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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 3 (11) “the chamber”

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

Cut 4  (10) “intentional thing”

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

Cut 5  (09)  “self-defense”

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

Cut 6 (08) “the most”

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

Cut 7 (10)  “willing to”

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

Cut 8 (10) “a gun before”

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

Cut 9 (08)  “respect that” 

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

Cut 10 (11) “job creating projects”

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

Cut 11 (10) “in Louisiana”

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

Cut 12 (10) “four year window”

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

Cut 13 (11) “period of time”

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

Cut 14 (11) “one year”

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

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 3 (08) “so well”

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

Cut 4  (13) “that’s the challenge”

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

Cut 5  (08)  “lower premiums”

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

Cut 6 (10) “right path”

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

Cut 7 (11)  “I agree”

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

Cut 8 (08) “that situation”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “girls there” 

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

Cut 10 (09) “and die”

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

Cut 11 (10) “to deal with”

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

Cut 12 (11) “speeding tickets”

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

Cut 13 (09) “us safe”

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

Cut 14 (11) “here there”

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

Cut 15 (08) “other males”

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

Cut 16  (10)  “was arrested”

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 4  (12) “for the show”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “in those”

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

Cut 6 (09) “other stuff”

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

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

Cut 7 (11)  “high wage jobs”

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

Cut 8 (09) “popping up”

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

Cut 9 (07)  “go down”

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

Cut 10 (10) “of 21″

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

Cut 11 (10) “strip club”

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

Cut 12 (07) “young person”

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

Cut 13 (07) “kids brains”

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

Cut 14 (10) “the streets”

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

Cut 15 (06) “to be done”

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

Cut 16 (11) “healthier”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

Cut 3 (11) “and response”

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

Cut 4  (09) “type of response”

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

Cut 5  (09)  “back together”

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

Cut 6 (10) “traffic stop”

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

Cut 7 (07)  “occupant bill”

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

Cut 8 (09) “about money”

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

Cut 9 (07)  “from them” 

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

Cut 10 (11) “are around”

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

Cut 11 (09) “inside the vehicle”

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

Cut 12 (10) “to crash”

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

Cut 13 (07) “minor injuries”

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

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

Cut 14 (08) “those two”

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

Cut 15 (11) “been done”

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

Cut 16  (10)  “city park”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 3 (25) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 4  (09) “abused”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “corporal punishment”

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

Cut 6 (10) “the parent”

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

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

Cut 7 (11)  “forward”

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

Cut 8 (09) “education”

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

Cut 9 (11)  “on campus”

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

Cut 10 (09) “to stop”

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

Cut 11 (10) “a fine”

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

Cut 12 (10) “right”

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

Cut 13 (10) “gotten done”

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

Cut 14 (08) “own ideas”

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

Cut 15 (08) “to tackle”

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

Cut 16 (14) “big way”

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

Cut 17 (18)  “Super Regional”

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

Cut 18 (17)    “the weekend”  

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

Cut 3 (11) “under arrest”

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

Cut 4  (10) “the community”

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

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

Cut 5  (09)  “already interned”

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

Cut 6 (08) “the line”

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

Cut 7 (08)  “our veterans”

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

Cut 8 (07) “process works”

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

Cut 9 (09)  “a year” 

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

Cut 10 (11) “to get behind”

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

Cut 11 (09) “inside the vehicle”

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

Cut 12 (11) “morning’s incident”

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

Cut 13 (10) “dollar fine”

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

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 4  (10) “eating contest”

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

Cut 5  (09)  “crawfish poboy”

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

Cut 6 (09) “the music, too”

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

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

Cut 7 (11)  “suing them”

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

Cut 8 (07) “contract”

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

Cut 9 (05)  “defend themselves”

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

Cut 10 (09) “healthcare”

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

Cut 11 (09) “better plans”

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

Cut 12 (11) “five years”

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

Cut 13 (07) “the reality”

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

Cut 14 (09) “the impact”

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

Cut 15 (11) “to you”

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

Cut 16 (10) “our hands”

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

Cut 17 (10)  “committee”

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

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

Cut 18 (10)    “against Alabama” 

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

Cut 19 (09)   “history as well”

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

Cut 20 (21)   “bring it”

A lawyer for Officer Blane Salamoni is optimistic no state charges will be filed against his client for the shooting death of Alton Sterling. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Baton Rouge Police are gearing up for any potential weekend protests as a result of the feds’ decision in the Alton Sterling Case. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Senate Transportation Committee approves a bill that requires traffic signs to be posted ahead of speed cameras. The proposal by New Orleans Senator Troy Carter is similar to one that passed last year requiring warning signs for red-light cameras. He says this prevents municipalities from using these cameras as a money grab.

Cut 3 (07) “perfect sense”

The bill was amended to require signs within 500 feet of the camera, but no closer than 250 feet. Carter says this allows for proper signage to discourage the speeder with enough time to slow down safely.

Cut 4  (11) “a problem”

The proposal requires signs to be posted ahead of both moveable and fixed speed enforcement cameras. Another amendment requires that the signs be clearly visible and at the same height of other street signs already in place. Carter says this is another added safety measure of the bill.

