It took a special session to approve a budget for next fiscal year and  lawmakers have bigger money problems in the very near future. Jeff Palermo has the latest…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Bayou Teche Brewing cuts the ribbon on the newly expanded brewery in Arnaudville. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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It looks like Louisiana economy is picking up as nonfarm and private sector jobs are on the rise. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’mEmelie Gunn”

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Legislators struggled to approve a budget this year and the state’s financial woes will only look worse next year. That’s because one-point-two billion dollars in temporary taxes will expire in July 2018. Publisher of lapolitics.com, Jeremy Alford, says state lawmakers face more difficult decisions…

Cut 4  (11) “two strategies”

It’s expected the governor will call a special session early next year so legislators can address the fiscal cliff. Alford says the governor may propose ideas recommended by a task force that studied the state’s tax code, but that doesn’t mean the legislature will agree with those proposals

Cut 5  (08)  “new revenue”

A big portion of the temporary taxes that will expire next year is the additional penny put on the state sales tax last year by legislators to address a massive budget shortfall. Alford says the easiest thing for lawmakers to do is to keep the fifth sales tax penny on the books

Cut 6 (o8) “Louisiana legislature”

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Bayou Teche Brewing has a newly expanded Arnaudville brewery. President Karlos Knott says they added 50-percent more floor space, including new office space and an automated keg washing system. The expansion was needed to increase sales of their year-round LA 31 beers and seasonal beers. He says they’re excited about a new fully-automatic smart brewhouse from the Italian manufacturer Simatec.

Cut 7 (08)  “less energy”

This brewhouse is the first of its kind in the country. Knott says while it’s exciting to be on the forefront, it’s also nerve-racking to be the Guinee pig. He says there’s hundreds of them in Europe, and the owners they talked to love them.

Cut 8 (09) “the same time”

The smart brewhouse can produce up to 13 batches in just 24 hours. Knott says the new technology should help them brew at least three time as many beers in a day. He says the company is also going to help them further automate the brewery as they expand.

Cut 9 (09)  “more technological”

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Employment is on the rise in the Bayou State. In May, nonfarm employment increased by 10,500 jobs, the best one month gain since July of 2011. Executive Director of the Louisiana Workforce Commission Ava Dejoie says there’s been a noticeable improvement to the state’s employment landscape over the past month.

Cut 10 (09) “Lafayette”

Private sector employment increased by more than 9-thousand jobs over the month of May. Dejoie says our economy is tied to oil and gas but we’re turning the tide and diversifying the economy.

Cut 11 (10) “rebound” 

Even with these improvements, Louisiana unemployment rate is 5.7-percent, the third highest in the country. But Dejoie says the industrial boom in Lake Charles has created an additional 16-hundred jobs in May and flood recovery efforts are also producing jobs.

Cut 12 (10) “home sector”

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The Beauregard Parish Police Jury has expressed interest in taking possession of the P.G.T. Beauregard statue. It was one of four controversial confederate statues taken down in New Orleans. Police Jury President Rusty Williamson says it’s the right place for the monument, since the parish is named after the Confederate General.

Cut 13 (10) “get it”

Members of the Beauregard Community Coalition do not support moving the statue to Beauregard Parish. But Williamson says after a poll of the police jury, they determined bringing it to the parish was the best idea to avoid the namesake statue ending up in the trash. He says there are a variety of places to erect the statue other than the courthouse.

Cut 14 (09) “go there”

Williamson says he will meet with the Community Coalition this week to discuss options for a location for the equestrian statue. But he says it’s unclear if or when they may get the statue, because the removal of this monument is tied up in the courts.

