The Humane Society of Louisiana is trying to figure who dragged a pit bull by a moving vehicle near St. Landry Parish. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Humane Society of Louisiana is trying to figure out who is responsible for apparently dragging a pit bull from a moving vehicle in Acadia Parish near St. Landry. Executive Director Jeff Dorson says the 3-year-old dog was found by its owner in a ditch with horrible injuries..:

Cut 3 (08) “terrible shape”

Dorson says the owner didn’t have the resources to care for the dog, so their members raised over $800 to help pay for the dog’s care. He says they have no idea who could have done such a thing to a helpless animal…:

Cut 4  (07) “activity”

Dorson says the dog has a long road to recovery, but he is expected to pull through. He says that if anyone knows or hears anything about this incident, please let the Humane Society know…:

Cut 5  (10)  “he or she did”

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The Louisiana SPCA is urging families to put chocolate bunnies over real bunnies in Easter baskets. Spokesperson Deepak Saini (Dee-pahk San-ee) says giving a child a rabbit for Easter might sound like a festive idea, but many don’t realize the huge responsibility and the amount of care these animals need.

Cut 6 (06) “long time”

Saini recommends giving kids a basket with marshmallow chicks or candy rabbits. He says every year hundreds of rabbits are abandoned after Easter.

Cut 7 (10)  “of work”

Saini advises parents to do their research if they do decide to purchase a bunny as a pet, because they live up to 15 years and they require as much care as a cat or dog. He says plus your home needs to be bunny-proofed…

Cut 8 (08) “on things”

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The burning of M6 propellant at Camp Minden in Webster Parish is complete, but the job might not be done yet. The Louisiana National Guard has the option to extend their contract with ESI and allow them to continue to burn off hazardous substances there. But LSU Shreveport science professor Brian Salvatore, who sits on the concerned citizens’ advisory board, wants the burning to stop now.

Cut 9 (11)  “explosives business”

Salvatore says when he spoke with Major General Glenn Curtis, who leads the Louisiana National Guard, he didn’t want to comment on whether the burn chamber will continue to operate on the Guard’s property. He says the Webster Parish Police Jury passed a resolution in December calling on the company to remove the burn chamber. But he says they voted again last week and decided to rescind the resolution.

Cut 10 (08) “their heads”

Salvatore says the members he spoke to simply said they were neutral and no longer wanted to be involved. But he says a much higher ranking state official will have the ultimate say in the matter.

Cut 11 (10) “John Bel Edwards”

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With Easter coming a few weeks later this year, holiday spending is expected to reach record highs. Anna Serafin Smith with the National Retail Federation says their annual survey finds 80 percent of consumers will celebrate Easter, spending a record total of over $18 billion. That’s a six percent increase over last year.

Cut 12 (09) “happy Easter”

Smith says customers will spend an average of $152 per person on Easter, including food, clothing, candy and gifts. She says 87 percent of shoppers will spend a combined nearly $6 billion on food. Clothing spending is at its highest level in a decade, with 50 percent of consumers planning to buy new Easter attire.

Cut 13 (08) “Easter Sunday”

Their report also finds 89 percent of consumers plan to spend a total of $2.6 billion on candy. A survey from Offers.com finds Reese’s egg are Louisianan’s favorite Easter candy. Sixty-one percent of shoppers plan to spend almost $3 billion on gifts for Easter. Smith says that’s because outside of Christmas, this is the only other holiday that allows the whole family to chip in.

Cut 14 (09) “entire family”

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Ponchatoula-based Elmer’s Chocolates remains popular for the Easter holiday. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Procrastinators have a few extra days to file their federal income taxes this year, as the deadline is April 18^th. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LSU Gymnastics Team is in St. Louis competing for a chance to win their first ever NCAA National Championship title. Jeff Palermo has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Ponchatoula-based Elmer’s Chocolate continues to be an Easter tradition. CEO Rob Nelson says this year they brought back the Double Nut Gold Brick Fudge just in time for the holiday. He says even though Elmer’s brought back a fan favorite from years ago, it’s not the most popular item in the Easter basket.

Cut 4  (10) “close race”

Nelson says they’ve seen an increase in candy sales because of a later Easter this year. He says the selling season for Easter runs from the day after Valentine’s Day until Easter Sunday.

Cut 5  (05)  “manufacturers”

Nelson says Elmer’s Chocolate recently underwent a big company expansion, completely revamping how the company makes boxed chocolates. But Nelson says that hasn’t affected Easter candy at all.

Cut 6 (09) “can afford”

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Louisiana is the trashiest state in America, according to State Parks Director Robert Barham. He says if you don’t believe him, just look at the litter in ditches on the side of the road. He says he’s been to all 50 states, and he’s never seen anything like the litter here in the Bayou State.

Cut 7 (10)  “in shame”

Barham says we’re all potential litterers, whether it’s a pickup truck driver with an unsecure load or someone pulling a boat with trash in the back or even a driver who doesn’t think twice about throwing a gum wrapper out the window. He says we have got to do better.