Cut 5  (10)  “dangerous situation”

The proposal was approved without objection and now heads to the full Senate.

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More details are coming out about the fatal encounter between Alton Sterling and two Baton Rouge police officers on July 5. Community activist Gary Chambers met with DOJ officials following yesterday’s announcement, and he detailed the meeting to Jim Engster on Talk Louisiana. Chambers says Officer Blane Salamoni’s actions that night are disturbing.

Cut 6 (09) “end of that”

Chambers says that comment speaks to the mindset of Salamoni, while Officer Howie Lake was trying to deescalate the situation. He adds Lake never fired his weapon, though he did use his Taser. He says this means Attorney General Jeff Landry can make a great case for state criminal charges against Salamoni.

Cut 7 (10)  “shoot somebody”

Chamber says he never expected the DOJ to find civil rights violations because the burden of proof is so high for those charges. But he says state violations are much easier to prove. He’s also upset Salamoni is still receiving a paycheck from BRPD while on leave after this incident.

Cut 8 (09) “bad apple”

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John McLindon, the attorney for Blane Salamoni, believes Attorney General Jeff Landry will not seek state charges against his client. Salamoni is one of the officers involved in the fatal police shooting of Alton Sterling and he’s been cleared of any federal civil rights charges. McLindon points to the thorough investigation already conducted by the DOJ on why he thinks Salamoni will not be charged.

Cut 9 (06)  “to prosecute” 

The Sterling family reports Salamoni threatened Alton Sterling’s life before the shooting. But McLindon says there was no criminal conduct in this case.

Cut 10 (06) “the officers”

McLindon expects just like the federal investigation, the state’s probe will take a lengthy amount of time. He says these last 10 months haven’t been easy for anyone.

Cut 11 (10) “Sterling family”

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Baton Rouge Police don’t expect any protests this weekend following the Department of Justice’s decision in the Alton Sterling case, but they’re prepared for anything. Cpl. L’Jean McKneely says they wanted to make sure they weren’t last minute in responding to any potential incidents. So BRPD made some adjustments in their work schedule.

Cut 12 (09) “answering calls”

McKneely says aside from three arrests at a protest outside BRPD headquarters the night the decision was leaked, things have been pretty quiet in the Capitol City. But just in case, Live After 5 in downtown Baton Rouge and a 5K scheduled for this weekend have been cancelled.

Cut 13 (09) “Baton Rouge”

McKneely says there’s a signed agreement between protestors and law enforcement that demonstrators would abide by the law and police would protect their right to protest. He says officers will be on hand to make sure everyone is safe.

Cut 14 (10) “need to be”

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The full House will debate today the proposed budget for next fiscal year that would cut 235 million dollars more than the governor recommended from the department of Health. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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State Police and a prosecutor assigned by the Attorney General’s office will now investigate if the officers involved in the fatal shooting of Alton Sterling face state charges. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The US Justice Department has decided against filing federal charges for the officers involved in Alton Sterling’s death, but Sterling’s family hopes the state comes to a different conclusion. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The full House is expected to debate the budget bill that would cut 235-million dollars more than Governor Edwards wanted from the state Department of Health’s budget. Metairie Representative Cameron Henry says they plan to only use 97-percent of what the Revenue Estimating Conference appropriates for the budget to avoid mid-year cuts.

Cut 4  (09) “of health”

Henry says this will prevent the health department from taking a massive cut in the middle of the year like they’ve done in the past. He says if this strategy was used last year, the state would’ve eliminated all mid-year deficits.

Cut 5  (09)  “year cuts”

Governor John Bel Edwards opposes the proposed cut and is asking lawmakers to reverse them. LDH Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee says although the department of Health has one of the biggest budgets, that doesn’t mean their money is going to waste.

Cut 6 (09) “this state”

Gee says she wasn’t asked about what the implications of these cuts would have on the department. She says these cuts were just made without talking to experts first.

Cut 7 (08)  “other programs”

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The family of Alton Sterling is grieving all over again, after the Department of Justice announces no federal charges will be filed against the Baton Rouge police officers involved. Sterling’s aunt Sandra Sterling is hopeful the state investigation will bring forth criminal charges against the officers.

Cut 8 (12) “remember his name”

The family says they appreciate the support from demonstrators who are upset over the DOJ’s decision but ask that they remain respectful in memory of Sterling. Kimberly Pierson is the mother of Sterling’s 11-year-old son. She’s devastated and says Sterling didn’t deserve to die the way he did.

Cut 9 (08)  “for him”

Andricka Williams is the mother of three of Sterling’s children. She is disappointed no federal charges were handed down but remains hopeful Landry will get justice for Sterling. She says the determination that federal charges are not warranted is a hard pill to swallow.

Cut 10 (11) “like it was nothing”

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The Louisiana State Police along with a special prosecutor assigned by Attorney General Jeff Landry is now looking to see if Officers Howie Lake and Blane Salamoni violated state laws during the fatal shooting of Alton Sterling. Baton Rouge Attorney Beau Brock says it was a smart move by Landry to have LSP lead this investigation

Cut 11 (07) “of force”

The Sterling family believes there is sufficient evidence for state charges to be handed down against the officers. Brock says new information released by the U.S. Justice department will play a huge factor in the state case.