Cut 15 (09) “in litigation”

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Something has to give in tonight’s College World Series winner’s bracket matchup between LSU and Oregon State. The Tigers have won 17 in a row, while the Beavers have won 22 straight. Oregon State is an impressive 55-4 on the season, but Coach Paul Mainieri says they can be defeated…

Cut 16 (09)  “have a chance”

Both teams rallied from behind to win in the opening round of the C-W-S. Mainieri says expects another hard fought battle tonight…

Cut 17 (13) “they do”

Shortstop Kramer Robertson says they know it will take a great effort to get a win over Oregon State…

Cut 18 (15) “to us” 

The full senate passed the budget bill on a 26 to 9 vote. Jeff Palermo has more on the state’s spending plan that heads to the governor’s desk…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The University of Louisiana System President Jim Henderson calls this legislative session the most successful for higher ed in nearly a decade. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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The Louisiana Legislature finally passed a budget for next fiscal year. The spending plan, which fully funds TOPS and gives thousands of state workers a small pay raise, received final legislative approval in the Senate on Friday morning. Senate Finance Chairman Eric LaFleur of Ville Platte calls it a smart and reasonable spending plan that adequately funds the state’s biggest priorities.

Cut 3 (08) “neglected”

The 28-billion dollar spending plan goes to the governor for his signature. Most state agencies are not cut, TOPS is fully funded and 38-thousand state workers receive a 2-percent pay raise. LaFleur says for the first time in nearly a decade, public colleges will not receive a cut

Cut 4  (08) “not doing”

But Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt voted against the budget, because it uses 100 percent of the money that’s available. She would rather hold back a small portion in case of a mid-year shortfall.

Cut 5  (11)  “the cycle”

Metairie Senator Conrad Appel also voted against it, because this budget plan does nothing to address the loss of over a billion dollars in temporary taxes next fiscal year.

Cut 6 (07) “handle”

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Arguments were heard today in a federal courtroom over state abortion laws passed last year. The Center for Reproductive Rights challenged the laws’ constitutionality, saying they violate women’s right to an abortion. Attorney Zoe Levine says they filed a motion to dismiss 7 laws that impede women’s access to safe and legal abortions.

Cut 7 (09)  “to contract”

The laws extend waiting periods, ban certain procedures and restrict what doctors can perform abortions. Executive Director for the Louisiana Right to Life, Ben Clapper, defends the pro-life laws.

Cut 8 (09) “the goal”

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Doctors remain encouraged over the progress Congressman Steve Scalise is making as he recovers from a gunshot wound to the left hip. Director of the Trauma Unit at MedStar Washington Hospital, Dr. Jake Sava, says Scalise says the bullet did substantial damage to bones, internal organs and blood vessels.

Cut 9 (10)  “get it”

Sava says when Scalise arrived after being shot, he was in imminent risk of death but now there is a good possibility he’ll have an excellent recovery.

Cut 10 (04) “run”

Crystal Griner, a member of the Capitol Police Department, was also treated at MedStar. Sava says Griner was shot in the ankle while protecting Scalise but is now in good condition and good spirits.

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UL System President Doctor Jim Henderson says this is one of the most successful legislative sessions for higher ed in nearly a decade. Henderson says he’s thrilled lawmakers approved a budget that fully funds TOPS, after failing to do so for the first time in the program’s history last academic year.

Cut 11 (09) “shouldn’t consider”

The spending plan approved by both the House and Senate is also the first in nearly a decade that did not reduce funding to higher education. Henderson says they’re grateful to all involved in passing this budget.

Cut 12 (12) “students deserve it”

But Henderson says improvements can still be made in terms of funding public colleges. He says Louisiana is the lowest funded higher education system among southern states, and it’s not even close. He says we’re a long way from making Louisiana universities truly competitive.

Cut 13 (09) “we make”

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As Father’s Day is this Sunday, many families will be outside grilling steaks with Dad this weekend. Executive Vice President of the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association Robert Joyner says beef prices have been declining over the past few years and the beef industry has rebounded in a big way.

Cut 14 (08) “good year”

Joyner says while the demand for beef is up this weekend, prices will still be affordable given the large supply of cattle.

Cut 15 (08) “as numbers”

Joyner says beef is more affordable than in years in the past and grilling up beef with Dad this Sunday is also a good source of iron and zinc. He says it looks like most families have steak on the menu this year as their Father’s Day meal.

