clinical Psychologist with LSU Health Sciences Center Dr. Michelle Moore…

Cut 4  (09) “about things”

The survey also found one in 10 couples broke up over disagreements in politics, especially millennials, who broke up at a rate of 22-percent. Moore advises potential couples to discuss their political views before dating or getting married to avoid problems down the road.

Cut 5  (10)  “opinion”

The data also shows even though money is usually the top fighting point, one out of five couples in American said they’ve had more arguments of President Trump’s policies than finances. Moore says if you are in a heated argument with your significant other because of politics, there are ways to defuse the situation.

Cut 6 (11) “you discuss”

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A measure that would require the ID of a parent before a minor gets an abortion received approval from a Senate Committee. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says there is an abuse with the law already in place, as other adults, other than the girl’s legal guardian are signing the notarized form for a minor to get an abortion.

Cut 7 (09)  “living address”

Dorinda Bordlee with the Bioethics Defense Fund supported the measure saying frequently girls who are victims of human trafficking are brought in for an abortion by a pimp then thrown back to the wolves.

Cut 8 (07) “a parent”

The Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault Director of Education, Jessie Nieblas, spoke out in opposition and says requiring additional steps and reducing access to timely abortion care could have a chilling effect on teens.

Cut 9 (09)  “and advocacy”

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A bill heading to the House Floor would lift the one year ban for individuals convicted of a drug related felony to receive food stamps and welfare benefits after being released from prison. New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno says the ban was originally placed as a deterrent not to commit drug related crimes, but it hasn’t work.

Cut 10 (11) “our community”

This measure is part of Governor John Bel Edwards’ legislative agenda on criminal justice reform. Moreno says her bill is common sense legislation particularly since only a small group of individuals are affected by the current law. She says these convicted felons need a little boost.

Cut 11 (08) “sense bill”

Currently, only six other states have legislation similar to Louisiana’s where these felons are not permitted to receive food stamps.  Executive Director of the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops Rob Tasman spoke out in support of the measure. He says they are passionate about the issue of inmates returning as citizens.

Cut 12 (09) “successful”

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Louisiana is no longer the least healthy state for seniors, according to a report by United Health Foundation. The state rose three spots to 47^th in the nation. But Advocacy Director for AARP Louisiana, Andrew Muhl says the Bayou State still has a long way to go in how we care for seniors. He says Louisiana consistently ranks towards the bottom for chronic diseases.

Cut 13 (11) “the bottom”

The report finds Louisiana made strides in health screenings over the last two years, with 72 percent of seniors receiving recommended health screenings. Muhl says while we are making progress, we’re still stagnant in some key areas, like long term care. He says Louisiana ranks 49^th for our nursing homes.

Cut 14 (11) “why that is”

The Bayou State saw increases in the obesity rate and a decline in flu vaccination from 2013 to 2017, contributing to the low ranking. Muhl says Louisiana is behind the curve when it comes to implementing necessary reforms. He is hopeful lawmakers will approve a policy change to get seniors the managed long term services and support they need.

Cut 15 (11) “home delivered meals”

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After a tough loss to South Alabama, LSU welcomes SEC foe Auburn to Alex Box Stadium for the start of a three-game series tonight. The Tigers blew a five to one lead on Tuesday and lost to the Jaguars seven to six. Coach Paul Mainieri says they can’t dwell on that loss

Cut 16 (19) “I think”

This is the final home weekend series for the Tigers, but LSU’s 32-17 overall record has them in position to host at least a regional. Mainieri says it’s their intention to play more games at the Box after this series with Auburn…

Cut 17 (20)  “games here”

Shortstop Kramer Robertson will be one of several seniors who will be recognized during senior day activities on Saturday

Cut 18 (12)    “I can”   

A proposal to allow Louisiana residents to concealed carry a gun without a permit was shot down by the House Criminal Justice Committee. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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TOPS students in the Class of 2021 would need at least a 2.75 GPA, under a proposal heading to the House floor. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A 12-year-old is dead after accidentally shooting himself in the head. Eunice Police Chief Randy Fontenot says Monday night the boy was handling a semi-automatic handgun that he believed was unloaded.

Cut 3 (11) “the chamber”

Fontenot says that’s when the boy accidentally shot himself. The boy was airlifted to a Baton Rouge hospital, where he later died from his injuries. He says they believe the boy was trying to intimidate his little brother.

