Governor John Bel Edwards announced his support for the Bayou Bridge Pipeline and the expulsion of state Senator Troy Brown during his monthly call in radio show. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty” 

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The National Safety Council reports motor vehicle deaths in 2016 increased six-percent from last year nationally and in Louisiana crash fatalities are up five-percent from 2014. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A bill is heading to the House floor that would use only $74 million from the rainy day fund to close a $304 million midyear deficit. Jeff Palermo reports…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Teen mothers are seeing better pregnancy and parenting outcomes thanks to a program by Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana. The Jus4Me program was funded by a $50-thousand grant from United Healthcare Community Plan of Louisiana. CEO Allison Young says 89-percent of the young mothers used the health and referral services at school-based health centers regularly, which had tremendous outcomes for these mothers’ children.

Cut 4  (09) “really important”

Young says 97-percent of the mothers in the program stayed in school both during and after their pregnancies. She says 52 teen parents improved their parenting skills through weekly classes held at 6 school sites in four parishes. She says the Jus4Me program enables teen moms to come together and discuss personal issues and get support.

Cut 5  (10)  “access to”

Young says this program is vitally important to these young mothers, and United Healthcare is proud of the results they were able to achieve through this partnership with the Children’s Coalition. She says they hope to help even more teen mothers in the future.

Cut 6 (09) “in the nation”

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During his 11^th monthly call in radio show, Governor John Bel Edwards announced his support for two controversial issues in the Bayou State- the expulsion of state Senator Troy Brown and the construction of the Bayou Bridge Pipeline. Edwards says while the pipeline would only create about 12 permanent jobs, it would create more jobs during construction and job retention for others.

Cut 7 (10)  “as well”‘

The proposed pipeline would stretch across 11 parishes from Calcasieu to St. James, and it’s facing fierce opposition from environmental groups. Edwards says transporting crude through a pipeline is much safer than by train or truck. He adds that he doesn’t see a conflict between the pipeline and the state’s coastal restoration masterplan.

Cut 8 (11) “state law”

Edwards also supports the expulsion of the Napoleonville lawmaker who has been convicted of two separate domestic abuse charges. Senators could vote to expel Brown on Monday. The governor says Brown should have resigned immediately because that would have been best for him, his family, and the Senate.

Cut 9 (09)  “a dstraction”

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The National Safety Council finds motor vehicle deaths in 2016 rose 6-percent nationally from last year and in Louisiana they’ve increased by five-percent since 2014.  Ken Kolosh (Koe-lahsh(with the NSC says they blame distracted driving for the increase…

Cut 10 (10) “the concern”

Kolosh says crash fatalities could also be on the rise, because young drivers are not adequately prepared to get behind the wheel.

Cut 11 (10) “and 20”

The National Safety Council report finds that 661 died in motor-vehicle deaths in 2016, nationally the number exceeded 40-thousand for the first time since 2007.  Kolosh says another concern is alcohol related fatalities are on the rise, but there are ways lawmakers can address it…

Cut 12 (09) “drunk drivers”

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The House Appropriations Committee approves legislation that takes only $74 million from the rainy day fund, instead of the $119 million the governor recommended. The vote comes after a heated back and forth between the governor’s chief budget advisor and Republican lawmakers. Covington Representative John Schroder supports the measure.

Cut 13 (11) “period”

The budget plan that’s now heading to the House calls for cuts to prisons, colleges, and public schools, areas the governor is seeking to protect. Republican lawmakers have been pushing for reductions in state spending, but Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the right time to reduce spending isn’t in the middle of the year.

Cut 14 (11) “as much money” (2x)

Schroder says the state is living outside its means, so the cuts have to be made. He says using one time money is irresponsible because it just kicks the can down the road, and we’ll be in the same predicament again next year.

Cut 15 (09) “the money”

But Dardenne says he can’t understand the hesitance to use the rainy day fund when the state is facing a $304 million midyear deficit, because this is exactly why the fund was created.

Cut 16 (09) “coming back” (2x)

A bill that uses no rainy day dollars was also approved, and both proposals are expected to be heard Friday on the House floor.

Thirty-nine pit bulls were scheduled to be euthanized today in Opelousas, but that will not happen because of an animal rescue group out of New Orleans. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The first hearing on the expulsion of state Senator Troy Brown was held today. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Thirty-nine pit bulls that were scheduled to be euthanized today have been rescued. Stacey Alleman with St. Landry Parish Animal Control says they made a Facebook post hoping for a miracle, and they got one in Tia Torres of Pit Bulls and Parolees. She says all of the dogs were rescued by Torres, who is also the founder of Villalobos Rescue Center in New Orleans.