Cut 8 (09) “of Louisiana”

Barham says law enforcement needs to pay attention to litter and know that it is important for economic development, protecting the environment, and preserving natural resources. But he says it’s up to everyone to keep Louisiana clean and litter-free.

Cut 9 (07)  “will not litter”

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Authorities are still trying to figure out why an active duty soldier at Ft. Polk would be detonating what appeared to be homemade bombs in Kisatche National Forest. Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft says they got a call about 23-year-old Ryan Keith Taylor setting a fire in the park Wednesday afternoon.

Cut 10 (12) “small fire”

Taylor is an active duty soldier stationed at Fort Polk, but he lived off post. Craft says authorities found some substances in his vehicle, which prompted a search of Taylor’s apartment in New Llano. He says a hazmat team came to search the apartment for explosive materials.

Cut 11 (11) “was not live”

Craft says after clearing the area, hazmat teams detonated the pipe bomb along the tree line behind the apartment complex. He says the multi-agency investigation is ongoing, but Taylor is not cooperating with police.

Cut 12 (07) “not factual”

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Time is running out to file your federal income taxes, but procrastinators have a couple extra days.  Baton Rouge Tax Preparer Brandon Lagarde says tax day is traditionally April 15, but it falls on a Saturday this year, which means the deadline would usually be Monday. But he says the nation’s capital will observe Emancipation Day on Monday.

Cut 13 (06) “file your taxes”

Lagarde says taxpayers that need an extension, can file paperwork to do so, but if they owe the federal government, then April 18^th is the deadline for taxpayers to submit payment to the federal government. He says there are tools on the I-R-S website that can help determine what you might owe or if you will receive a refund check.

Cut 14 (07) “to file”

Lagarde says if you need help filing your taxes at the last minute, you could be in trouble. He says his office and most CPAs around the state are extremely busy. But he says they will do what they can to help.

Cut 15 (10) “your taxes”

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The LSU Gymnastics team can win its first national title in program history this weekend as they compete in the NCAA Championships in St. Louis. The Tigers who were national runner-ups last year, are ranked second behind last year’s national champion, Oklahoma. Head Coach D.D. Breaux says she’s confident the girls could become LSU’s first national champions.

Cut 16 (12) “no clutter”

Breaux is in her 40^th year and LSU just won its first SEC Championship since 1981. Breaux says the girls have a lot of confidence after winning that competition.

Cut 17 (14)  “get more”

There are 11 other schools competing for the National Championship. The semi-finals are today and the teams with the top 6 scores advance to Saturday night’s Super Six, where a champion will be crowned. Breaux says if everyone brings their A game, they will come home with a trophy.

Cut 18 (09)    “right stuff” 

The 2017 Louisiana Survey finds opinion is divided on religious freedom laws and the use of public bathrooms by transgender individuals. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Executive Director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, Dr. Katara Williams says distracted driving is an epidemic in the Bayou State. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Authorities are still not sure why a Vermillion Parish man set fire to a home killing an 89-year-old Ponchatoula woman who lived there. Tangipahoa Sheriff Daniel Edwards says 26-year-old Timothy Rouchon of Abbeville is currently being held in Livingston Parish on an unrelated charge. He says they don’t know of a motive, but the suspect did know Dorothy Poche.

Cut 3 (07) “I believe”

The state Fire Marshal’s Office found the presence of accelerant used to fuel the fire. Edwards says Rouchon is charged with second degree murder, obstruction of justice, and theft of a vehicle for stealing the woman’s car, and an aggravated arson charge is pending.

Cut 4  (07) “this home”

Poche’s vehicle was also missing from the property when deputies arrived on scene. Edwards says Poche was a very sweet lady who was well-known in the community. He says she was even close with some of his deputies.

Cut 5  (08)  “this way”

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Louisiana residents are evenly split when it comes to religious freedom laws allowing businesses to refuse service to same sex couples based on their religion. That’s according to results from the 2017 Louisiana Survey. Director of the LSU Public Policy Research Lab Dr. Michael Henderson says this follows the nationwide trend.

Cut 6 (11) “the nation”

Henderson says he’s surprised only 47-percent of residents support refusal of services because Louisiana is such a conservative state. But he says the Bayou State does show its socially conservative colors as the survey finds 56-percent think transgender people should use the restroom of their birth gender.

Cut 7 (10)  “nationally”

Henderson says another shocking finding is three-fourths of Louisianans support the legal protection from discrimination at work based on sexual orientation. He says while more Democrats are supportive of this, so are many Republicans.

