With the special session behind us, state leaders are shifting their attention to tax reform in the upcoming regular session. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Many students are turning to GoFundMe to pay for college as the price of tuition is increasing. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The special session ended with lawmakers agreeing to use $99 million from the rainy day fund to address a $304 million shortfall. Halen Doughty reports…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine is reminding pet owners to be vigilant about your animal’s physical and emotional well-being when celebrating Mardi Gras. Dr. Nancy Welborn with the school advises parade goers to leave their pets at home because most dogs and cats aren’t used to those situations.

Cut 4  (08) “a bite”

Welborn says be mindful of what you’re feeding your pets. She says king cakes, jambalaya, and fired foods are not pet friendly snacks.

Cut 5  (09)  “for us”

Welborn also reminds people to be watch out for animals playing with Mardi Gras beads or small parade throws as they can become a choking hazard. But she says if you do attend a pet friendly carnival celebration, there are some guidelines to follow.

Cut 6 (08) “the area”

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Now that the special session is over, attention turns to the fiscal session that begins in April. The Louisiana Budget Project has released its tax reform blueprint. Senior Policy Analyst Nick Albares says we need a tax system that is fair, adequate, competitive, timely, and sustainable. He says one way to do that is to eliminate the federal income tax deduction, which is a credit only two other states offer.

Cut 7 (12)  “state priorities”

Albares says this credit costs the state nearly $1 billion a year, while only those at the top of the income spectrum benefit from it. He says they’re calling for a reduction in the state sales tax from 5-percent to 4-percent and a broadening of the sales tax base.

Cut 8 (11) “neighboring states”

Landscaping services, haircuts, internet and cable subscriptions, and security services are some things that would be newly taxed under the proposal. Albares says they also want to double the earned income tax credit, which benefits low income working families. He says lower income families currently pay taxes at twice the rate of the wealthiest families in the state.

Cut 9 (12)  “make ends meet”

Other recommendations include limiting some tax exemptions, including the film tax credit, and eliminating excess itemized deductions.

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With the rising cost of college tuition, many students are looking towards the internet to find ways to pay for school. GoFundMe Spokesperson Bobby Whithorne says nationally over the last three years, they’ve had over 130-thousand campaigns on their website raise over 60 million dollars for kids in college. He says there’s been an increase in this state, as well.

Cut 10 (09) “donations”

Whithorne says the majority of the donations come from friends and family, as students share their GoFundMe campaign on Facebook and other social media sites. But he says there are complete strangers who contribute…

Cut 11 (10) “raising money” 

Whithorne advises kids turning to GoFundMe for tuition assistance to just tell your story and show the community how hard you’ve worked to get into your dream school.

Cut 12 (10) “your story”

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After 10 days of what became some heated debates, the special session ended with lawmakers agreeing to use $99 million from the rainy day fund to address a $304 million midyear deficit. Governor John Bel Edwards originally asked legislators to use the full $119 million available to minimize cuts to state agencies. But he says he’s pleased with the outcome.

Cut 13 (12) “I’ll take that”

But budget cuts are still coming to state agencies. The Department of Health will take the biggest hit with a 36-million dollar cut. Statewide elected officials will have their budget cuts and there will be a reduction in spending on roadwork. But Edwards says some critical state services were spared.

Cut 14 (11) “family services”

Edwards says the most concerning part of the plan is the $12 million in attrition savings lawmakers believe they identified in funded vacancies in state government. The governor says they will work to identify every dollar that can be saved through funded vacancies, but he’s skeptical that much money is available.

Cut 15 (07) “are not there”

Changes to teacher’s tenure protections has led to more educators leaving the classroom, according to a new report from Tulane University. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The National Retail Federation finds 48-percent of consumers plan to put their tax refunds into savings rather than spend it. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A study out of Tulane finds 17-hundred public school teachers have left their jobs in Louisiana because of a tougher tenure law that took effect two years ago. That’s a three-percent loss of the state’s teacher workforce. Co-author of the report is Nathan Barrett…

Cut 3 (05) “leaving”

In 2012, the legislature passed a law that made student achievement a major part of the formula to earn tenure. Barrett says many of the educators that left were close to retirement, and teachers leaving under-performing schools rose by 27-percent.

cut 4  (12) “F-rated schools”

Barrett says poorly-performing schools typically have students with troubled backgrounds, meaning teachers chance poor tests schools leading to bad teacher evaluations.  Barrett says whether or not you agree with tenure protections, it’s something many teachers appreciate.

Cut 5  (12)  “attrition rates”

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A survey from the National Retail Federation finds many consumers plan to put their tax refunds into savings rather than spend. Denham Springs financial planner Matt Kennedy says we’ve seen this trend over the past eight years ever since the 2008 stock market crash.

Cut 6 (12) “our mind”

The survey says of 66-percent of those getting a refund, only 21-percent plan to spend it on everyday expenses. Kennedy says surprisingly, millennials are the ones saving more than the baby boomers. He says younger people saw their parents suffer in the 2008 economic downturn and don’t want to risk it in the stock market.