Cut 3 (11) “have sanctuary”

Alleman says the dogs will still be in their custody, but Torres is providing the resources and manpower it takes to care for these animals. She says as of yesterday, the national Humane Society has stepped up to help sponsor some of these dogs.

cut 4  (10) “the longevity”

Alleman says even when things were looking grim, the community never lost hope. She says just two years ago the shelter had to put down over 96-percent of the animals they rescued, but they’ve come a long way thanks to the power of social media.

Cut 5  (11)  “of Facebook”

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The debate continues at the state capitol on whether or not to tap into the rainy day fund to address a $304 million midyear budget deficit. House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry opposes the use of rainy day fund and continues to push for reductions in state spending.

Cut 6 (09) “they held back”

Henry says the governor is unwilling to back off his stance of using 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund. The Republican from Jefferson Parish says many House members can’t support the governor’s plan and they won’t be forced to vote on it.

CUT 7 (11)  “down the road”

The special session ends next Wednesday and Henry says there’s still enough time to pass a responsible budget deficit elimination plan. Henry says during the negotiations they continue to propose deeper cuts to the Louisiana Department of Health, but the governor says any additional cuts would impact patients, but Henry disagrees.

Cut 8 (09) “financially disasterous”

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The first hearing on state Senator Troy Brown’s expulsion or suspension from the Upper Chamber was heard today. Resolutions have been filed seeking to reprimand Brown for his domestic violence convictions. The Napoleonville lawmaker’s lawyer, Jill Craft, requested subpoenas of lawmakers’ texts and emails…:

Cut 9 (10)  “constitution provides”

Craft requested several subpoenas and documents for members of the legislature including their criminal history, but nearly everything was rejected. She says the Senate is trying to remove a member of the body based on their assessment of a misdemeanor, but Senator Dan Claitor says that’s not what this is about…:

Cut 10 (10) “go about it”

The hearing on the expulsion proposal is slated for Monday. Senator Karen Carter Peterson said she would only agree to subpoena documents, if a member of the legislature had a similar domestic violence conviction. But Craft told Peterson the Senate has no rules for standard…:

cut 11 (11) “all here”

Craft is trying to stop a legislative hearing on the matter saying it would violate Brown’s right to due process. But state Senator JP Morrell says members of the Senate make their own rules…:

cut 12 (07) “unbecoming a Senator”

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Triple-A released their annual worst drivers on the road report and what did it find? It confirmed what many people believe, millennials are the worst on the road and the survey finds they’re more reckless than teens. AAA Spokesperson Don Redman says drivers between the ages of 19 to 24 seem to be distracted behind the wheel….

Cut 13 (10) “30 days“

Redman says although those 19 to 24 are considered the worst drivers, older motorists also admitted to engaging in dangerous behavior while driving.

cut 14 (08) “behaviors”

The report also finds millennials are more likely than anyone else to go over the speed limit by 10 to 15 miles and be high on marijuana while driving. Redman says motorists aged 19 to 24 engage in higher risk behavior more than other age groups.

Cut 15 (09) “could’ve stopped”

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The show, Murder Chose Me, airs tonight on Investigation Discovery, which tells the stories of the homicide cases solved by a former Shreveport detective. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn” 

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Community leaders say an investigation into allegations a Baton Rouge judge used racial slurs at a local restaurant is needed to uncover the truth. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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There’s no consensus yet on how to fill a 304-million dollar gap in the state’s budget. Jeff Palermo has more on the special session..

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A new show airs tonight on Investigation Discovery called Murder Chose Me that highlights the murder cases of a former Shreveport Police detective. Rod Demery’s says the show is centered around many of the homicide cases he worked in his 17 years with Shreveport PD but also some elements are woven in about why he became a detective.

Cut 4  (10) “are there”

Demery also attributes becoming a detective to his brother being convicted of murder when he was in his 20s. Demery says every one of the homicide cases featured in the show have been solved. He hopes that Murder Chose Me will humanize what goes on after a murder.

Cut 5  (10)  “real pain”

Murder Chose Me premieres tonight at 9 p.m. central time on ID. Demery says an actor reenacts how he solved different cases while he is the narrator. He says the show has been a therapeutic experience for him, knowing he can share his stories to help other people.

Cut 6 (10) “be done”

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Two separate resolutions have been filed regarding Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown, one that seeks to suspend him and another seeking his expulsion after two different domestic abuse convictions. Senate Secretary Glenn Koepp says the first hearing on this matter is this morning at 10 and the entire Senate is invited to participate, minus Brown.

Cut 7 (10)  “witness list”‘

Koepp says it’s imperative they provide due process for Brown. He says that’s why on Monday, the entire Senate will meet for another hearing, where Brown will have a chance to make his case against punishment.