Cut 4  (10) “intentional thing”

Fontenot says this was purely an accident, and no charges will be filed. He says the gun was accessible in the home because there’s not many places you can keep a gun out of reach for a 12-year-old.

Cut 5  (09)  “self-defense”

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The House Criminal Justice Committee shot down a bill that would have allowed Louisiana residents to conceal carry a gun without a permit. The bill was killed on a 8-5 vote, despite numerous people speaking for the legislation. Dr. Kenneth Flaming of Louisiana Carry says it can take up to a year to take the class, gather the paperwork, submit the application, and receive a permit. He adds it can cost between $300 and $500 to get a concealed carry permit.

Cut 6 (08) “the most”

Jimmy Williams of Louisiana Carry also support the measure. He says a law like this would not put guns in the hands of more criminals because criminals don’t abide by laws anyway. He adds requiring a permit gives lawbreaking criminals the upper hand.

Cut 7 (10)  “willing to”

Cissy Rowley with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America opposes the bill. Rowley was one of 9 people shot in a Lafayette movie theater on July 23, 2015. She says without the permit requirement, gun owners could carry their weapons concealed with little or no training.

Cut 8 (10) “a gun before”

Rowley adds these people will also be less familiar with Louisiana gun laws and where they can and cannot carry a weapon. She says the permitting process is also needed to vet people who should not be concealed carrying a firearm.

Cut 9 (08)  “respect that” 

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Louisiana Economic Development receives a $7 million donation from Cleco for job-creating projects. Cleco spokesperson Jennifer Cahill says Cleco executives presented Governor John Bel Edwards with the check for a fund that will be administered by LED.

Cut 10 (11) “job creating projects”

The fund seeks to grow economic development in Cleco’s 23 parish service area. Cahill says the Pineville-based company is more than just a reliable electricity provider. She says they’re an economic development partner with their communities across the state.

Cut 11 (10) “in Louisiana”

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The House Education Committee advances a bill to increase the minimum GPA requirement for TOPS from 2.5 to 2.75. Baton Rouge Representative Franklin Foil authored the measure. He says he’s hearing a lot of frustration from voters about the uncertainty of the scholarship program.

Cut 12 (10) “four year window”

Foil says this legislation would save the state at least 12-million dollars a year, because fewer students would be eligible. The measure would not take effect until the Class of 2021. President of the Council for a Better Louisiana, Barry Irwin says something has to be done to stabilize the program because a lot has changed in higher ed since TOPS’ inception.

Cut 13 (11) “period of time”

But Executive Director of the Taylor Foundation, James Callier opposes the measure. He says the GPA requirement only applies to the core curriculum, and Louisiana has one of the toughest core curriculums in the nation. He says raising that requirement would exclude needy students from the program.

Cut 14 (11) “one year”

The bill passed on a 9 to 3 vote and heads to the House floor.

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Louisiana US Senator Bill Cassidy appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live to talk about his “Kimmel Test” when it comes to the nation’s health care plan. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The stripper age requirement bill advanced with significant amendments out of a Senate committee today. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana US Senator Bill Cassidy appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live to talk about his “Kimmel Test” when it comes to the nation’s health care plan. Kimmel recently gave an emotional monologue about how surgery saved his new baby’s life, who was born with a heart defect. Cassidy told Kimmel Congress needs to listen and adequately cover pre-existing conditions:

Cut 3 (08) “so well”

Cassidy said the plan that was passed by the House actually raises premiums. Kimmel said since Cassidy is the one who is proposing that any measure pass “The Jimmy Kimmel Test,” the television host suggested what that could be:

Cut 4  (13) “that’s the challenge”

Kimmel says lawmakers could find money to fund a health care bill by not giving millionaires like himself huge tax cuts. Cassidy helped developed a Senate proposal that would allow states to keep Obamacare in place or come up with their own systems. He told Kimmel that President Donald Trump wants all Americans to be covered…:

Cut 5  (08)  “lower premiums”

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The House Civil Law committee approves a bill that could suspend child support payments for parents who are incarcerated for more than six months. Gretna Representative Joseph Marino says the idea is to reduce debt for inmates, so they have a better chance to succeed when they are released from prison…

Cut 6 (10) “right path”

The proposal comes from a recommendation made by the governor’s task force that looked at reducing the state’s incarceration rate. While speaking to a representative with the Department of Children and Family Services, Carencro Representative Julie Emerson says an offender is more likely to discuss child support payments, if don’t have huge debts…

Cut 7 (11)  “I agree”

There are some exceptions under the proposed law heading to the House floor. Marino says child support payments would still be required if the inmate has the means to pay it, committed a crime against the other parent and if they are in jail, because they are a dead beat parent….