CUT 7 (10)  “to spending”

48-percent of Americans plan to put their money into savings, second only to last year’s record high of 49-percent. Kennedy says a big reason consumers are saving is for debt reduction. He says this is especially true in Louisiana after last August’s historic flooding.

Cut 8 (11) “later”

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Demarcus Cousins, aka Boogie, was officially introduced today as one of the newest members of the New Orleans Pelicans. The All-Star comes to The Big Easy from Sacramento and practiced with the Pels for the first time today. Cousins says he’s excited about the opportunity to hit the court with fellow All-Star Anthony Davis…:

Cut 9 (10)  “is scary”

Cousins will suit up with the Pelicans for the first time tomorrow night against Houston in the Smoothie King Center. Pels Coach Alvin Gentry is confident Cousins will be a huge addition to the team, as he and Davis’ style of play is very complimentary of each other…:

Cut 10 (11) “on the floor”

The Kings dealt Cousins and forward Omri Casspi to New Orleans in exchange for Tyreke Evans, Buddy Hield, Langston Galloway and 1st and 2nd round draft picks this summer. Some say while Davis and Cousins are among the top 10 in the league when it comes to ball skills, they have polar opposite personalities and attitude. Gentry is optimistic:

cut 11 (08) “at all”

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Help is still available for domestic abuse survivors in St. Martin and Iberia Parishes even though the domestic violence service provider in that area is closing its shelter and ceasing services. That’s according to the interim director of the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Mariah Wineski…

cut 12 (10) “be established”

Wineski says they have a statewide hotline that will connect survivors in these parishes to neighboring programs. That number is 1-888-411-1333. She says these programs provide vital support to domestic abuse victims.

Cut 13 (08) “housing assistance“

The Safety Net for Abused Persons for the greater New Iberia area closed because of financial struggles. Wineski says they are working closely with stakeholders to get plans in place for a new permanent facility. She says last year LCADV provided over 90-thousand shelter nights to domestic violence victims around the state, which is why it’s imperative services are available to survivors in these parishes.

cut 14 (07) “running shortly”

The Powerball jackpot has jumped up to 403 million dollars. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn” 

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A new movie is being filmed in Monroe that highlights the importance of mentorship and fatherhood. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Lawmakers have until midnight tonight to come to an agreement on how many rainy day dollars to use to address a $304 million midyear deficit. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Tonight’s Powerball jackpot has reached a whopping 403 million dollars, with a cash value of 244 million dollars. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Kimberly Chopin says this is the 10^th largest Powerball jackpot ever. She says this drawing is the 19^th in the current run…

Cut 4  (10) “Powerball frenzy”

Chopin says every time the jackpot reaches these high numbers, more and more people start to play. She says although Louisianans haven’t won the jackpot in a while, a lot of people still win smaller Powerball prizes.

Cut 5  (10)  “winners”

Chopin says the last time the Powerball jackpot was won in Louisiana was in May 2013, where the jackpot was split between two other states.

Cut 6 (12) “or more”

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The state Office of Group Benefits is considering a 50 dollar a month surcharge on health insurance premiums for state employees who use tobacco products. OGB chief executive officer Tommy Teague says individuals who receive health insurance through the state would be required to self-report if they are a smoker.

Cut 7 (09)  “random basis”‘

The proposal would need to receive approval from a legislative oversight committee. Teague says this type of surcharge is already being used in the private sector.

Cut 8 (10) “to implement”

Teague says they are considering a surcharge against smokers and other possible surcharges because the Office of Group Benefits is facing a shortfall and they do want to raise premiums on all employees. Teague hopes these benefits will be in place by January 1^st 2018. He says the proposal could produce about 7.5 million dollars.

Cut 9 (10)  “increases”

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A movie is being filmed in Monroe that highlights the importance of mentorship and fatherhood. Executive Producer Rodney Ray says “Cowboy & Indiana” follows a troubled bull rider named Tulsa as he chases a million dollar bounty on a killer bull no one has been able to ride. He says Tulsa’s life spins out of control as he struggles with an addiction to pain pills and finds himself charged with a DUI.

Cut 10 (11) “named Indiana”

Ray says the filming process takes about 30 days, and they plan to begin in late May. He says from there it will take 6 to 9 months to edit the film. He says filming the bulls will undoubtedly be the biggest challenge they face during production.

Cut 11 (11) “a unique challenge”

Ray says over 1,000 actors from all over the country have applied for roles in the film. He says the support from the local community has also been tremendous. He says everything that goes into the film, from pre-production to post-production and editing, happens in Monroe.

Cut 12 (10) “to our community”

To learn more about “Cowboy & Indiana” and find out how to get involved, visit r2films.net.

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It’s the final day of the special session and the major sticking point is how much of the rainy day fund to tap to resolve a $304 million midyear deficit. Governor Edwards and the Senate proposes using $99 million from the state’s savings account, but LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says House Republicans want the Senate to pass a bill that frees up statutory dedications in future budgets.