Cut 8 (11) “wanted presented”

Baton Rouge Senator Yvonne Dorsey’s resolution calls for Brown to be fined 25-hundred dollars or suspended for six weeks, while competing resolution filed by two other senators would expel him. It will take 26 of the 39 senators to agree to final resolution. Koepp says a vote could happen on one of the two resolutions on Monday when it goes to the Senate floor.

Cut 9 (07)  “committee hearing”

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Black community leaders are calling for an investigation into allegations that Baton Rouge Judge Mike Erwin used racial slurs against a woman at a local restaurant. Kaneitra Johnson of Baton Rouge posted on Facebook saying Erwin called her by the n-word at Sammy’s Grill, but no other witnesses have come forward. Community activist Daniel Banguel says the matter still needs to be investigated.

Cut 10 (07) “came forth”

Erwin issued a statement saying he never has, never would, and never will use the language he is accused of saying. But Banguel says the owners of Sammy’s have since banned Erwin from all of their restaurants.

Cut 11 (10) “from the restaurant”

If Johnson has filed a complaint with the Louisiana Judiciary Commission as her attorney’s claim, the matter could go all the way to the Louisiana Supreme Court. Banguel says some are questioning the truth behind the allegations because Johnson has gone before Erwin for a traffic case once before.

Cut 12 (09) “that night”

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Legislation that authorizes the use of the rainy day fund to address a 304-million dollar midyear budget deficit is heading to the Senate floor. Senate President John Alario says dipping into the state’s savings account will stave off cuts to colleges, public schools and child services programs…

Cut 13 (11) “get hurt”

Much of the work at the State Capitol on Tuesday happened behind closed doors. Lawmakers negotiated with the governor over using the rainy day fund versus cutting the budget. Alario says there’s a block of republican lawmakers who want to to reduce state spending

Cut 14 (09) “the difference”

Republican House Appropriations Chair Cameron Henry told the Associated Press the negotiating sessions are not exactly moving smoothly. Legislative leaders and the governor are expected to meet again Wednesday. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says neither side wants to give in

Cut 15 (10) “go on”

Severe weather is a possibility tonight in south Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The woman who accidentally uploaded a nude video to the Webster Parish Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Instagram account is taking legal action. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Couples around the country and across the Bayou State celebrate their love this Valentine’s Day in a variety of ways. Offers.com analyzed gift related keywords based on the increase in February versus the rest of the year to determine the most popular Valentine’s Day items. Kerry Sherin with Offers.com says they took a look at what’s at the top of Louisianans’ wish lists.

Cut 3 (09) “Valentine’s Day”

Sherin says drop earrings and white gold chains for men rounded out the top five gifts. She says unlike the rest of the country, Louisianans want daisies for Valentine’s Day, instead of roses. She says we also have different taste in holiday candy.

cut 4  (08) “whatever it is”

Sherin says Louisianans won’t need to fight the crowds or make dinner reservations this year. She says like most of the country, a night at home will do in the Bayou State.

Cut 5  (09)  “and relax”

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South Louisiana could face the possibility of more severe weather this afternoon and into tonight. State climatologist Barry Keim says the radar shows a strong line of storms moving in from Texas.

Cut 6 (09) “more tornadoes”

Keim says the Storm Prediction Center has much of south Louisiana under a slight risk for severe weather, and central Louisiana is facing a marginal risk. He says this event doesn’t look quite as severe as what we saw last week, but as we saw then, things can change quickly.

CUT 7 (09)  “about this one”

Keim says once the storm pushes through, there will be a slight drop in temperatures, but nothing like the freeze we saw last month. He says despite it still technically being winter, the weather feels more like spring in the Bayou State.

Cut 8 (11) “are very spring-like”

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The former Executive Director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau is taking legal action after she was terminated Monday. The firing comes after 61-year-old Lynn Dorsey accidentally posted a risqué video to the CVB’s Instagram account. Dorsey’s attorney, Lydia Rhodes, says they plan to go to court and make a case for a breach of contract.

Cut 9 (07)  “working from”

Rhodes says that contract was through the end of this calendar year. Dorsey said in December when the nude video went live online that it was intended for her husband. Rhodes says they also have a few issues with the way the matter proceeded with the commission.