Cut 8 (08) “that situation”

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The stripper age requirement bill advanced with significant amendments out of a Senate committee today. The changes reverted the age limit to work as an exotic dancer back to 18 instead of 21, but mandates were added that would mean strip clubs have to train how to spot human trafficking. Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns says his bill’s intent isn’t changing…:

Cut 9 (10)  “girls there” 

Last year the legislature passed a law that mandated strippers working at an exotic club must be 21, but the law was overturned after a successful lawsuit filed by three dancers and the ACLU.  Shreveport Senator Greg Tarver is not a big fan of the 21-year-old requirement….:

Cut 10 (09) “and die”

Opponents have also argued that this law would cause young women to lose their jobs and income, and might be drawn into prostitution. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell’s amendment on the human trafficking training also says that failure to comply would result in the establishment losing its alcohol license. Morrell says he and Johns are arguing from the same position…:

Cut 11 (10) “to deal with”

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A 7-year-old Hammond girl has traveled to 10 states showing her appreciation for police officers by hugging them. Rosalyn Baldwin appeared on the Jim Engster Show along with her parents Errick (Eric) and Angie to talk about her family’s upcoming road trip to Missouri to North Dakota to hug as many law enforcement officers as she can. Errick talked about his daughter’s love for spreading peace and joy.

Cut 12 (11) “speeding tickets”

Police Officers in Tulsa, Oklahoma loved Rosalyn so much they named April 18^th, Rosalyn Baldwin day. Rosalyn explained why she enjoys hugging and thanking officers every chance she gets.

Cut 13 (09) “us safe”

Rosalyn’s mother, Angie, says Rosalyn’s appreciation for law enforcement has some perks. She says Rosalyn and her siblings go on adventures when hanging out with police officers.

Cut 14 (11) “here there”

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A 50-year-old man who is employed as a Ville Platte City Marshall has been arrested on two counts of promoting prostitution. Chief Deputy with the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office, Chris Ivey, says deputies discovered this after arresting Maria Joseph for prostitution. He says Joseph told police, Arthur Phillips picked her up in his employer owned unmarked unit to bring her to Fenton to charge for sex.

Cut 15 (08) “other males”

Ivey says after taking statements from witnesses, authorities were able to arrest Phillips.

Cut 16  (10)  “was arrested”

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According to new analysis of federal data by Governing magazine, Louisiana is one of two states to see a decrease in median wages between 2013 and 2016. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A bill to up the age requirement for strippers to dance in an exotic club from 18 to 21 will be heard before a Senate Committee today. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A measure to end corporal punishment in public schools gets swatted down by the full House. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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West Monroe is once again the setting for a reality TV show, as the History Channel airs an episode of American Pickers filmed in the Ouachita Parish town. The show’s stars Mike and Frank picked through Pete Caldwell’s collection, at the request of the late collector’s children. Kaye Caldwell McBride says her father was an antique collector for many years.

Cut 4  (12) “for the show”

McBride says the pickers walked out with around 30 items including vintage toys and gambling machines. They also snagged an old Jell-O wagon, giving the episode its name “Hello Jell-O.” She says Mike and Frank were interested in a lot of pieces of her father’s collection.

Cut 5  (10)  “in those”

McBride says they even bought some items she never thought would sell. She says they also got them in touch with other buyers for items they didn’t take, which was a huge help in clearing out the space. She says it was fun filming the episode and discovering lost items of her dad’s collection.

Cut 6 (09) “other stuff”

The episode aired Monday night, but you can stream it online at History.com.

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Louisiana is one of just two states to see a decline in median wages between 2013 and 2016, according to Governing magazine’s analysis of federal data. LSU economist Dr. Loren Scott says that’s not surprising because the Bayou State has been in a recession since August of 2015.