Cut 8 (09) “the workplace”

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The state has selected the same contractor it had originally denied to handle the federal flood aid program. The details still need to be hammered out, according to the governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff Julie Baxter Payer, but it looks like IEM will be the lead on helping homeowners rebuild…:

Cut 9 (07)  “cost figure”

IEM was the same firm originally chosen to do the work, but the state scrapped the contract because it was too costly. Payer says re-opening the bidding process ended up saving the state money…:

Cut 10 (10) “sent to us”

IEM is a global company that has expertise in emergency management, and employees people who live in Louisiana. Payer says since the homeowner survey opened on Monday, more than 11,000 people have signed up to apply for aid. She says they hope to have construction beginning mid-May…:

Cut 11 (08) “next couple of weeks”

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Distracted driving is an epidemic in Louisiana. That’s according to Executive Director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, Dr. Katara Williams, who says last year there were over 2,500 crashes linked to this risky habit. She says drivers engage in a lot of distracting behaviors.

Cut 12 (09) “on the roadway”

But the most common practice for Louisiana drivers is using a cell phone while driving. A study from EverQuote ranked the Bayou State dead last in the nation for the percentage of drivers using their phones, with 92 percent admitting to doing it in the past 30 days. Williams says not only is it dangerous, it can be deadly.

Cut 13 (07) “your life”

Williams says the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission has educational campaigns aimed at teaching motorists about the dangers of distracted driving. She says it’s also important for parents to teach their children about these risks and to set good examples for them.

Cut 14 (10) “that they’re seeing”

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One person is dead and another seriously injured following a fiery crash between a fuel truck and a dump truck on Interstate 310 south in St. Charles Parish. Authorities say two other vehicles were also involved in the wreck. Trooper Melissa Matey says the deadly crash occurred this morning near Luling.

Cut 15 (08) “crash that happened”

Matey says the fire that broke out after the crash has been extinguished. She says I-310 remains closed in that area. She says they will reopen the highway when LSP finishes its investigation.

Cut 16  (08)  “it’s safe”

The tanker involved in the crash belongs to Gaubert Oil Company in Thibodaux.

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College Choice ranks Louisiana Tech University’s elementary education program fourth in the nation and first in the state. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A new political group is launching an ad campaign and they say they’ll get the truth out about Gov. Edwards’ tax plan. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana Tech University’s elementary education program ranks fourth in the nation and first in the state, according to College Choice. College of Education Dean, Dr. Don Schillinger says Tech students complete a full year of student teaching. He says their students are placed in schools in August and stay with a teaching mentor until graduation day.

Cut 3 (10) “student achievement”

Schillinger says they are proud of this ranking and if they are able to produce better teachers it will have a lasting impression on elementary education in this state.

Cut 4  (09) “of that”

Schillinger is hopeful this ranking will attract more students, even from other states, to LA Tech. He says they’re also trying to recruit future teachers from rural areas and get them to return home, rather than staying in larger urban areas.

Cut 5  (09)  “they need”

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Truth in Politics is a new political group created to tell Louisiana residents the truth about Governor John Bel Edwards’s tax plan. TIP Executive Director Kelli Bottger says they are launching a digital ad campaign to prevent the legislature from passing the governor’s proposals to raise taxes on businesses.

Cut 6 (11) “really want”

Governor Edwards’ tax plan calls for a new tax on big businesses, lowering income taxes on individuals and broadening the state’s sales tax, but lowering the overall rate. Bottger says their biggest concern is with Edwards’ proposal to raise taxes on businesses and they will use targeted ads to alert voters.

Cut 7 (10)  “we receive”

Governor Edwards’ communications director Richard Carbo referred to TIP has a deep-pocketed special interest group. Bottger says they are not offering an alternative tax plan, their goal is simply to tell the truth about the governor’s proposal to raise taxes on the rich and businesses….

Cut 8 (09) “higher taxes”

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Southeastern Louisiana University receives a $10 million bequest, the largest single donation in its history. S-L-U spokesperson Mike Rivault says Seth Ryan, a Class of 1953 graduate, became an anonymous donor 15 years ago. He says Ryan donated much of his estate to the university when he passed away several weeks ago.

Cut 9 (10)  “would be for”

Rivault says those scholarships will be primarily for STEM programs, which includes science, technology, engineering, and math. Southeastern’s student population is over 60% female, but women only account for 15% of STEM majors. He says with this generous donation, SLU should be able to award up to 600 scholarships every year.

Cut 10 (11) “or not”

Rivault says while Ryan wanted to remain anonymous in life, he said the university could note that the posthumous gift came from him. He says in his honor, the university is going to rename the Biology Building on campus after Ryan’s wife.

Cut 11 (10) “receive scholarships”

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The Louisiana Budget Project has studied Governor John Bel Edwards’ tax plan and has determined 95-percent of Louisianans would receive a tax cut. LBP Executive Director Jan Moller says the top five-percent of wage earners would pay higher taxes…

Cut 12 (12) “next year” (2x)

The Louisiana Budget Project is a left leaning non-profit. The governor’s tax plan also calls for the lowering of the sales tax rate, but taxing certain services that are not currently taxed. There’s also the proposed gross receipts tax, which would impact many businesses. Moller says the largest effective tax cut would go to those individuals earning between 36-and-56-thousand dollars a year…

Cut 13 (10) “gross receipts tax”

Many legislators are skeptical of the governor’s plan and they are concerned about placing an additional tax on companies. Moller says a lot of steps must be taken in order for the governor’s reform package to be approved.