Cut 10 (10) “with Mrs. Dorsey”

Rhodes says Dorsey had been with the CVB for 12 years. She says they are looking at their legal options because the stakeholders in this incident are the people in the tourism industry, and they are the ones who will be impacted.

cut 11 (10) “that community”

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Two Florida residents have been arrested on multiple counts of fraud and theft after repeatedly swiping several access cards to purchase large amounts of gift cards at Lowe’s in Baton Rouge. Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says a retired police officer was at the store and noticed this common practice of fraud so he immediately contacted the authorities.

cut 12 (11) “of fraud”

McKneely says 36-year-old Jayson Carter and 17-year-old Mardashia Harris, both of Florida, were arrested. He says authorities believe the two are part of a ring…

Cut 13 (09) “possible ring“

McKneely says Carter and Harris were found with multiple cards with the same name…

cut 14 (10) “fake cards”

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A Benton couple has once again been honored as Louisiana’s longest known married couple. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino” 

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Two state Senators file a resolution to expel Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown after being convicted of two separate domestic abuse charges. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Governor Edwards kicked-off the special session by explaining to legislators why it’s important to use rainy day dollars to address a 304-million dollar budget deficit. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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For the third straight year, a couple from Bossier Parish is known as the longest known married couple in the state. Louisiana Family Forum President Gene Mills says 103-year-old Lawrence Player and 97-year-old Varrie Player of Benton have been married for 82 years and they celebrated the terrific accomplishment this past weekend with a cake.

Cut 4  (10) “great grandchildren”

Mills says the Players were married on January 27, 1935 and they have no intention of slowing down. He says they shared some of their secrets for a long lasting marriage.

Cut 5  (09)  “by themselves”

Every year Louisiana Family Forum honors the top ten longest married couples in the state. Mills says Will Henry and Virginia Teasley of Bienville Parish are this year’s runners up, married for 80 years. He says Virginia is in hospice care, so on the way to Benton they stopped in to visit and deliver a king cake.

Cut 6 (11) “for a lifetime”

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A resolution has been filed for the special session that seeks to expel Napleonville Senator Troy Brown from the legislature, because of two recent domestic abuse convictions. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt filed the measure along with Baton Rouge Senator Dan Claitor. Hewitt says anytime an elected official breaks the law, it erodes the public’s trust in all elected leaders.

Cut 7 (08)  “Senator Brown”‘

Hewitt says it’s time that we raise the standards for what we expect from our elected officials. She says for too long we’ve been tolerant of elected leaders who’ve been guilty of corruption, scandal, and general disregard for the citizens they were chosen to represent.

Cut 8 (10) “elected leaders”

Claitor says the Louisiana Constitution allows the legislature to discipline members, and it happens in the form of a resolution. He expects the first hearing will occur within two or three days, and in a week the committee will have another hearing with evidence and testimony, before it goes to the floor.

Cut 9 (11)  “ought to go”

It will take 26 out of 39 votes to expel the senator. Brown issued a statement last month saying expulsion is the political equivalent to execution. He went on to say that only 8 states have ever expelled a Senator, and it was always over more serious matters.

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On the opening night of the special session, Governor John Bel Edwards laid out his reasons on why the state legislature should use 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund to address a 304-million dollar shortfall. Edwards says without using it, cuts will likely have to be made to higher education, public schools and social services like foster care

Cut 10 (06) “public service”

Edwards says the Rainy Day fund was tapped four times during former Governor Bobby Jindal’s administration. There’s concern by some lawmakers of draining the fund down to zero, but Edwards says that won’t happen thanks to BP settlement dollars

Cut 11 (09) “budget stabilization fund ”

There have been several Republican lawmakers who have advocated for more cuts to the budget. Edwards says if here’s there’s another option out there, let’s discuss it…

Cut 12 (11) “proposals”

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A new website seeks to reduce wasteful spending in state government. Covington Representative John Schroder launched StopLouisianaWaste.com to allow individuals to anonymously report state government waste.

Cut 13 (08) “the case”

Schroder says given the state’s budget problems, lawmakers have to make sure they’re spending every penny of taxpayer money wisely. He says he will personally investigate each incident and provide the information to the proper agency.

Cut 14 (06) “anonymously”

Schroder stresses that people can post to the website anonymously. He says he’s interested to see what people will say in private that they wouldn’t say in public.

Cut 15 (09) “to do”

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Quarterback Brandon Harris is looking for a new school. The one-time starting Q-B for the Tigers says he’s transferring and head coach Ed Orgeron will allow Harris to transfer to any school he chooses. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran says this is not a surprise, since Danny Etling is the likely starting signal caller in 2017

Cut 16 (06) “next year”

Harris started the first two games of the 2016 season, but was benched during the Jacksonville State game. He appeared in just four games on the season and threw for only 139 yards after starting all 12 games in his sophomore campaign. Moran says if Harris wants to play, he needs to find another school…

Cut 17 (13)  “terribly surprising “

Moran says with Harris’ departure it opens the door for three other quarterbacks, who will compete in the spring, to battle for the number two spot in the depth chart….