Cut 13 (09) “bend first”

It will take a two-thirds vote in the House to approve using money from the Rainy Day Fund, which means 70 yes votes. Some House GOP members say $99 million is too much to take from the state’s savings account and suggest $90 million. Alford says the deadline to reach an agreement is midnight.

Cut 14 (11) “or you don’t”

Alford says it’s a possibility lawmakers will fail to pass a budget cutting plan by midnight. He says if that happens, the governor could call them back for yet another special session, or the budget shortfall could be resolved in other ways.

Cut 15 (10) “on thier own”

State lawmakers are moving close to agreeing to a plan that would close a 304-million dollar midyear budget deficit. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Restaurant Brands International, the owner of Burger King, has placed a 1.8 billion dollar bid to buy Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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In the final two days of the special session, lawmakers are close to reaching a compromise on how many rainy day dollars to use versus what cuts to make to resolve a $304 million midyear deficit. The Senate approved a plan that would tap $99 million from the state’s savings account. Senate President John Alario says it’s a fair compromise that would protect vital services from deep cuts.

Cut 3 (08) “of this state”

While $99 million is far short of the $119 million the governor requested, it is more than the $74 million House Republicans wanted. The deal hinges on a plan by House Speaker Taylor Barras that would free up statutory dedicated funds in the future, including about $97 million next year. Barras’ bill would not affect the current deficit, but it’s what Republicans say it will take to get their vote for using 99 million rainy day dollars. Alario is wary this proposal would take dollars away from the Transportation Trust Fund and TOPS.

cut 4  (08) “make it work”

Alario says if $99 million rainy day dollars were used, it would mean a $60 million cut to the Department of Health and budget reductions for some statewide elected officials, including Attorney General Jeff Landry. Alario is hopeful lawmakers are close to reaching a compromise.

Cut 5  (07)  “under that assumption”

Alario says if everything goes well, things could wrap up around noon tomorrow, but he’s not packing his bags just yet. The special session must end by midnight on Wednesday.

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A Baton Rouge contractor is now facing a slew of charges in multiple parishes after allegedly scamming dozens of August flood victims. Baton Rouge Police say the owner of Complete Construction, Matthew Morris, was arrested this morning for home improvement fraud, felony theft, theft of assets of an aged person, and exploitation of the infirmed.  Legal analyst Tim Meche says there’s a chance Morris won’t serve any jail time.

Cut 6 (11) “some jail time”

Today’s arrest comes less than two weeks after Morris was booked in Ascension Parish after 13 flood victims claimed he overcharged them and failed to complete work. Morris is also wanted in Walker and Livingston Parish on charges of residential fraud and theft of assets of an aged person. Meche says the Attorney General will likely consolidate Morris’ charges.

CUT 7 (09)  “these cases”

Meche encourages flood victims who have dealt with Morris to contact authorities and file a complaint about any questionable behavior. He says unfortunately these arrests aren’t shocking because we typically see this kind of fraud after disasters.

Cut 8 (10) “to see this happening”

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The owners of Burger King could soon be in the fried chicken market, as Restaurant Brands International says they’re buying Popeyes for 1.8 billion dollars. The company also owns the coffee shop chain, Tim Horton’s. Tulane Business Professor Dr. Mark Rosa says it’s obvious Restaurant Brands International sees a bright future in Popeyes.

Cut 9 (09)  “healthy premium”

Rosa says around the globe, everyone recognizes Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen as a place to get fried chicken that tastes like it’s home cooked. He says Popeyes recently revamped their brand to potentially attract a larger restaurant chain, and it appears it worked.

Cut 10 (04) “aggressively”

Popeyes started in New Orleans in 1972. Rosa believes Restaurant Brands International will aggressively expand Popeyes to get a big return on their investment.

cut 11 (09) “like it”

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Governor John Bel Edwards orders a full investigation into trips made by State Police officers, amid a report 4 troopers took side excursions during a business trip on the taxpayer’s dime. The Division of Administration’s auditor will conduct the probe. Political analyst Clancy Dubos…:

cut 12 (10) “will show”

In response to the allegations against the troopers in question, Col Mike Edmonson announced a number of disciplinary actions and policy changes that will take place. Dubos says it will be interesting to see what happens following the Governor’s investigation as obviously the buck stops with the man in charge…:

Cut 13 (11) “happen“

The Governor’s Office says their investigation will also look at trips dating back to the previous administration. Dubos says considering Louisiana’s current financial troubles, this incident doesn’t look good for anybody in state government…:

cut 14 (11) “the consequences”

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The former Avoyelles Correctional Center’s business manager has turned herself in after being indicted on charges of malfeasance, theft, and injuring public records. Tonia Cain is the wife of former-Avoyelles Warden Nate Cain, who is the eldest son of former-Angola Warden Burl Cain. Avoyelles District Attorney Charles Riddle says a warrant for her arrest was issued after her January indictment.