Cut 16  (09)  “biggest seller”

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The LSU AgCenter is one step closer to getting medical marijuana to patients with cancer, epilepsy, and HIV/AIDS. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana has opened up a 39 day red snapper fishing season in federal waters starting today. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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After members of Congress were targeted in a Virginia shooting, New Orleans Congressman Cedric Richmond says it’s time to ramp up security. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LSU AgCenter selects a vendor for the medical marijuana program. AgCenter Chancellor Dr. Bill Richardson says this is the last major hurdle to getting the drug into the hands of those who need it. He says the details of the agreement have not been released, but the plan is to contract with a biopharmaceutical research company from Las Vegas called GB Sciences.

Cut 4  (08) “to work with”

Richardson says the Board of Supervisors will act on the plan at their June 22 meeting. He says it’s been almost a year since the board voted to allow the AgCenter to grow medical marijuana that would be prescribed to a certain group of patients outlined by state law.

Cut 5  (10)  “at it”

Richardson says they hope to have the product available to the patients by early 2018. He says LSU will be on the cutting edge of medical marijuana research, and they’ll be able to help patients with cancer, epilepsy, or HIV/AIDS.

Cut 6 (11) “other states”

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I will be a busy red snapper season for Louisiana anglers. Under an agreement with the federal government, fisherman will get 39 days, beginning today until September 4^th,to fish for red snapper in federal waters on weekends. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves…

Cut 7 (10)  “fishing”

Recreational anglers will be permitted to start fishing 200 miles off the coast of Louisiana for red snapper every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through September 4^th, also included are July 3^rd and 4^th and Labor Day. Graves says after this season, the red snapper population will be reevaluated to see if a fall season can open. He says this is to prevent over fishing.

Cut 8 (09) “to come”

Graves says this is a great agreement for fishermen, after all the angst and frustration surrounding a previously short red snapper season in federal waters. He says they are working to come up with a permanent solution.

Cut 9 (06)  “long term”

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A State Trooper has been charged with simple battery after allegedly using excessive force on a suspect. Trooper Melissa Matey says back in February, Master Trooper John Neal tried to conduct a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle in Orleans Parish, one of the occupants fled on foot and was detained. She says that’s when things escalated between Neal and the victim.

Cut 10 (08) “at that time”

And Matey says the use of excessive force didn’t stop there.

Cut 11 (10) “to shatter”

Footage of the incident was captured by civilian surveillance video and body cameras. The victim was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries and when released from the hospital he was booked on several charges including a possession of a stolen auto. Matey says as a result of their investigation, detectives determined Neal committed simple battery on the victim. She says it’s always a sad day when LSP has to charge one of their own.

Cut 12 (09) “just that”

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New Orleans Congressman Cedric Richmond says it is time to ramp up security for federal lawmakers, after a shootout at a baseball park in Virginia left House Majority Whip Steve Scalise seriously injured. Richmond says in these polarizing times, Congressional leaders need to be aware of the potential danger of their positions.

Cut 13 (09) “that’s us”

Scalise had a security detail because he is the third highest ranking member of the US House, but other congressmen do not have such protection. Richmond says security for members of Congress is embarrassingly inadequate.

Cut 14 (07) “need protection”

Richmond says if Scalise had not been at that practice, it could have been a blood bath. He says something has to be done to keep all members of Congress safe at all times.

Cut 15 (07) “on my own”

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LSU faces Florida State tomorrow night in the opening round of the College World Series. Both teams are red hot, the Seminoles have won 12 of their last 13, while LSU has won 16 straight. Publisher of Collegiate Baseball News Lou Pavlovich (Pav-low-vich) says just like LSU, Florida State went through a rough patch during the regular season…

Cut 16 (18)  “first round matchup”

Out of the eight teams in the College World Series, Florida State has scored the most runs with 488. Pavlovich says LSU starting pitcher Alex Lange will go face a line-up that will be patient at the plate…

Cut 17 (19) “the country”