Cut 12 (10) “they have”

Brock says there is a high burden of conduct when it comes to determining if a person’s civil rights were violated. He says state statutes require only general criminal intent, which is a much lower standard.

Cut 13 (06) “be proved”

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Governor John Bel Edwards and Attorney General Jeff Landry have not seen eye-to-eye on many state issues, but the governor is anticipating Landry’s office will lead a thorough investigation into the fatal police shooting of Alton Sterling.

Cut 14 (11) “is warranted”

New Orleans Senator Karen Peterson says she is looking to the State of Louisiana to pursue the investigation. She calls on the Attorney General Jeff Landry to gather all the facts of the case to ensure that justice is in order.

Cut 15 (07) “this community”

Landry issued a statement saying a thorough investigation could take time, and his office asks for patience from the public. Peterson says not all of the facts of this case have been made public yet, but the facts that have been released are disturbing.

Cut 16 (11) “seem just”

A bill that would allow voters decide if military monuments should be removed, including those from the Civil War era, was approved by a House committee. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Department of Justice explained in detail why they aren’t filing federal civil rights charges against the cops in the Alton Sterling case. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (35) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Four Confederate monuments in New Orleans are coming down, but the rest of the state’s military monuments would be protected under a bill by Shreveport Representative Thomas Carmody. The measure would prohibit the removal of any military monument from any war, including the Civil War. Carmody says many of his family members fought for this country, and he is proud of their sacrifice.

Cut 3 (10) “of history”

The bill was approved by the House Municipal Committee on a 10 to 8 vote. The proposal was amended to allow for the monuments’ removal if a majority of voters decide to do so. Brenda O’Brock of Shreveport supports the monuments and says students should be paraded to them. She says all veteran lives matter, no matter what war they fought.

Cut 4  (10) “can we?”

The bill would not protect any monuments that are taken down before the proposed law takes effect. Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith opposes the measure. She says too many people have not grown up, and many black people still have to endure prejudice.

Cut 5  (09)  “take on us”

Supporters of the measure say removing the monuments would be taking a step backwards because if those who don’t learn from history, will repeat it. But Smith says we’ve already gone backwards in this country.

Cut 6 (08) “ugly names”

The measure now heads to the House floor for more debate.

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A measure that attempts to end pay secrecy in the workplace died in the House Labor Committee on a 9 to 5 vote. The bill sought to allow employees to discuss salary without fear of retaliation from their bosses. Mandeville Representative Reid Falconer voiced his concerns that not every worker feels comfortable sharing their wages. He says this bill could pose problems with employees and employers.

Cut 7 (11)  “everybody else”

But New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno says her measure only gives employees the option to discuss their salaries without fear of retaliation or termination from their employer. She says ending pay secrecy is actually beneficial to businesses.

Cut 8 (11) “productivity boost”

Moreno’s legislation was an attempt to end unequal gender pay practices by businesses. She says a poll found 90% of people surveyed support advancing equal pay policies. 

Cut 9 (11)  “and man”

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Emotions have been flying high surrounding every stance on the Department of Justice’s decision not to federally charge the Baton Rouge Police Officers for shooting Alton Sterling. The news was leaked yesterday by the Washington Post, and Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says it’s a shame the Sterling family had to find out that way…:

Cut 10 (10) “they promised”

James wants people who are upset about this to keep in mind that a lot of things have changed here since the July 2016 shooting..:

Cut 11 (08) “remain peaceful”

(Three females were arrested during a protest in Baton Rouge Tuesday night and are facing some pretty serious charges for allegedly trying to block a major roadway. Those include aggravated obstruction of a highway, resisting an officer, and failure to disperse. One woman was also charged with battery on a police officer for allegedly spitting on a cop.)

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The U.S Department of Justice announces no federal charges against the two Baton Rouge police officers involved in the shooting of Alton Sterling. Acting United States Attorney Corey Amundson says their extensive investigation determined officers Blane Salmoni and Howie Lake acted in accordance with the law when they encountered Sterling on July 5th..

Cut 12 (20) “civil rights laws”

Amundson says they had career prosecutors and agents who looked at the video evidence and witness testimony from the shooting that occurred in front of a convenience store. He says the investigation took so long because they carefully examined the actions of the officers

Cut 13 (18) “under federal law”

Amundson says the entire encounter between Sterling and the two officers lasted 90 seconds. He says they tazed Sterling and the officers also had difficulty trying to control the 37-year-old man after asking if they can see his hands. He says based on the video they can’t determine if the officers acted unreasonably and willfully

Cut 14 (16) “unreasonable”

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry announces State Police along with a special prosecutor will determine if state charges should apply. Chris Stewart, an attorney for Sterling’s family believes it should, because the actions of the police officers that night were outrageous….

Cut 15 (12) “these officers” (2x)

Stewart says everyone has seen the video of Sterling being shot three times, but what we didn’t see was that he was also shot three more times. He adds things got heated between Sterling and Officer Blane Salamoni even before the fatal scuffle.

Cut 16  (08)  “you bitch”

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