Cut 15 (07) “in April”

Tonia Cain resigned in May 2016 amid investigations into her and her husband’s actions at the prison. A legislative audit alleges Tonia Cain told a prison employee to shred public records to hide the fact that more than $30-thousand in concession sales was missing. Riddle says his office does not tolerate acts of public corruption.

Cut 16  (06)  “lightly”

Tonia Cain’s attorney, Jill Craft, issued a statement saying, “Tonia voluntarily turned herself in and has continued to cooperate fully in this process. While we respect the process, we also look forward to presenting the facts and justice.”

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The Department of Transportation needs an additional $700 million annual investment to meet the state’s transportation needs, according to DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty” 

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A 56-year-old woman has been deemed a hero after jumping on a man who was attacking a Baton Rouge police officer. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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State Representative Paul Hollis has a plan to make it easier to recall a politician, and he plans to bring it up in the regular session. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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If Louisianans want better roads and bridges, the Department of Transportation will need an additional $700 million a year. That’s according to DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson, who says Louisiana is one of only five states that hasn’t adjusted its transportation revenue stream in nearly 30 years. He says that’s why Louisiana’s roads are the 8^th worst in the nation.

Cut 4  (11) “due to inflation”

Wilson says the Transportation Task Force established by the governor has made recommendations on how to raise the necessary funds to maintain and rebuild infrastructure, and one of those is a 23-cent hike on the state’s gas tax. He says currently the average Louisianan only pays $108 a year in gas taxes.

Cut 5  (11)  “always make”

Wilson says there is an appetite at the capitol to build new roads, but not to pay for them. There’s been talk of raising the gas tax by a few pennies, but Wilson says it wouldn’t be enough to cover the needs around the state. He says for every penny on the gas tax, DOTD gets about $30 million.

Cut 6 (11) “manage expectations”

Wilson says he is confident there will be a bill proposed in the regular session that looks at ways to increase funding for the state’s transportation needs.

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The 56-year-old woman who tackled a man who was attacking a Baton Rouge Police officer on Sunday morning has been deemed a hero. Vickie Williams-Tillman was driving when she saw 28-year-old Thomas Bennett and a police officer in a physical altercation. She says she’s just so happy that she was able to help Officer Billy Amie.

Cut 7 (09)  “needed help”‘

Tillman jumped on Bennett’s back and knocked the baton out of his hand which he had taken from the officer. She says she called 911 before taking action.

Cut 8 (08) “took action”

The altercation began when Amie started to arrest Bennett. Amie says he’s so thankful for Tillman. He says she is a true hero but her actions shouldn’t have been needed…

Cut 9 (07)  “the world”

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Covington Representative Paul Hollis plans to propose a bill for the regular session that would make it easier to remove a politician from office. He says it currently takes signatures from 33-percent of a jurisdiction’s registered voters to recall a politician in Louisiana.

Cut 10 (08) “in that election”

Hollis says the current requirement makes it nearly impossible to remove a politician from a large jurisdiction. He says this was evidenced when former St. Tammany coroner Peter Galvan could not be removed, even after he was indicted for using state tax dollars for personal gain. He says that’s why his bill would only affect big districts with 25-thousand qualified voters or more.

Cut 11 (10) “it’s impossible”

There’s currently an effort to recall Jefferson Parish President Mike Yenni after a sexting scandal with 17-year-old boy. The petition expires in April and there are reports the organizers are well short of the needed number of signatures. Secretary of State Tom Schedler is open to altering the formula for removing corrupt leaders from office.

Cut 12 (09) “hasn’t been any”

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A 30-day ban on crabbing is in effect throughout the state, so what does this mean for Louisiana’s seafood industry? Chalin Delaune (Shal-in Duh-lawn) with the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board says there’s always been a closed season, but it’s typically just for two weeks while derelict traps are removed from the waters. He hopes this longer closure will revitalize Louisianans’ love for blue crabs.

Cut 13 (08) “for em”

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says this closure will allow crabs to mature because the population is down and crabbing is on the rise. Delaune says while it may not seem like it to the crabbers, this is a good thing for the industry.

Cut 14 (11) “for the consumer”

Delaune doesn’t expect a huge blue crab shortage in the Bayou State during the 30-day ban. He says many distributors have planned ahead by flash freezing fresh crabs. He adds that there are other seafood options during this month-long ban.

Cut 15 (05) “pretty strong”

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The Pelicans have the best front court in the NBA as a result of acquiring Center DeMarcus Cousins from the Sacramento Kings. That’s the opinion of Jake Madison who writes for Bourbon Street Shots and host of Locked On Pelicans podcast

Cut 16 (10) “reckon with”

Cousins will help the Pelicans make a push for the playoffs this season. New Orleans is currently 2.5 games back of Denver for the 8th and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Cousins has the reputation as a trouble maker inside the locker room, but Madison believes variables are  in place for the All-Star to fit in with the Pelicans

Cut 17 (14)  “at home “

Madison says the trade means that fellow All-Star Anthony Davis can move back to power forward, a position he’s more comfortable with…

Cut 18 (23) “that he has”

Alleged misuse of State Police funds for a trip to a training conference in San Diego has led to an internal investigation into four troopers’ spending. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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More people than ever are feeling politically stressed out. Michelle Southern explains.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The search is ongoing for three escaped Avoyelles Parish inmates. Sheriff Doug Anderson says 31-year-old Blake Reine, 23-year-old Joseph James, and 22-year-old Andre Steward escaped from a detention center near Bunkie on Saturday night.