Cal-State Fullerton and top-seeded Oregon State are the other two teams in LSU’s bracket. But the Beavers best pitcher Luke Heimlich will not pitch in the C-W-S. It was recently learned that Heimlich pleaded guility as a teenager to molesting a six-year-old girl. Pavlovich says it’s a big blow to Oregon State’s chances of winning a third national title…

Cut 18 (18) “that tournament” 

MedStar Washington Hospital tweets that House Majority Whip Steve Scalise remains in critical condition and will need more operations. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has signed 10 criminal justice reform measures aimed at reducing the state’s prison population by 10-percent. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The LSU baseball team has arrived in Omaha the site of the College World Series. Head Coach Paul Mainieri says even though this team doesn’t have a lot of experience in the C-W-S,  his players seem cool, calm and confident…

Cut 3 (09) “be victorious”

LSU will play Saturday night against Florida State. Mainieri says this is his 6^th trip to Omaha and the fifth time he’s brought an LSU team to the College World Series. If the Tigers win it all, it would be the school’s seventh national championship. But Mainieri says they will take it one game at a time…

Cut 4  (09) “next one”

LSU has won only one game at the College World Series since winning the national championship team in 2009. Mainieri has told his players it’s been a great season regardless of what happens in Omaha…

Cut 5  (12)  “that way”

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Lawmakers are close to reaching a budget agreement with just five days left in the special session. The House approved a spending plan that appropriates all of the available dollars, something they would not agree to do during the regular session. Jackson Representative Kenny Havard says no one got everything they wanted in this deal.

Cut 6 (07) “a shortfall”

House Republicans originally proposed to withhold more than $200 million to avoid midyear cuts. Houma Representative Tanner Magee says the spending plan isn’t perfect, but it’s probably the best they could do as far as reaching a compromise.

Cut 7 (10)  “to do”

The bill does instruct the administration to hold back $60 million in case of midyear cuts, while appropriating the entire revenue forecast. Havard says no one wants to spend more money than we take in, but they had to come to an agreement.

Cut 8 (09) “special session”

The bill has the support of Governor John Bel Edwards, and Magee says he expects the Senate to approve it as well. He says he is cautiously optimistic lawmakers are moving in the right direction. He says it’s a relief they’re close to reaching an agreement.

Cut 9 (10)  “absolutely necessary”

The full Senate could pass the House approved budget on Friday.

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House Majority Whip Steve Scalise remains in critical condition, according to MedStar Washington Hospital. President Donald Trump says this has been more difficult for the Jefferson Parish Congressman than originally thought. He says Scalise is in some trouble, but he’s a fighter.

Cut 10 (11) “of the way”

The hospital says the gunshot wound to his left hip fractured bones, injured internal organs, and caused severe bleeding. MedStar confirmed the bullet traversed the pelvis, and LSU Health New Orleans trauma surgeon Dr. John Hunt says that could pose some problems.

Cut 11 (08) “an infection”

Scalise reportedly underwent a third surgery today. One of the procedures was necessary to stop the bleeding, as the hospital says Scalise was in shock. Hunt says what that means is the patient lost a lot of blood.

Cut 12 (10) “replete again”

MedStar tweets that Scalise will need more operations. Hunt says it’s not uncommon for gunshot wounds impacting the stomach to result in multiple surgeries. He says typically patients will undergo one procedure at the beginning and then come back for more.

Cut 13 (11) “the operation”

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Governor John Bel Edwards signed 10 bills into law today that will result in shorter sentences for many non-violent offenders and expanded rehabilitation programs. Edwards predicts the new sentencing laws will reduce the prison population by 10-percent and Louisiana will finally lose the title as the incarceration capital of the world.

Cut 14 (08) “something better”

It’s estimated these new laws will save the state 262 million dollars over the next 10 years. Edwards says much of the money will be reinvested to help keep released inmates from returning to prison.

Cut 15 (08) “pay taxes”

Edwards says many of the bills that were signed into law have been successful in other states when it comes to reducing the prison population.