Cut 14 (11) “can happen”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser announces Louisiana had a fifth consecutive record breaking year for tourism. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry has once again filed suit against Governor John Bel Edwards. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Don Molino”

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Louisiana now has just three abortion clinics in the entire state, after Bossier City Medical Suite closed. Jeff Palermo reports…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana is down to just three abortion clinics statewide, as Bossier City Medical Suites has closed. Executive Director of the New Orleans Abortion Fund, Amy Irvin says the only remaining clinics are in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport. She says this closure will greatly impact Louisiana women seeking an abortion.

Cut 4  (09) “more childcare”

Irvin says this latest closure is the result of the growing list of state regulations and laws that are in place making it more difficult for women to receive abortions, including a 72 hour waiting period. She says one less clinic in the state will only make it that much harder for women to have an abortion in Louisiana.

Cut 5  (10)  “for women”

Irvin says they are keeping their eyes on two bills in the current session that seek to place more restrictions on abortions. She says the New Orleans Abortion Fund is calling on lawmakers to cease their attacks on abortion access and work for comprehensive healthcare services.

Cut 6 (08) “in our country”

The Louisiana Right to Life is pleased to hear there is one less facility in Louisiana destroying the lives of innocent unborn babies. They say they look forward to a day when all babies are protected by law and welcomed with joy.

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For a fifth consecutive year, Louisiana broke a record for tourism. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says in 2016, the state welcomed a record 47 million visitors, which is more than a 2 percent increase over the previous year. He says tourists spent an average of $360 a person.

Cut 7 (11)  “million”

Nungesser says the revenue represents a 40-to-1 return on investment. He says in order to protect that investment, we need to make sure the historical sites tourists come to see remain intact. That’s why Nungesser is asking for President Trump’s help in protecting the confederate monuments around the state.

Cut 8 (12) “repeating itself”

Nungesser also defends himself amid allegations made in a letter by a disgruntled former employee, who claims the Lt. Governor misused a state owned apartment in New Orleans. Nungesser says Tim Chester has been the interim museum director for six months and hasn’t done anything. He says it’s obvious Chester is just an angry old man.

Cut 9 (11)  “in my opinion”

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The feud continues between the governor and the attorney general as Jeff Landry has once again filed suit against John Bel Edwards. The lawsuit states the governor’s office doesn’t have the right to withhold 4 million dollars in operational funds from his agency. Landry says Edwards wants to circumvent the rules and continues to play politics with the state Department of Justice.

Cut 10 (06) “this office”

The Edwards Administration released a statement claiming this lawsuit is nothing more than a dog and pony show. The governor has said the money that is coming from 2014 pharmaceutical settlement is not legally Landry’s dollars to spend. But the attorney general says Edwards is jeopardizing the operations of his department.

Cut 11 (09) “the courts”

The lawsuit comes one day after Governor Edwards called on legislators to leave partisan politics out of the debate overhauling the state’s tax structure. But Landry says Edwards is being a hypocrite by withholding money that belongs to his office.

Cut 12 (06) “that cause”

Last year Landry and Edwards exchanged lawsuits language involving the governor’s LGBT executive order.

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State Farm reports dog bite claims have increased 15 percent nationwide over the last year. Company spokesperson Kip Diggs says State Farm paid more than $121 million in dog bite claims last year. He says the cost of those claims is on the rise.

Cut 13 (10) “in cost”

Diggs says while we might not be seeing as many bites, the bites are becoming more expensive to treat as the cost of healthcare continues to increase. He says State Farm saw a total of 3,660 dog bite claims last year, and Louisiana had quite a few of those.

Cut 14 (06) “million dollars”

State Farm has paid over a billion dollars in dog-related injury claims in the past decade. Diggs says more than 50 percent of the dog bite claims they see are for children. He says that’s why it’s important for both dog-owners and dog-lovers to be careful.

Cut 15 (08) “don’t know”

The majority of Louisiana small business owners oppose an increase to the state’s gasoline tax. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The 2017 Louisiana survey finds most Louisiana residents approve of Medicaid expansion. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Small businesses oppose increasing the state’s gasoline tax. Dawn Starns, State Director of the National Federation of Independent Business, says they surveyed their members and 73-percent oppose a gas tax hike. Starns says everyone wants to see better roads but….

Cut 3 (09) “they have”

The business group, BUILD IT, supports an increase in the gasoline tax by anywhere from 15 to 20 cents to help with the construction of major transportation projects. Starns says those supporters are engineers and architects who would see a boom in their business with this hike.

Cut 4  (10) “to juggle”

Starns says small business owners are also worried increased revenue from a higher gas tax won’t go to roads. She says state government needs to do more with what they have available to them.