Cut 3 (11) “from there”

Anderson says authorities are unsure if the inmates hid the wire cutters by the fence, or if someone left the tool to assist the escapees. Reine was serving a sentence for manslaughter, while both James and Steward were charged with armed robbery. He says once apprehended, the inmates will face additional charges of simple escape.

cut 4  (09) “their capture”

Reine is described as a 5’8” white male with blue eyes, brown hair, and a tattoo under his right eye. James is a black male 5’9” with brown eyes and black hair, and Steward is a 5’11” black male with brown eyes and black hair. Anderson says authorities believe the inmates fled south after escaping.

Cut 5  (09)  “law enforcement agency”

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State Police has launched an investigation into the spending of four troopers who made stops at the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas while on their way to a training conference in San Diego. The story was first reported by the Advocate. State Police Superintendent Col. Mike Edmonson says this is an unfortunate incident that never should have happened.

Cut 6 (11) “taken place”

While most troopers who attended the conference flew, Major Derrell Williams, Lt. Rodney Hyatt, Master Trooper Thurman Miller, and Trooper Alexander Nezgodinsky drove an LSP SUV. The Advocate’s report finds the stop at the Grand Canyon cost more than $700, and a night at the Palazzo Resort in Las Vegas cost over $500. Edmondson says these troopers have some explaining to do.

CUT 7 (10)  “that route also”

The scenic route also added 300 miles to the journey. According to the Advocate’s report, the troopers were also paid for overtime while on the trip. Edmonson says Maj. Williams is the head of internal affairs at LSP, which means the former head will lead this investigation. He says in the meantime, officials are making sure troopers play it by the book.

Cut 8 (09) “for it”

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Do you feel politically stressed? A new report by the American Psychological Association finds, no matter what party you are, anxiety over political matters is at an all time high. Michelle Many (Main-eee) with the LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans finds the principle factor in this deals with social relationships:

Cut 9 (11)  “on the individual”

Many says there were heated arguments and a lot of disagreements during the 2016 presidential campaign, and it’s carried over. She feels there is also a renewed focused on media reports these days and what people are seeing all over social networks online…:

Cut 10 (06) “interactions”

Many says, as with anything, when anything is done in excess, you’ll typically see problems arise either physically or mentally. She says the best thing you can do is try to bring balance back into your life, and that means moderation..:

cut 11 (08) “news viewing”

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The Louisiana Senate passed a measure on Sunday night that would use 99 million dollars of the Rainy Day Fund to help offset the state’s 304 million dollar budget deficit. Last week, the House passed legislation that would use 75 million dollars, but Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, Gene Reynolds, supports using the higher amount…

cut 12 (09) “just can’t”

But Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmunds says Republicans don’t have an appetite for using 99 million dollars out of the Rainy Day Fund. He says the state is also facing another major budget shortfall next fiscal year.

Cut 13 (10) “last resort“

This special session ends Wednesday at midnight. Reynolds says the House plan that calls for using 75 million dollars in Rainy Day funding is a proposal that is full of gimmicks.

cut 14 (10) “the past”

Originally the governor proposed using 119 million dollars from the Rainy Fund but says 99 million is an acceptable compromise. But Edmunds says Republicans believe they’ve already compromised enough and would rather keep it at 75 million dollars of the fund.

Cut 15 (10) “of corrections”

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The state Department of Education has changed regulations for low income families to be eligible for federal childcare assistance. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn” 

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UL Lafayette announces the expansion of their Louisiana Legacy Scholarship. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Only three days remain in the special session, and it still remains to be seen how much, if any, of the rainy day fund lawmakers will tap to close a $304 million deficit. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The state Department of Education has changed requirements for the Child Care Assistance Program, which provides federal funds so low income families can pay for child care while going to work or school. Assistant Superintendent of Early Childhood Jenna Conway says they received feedback from families about previous regulations and decided it was time to make some improvements.

Cut 4  (10) “in class”

Conway says previously, there were very strict regulations where families were required to work at least 30 hours a week to receive to be eligible for childcare assistance. She says this program is so important because Louisiana has many working families that are in need of childcare.

Cut 5  (11)  “and thrive”

Families with special needs children who work at least 15 hours a week are now eligible to receive childcare funds. Conway says they are also raising the bar for childcare programs in the state to better prepare kids for kindergarten.

Cut 6 (10) “and grow”

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The University of Louisiana at Lafayette announces the expansion of their Louisiana Legacy Scholarship. Vice President for Enrollment Management Dr. DeWayne Bowie (BOO-ee) says the scholarship is designed to bring out of state students with Louisiana ties back to the state. He says the scholarship covers out of state fees for these students.