Cut 7 (11)  “high wage jobs”

Delaware was the only other state to see a decline in wages. The report finds Louisiana’s median hourly wage fell by 0.5 percent to $15.43 last year. Scott says the real surprise is that we didn’t lose more in terms of wage values. But he says the industry could rebound.

Cut 8 (09) “popping up”

Scott says anytime you lose jobs in a high paying field like oil and gas, you should expect median wages to decrease.

Cut 9 (07)  “go down”

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A measure that would increase the age requirement from 18 to 21 for exotic dance clubs to hire strippers is scheduled to be heard by a Senate Committee today. The bill has been touted as a way to stop human trafficking. Jim Kelly runs the Covenant House in New Orleans and he’s helped over 90 human trafficking victims recently..

Cut 10 (10) “of 21″

A law to raise minimum age requirement to work as a stripper in a dance club passed last year, but three exotic dancers were successful in a lawsuit to get the law tossed out, and a federal judge ruled the wording was too vague. Kelly says the wording in this new proposed law is much more specific.

Cut 11 (10) “strip club”

Strip clubs are still opposed to this proposed law. Kelly believes if you have to be 21-years-old to drink in a strip club, you should be 21 to dance without clothes on in a strip club.

Cut 12 (07) “young person”

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In a 61-34 vote, the full House rejected a measure to ban the spanking of misbehaving kids in public schools. New Orleans Representative Joe Bouie spoke in favor of the bill. He says 31 states have banned corporal punishment in schools and research shows this form of physical punishment does not work…

Cut 13 (07) “kids brains”

Denham Springs Representative Rogers Pope spoke out against the measure. Pope is a retired school superintendent from Livingston and he says paddling is a way to discipline students without sending them home…

Cut 14 (10) “the streets”

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The House has sent a bill to the Senate that would ban the use of tobacco products on school property. West Monroe Representative Frank Hoffman got 60 “Yes” votes for his proposal…

Cut 15 (06) “to be done”

Hoffman describes himself as an ex-smoker and told Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle that he hopes this legislation gets teachers and school employees to quit smoking…

Cut 16 (11) “healthier”

The House Transportation Committee put the brakes on a bill that would allow residents to vote on whether or not they want traffic enforcement cameras. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Covington man has been arrested after allegedly trying to run over an 8-year-old and then ramming a sheriff’s deputy on the interstate. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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FEMA is looking for Louisiana workers to help during disaster response. Supervisor of Human Resources Specialist, Carisa Berkeley says they’re looking to hire 100 reservists from southeast Louisiana to work in FEMA’s public assistance program. She says they’re interested in hiring people with a range of work experience.

Cut 3 (11) “and response”

Berkeley says their reservist program is made up of 23 groups that handle different aspects of disaster response. She says the more robust of a workforce they can create in these areas, the better the response they can offer.

Cut 4  (09) “type of response”

Berkeley says people can view the job openings and apply at LaWorks.net. She says the deadline to apply is tomorrow at midnight. She says this job can help someone advance their own career and at the same time rebuild a community.

Cut 5  (09)  “back together”

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A bill that requires specific training during driver’s education courses on how motorists should behave during a traffic stop received approval from the House Transportation Committee. Plaquemine Representative Chad Brown is the author of the measure…

Cut 6 (10) “traffic stop”

The measure now heads to the full House. Brown says this is just common sense legislation.

Cut 7 (07)  “occupant bill”

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A measure that would leave it up to voters to decide if the state should allow traffic enforcement cameras died in the House Transportation Committee on a 14 to 1 vote.  Author of the bill, Covington Representative Paul Hollis, says he conducted a poll on support for traffic cameras and only 11-percent of those surveyed were in favor of keeping red light and speed cameras.

Cut 8 (09) “about money”

New Iberia Representative Terry Landry says using traffic cameras as a way to enforce red lights and speeding violations is part of the evolution of technology. He also says that putting this up for a vote prohibits local governments from making their own decisions.

Cut 9 (07)  “from them” 

Bogalusa Representative Malinda White says there should be no fear of traffic cameras because drivers should follow the law and not run red lights. She says eliminating traffic enforcement cameras promotes bad behavior.

Cut 10 (11) “are around”

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A Covington man is behind bars after police say he tried to run over an 8-year-old then rammed a sheriff’s deputy on I-12. Capt. Daniel Seuzeneau with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office says they received a 911 call about a domestic dispute between 34-year-old Shawn Porrovecchio and his girlfriend.