Cut 5  (08)  “transparency”

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An Easter egg hunt turned violent when a Thibodaux man’s ex-girlfriend showed up armed with a shovel handle. David Melancon with Thibodaux Police says 33-year-old Junius Boyd was at the event in Peltier (Pel-chay) Park when 25-year-old Florence Robinson arrived, just hours after the two ended their relationship.

Cut 6 (10) “his arm”

Melancon says Boyd’s child was in the vehicle when this transpired, and there were numerous children at the event who witnessed the incident. He says things escalated when Boyd got out of the vehicle and took the shovel handle, hitting Robinson in the head and causing a laceration. He says Boyd certainly had a right to defend himself, but this was taking it too far.

Cut 7 (12)  “defending yourself”

Melancon says Robinson is charged with aggravated battery with a dangerous weapon, criminal damage to property, and disturbing the peace. Boyd is charged with aggravated battery with a dangerous weapon. But he says things got even worse for Boyd.

Cut 8 (12) “was involved”

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The House Ways and Means Committee began looking at various tax proposals today that will be discussed over the next several weeks. First up was Jackson Representative Kenny Havard, who is pushing legislation that would reduce income taxes on individuals and make that revenue up by increasing taxes on businesses. He says with the state constantly facing budget cuts, it’s time for tax reform.

Cut 9 (10)  “do something”

Havard believes the most sensible approach is to alleviate the tax burden on residents and ask businesses to pay their fair share. 

Cut 10 (08) “that’s unfair”

A vote was not taken on Havard’s proposed legislation. There are over 140 tax bills filed in the House. Changing Louisiana’s tax laws are a major debate, because one-point-three billion dollars in temporary taxes expire next year. Havard says it is the legislature’s job to create a way to stabilize the budget.

Cut 11 (08) “the road”

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Most Louisiana residents approve of Medicaid expansion, according to an LSU survey. Director of the LSU Public Policy Research Lab, Dr. Michael Henderson says 72 percent of respondents for the 2017 Louisiana Survey approve of the expansion. He says the approval rating for the Affordable Care Act has increased over the past few years.

Cut 12 (10) “more favorable”

Henderson says they’re seeing a similar trend nationwide. He says it could be because former-President Obama has left office and people no longer attach their feelings towards him to the law. But he suspects it has more to do with people learning more about the ACA.

Cut 13 (10) “have improved”

But the survey finds only 42 percent of voters approve of the Affordable Care Act. Henderson says people also may not realize that Medicaid expansion is a provision of the ACA. But he suspects the 51 percent unfavorable view has more to do with politics.

Cut 14 (11) “the ACA”

According to the survey, 76 percent of Democrats have a favorable view of Obamacare, while 80 percent of Republicans have an unfavorable view.

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The Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating an early morning incident in which they believe a person or persons drove by a bunch of houses and cars and started shooting at random. Chief Deputy Mike Haley says they received reports of gunfire in Mt. Hermon around 4am…:

Cut 15 (10) “they had been shot”

Haley says they know the gunfire was coming from a pickup truck, but not much beyond that. He says it’s not known who is responsible or why they were doing it…:

Cut 16  (08)  “at this time”

A Chinese chemical company announces plans for a 1.1 billion dollar chemical plant to be constructed in Louisiana. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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Today the House Ways and Means Committee begins delving into the Governor’s proposed tax plan. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has released 1.6 billion dollars in flood recovery dollars. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Chinese chemical company chooses Louisiana over Texas to build a 1.1 billion dollar manufacturing complex. State Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says this will help Louisiana grow as a global leader in chemical manufacturing and he says the project by Wanhua (Wan-hwah) Chemical Group will bring 170 new direct jobs to the state.

Cut 4  (09) “a year”

LED estimates the project will also result in 945 indirect jobs. Pierson says a project like this creates a multiplier effect in the number of jobs it produces.

Cut 5  (12)  “the community”

The specific location of the site will be decided later in the year. Pierson says he led a Louisiana contingent to Wanhua’s headquarters in China last month where they completed final plans to move the project forward…

Cut 6 (11) “investments”

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Another study by LSU economist Dr. Loren Scott finds the return isn’t there when it comes to state’s film tax credits program as the report shows it causes a significant hit to Louisiana’s budget. Scott says the return of investment was 22-percent in 2016.

Cut 7 (07)  “million bucks”

This is the third time Scott has examined whether the state is getting a bang for its buck when it comes to providing incentives to lure films and TV shows to Louisiana. Scott says each time the report concluded, Louisiana is losing money, but tax incentive program creates jobs.

Cut 8 (08) “of jobs”

Legislators will discuss changing the film tax credit program, which currently has a 180 million dollar cap on it. Scott says his report shows Louisiana is subsidizing about 30 to 35-percent of the cost of making a film.