Cut 7 (09)  “huge saving”‘

Bowie says the scholarship is typically for out of state students with parents who graduated from UL-Lafayette, but they’ve expanded it to children of alums of any Louisiana university. He says even though many Louisiana alum end up leaving, some of their children still consider the Bayou State home.

Cut 8 (10) “Louisiana school”

Bowie says they’re optimistic that even in the face of rising tuition and cuts to higher education, this scholarship could attract more out of state students back to Louisiana. He says they want to show these students what their school has to offer.

Cut 9 (07)  “worldwide”

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A 30-day closed season for crabbing begins today in the Bayou State. Crustacean Program Manager for Marine Fisheries at LDWF Jeff Marx says the crab population is down in Louisiana. He says they’re hoping this ban will help boost the crab population because we’re not seeing as many crabs as usual.

Cut 10 (11) “very high”

Marx says this is one of the slower periods in the year for crabbing, which is why they chose this time of year to implement the ban. He notes that the 30-day ban will be in effect beginning the third Monday of February every year until 2019. He says there is also a year round ban on harvesting immature female crabs.

Cut 11 (12) “some of the fishermen”

Marx says the ban comes as a result of recommendations made by the crab task force, which includes fishermen, docks, and crab processors. He says this will also give LDWF a chance to do what they can to help increase the crab population.

Cut 12 (11) “left out there”

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There’s three days left in the special session and the big argument continues to be over how much money to use from the rainy day fund to address the $304 million budget shortfall. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Governor John Bel Edwards recommended using $119 million, but House Republicans only support using 75-million in rainy day dollars and deeper cuts to reduce state spending.

Cut 13 (10) “next year”

The Senate approved it’s own version of the budget cut bill last night and it includes 99-million dollars from the rainy day fund. It takes a two-thirds vote of the legislature to use rainy day money and Senate finance chairman Eric LaFleur says the votes are not there to use that much money..

Cut 14 (11) “to start with”

It will likely take a committee made up of House and Senate members to iron out a compromise on the two bills. Pinsonat says based on the polling he’s done, the public supports the Republicans’ effort to cut back on state spending.

Cut 15 (10) “pay a price”

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Coach Paul Mainieri says the opening weekend to the 2017 season could not have gone any better for the 2nd ranked Tigers. On Saturday, LSU swept a doubleheader from Army, highlighted by Jared Poche’s no-hitter. On Sunday, the Tigers took down Air Force 10-3. Mainieri says the ceremonies to honor our military and law enforcement were also excellent

Cut 16 (20) “I’ve been here”

Mainieri says he was also impressed with how Army and Air Force competed…

Cut 17 (20)  “the end “

LSU’s pitchers only allowed two earned runs in the three games and the Tigers crossed the plate 25 times during the three games. Senior second baseman Cole Freeman led the way with six hits and two doubles….

Cut 18 (16) “played tremendous”

Tigers junior right fielder Greg Deichmann hit two home runs and likes how freshmen Josh Smith and Jake Slaughter swung the bats…

Cut 19 (18)   “this weekend”

The state’s plan for spending the first round of federal flood assistance has been approved by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Office of Tourism is encouraging Louisianans to use the hashtag #OnlyInLouisiana to promote tourism. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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The US Department of Housing and Urban Development has approved the state’s plan for spending the first $438 million approved for Louisiana flood recovery. The governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff Julie Baxter Payer says the next step is for HUD to do grant agreements and open a line of credit for the state.

Cut 3 (12) “going on”

Payer says some of this assistance will go to small business owners who were impacted. But she says most of it will help low income families who are elderly or disabled and did not have flood insurance.

cut 4  (10) “were renters”

Payer says an additional $1.2 billion was approved by Congress in December that will go to other affected homeowners. She says they gathered public input on the plan for allocating that round of federal aid and are ready to submit the plan to HUD for approval.

Cut 5  (12)  “that are allowed”

The governor is requesting an additional $2 billion in flood assistance, and there are reports of a meeting between John Bel Edwards and President Donald Trump on February 24^th.

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The House has spent all day discussing how deep the cuts should be to the budget to address a 304 million dollar budget deficit. Democratic New Orleans Representative Walt Leger supports using 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund to prevent deep cuts to the department of health…

Cut 6 (06) “the budget”

But Republican Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says it’s not okay to keep dipping into the Rainy Day Fund whenever the state faces a shortfall.

CUT 7 (10)  “use”

Republicans want to avoid tapping the Rainy Day fund again or use less than what the governor recommends. Instead they prefer to cut state spending, because another large revenue shortfall is expected next fiscal year. Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith reminds GOP legislators that deep reductions to the budget will impact the public.

Cut 8 (07) “somebody needs”

Bacala says the state is spending more than it receives in tax revenues, which is why he prefers cutting the budget, before using one-time money to pay for recurring expenses..

Cut 9 (09)  “look at”

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The Louisiana Office of Tourism has launched a new social media campaign to get Louisianans to promote tourism in our state. Lt Governor Billy Nungesser says the hashtag #OnlyInLouisiana allows residents to be tourism ambassadors for the Bayou State because no one can tell our story better than Louisianans.