Cut 11 (09) “inside the vehicle”

Seuzeneau says Porrovecchio also threw baseballs at both the child and his mother. He says deputies spotted the suspect on Highway 21, where he led police in a chase to Interstate 12.

Cut 12 (10) “to crash”

Seuzeneau says both the deputy and the suspect sustained minor injuries and were transported to local hospitals. He says they’re just lucky no one was seriously injured in this incident.

Cut 13 (07) “minor injuries”

Porrovecchio was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on a list of charges, including attempted first degree murder and domestic abuse.

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A Tulane University professor has filed a lawsuit to keep the city from removing a statue of Confederate General P.G.T Beauregard, which is at the main entrance of New Orleans City Park. Richard Marksbury argues that the City Park Improvement Association is the true owner of the monument and Mayor Mitch Landrieu would need their approval before taking it down.

Cut 14 (08) “those two”

The Beauregard monument is one of four military statutes that are set to be removed by the city of New Orleans in the coming weeks. Marksbury is seeking a temporary restraining order from a judge to halt its removal.

Cut 15 (11) “been done”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser supports the efforts to stop the removal of the Confederate Monuments. Marksbury says if this suit is unsuccessful, he will ask the 4^th Circuit Court of Appeals and see what can be done at that level.

Cut 16  (10)  “city park”

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e House takes up a bill today that would ban corporal punishment in Louisiana schools. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The regular session ends in one month and Jeff Palermo tells us where legislators are with two big issues….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A bill that would give residents the chance to vote on if they want to remove traffic enforcement cameras will be heard before the House Transportation Committee. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (25) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Today the full House is scheduled to take up a proposal to ban corporal punishment in public schools. Shreveport Representative Barbara Norton says 19 other states have similar laws on the books. She says children need a safe haven at school.

Cut 4  (09) “abused”

Norton says currently 12 lawsuits are pending around the country stemming from spankings in schools. She says one of pending suits is in the Bayou State and allowing children to be paddled only leaves cash-strapped public schools open to more litigation from angry parents.

Cut 5  (10)  “corporal punishment”

The measure was narrowly approved by the House Education Committee on a 6 to 5 vote. Corporal punishment is allowed in 38 of Louisiana’s 69 school districts. Norton says asking teachers to spank their students also puts an additional strain on the educators.

Cut 6 (10) “the parent”

Opponents to the bill say parents can opt their children out of spankings by signing a form.

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The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors has just named Dr. Chris Maggio the new president of Northwestern State University. Maggio says he’s honored and humbled to accept the position and has been with the university for 29 years.

Cut 7 (11)  “forward”

Maggio succeeds Dr. Jim Henderson who recently became president of the University of Louisiana System. Maggio plans to continue to prioritize higher education given the uncertainty in the legislature.

Cut 8 (09) “education”

Maggio says their world class faculty and academic programing draws in students from all over. He says their Natchitoches campus is warm and inviting, creating the perfect atmosphere for students.

Cut 9 (11)  “on campus”

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A measure to be heard before the House Transportation Committee today would give residents the chance to vote on removing red light or speed cameras that issue traffic tickets. Covington Representative Paul Hollis says enforcement cameras are money grabs for local government.

Cut 10 (09) “to stop”

Hollis says traffic cameras are scams and trample on drivers’ first amendment rights. He says motorists don’t get a chance to confront their accuser.

Cut 11 (10) “a fine”

Over the years lawmakers have brought up various bills to try to regulate traffic cameras and stop cites from installing them, but they have not fared well in the legislature. Local government say they help reduce crashes, especially at intersections. Hollis says he’s confident that given the opportunity, voters will support removing all traffic enforcement cameras.

Cut 12 (10) “right”

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We’re nearing the halfway point of the legislative session, and the legislature still has a long way to go. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says lawmakers tend to be most productive as they get closer to a deadline. The session ends June 8th and Dubos says most of the work will likely get done in the final two weeks.

Cut 13 (10) “gotten done”

The budget remains the biggest priority. The House has sent next fiscal year’s spending plan over to the Senate for approval. It appropriates 97.5 percent of the revenues that the State Treasury will make available. The governor says this will lead to difficult cuts, so Dubos expects the Senate will add money to the budget bill.