Cut 9 (05)  “your favor”

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The House Ways and Means committee begins today pouring over some of the proposals included in the governor’s tax plan. John Bel Edwards ambitious proposal will increase taxes on many businesses, but he says it will lead to lower income taxes for 90-percent of the taxpayers.  Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says once more come out, there will be ample support.

Cut 10 (11) “very top”

But West Monroe Senator Mike Walsworth says Louisiana has one of the lowest income tax rates in the nation. He’s concerned about putting too much of the tax burden on businesses and losing jobs. He says lawmakers need to be cautious about lowering taxes for individuals and getting businesses to foot the bill.

Cut 11 (10) “to business”

Edwards says changes to our tax structure our needed to make sure TOPS is fully funded, more resources can be devoted to education and other priorities. Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith says the legislature has to do something to raise more revenue for vital state services.

Cut 12 (08) “can’t do it”

The governor is calling for a bipartisan effort to fix the state’s annual problem of budget cuts, especially during the middle of a fiscal year. Ruston Representative Rob Shadoin hopes lawmakers can come together across party lines to do what’s best for the people.

Cut 13 (07) “make progress”

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The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has granted Louisiana access to start dispensing 1.6 billion dollars to flooded homeowners in federal aid. Deputy Chief of Staff for the Governor Julie Baxter Payer says this will finally allow the state to move forward with recovery plans.

Cut 14 (11) “appropriated”

Payer says an action plan had to be submitted to HUD in order to spend the money, which is why the process of receiving funds took so long. She says federal restrictions have been placed on who first receives access to the money.

Cut 15 (09) “flood insurance”

Payer expects to have a contractor in place within the next week who will manage the Homeowner Assistance Program. The state is asking each homeowner who received flood damage to fill out a survey at restore.la.gov to determine their eligibility for federal assistance. She says in addition to that the governor is working on trying to receive more federal funding.

Cut 16 (11) “year’s flood”

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After taking two of three from Arkansas, LSU is once again back in the top ten in three major college baseball polls heading into tonight’s matchup against UL Lafayette. Despite a lot of grumbling from the LSU fan base over how this team is played, the Tigers are 22-11 overall,. 7-5 in the SEC. Coach Paul Mainieri admits this team has its faults, but he believes in his guys

Cut 17 (21)  “wants to”

LSU has been getting great starting pitching from Eric Walker. The freshman from Texas pitched a complete game shutout on Sunday and he’s 4-0 on the year. Mainieri says Walker has shown a great ability to command all of his pitches…

Cut 18 (18)    glove a lot“

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he will resign if the federal government is holding up flood recovery financial assistance. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Governor John Bel Edwards asks lawmakers to leave partisan politics at the door as they begin the 2017 legislative session. Michelle Southern has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The father of the 6-year-old autistic boy killed by a Marksville deputy marshal has been arrested for allegedly trying to strangle his girlfriend. Chief Deputy Steven Martel with the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office says they received a call Saturday about a domestic dispute between 26-year-old Christopher Few and his girlfriend.

Cut 3 (09) “strangle him”

The incident happened at a home in Moncla, just north of Marksville, only a week after former Marksville officer Derrick Stafford was convicted in the death of 6-year-old Jeremy Mardis. Martel says there was sufficient evidence to book Few on one count of domestic abuse battery by strangulation.

Cut 4  (07) “had occurred”

Martel says Few is currently being held in the Avoyelles Parish Jail, and he’s expected to have his bond hearing today. But he says Few also has two outstanding warrants for theft in St. Landry Parish.

Cut 5  (05)  “on him”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he will resign if the federal government is the reason flood victims have not yet received any federal assistance. Graves made the comments on the Jim Engster Show, also issuing a call for Governor John Bel Edwards to do the same.

Cut 6 (09) “with the governor”

Richard Carbo with the Governor’s Office says there is no truth to Graves’ claims that the state is holding up the process. He says Louisiana submitted its plan on how to spend recovery dollars to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development with record speed, and the funds are tied up in red tape on the federal level.

Cut 7 (09)  “of the funds”

Congress has approved a total of $1.6 billion for Louisiana’s flood recovery, but no dollars have yet been dispersed. The Governor’s Office says the funds will be available in the coming weeks. But Graves is adamant the state is delaying the process.

Cut 8 (08) “or not”

Carbo says the Governor’s Office in no way wants Graves to resign. He says instead, they want to work with him because that’s what’s best for the flood victims. He says these kinds of comments aren’t doing anything to help homeowners.

Cut 9 (08)  “not accurate”

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Have you noticed gas prices are on the rise? AAA fuel analyst Don Redman says the cost of regular gasoline rose 7 cents a gallon over the last week for a statewide average of $2.19. Redman says it’s that time of the year when the price at the pump rises.

Cut 10 (11) “their equipment”

Gas prices are at their highest level since January. Redman says refineries are switching from a winter grade of gasoline to a summer, which will lead to a decrease in supply, possibly pushing gas prices to $2.50 a gallon by May or June. He says motorists should be prepared to pay more for gasoline this year.