Cut 10 (12) “their hometown”

Like many state agencies, tourism is facing budget cuts amid a midyear budget shortfall. Nungesser says we just don’t have the money to promote tourism in every corner of the state, which is why this effort is so important.

cut 11 (07) “they deserve”

Nungesser says people can sign up to become ambassadors at LouisianaTravel.com/ambassador. He says ambassadors will receive stickers to help promote Louisiana tourism. He says they want to make marketing the Bayou State as much fun as possible.

cut 12 (09) “to the world”

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Parkway High School in Bossier City has fired David Feaster as head football coach, after making a statement on a radio station saying Alabama coaches are not allowed on campus to recruit players. The school’s principal did not like that Feaster was making rules for the school. KTBS TV Sports Director Tatum Everett says Feaster’s firing comes as a shock.

Cut 13 (10) “successful“

Feaster claims the ban has been in place for the last four years after he didn’t like the way the Crimson Tide try to recruit Brandon Harris. Everett says Feaster still remains a math teacher at Parkway. She says many previous players have voiced their disapproval of Feaster’s termination.

cut 14 (11) “mistake”

While Feaster has had success on the football field, he has been a lightning rod because of other previous controversial statements. Everett says the school believed that Feaster was not worth the success he brought to the program with the kind of negative attention he also brought. She says Feaster’s first order of business after receiving the news was talking to his players.

Cut 15 (10) “be okay”

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Ahead of his second expulsion hearing, Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown announces his resignation from the Louisiana Senate. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty” 

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It’s Coach “O” Day in Lafourche Parish! Emelie Gunn has more on the festivities for LSU’s Head football coach Ed Orgeron…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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It’s NBA All-Star weekend in New Orleans again! Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today the state House will decide how much, if any, of the rainy day fund to use to close a $304 million budget shortfall. New Orleans Representative Walt Leger says lawmakers passed a budget last year describing what they want to accomplish for the people of Louisiana, and it’s the legislature’s responsibility to meet those promises. He says the best way to accomplish that would be to use 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund.

Cut 4  (10) “rainy day funds”

Leger says the rainy day fund was created for this purpose, to deal with shortfalls. He says some lawmakers have proposed additional cuts without consulting the agencies that would be affected. He says some of the proposals would have major implications for Louisianans.

Cut 5  (09)  “additional reductions”

A bill up for debate today on the House floor would use $74 million from the state’s savings account, but Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds co-authored a bill that would use no rainy day dollars to close the budget gap. He says after some investigating, he found areas in state government that can be cut to reduce the shortfall.

Cut 6 (11) “any of that”

Edmonds’ bill is also up for debate today on the House floor. He says he understands that no cuts are easy, but lawmakers have a responsibility to balance the budget.

Cut 7 (08)  “hurt anyone”‘

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Today is Coach “O” Day in Lafourche Parish to honor LSU’s new head football coach Ed Orgeron. Orgeron is a native of Larose, where an event will be held at the local civic center at 6:00 p.m. Member of the planning committee, Larry Weidel, says Orgeron, better known as BaBa, was a hometown football star back in his day.

Cut 8 (10) “can understand”

Weidel says during the banquet, Orgeron’s high school football jersey will be retired and fellow members of the 1977 South LaFourche High School football team will be recognized for winning the state championship. He says the event has over 90 sponsors and over a thousand tickets were sold.  

Cut 9 (08)  “busy night”

Weidel says the biggest takeaway from Coach “O” Day, is the development of a non-profit organization that will donate all the money collected to charities in Lafourche Parish.

Cut 10 (08) “back home”

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It is once again NBA All-star weekend in the Big Easy. President and CEO of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation Jay Cicero says they didn’t have much time to plan because they only found out they were hosting last year. The event was moved from Charlotte, North Carolina, in light of an anti-LGBT law that was enacted last year.

Cut 11 (12) “a chance”

This is the third time in 9 years that New Orleans has hosted all-star game, which is a record return rate. Cicero says the big game takes place on Sunday in the Smoothie King Center, but there will be plenty of festivities all weekend.

Cut 12 (11) “their superstars”

Cicero says there’s also the three-point and dunk contests on Saturday night. He says this event had a $106 million economic impact for the state when New Orleans last hosted in 2014. He says even more important is the media exposure, which could have a tremendous impact on tourism.

Cut 13 (12) “New Orleans”

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After much ado at the state capitol over attempts to expel Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown, he said in a press conference it is with great sadness that he resigns from the Senate. He says for as long as he could remember, he desired to serve his district and the people of Louisiana. 

Cut 14 (08) “Louisiana Senate”

Brown was facing an expulsion hearing on Monday, and the embattled senator says it is readily apparent a fair hearing from his peers will not transpire. He says his colleagues rejected the most basic notion of being held to the laws and constitution they were sworn to uphold, most importantly our fundamental due process.