Cut 14 (08) “own ideas”

Another key agenda item is criminal justice reform. Dubos expects lawmakers to focus primarily on nonviolent crime during this session. He says it will take the 2018 session to accomplish the goal of overall reform.

Cut 15 (08) “to tackle”

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Lafayette native Antoine Duplantis’ fifth hit of the game sent home the winning run yesterday as the Tigers won a wild contest versus South Carolina, seven to six in ten innings. Duplantis had four singles and one double as the Tigers had 17 hits. Coach Paul Mainieri says when Duplantis is feeling good at the plate, he’s hard to get out…

Cut 16 (14) “big way”

LSU lost 3-2 on Friday, but came back to win on Saturday and Sunday to take the series against the Gamecocks and stay within one game back of the conference leaders Florida and Mississippi State. Mainieri wasn’t surprised the series against South Carolina was tightly played…

Cut 17 (18)  “Super Regional”

Greg Deichmann had three hits on Sunday and drove in two runs, including the game tying run in the 9th inning….

Cut 18 (17)    “the weekend”  

The House approved budget plan could lead to the closure of two veteran cemeteries in Leesville and Rayville. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The second weekend of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is underway. Michelle Southern reports fest goers are soaking up the music and beautiful weather….:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A Zachary man has been arrested after making threats against law enforcement on Facebook. The post referenced the DOJ’s decision not to bring forth charges against the officers involved in the Alton Sterling case, saying “It’s time Baton Rouge u didn’t learn from the police killing.” State Trooper Bryan Lee says State Police was informed about the post made by 38-year-old Thallemus Thomas.

Cut 3 (11) “under arrest”

The post said in part, “we will find the cops and execute them if we can’t find them we will kill one of there family members and start ambushing police officers n Baton Rouge.” Lee says this is something police take very seriously.

Cut 4  (10) “the community”

Thomas is charged with terrorizing. He is being held in the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on a $250,000 bond.

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The budget plan approved by the House could lead to the closure of state-funded veteran cemeteries in Leesville and Rayville. That’s according to the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs Undersecretary Homer Rogers who says the proposed 147-thousand dollar cut in state funding means they will not be able to bury veterans at these cemeteries going forward.

Cut 5  (09)  “already interned”

Rogers says over 340-thousand veterans currently live in Louisiana. He says taking this money away is disrespectful to our soldiers.

Cut 6 (08) “the line”

Rogers hopes the Senate will restore the funding when they take up the budget in the coming weeks. He says the cemeteries in Leesville and Rayville are miniature Arlington national cemetery and require a lot of upkeep.

Cut 7 (08)  “our veterans”

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The healthcare bill approved by the US House still has a long way to go in the legislative process. The next step for the plan is to get approval from the US Senate. Senator Bill Cassidy says there will likely be some changes made to the bill before it gets through the Upper Chamber.

Cut 8 (07) “process works”

In its current posture, the measure would freeze enrollment for Medicaid expansion, and over time people would be taken out of the program. Supporters of the plan say employers will be able to offer these people affordable insurance once better plans are available. Cassidy says Medicaid expansion is expensive for the states.

Cut 9 (09)  “a year” 

While the bill may not look exactly the same if and when it makes it through the process, Cassidy says there are some key elements that lawmakers can likely get behind. He says the GOP wants to help President Trump fulfill his campaign promises on healthcare.

Cut 10 (11) “to get behind”

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A Sulphur man is behind bars after threatening a driver on I-10 with a handgun. Louisiana State Police Sgt. James Anderson says 24-year-old Matthew Savoie brandished his weapon at another motorist while driving down I-10 near Welsh.

Cut 11 (09) “inside the vehicle”

Savoie was driving in the left lane of the interstate when another vehicle approached from behind. He then applied his brakes and pulled over. Anderson says the drivers exchanged words as the other vehicle passed by, and Savoie waved his gun at the other motorist.

Cut 12 (11) “morning’s incident”

Anderson says this was not Savoie’s first run-in with law enforcement. He says the suspect will face a hefty penalty if convicted on his charge.