Cut 18 (21) “make a case”

The third special session begins tonight, on the eve of the anniversary of the first one called by Governor John Bel Edwards. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A poison that would kill wild hogs could soon make its way to Louisiana. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Tonight Louisiana lawmakers will convene for their third special session in just one year, as they attempt to resolve a $304 million midyear budget deficit. ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says one of the biggest battles will be whether or not to tap into the rainy day fund, and how much. He says if they do not use the fund, lawmakers will face tough decisions.

Cut 3 (08) “state services”

The governor supports using the fund, but it has gotten pushback from some Republican lawmakers. But Stockley says there appears to be enough support from the GOP to tap into the state’s savings account.

cut 4  (12) “being underfunded”

It will take a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate for the legislature to use the rainy day fund. Stockley says whether or not the votes are there remains to be seen.

Cut 5  (07)  “it seems”

The special session begins tonight at 6:30 p.m. and must end by midnight on February 22.

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A new website has launched that seeks to help Louisianans find jobs in the restaurant industry. Wendy Waren with the Louisiana Restaurant Association says LouisianaHospitalityJobs.com is designed to meet the needs of the state’s ever-expanding hospitality sector.

Cut 6 (09) “currently filled”

Waren says Louisiana has 83-hundred restaurants and bars, which employ more than 205-thousand workers. She says the site currently has 500 available positions. She says they are excited to connect employers with their ProStart program, which helps people without restaurant experience get the training they need to embark on this career path.

CUT 7 (11)  “college level”

Waren says while the site helps employers fill vacancies with competent workers, it’s also a huge help to those looking to find the right job for them.

Cut 8 (10) “industry-based certifications”

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A school bus overturned in St. Helena Parish this morning, sending dozens of children to area hospitals. State Trooper Dustin Dwight says the bus was travelling on LA 43 about to make a left hand turn near Greensburg when it was hit by another vehicle.

Cut 9 (10)  “left turn”

Dwight says the impact caused the bus to overturn on its right side. He says all of the children on the bus were transported to local hospitals for evaluation, some by Acadian Ambulance and other by their parents.

Cut 10 (08) “injuries reported”

Dwight says the drivers of both the school bus and the other vehicle were taken to hospitals. He says the investigation is ongoing, and they do anticipate traffic charges on the driver of the Chevy Silverado. He says this goes to show the importance of making safe decisions behind the wheel.

cut 11 (08) “were fortunate”

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A poison that would kill wild hogs could soon be available in Louisiana. The population of the feral animal is nearly 700,000 and they are a major nuisance in many areas of the state. Jim LaCour is a veterinarian with LDWF. He says the Environmental Protection Agency has approved a product called Kaput…:

cut 12 (07) “consecutive days”

LaCour says more tests are needed before they’ll use Kaput here because the major concern is that other non-target animals, especially the Louisiana Black Bear, could eat it and die. He says the bears were recently removed from the federal Endangered Species List…:

Cut 13 (07) “especially“

Kaput will be released to the public in Texas in May. LaCour says the poison would be placed in a feeder, and you basically have to train the hogs how to open the door. He says raccoons are very strong and could also get inside the feeder, so it’s not that LDWF isn’t in favor of using an effective bait-poison…:

cut 14 (10) “in the state”

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Phillips 66 says the fire at the Paradis Pipeline Station in St. Charles Parish is finally out. Company spokesperson Dennis Nuss says the blaze was extinguished this morning…

Cut 15 (06) “is investigated”

A missing worker from Thursday’s blast is presumed dead. He’s been identified as Josh Helms. Nuss says this remains a difficult time Phillips 66…

Cut 16  (07)  “thoughts and prayers”

Former Governor Kathleen Blanco reacts to the news that actress Annette Bening has been cast to portray her in the upcoming FX show Katrina: American Crime Story. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Emelie Gunn” 

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State lawmakers return to the state capitol tonight for a 10-day special session to eliminate a 304-million dollar budget deficit. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It’s been 6 months since The Great Flood of 2016, so how far have affected Louisiana communities come? Michelle Southern gets a progress update…:

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Former Governor Kathleen Blanco is honored to hear Oscar nominated actress Annette Bening has been cast to portray her in the upcoming FX television series, Katrina: American Crime Story. She says the show will explore the extreme poverty of New Orleans residents before and after the hurricane.  

Cut 4  (11) “like that”

Blanco expects there will be about 13 episodes during the season, which is scheduled to air in 2018. She says she would be happy to sit down and talk with Annette Bening to help her play up the character.

Cut 5  (07)  “each other”

The script is based off a book by Doug Brinkley, The Great Deluge. Blanco says much of the filming will take place in New Orleans. She anticipates one of the storylines will be how the White House did not immediate bring the resources needed to help the thousands that were impacted.  