Cut 11 (10) “a gallon”

Redman says the more expensive summer grade gasoline has to be in place by May. He says while the swing in prices varies a little from one year to the next, we can always expect gas prices to go up this time of year.

Cut 12 (11) “in June”

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The 2017 session is underway and Governor John Bel Edwards told lawmakers now is the time to pass long-term tax reform that provides budget stability, so Louisiana can better fund its priorities. Edwards is pushing a plan that would increase taxes on many businesses, but promises to lower taxes on most Louisiana residents.

Cut 13 (12) “days ahead”

During an address to a joint session of the legislature, the governor also pushed legislators to pour money into roads, even if that means increasing the state’s gasoline tax…

Cut 14 (07) “traffic congestion”

The legislative session will last for two months. During that time, the governor will call on legislators to pass a series of changes to the state’s criminal laws in effort to lower the state’s incarceration rate. He also wants legislators to raise the minimum wage and pass legislation that ensures women receive the same wages as men for equal work

Cut 15 (08) “(applause”

TOPS, criminal justice reform and raising the gas tax will be hot topics during the legislative session that begins today. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Homeowners affected by last year’s floods can now fill out a survey to see if they qualify for federal aid. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A bill to raise the minimum age of strippers to 21 is back again for this legislative session. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 3 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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TOPS, criminal justice reform and proposals to raise the gasoline tax are some of the big topics up for discussion as the legislative session begins today. There are bills filed that raise the minimum GPA to qualify for the TOPS scholarship. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says this proposal will face fierce opposition from the legislative black caucus.

Cut 4  (08) “income schools”

There’s also a push to raise the state’s gasoline tax, which is currently 20-cents. Supporters say a higher gas tax is needed for better roads. But Pinsonat says passing a tax hike is difficult. He says many lawmakers are concerned that the additional revenues will not go towards their intended purpose.

Cut 5  (10)  “structure”

Governor John Bel Edwards is pushing for criminal justice reform as part of his legislative agenda. The governor is seeking to lower the state’s incarceration rate, which has been referred to as the highest in the world. Pinsonat says the concept is easier said than done.

Cut 6 (09) “group out”

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Even Democrats are unsure about the Governor John Bel Edwards ambitious tax plan that he’s asking lawmakers to pass during the legislative session. Edwards’ proposal calls for a new tax that would be placed on the state’s largest businesses. Minden Representative Gene Reynolds heads the state Democratic Caucus and says getting the necessary 70 votes in the House will be a challenge.

Cut 7 (10)  “to get”

Reynolds expects it will take a lot of compromise to reach a majority consensus. A contentious point in the plan involves levying a gross receipts tax on businesses, which is basically a sales tax paid by sellers instead of buyers. He says many lawmakers are hesitant about the proposal.

Cut 8 (08) “I would think”

Lawmakers won’t have another chance to revisit the state’s tax code until the next fiscal session in 2019. Reynolds says that means the time to act would be now. He says the only other option would be for lawmakers to come in for a constitutional convention.

Cut 9 (09)  “a while”

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Flood impacted homeowners can now fill out a survey to see if they qualify for federal assistance. The Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Julie Baxter Payer says this is a very important first step for homeowners who were affected by the March and August 2016 floods. She says they need to know what their recovery needs are now.

Cut 10 (06) “some reimbursement”

Payer says this 15 minute survey will give the state real time information to show Congress the ongoing need for flood recovery. She encourages all homeowners to fill out the survey, whether or not they think they will qualify for assistance.

Cut 11 (10) “becomes eligible”

Congress has approved 1.6 billion dollars in flood recovery dollars. Much of that money will be available to residents impacted by either of last year’s floods. Payer expects the federal government will make that money available in a couple of weeks. She says the federal aid will be doled out in phases, and families most in need of assistance will get help first.

Cut 12 (11) “severe damage”

The survey can be found online at restore.la.gov.

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A bill to raise the minimum age of strippers to 21 is back again for this legislative session. A similar measure passed last year but the law was recently temporarily blocked by a judge over broad wording. That’s why Lake Charles Representative Ronnie Johns says he’s trying again. He says the judge didn’t seem to have an issue with the age restriction aspect..