Cut 13 (10) “dollar fine”

A measure that guarantees equal pay in the workforce has passed out of the Senate Labor Committee. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Republicans in the US House have passed their plan to replace the Affordable Care Act and sent it to the Senate for approval. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The full House passed a budget plan on a 63 to 40 vote that would fund the Department of Health 237 million dollars less that the governor proposed. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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If you love crawfish, then Breaux Bridge is the place to be this weekend for Crawfish Festival that begins today. Publicity Director Angelique Bernard says this festival is huge for the St. Martin Parish town of about 8,000, as the three-day event draws 30,000 people a year. She says there’s plenty of festivities for attendees to enjoy.

Cut 4  (10) “eating contest”

Bernard says they have 30 bands playing on three stages. On Sunday there’s even have a parade and etouffee cook-off. She says they have 16 different food vendors selling crawfish anyway you can imagine.

Cut 5  (09)  “crawfish poboy”

With the festival going through roughly 20,000 pounds of mudbugs, it’s no surprise Breaux Bridge is known as the Crawfish Capitol of the World. Bernard says over 1,000 volunteers help put on the festival, and there’s something for attendees of all ages.

Cut 6 (09) “the music, too”

Attendance fees are $5 on Friday and Sunday and $10 on Saturday. There’s also a weekend pass available for $15 on Friday.

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A bill to require businesses in Louisiana to guarantee equal pay has passed out of the Senate Labor Committee and could receive a vote on the Senate floor next week. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says there’s safeguards in place that can prevent businesses from being sued…

Cut 7 (11)  “suing them”

But Louisiana Association of Business and Industry small business director Renee Amar spoke out against the legislation.

Cut 8 (07) “contract”

Morrell authored an equal pay bill last year, but it failed to get past the House Labor committee.  Amar says they also have a problem that the legislation fails to allow for salary differences given market changes.

Cut 9 (05)  “defend themselves”

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The US House has passed its plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act, and the measure now heads to the US Senate. Congressman Ralph Abraham of Richland Parish says what this means for the American people is lower premiums, better health insurance, and more options for patients. He says this is a good day for patients across the nation.

Cut 10 (09) “healthcare”

Abraham says the American Healthcare Act would freeze enrollment for Medicaid expansion, but they aren’t throwing anyone out of the expanded program, yet. He is confident that once better healthcare plans are available, workers will be able to get affordable insurance through their employer.

Cut 11 (09) “better plans”

Political blogger Lamar White has cerebral palsy and has been a long-time advocate for disability rights. He opposes the replacement plan, which he says is woefully underfunded, especially to cover people with pre-existing conditions.

Cut 12 (11) “five years”

White thinks most people on Medicaid expansion would love to be able to afford health insurance, but unfortunately that’s not the reality of the economy. He says for many people with disabilities, purchasing private insurance just isn’t an option.

Cut 13 (07) “the reality”

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The full House passed a budget plan on a 63 to 40 vote that the governor and Democrats do not like because it funds the Department of Health at 237 million dollars less than John Bel Edwards proposed. Franklin Representative Sam Jones questioned Chairman Cameron Henry for not knowing where the cuts to LDH would be.

Cut 14 (09) “the impact”

Henry argued that his job is to appropriate the money and the department head determines what areas should be cut.

Cut 15 (11) “to you”

Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle spoke out in concern for how cutting funds to LDH would affect the health and well-being of the people of Louisiana.

Cut 16 (10) “our hands”

The budget passed with TOPS still fully funded.  Henry defended before the House why making these cuts is necessary even though difficult.

Cut 17 (10)  “committee”

Governor John Bel Edwards released a statement saying this budget guts health care, children’s services, and veteran services to levels that endanger the health and welfare of the people of Louisiana.

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There are seven baseball teams within one game of first place for the overall lead in the Southeastern Conference. LSU is one of those teams, with a 13-7 league mark. Coach Paul Mainieri believes his squad is heading in the right direction…

Cut 18 (10)    “against Alabama” 

The Tigers are coming off a sweep of Alabama and they begin an eight-game homestand tonight against South Carolina, who is 10-11 in league play. But Mainieri says the Gamecocks are more than capable…

Cut 19 (09)   “history as well”

Aaron Fitt with D-1 baseball-dot-com believes LSU and Florida are the two SEC teams best equipped to make a strong run once postseason play arrives. Fitt likes the Tigers starting pitching…

Cut 20 (21)   “bring it”