Cut 16  (09)  “broken from”

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Tulane researchers discover Louisiana’s coast is sinking at a rate of one third inch per year, which is 50-percent faster than their estimate from two years ago. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The St. Tammany Parish coroner doesn’t think a new law to limit first time opioid prescriptions will address the epidemic as much as we hoped. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves blames turbulent political times for the attack on House Majority Whip Steve Scalise. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Tulane researchers have found Louisiana is sinking at a rate of just over one third of an inch per year, which is 50-percent faster than what was estimated two years ago. Geology professor and co-author of the report, Tor Tornqvist, says we’ve always known the state is sinking, but they developed a map of coastal Louisiana to determine how rapidly it’s going underwater and where.

Cut 4  (06) “one inch”

Tornquvist says they were able to conduct this research by collecting data from nearly 300 monitoring stations along the state’s coast that measured how wetland surfaces change over time and how much sediment accumulates over time.

Cut 5  (11)  “feet”

Tornquvist says this map is an improvement and can hopefully be used by policymakers who are making decisions about restoring Louisiana’s coast. He says this research should alarm those about future of Louisiana’s coastline.

Cut 6 (11) “right now”

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A new law that limits first time opioid prescriptions may not address Louisiana’s opioid epidemic as much as we hoped. St. Tammany Coroner Charles Preston says according to numbers he’s seen, only four to 13 percent of patients will misuse their opioid prescription, and four percent of those will go on to use harder drugs. He says that means less than one percent of those who receive opioid prescriptions will abuse drugs.

Cut 7 (10)  “appropriately”

The law limits first time prescriptions for acute conditions to a 7-day supply. One provision allows patients to request their script only be partially filled, and they could get the rest later if needed. Preston says that could be problematic for pharmacies. He says he’s spoken to many that say they cannot practically partially fill a prescription.

Cut 8 (10) “additional prescription”

Preston says this new law is a positive step, and he applauds New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno for shedding light on a growing problem in Louisiana and around the country. But he hopes it doesn’t cloud the importance of funding addiction treatment programs.

Cut 9 (10)  “disease process”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says the attack on House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and others at a congressional baseball game practice is a sign of the turbulent times in our country. He says it’s okay to have different ideas and opinions, in fact we should celebrate that. But he says this is taking our differences too far.

Cut 10 (10) “physical attacks”

Graves says this sobering incident shows how quickly things can turn. He says it doesn’t matter which party it is, it’s simply not okay to turn to acts of violence to address a problem. He says he has never seen things as polarizing and divisive as they are right now.

Cut 11 (09) “right now”

There’s been reports of congressional leaders receiving threats following the attack, suggesting that more may follow. Graves says he’s certainly received threats in the past, but he won’t let it interfere with his duties in Washington.

Cut 12 (11) “to be fixed”

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Legislators have taken a significant step towards ending the budget impasse and the special session. On a 56-44 vote, the House approved a budget that allocates 100-percent of the available money. A large contingent of House Republicans like Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala did not want to spend at least 100-million dollars, because the state constantly has midyear revenue shortfalls.

Cut 13 (05) “need that money”

Bacala told his colleagues that it would be wise to hold back 100-million dollars so midyear cuts are not needed if the revenue does not come in as anticipated…

Cut 14 (11) “some back”

But New Orleans Representative Walt Leger says if the state doesn’t allocate all of the available dollars, cuts will occur to areas when the fiscal year begins in July to areas of the budget that do not need to be slashed

Cut 15 (10) “budget”

The 28-billion dollar budget proposal will be heard in the Senate finance committee on Thursday. It has the support of Governor John Bel Edwards, who says the spending plan imposes cuts in a responsible way, but it also adequately funds our needs. Leger says using all of the dollars available is the responsible way to fund state government…

Cut 16 (10)  “of the state”

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The LSU Tigers leave for Omaha this morning. It’s their first trip to the College World Series since 2015. Senior shortstop Kramer Robertson is looking forward to his first C-W-S experience…

Cut 17 (20) “all of it”

LSU pitcher Alex Lange will start versus Flordia State on Saturday night. He was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the first round earlier this week. But Lange is not worried about his pro career…

Cut 18 (08) “Omaha now” 

Lange says everyone is excited about the opportunity to win the school’s seventh national championship…

Cut 19 (15) “fun starts”

Members of Louisiana’s Congressional Delegation are reacting to the shooting of House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Jefferson Parish. Michelle Southern has that…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Department of Transportation announces plans to widen I-10 from Highland Road to LA 73 in the Baton Rouge area. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A suspect has died as a result of another officer-involved shooting in Baton Rouge. That’s according to State Trooper Bryan Lee, who says Louisiana State Police is investigating the incident. He says the deadly encounter began when Baton Rouge Police conducted a traffic stop just before midnight.