Cut 6 (08) “government”

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A 10-day special session begins tonight as Governor John Bel Edwards is asking lawmakers to use a combination of cuts and money from the rainy day fund to close a 304-million dollar midyear budget deficit. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says it’s their recommendation that legislators approve the use of 119-million dollars in rainy day dollars

Cut 7 (09)  “be made”‘

If the legislature uses 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund on this fiscal year’s budget deficit that means 185-million dollars in cuts and shuffling of dollars will be needed to close the deficit. Republican House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry proposes to cut more than what the governor recommends, because the state faces another significant deficit next fiscal year

Cut 8 (11) “reductions now”

A two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate is required before money can be taken out of the Rainy Day Fund. Monroe Representative Jay Morris is also in favor of cutting the budget deeper than what the governor proposes…

Cut 9 (10)  “year over year”

Morris says he’s found areas in the Louisiana Department of Health’s budget that can be cut further than what the governor has suggested. He points out a specific program within the governor’s council on physical fitness and sports…

Cut 10 (12) “and a like”

The special session must conclude business by midnight February 22^nd. Dardenne says they know there’s a group of lawmakers who oppose using rainy day dollars to eliminate the deficit…

Cut 11 (11) “we’re facing”

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6 months ago, the worst disaster to strike the United States in over 4 years hit Louisiana; “The Great Flood of 2016.” So where to things stand now? In Livingston Parish, approximately 80% of residential and commercial structures were damaged by flooding. Parish President Layton Ricks says many residents are back in their homes, but…:

Cut 12 (10) “back on track”

Ricks says recovery has moved along much faster than he thought it would, but there’s still a long way to go. He says even so, there’s no doubt in his mind that the parish will double in population as was projected prior to the flood…:

Cut 13 (12) “low crime rate”

Several schools were displaced by the flood, but are slowing but surely starting to come back. St. Amant High is returning to its campus today, and Ascension Parish Public Schools Superintendent David Alexander says that’s a major milestone in the road to recovery…:

Cut 14 (10) “on a single site”

Alexander says he knows St. Amant’s 2,000 students will be glad to be off the platoon schedule with Dutchtown, and back on their home campus. He says it was incredible to see how well everyone impacted handled the circumstances…:

Cut 15 (11) “back home”

In Lafayette Parish, hundreds of homes took on water in the town of Youngsville. Mayor Ken Ritter says he’s frustrated at the recovery effort because many of their residents don’t qualify for flood aid due to their income being above moderate…:

Cut 16 (15) “be affected”

Ritter says he’s extremely proud of their residents as most are back home because they took the initiative to rebuild themselves. He says as recovery money comes into the state, he hopes their people aren’t forgotten…:

Cut 17 (10)  “left behind “

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Deputies in Iberville Parish say they have made the largest gas pump skimmer arrest in the state’s history. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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It’s a beautiful weekend for a crawfish boil and there are plenty out there. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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This Sunday high school seniors have the opportunity to receive free professional assistance in filling out their Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s called College Goal Sunday. Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance Spokesperson Gus Wales says any soon to be high school graduate can get help at 15 locations around the state.

Cut 3 (08) “FAFSA”

Doors open at 1:30 and the program runs until 4:00 p.m. and students are encouraged to pre-register at www.osfa.la.gov to ensure there are enough professionals to assist. The 15 sites are located in every region of the state at select community colleges, technical schools and universities. Wales says this allows for a painless application process.

cut 4  (08) “free event”

Wales says this event is specifically for high schools seniors but juniors are welcome to attend to get general information about the process. He says a brief informational session takes place before the program begins.

Cut 5  (11)  “the FAFSA”

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A Phillips 66 employee remains unaccounted for after a pipeline explosion that took place in St. Charles Parish on Thursday night. The company says six people were working at the site in Paradis when the blast occurred. Todd Denton with Phillips 66 expressed his sorrow for those involved at a press conference Friday morning

Cut 6 (12) “those impacted”

The missing person has not been identified. Denton says regular maintenance was taking place at the time of the explosion. Phillips says three workers were treated at the scene and one other worker is listed in fair condition at Baton Rouge General….

CUT 7 (06)  “second remains hospitalized”

Phillips says the pipeline is blocked and so is the valve and the remaining product will continue to burn off. There is a very large flame coming out of the damaged pipeline and it could take days before it’s extinguished. State Police Trooper Melissa Matey says the evacuation has been lifted, but there are still some closures on Highway 631

Cut 8 (09) “out there”

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Iberville Parish authorities say they have made the biggest gas skimmer arrest in the state’s history. Sheriff Brett Stassi says deputies arrested Serafin and his son, Juan Fuentes, of Miami, Florida, during a traffic stop on Interstate 10 where they discovered illegal equipment in the vehicle.