Cut 15 (10) “constitutional rights”

Brown adds that there was pressure from the Senate body for him to resign. He says he did not go to trial for either of his two domestic violence convictions, instead entering no contest pleas, to spare his family from the ordeal of a trial. He says that’s also why he’s resigning from the Senate.

Cut 16 (09) “further embarrassment”

The resignation comes amid hearings on the Senate floor to expel or suspend Brown following his second conviction of domestic abuse.

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A highly anticipated college baseball season gets underway tonight for the second ranked LSU Tigers as they host Air Force at 7 PM. Coach Paul Mainieri brings back a veteran team that will also feature a few freshmen who are expected to do great things. Mainieri says he can’t wait to get it started….

Cut 17 (21)  “excited “

Alex Lange will start on the mound for the Tigers. The junior right-hander will make his first opening day start and he says he’s had butterflies in his stomach all week…

Cut 18 (11) “season again”

LSU’s best power hitter will be in the line-up tonight, even though he had surgery on Sunday to fix a suffered a fracture cheekbone after taking a pitch to his face. Deichmann says he’s good to go, despite missing a few days of practice thsi week…

Cut 19 (16)   “couple days”

The campaign for Governor John Bel Edwards’ re-election announces he raised $3.6 million in 2016. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Former LSU star running back Leonard Fournette is now partnering with New Orleans based Life10 Electrolyte water. Michelle Southern has more on his endorsement….

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor John Bel Edwards re-election campaign announces he raised $3.6 million in campaign funds during his first year in office. According to finance reports, the governor ended 2016 with $3.2 million on hand. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says it’s an impressive haul for Edwards’ first year.

Cut 3 (12) “in 2019”

Despite budget problems, floods and civil unrest from a police shooting, the governor has maintained a high approval rating. Cross says being well liked helps while raising money.

cut 4  (08) “everybody’s friend”

Edwards’ could face Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry in his 2019 re-election bid. Landry’s campaign finance reports show he’s raised just under $900-thousand with $544-thousand on hand. Cross says as soon as Landry officially enters the race, his fundraising will rise quickly.

Cut 5  (11)  “sitting governor”

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Louisiana State Police is ramping up enforcement in New Orleans for 2017 Carnival season and this weekend’s NBA All-Star Game. Trooper Melissa Matey says LSP will send 165 troopers to the Crescent City. She says plain clothes troopers will also be along parade routes looking for individuals with illegal weapons.

Cut 6 (10) “the past”

Matey says law enforcement relies heavily on information from the public. She advises parade goers and those celebrating during Mardi Gras or attending All-Star festivities, to come forward and say something to police if you see suspicious activity.

CUT 7 (10)  “know”

Matey says it’s a good idea to keep important information and valuables in your front pocket while walking in the French Quarter to deter pickpockets. She also says avoiding excessive alcohol intake is always a good idea…

Cut 8 (09) “safe decisions”

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Former LSU star running back Leonard Fournette has signed an endorsement-partnership deal with New Orleans based Life10 Electrolyte beverage. Fournette is represented by sports agency Roc Nation and its President of Branding Michael Yormark says Fournette is excited to support a local product he believes in…

Cut 9 (08)  “post workout”

Yorkmark says through the partnership, Fournette owns a small part of the company. He says the all-star athlete could’ve gone with the Gatorades of the world but chose a local brand to promote.

Cut 10 (08) “the vision”

Life10 Electrolyte water is filled with calcium, potassium, magnesium, chloride and sodium. Yorkmark says Fournette has great potential to be a wonderful brand ambassador.

cut 11 (09) “very engaging”

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Baton Rouge Representative Steve Carter says letting the public decide whether to increase the gas tax to raise funds for traffic relief projects would be one option. He says a 23 cent tax is a possible solution in coming up with the $700 million; and leaders in the Capitol City are looking at what that money could go to…:

cut 12 (08) “needed”

Carter says they can either bring the measure to raise the gas tax out right to lawmakers, or put it to a vote of the people. He says asking a Republican dominated legislature would likely push back against such a bill…:

Cut 13 (10) “vote of the people“

Carter says these types of proposals would have to be brought during the regular session that begins in April. He says the Baton Rouge delegation wants to see most of that money go to projects including a new Mississippi River Bridge and the widening of I-10…:

cut 14 (08) “we need em bad”

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DeSoto Sheriff Rodney Arbuckle says crews have recovered two bodies from the site of a helicopter crash at Wallace Lake. He says the FAA and other agencies are investigating the circumstances of the crash itself, while DPSO is working the recovery. He says the biggest challenge is getting to the crash site.

Cut 15 (09) “build roads in here”

Arbuckle says it took over two hours to get to the helicopter yesterday, but they hope to finish the recovery by later today. He says the helicopter belongs to Terry and Pam Bailey of Center, Texas, which is just across the state line from Desoto Parish.

Cut 16  (06)  “are missing”

It’s believed the Baileys were travelling from Shreveport Downtown Airport to Center when the helicopter went down, possibly hitting several trees as there was reportedly a small fire when crews arrived at the scene.

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