Cut 3 (10) “at the scene”

The suspect has been identified as 35-year-old Jordan Frazier. Lee says investigators are working to establish the timeline of events that led to the death of the suspect.

Cut 4  (08) “BRPD officer”

No officers were injured in the incident. Lee says troopers are gathering witness statements, and the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 5  (09)  “are pending”

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New Orleans Congressman and House Majority Whip Steve Scalise is recovering from a gunshot wound to the hip, as he underwent surgery this morning. Scalise was shot at the practice for the Congressional Baseball Game in Alexandria, Va. US Senator John Kennedy says he wishes he understood why bad things happen to good people. He says he feels sad and mad that something like this happened.

Cut 6 (11) “in America”

The shooter has been identified as 66-year-old James Hodgkinson of Illinois, and it’s been reported he has ties to several anti-Republican online groups. Two police officers and a congressional aide were also wounded in the shooting.

Scalise is being treated at MedStar Washington Hospital. The hospital tweeted that Scalise remains in critical condition. St. Landry Parish Congressman Clay Higgins says he is hopeful his colleague will make a full and speedy recovery.

Cut 7 (10)  “he’ll recover”

President Trump confirmed the suspect has died as a result of his injuries. Higgins says although he would have liked for him to be prosecuted, that’s just fine with him. He is thankful the security detail responded as quickly and effectively as they did.

Cut 8 (11) “as it should be”

Higgins says it’s certainly not business as usual in Washington, as all meetings have been cancelled and everyone is on high alert. Rayville Congressman Ralph Abraham says it’s a sad day in American that we’ve gotten to this point. He says we have to get passed the divisiveness and the hate in this country.

Cut 9 (09)  “for sure”

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President Donald Trump addressed the public after the attack this morning at a baseball practice that left multiple people injured, including House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, of Jefferson Parish. Among the other injured are two police officers, a staffer, and lobbyist. Trump commended the actions of the officers who stepped in to stop this brutal and deliberate attack.

Cut 10 (10) “wounds”

Scalise was practicing for the annual charity baseball game when a man identified as James Hodgkinson of Illinois, started firing. The Congressman is currently recovering from a successful surgery. Trump says he has offered full and complete support to the Scalise family.

Cut 11 (08) “a fighter”

The President says Hodgkinson has died. Trump also commends the emergency responders from the Alexandria Police Department and Fire and Rescue for rushing to the field. He says we may have our differences but we do well in times of difficulty, to remember we are best when unified.

Cut 12 (11) “entire world”

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The state Department of Transportation announces plans to widen Interstate 10 from four to six lanes in East Baton Rouge and Ascension Parishes. The project also includes the replacement of the LA 42 overpass. DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says construction is slated to begin in early 2018.

Cut 13 (07) “each direction”

Wilson says DOTD will widen the bridge over Highland, and they’ll widen the stretch all the way to Highway 73 to allow traffic to pass the busy exit. He says this will help alleviate congestion that happens during morning and afternoon commutes.

Cut 14 (09) “this corridor”

The $72 million project is funded through a combination of state and federal funds. Wilson says they are using repurposed earmarks from the federal FASTLANE grant, along with a state match. He reminds drivers this is a onetime opportunity.