Cut 13 (09) “talking about”

Johns says many victims who are brought into Louisiana end up working in strip clubs. He says the new bill is a clarification of the original goal of putting some type of a dent into the human trafficking trade…:

Cut 14 (07) “my intent”

The law that was passed last year had wording that could have placed age restrictions on other occupations, according to the ruling, and violated the constitution. Johns says that’s why the new bill makes clear what he means by nudity and strip club…:

Cut 15 (09) “at 21 years old”

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Head coach Mark Hudspeth has named Jordan Davis his starting quarterback as the Ragin Cajuns have completed spring football. Davis was 11-of-14 for 174 yards and a touchdown in the Red-White Spring Game. Hudspeth says Davis looked sharp in the spring and has a great grasp of the offense…

Cut 16 (07) “in him”

The Cajuns will being the 2017 season by hosting Southeastern Louisiana. Hudspeth says he liked the development of his defensive backs during spring…

Cut 17 (16)  “got better”

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Louisiana Tech also wrapped up spring practice over the weekend. Quarterback J’Mar Smith threw for over 300 yards and a touchdown. Bulldogs head coach Skip Holtz says Smith has the makings of a really dangerous quarterback for opponents…

Cut 18 (19)    with his feet“

A feel good moment for Louisiana Tech was return of Jaqws Dancy. He’s back on the field after being diagnosed of Hodgkin lymphoma in October. He had a 24-yard reception. Holtz says it was great to see Jaqwis back in pads…

Cut 19 (20)   “couple plays”

The Bulldogs will open the season on Spetember 2nd at home against Northwestern State. Holtz says developing consistency will be the key when the team begins fall camp in August…

Cut 20 (19)   “on defense”

It’s festival season in the Bayou State. Jeff Palermo has more on the festivals underway around the state…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A proposed law would exempt items like tampons and diapers from the state sales tax. Emelie Gunn has more on the measure filed by New Orleans Senator JP Morrell….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Festival season is in full swing in all corners of the Bayou State. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the Blues Festival gets underway in the Capitol City, while the Crawfish Festival kicks off in Lake Charles. He says there’s plenty to do in Louisiana this weekend.

Cut 3 (11) “strawberry festival”

Nungesser says festival season brings a ton of tourists to the Pelican State. He says some even use motor homes to tour the state and travel the festival circuit. He says it’s a great chance to show off the Louisiana lifestyle and hospitality.

Cut 4  (07) “new friend”

Nungesser says with over 400 festivals, there’s something to do every weekend in every town and city around the state. He says he wants to visit them all, but with new festivals popping up every year, that seems impossible.

Cut 5  (10)  “visit em all”

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Republican members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation fully support the United States missile attack on an air base in Syria. Retired Major General Ron Richard from Louisiana was a guest on WRKF’s Talk Louisiana and says the president made the right move following Syria’s chemical attack on civilians.

Cut 6 (10) “took place”

While on the campaign trail, Trump said the U.S. would not get involved with conflicts in the Middle East. But Richard says this action was necessary given the heinous attack on innocent people. He says these missiles caused serious damage.

Cut 7 (08)  “of action”

Kentucky Senator Rand Paul says President Trump should have received Congressional approval before authorizing a military strike on an air base in Syria. But Richard said on W-R-K-F’s Talk Louisiana that he supports the President’s surprise attack..

Cut 8 (07) “to do”

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A Baton Rouge man faces over 200 counts of theft after allegedly cashing his dead mother’s retirement checks for 18 years. Attorney General Jeff Landry says 42-year-old Lester Joseph stole over $400 thousand from the state’s Teacher’s Retirement System. Landry says the suspect’s father was the beneficiary for his wife’s retirement checks after Ruby Joseph passed away in 1997.

Cut 9 (09)  “send checks”

Landry says the son illegally forged his name on his father’s checks, collecting more than $460-thousand in undue benefits. He says Joseph has been charged with 201 counts of felony theft and two counts of identity theft.

Cut 10 (11) “particular benefits”

Landry says this arrest is a result of the hard work of people in his department who are ensuring the rule of law is followed. He says from here, the case will go to the local District Attorney, and if convicted, Joseph should serve time behind bars.

Cut 11 (10) “go to work”

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A New Orleans lawmaker has filed legislation that would eliminate the state sales tax when purchasing feminine products. Senator J.P. Morrell’s measure would exempt items like tampons and diapers. Supporter of the bill, executive director of Lift Louisiana, Michelle Erenberg, says these products are not luxury items for women. She says even though the cost saving is only a few dollars, every little bit helps.

Cut 12 (10) “of money”

Erenberg anticipates push back from some lawmakers because previous bills dealing with women’s issues have not much success in the legislature. But she says a significant amount of women in the Bayou State live below the poverty line so any extra savings each month helps them feed their families.

Cut 13 (08) “than opposition”

Erenberg says this is common sense legislation.

Cut 14 (10) “made sense”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has some big priorities for the legislative session that begins Monday. One of those is raising the minimum wage to $8.50 an hour, a hike he calls modest but meaningful. Edwards says in 2017, $7.25 an hour is inadequate to pay for the basic cost of living.

Cut 15 (11) “one job”

Edwards adds several other states have already increased their minimum wage well above the federal minimum.

Another key item on the Governor’s legislative agenda is criminal justice reform. Edwards said on his monthly call-in radio show the proposals will be consistent with the findings of the Criminal Justice Reinvestment task force he commissioned last year. He says we have to do something to lower Louisiana’s highest-in-the-world incarceration rate.

Cut 16  (09)  “any longer”

Edwards says they will look at proven strategies from other southern conservative states.

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