Cut 9 (09)  “gas machine”

Stassi says there is the potential that 2 million dollars was illegally collected on the Fuentes’ skimmers. He says they are issuing search warrants to find out how many credit card numbers were stored on the devices but detectives believe this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Cut 10 (08) “criminal families”

Stassi advises drivers to use credit cards when pumping gas or run their debit card as credit because skimmers can pick up pin numbers. He also says to alert an attendant if things don’t seem right at the pump.

cut 11 (10) “correctly”

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It’s a beautiful weekend to have a crawfish boil and the good news for restaurants, farmers and consumers is that the supply of mudbugs continues to be great for this time of year. LSU AgCenter aquaculture specialist Mark Shirley says the catch is only going to get better..:

cut 12 (08) “about everyday”

Shirley says you’re starting to see the prices come down big time from the January high…:

Cut 13 (10) “any longer“

Shirley says while the mild winter has kept the crawfish a bit larger than usual for this point in the season, they’re still in the small-medium range right now…:

cut 14 (10) “nice size crawfish”

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LSU basketball will look to avoid its 11th straight defeat on Saturday when they host Arkansas at the Maravich Center. Coach Johnny Jones team is 9-14 overall, 1-and-10 in the SEC. During an appearance on the Jim Engster Show, LSU President F King Alexander was asked about whether a coaching change is needed

Cut 15 (10) “the year”

During the 10-game losing streak, all but two of the defeats have been double digits. Alexander admits it’s been a tough season for the Tigers, but any decisions on Jones’ future will be made later this year

Cut 16  (05)  “season left”

A recent survey by insurance Quotes finds 39-percent of motorists have never looked around for a cheaper policy. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (26) “I’m Don Molino” 

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Valentine’s Day sales are expected to be about 18.2 billion dollars this year, compared to 19.7 billion dollars last year. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A UNO survey finds most Louisiana residents blame former Governor Bobby Jindal for the state’s current budget problems. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A survey by insuranceQuotes finds 39-percent of drivers in the U.S. have never shopped around to find cheaper auto insurance. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says looking for the best policies and rates is a great idea given that auto insurance prices are on the rise….

Cut 4  (10) “cell phones”

Donelon says an easy way for drivers to save money on auto insurance is to increase your deductible or lower your coverage limits. He says this is considered self-insuring and taking as much risk as a motorist can reasonably afford.

Cut 5  (11)  “calamity”

The survey also finds over half of drivers haven’t switched auto insurance companies in at least eight years and 6-percent of motorists have stuck with the same provider for over 30 years. Donelon says there is a comparison rate guide on the department of insurance’s website to view different policies.

Cut 6 (10) “.gov”

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The National Retail Federation finds this Valentine’s Day consumers are expected to spend 18.2 billion dollars. That’s down from 19.7 billion dollars last year. LSU Marketing Professor Dan Rice says we might be seeing a shift in how people celebrate this romantic holiday as couples are doing more things for each other around the year.

Cut 7 (07)  “Valentine’s Day”‘

The report also finds the number of people who celebrate the holiday has dropped by nearly 10-percent from 2007 to 54-percent this year. But Rice says this is still a big holiday for retailers.

Cut 8 (10) “for them”

Consumers are expected to spend about 85 dollars on their significant other or spouse. Rice says many couples are moving away from the chocolates and jewelry and giving their partner experimental gifts.

Cut 9 (10)  “the rush”

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U.S. Representative Clay Higgins urges new Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly to use social media as a way to vet immigrants. Higgins made the comments during a Homeland Security Committee meeting. The Republican from St. Landry Parish says the Obama administration failed to use this publicly available data…

Cut 10 (09) “social media”

Higgins believes a good way to prevent a terrorist from entering the U.S. is to review the social media use of immigrants who apply for a visa…

Cut 11 (10) “domestic terrorists”

Higgins says he is encouraged with the direction of the Homeland Security Department after hearing Secretary John Kelly speak. He says a visa applicant should also be required to provide their social media accounts and passwords

Cut 12 (04) “their intent”

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A UNO statewide poll finds six-out-of-10 Louisiana residents blame former Governor Bobby Jindal for the state’s budget problems. The Louisiana legislature is set to begin a third special session to correct a budget deficit since Jindal left office. UNO political scientist Ed Chervenak says the state’s fiscal troubles started early in Jindal’s term

Cut 13 (08) “institutional”

Chervenak says even though legislators are set to enter another special session where budget cuts will be required, Governor John Bel Edwards continues to have a strong approval rating of 49-percent…

Cut 14 (09) “the situation”

The telephone survey interviewed about nine-hundred Louisiana residents earlier this week. Chervenak says two-thirds of respondents say there is a need for a special legislative session…

Cut 15 (10) “wants to do”

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The Saints will stay in Louisiana for training camp this season. The NFL team will train at their facilities in Metairie after holding camp in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia the last three seasons. Saints analyst Mike Detillier says it’s good news for the fans

Cut 16 (15) “for that”

Coach Sean Payton was very complimentary of the setup at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virgina. But the team let the contract expire after three years and three straight non-playoff seasons. Detillier says practicing at the resort was not the reason for the losing seasons

Cut 17 (17)      ” talent “

Detillier says the team’s indoor facility is a reason why the Saints might have elected to stay home for training camp

Cut 18 (18) “in Metairie”

Marvel has selected Louisiana as their filming location for a new TV series to air on the Freeform network. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Flu season in Louisiana is in full swing. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Filming is underway in Louisiana for a new TV series from Marvel. Louisiana Entertainment Executive Director Chris Stelly says they’re very excited to have the Marvel brand in Louisiana. He says the new show is a spinoff from a Marvel classic, The Spectacular Spider-Man.

Cut 3 (11) “their own thing”

Stelly says crews began filming the pilot episode this week, and they’ll continue production for a 10 episode run. He says they’ll be filming in New Orleans and likely in other areas of the state as well. He hopes this encourages more production crews to choose the Bayou State as their filming destination.

cut 4  (07) “to have it”

Stelly says television production tends to be in the state longer than a feature film. He adds that they employ Louisiana residents for a longer period of time, usually 8 to 10 months out of the year. He says there’s also the potential to pick up year after year.

Cut 5  (07)  “the state”

Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger will air on Freeform after production is completed.

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The flu season in Louisiana is ramping up and as the Bayou State has surpassed other states with the number of influenza cases. The state’s flu bug expert, Dr. Frank Welch, says five out of 100 visits to the doctor are for flu like symptoms. He says there is a very nasty stain of flu going around this year.

Cut 6 (11) “flu season”

An elementary and middle school in the Shreveport area are closed for the next two days because of the number of kids absent due to the flu. Welch says swine flu along with Influenza B are other popular strains but are not as dominate as H3N2. And he says the flu can lead to other serious illnesses.

CUT 7 (10)  “pneumonia”

Welch says this bad flu season will likely last from six to eight weeks. But he says it’s still not too late to protect yourself…

Cut 8 (10) “fired up”

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As many residents are picking up the pieces after tornados ravaged south Louisiana, Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon advises tornado victims not to hesitate to file a claim.  He says some policyholders do hesitate for fear that their premiums would go up or they would be non-renewed by their insurer.

Cut 9 (09)  “that category”

Donelon says residents should not begin permanent repairs until an inspector has come to assess the damage. But he says temporary repairs should be made because policy holders have a legal obligation to minimize their damage.

Cut 10 (11) “further damage”

Donelon encourages policyholders to document their loss with pictures of the damage. He says while it’s important for consumers to know what their coverage is, there won’t be any flood versus wind controversy with this event.

cut 11 (08) “homeowners policy”

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A contractor in Ascension Parish has been arrested amid allegations he defrauded more than dozen homeowners who flooded in August. That’s according to Sheriff Jeff Wiley who says the suspect, 39-year-old Matthew Morris, is the owner of Complete Construction Contractors. He says they would complicate agreements to rack up thousands in claims:

cut 12 (08) “price gouging”

Wiley says Morris faces a number of charges including residential contractor fraud, 11 counts of engaging in the business of contracting without authority and 6 counts of theft of aged persons. He says some of these victims were elderly and it’s disgusting that someone would take advantage of people who are stressed and had just lost everything…:

Cut 13 (08) “of greed“

Wiley suspects there are more victims in other parishes where homeowners may only think they have a civil complaint, but this is a criminal matter. He says any other contractors who are doing the same thing need to take heed…:

cut 14 (07) “to operate”

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The Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s office has released the names of the three victims killed in Wednesday’s explosion at a packaging plant near DeRidder. 32-year-old William Rolls,  40-year-old Sedrick Stallworth and 40-year-old Jody Goch were working at the plant when two tanks exploded. State Police Sergeant James Anderson says they do have a preliminary cause…

Cut 15 (10) “ensued”

Seven other workers were injured by the blast, but Anderson says only one of them remains hospitalized. He says welding activity was taking place near the tank that exploded and they have an idea what was inside the tank…

Cut 16  (09)  “this time”