Cut 15 (09) “think they are”

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The KIDS COUNT Data Book from the Agenda for Children ranks Louisiana 48^th for overall child well-being. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Lawmakers have less than a week left to pass a budget for next fiscal year, after failing to do so in the regular session. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Louisiana ranks 48^th in overall child well-being, according to the KIDS COUNT Data Book released by the Agenda for Children. KIDS COUNT Coordinator Theresa Falgoust says the Bayou State ranks 47^th in education, which examined three and four year olds who don’t go to school, and 4th graders who are below proficient in reading…:

Cut 3 (10) “since 2009”

Unfortunately, the Bayou State saw an increase in the child and teen death rate, and despite improvement in teens not in school and not working, Louisiana still came in dead last because other states have improved more.

But Falgoust says Louisiana did improve in several areas. She says more parents have high school diplomas and full-time year-round employment, and fewer babies are born at low birthweights. She says the Bayou State improved in 8 out of 16 measures.

Cut 4  (09) “that measure”

Falgoust says another positive is that 96 percent of children now have health insurance. That means Louisiana is below the national average child uninsured rate of 5 percent. She says this could lead to improvements in overall child health.

Cut 5  (12)  “healthy babies”

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The clock is ticking on lawmakers to approve a budget before the special session ends on Monday. Governor John Bel Edwards says the spending plan approved by the Senate is a good starting point. He says unfortunately, the House did not vote on the budget last week, but he is optimistic HB1 can win passage this week.

Cut 6 (10) “a majority”

The two chambers argued all through the regular session over how much, if any, money to withhold from the budget in case of another midyear shortfall. Edwards says if that money is not appropriated from the onset, it cannot be used later to fill a budget gap or address unforeseen needs from potential hurricanes or floods.

Cut 7 (07)  “last year”

Edwards says failing to pass a budget wasn’t even the biggest disappointment of the fiscal session. He says lawmakers ensured another special session will be needed because there was no effort by the House to address the fiscal cliff in 2018.

Cut 8 (09) “that task force”

(The full House is expected to vote on a budget plan tomorrow.)

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Construction has begun on the I-10 widening project between I-49 and the Atchafalaya Basin, so DOTD has introduced Motorist Assistance Patrols to the area to help with traffic flow. Deidrea Druilhet with DOTD says with 60,000 drivers traveling that stretch daily, the department will have three map program trucks patrolling the area..:

Cut 9 (09)  “region”

Druilet says the map program trucks, which are already present in the Baton Rouge and New Orleans areas, serve many purposes…:

Cut 10 (08) “their car”

If you are ever on the road and need assistance dial *LSP. Druilet says these trucks are also capable of moving stalled vehicles out of traffic lanes onto the shoulder. She reminds drivers to pay attention while in construction zones because that’s when wrecks tend to happen.

Cut 11 (08) “are reduced”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has named Col. Kevin Reeves the permanent superintendent of Louisiana State Police. Reeves,  who has served in the interim position since March, says he is humbled and honored to be offered this role by the governor. He says the department is moving forward from what has been negatively reported to build a new confidence with LSP.

Cut 12 (09) “effectively”

Reeves graduated from Louisiana Tech University and began his career with State Police as a motorcycle trooper in 1990. Reeves says it’s a compliment that Governor Edwards’ respects his leadership. He says he is committed to the public.

Cut 13 (11) “priority”

Former Superintendent Col. Mike Edmonson announced his retirement amid an investigation into a travel scandal within the agency. Reeves says the findings of this matter will be released after the department finishes the disciplinary process. He says they are working to ensure this won’t happen again…:

Cut 14 (08) “traveling goes”

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Governor John Bel Edwards signs three bills designed to stop the growing opioid epidemic. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Congressman Garret Graves of Baton Rouge files legislation to give flood victims a tax break. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission has voted for a proposal that could lead to red snapper fishing in federal waters for the next 12 weekends, beginning this Saturday. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Governor John Bel Edwards signed three bills to help with the state’s growing opioid abuse problem. One of new laws prohibits a doctor from prescribing more than a seven day supply of opioids for a first time prescription for acute pain. New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno says she’s happy this legislation was able to come out of an unproductive session.

Cut 4  (08) “this year”

Moreno says this is a step in the right direction for saving lives. She says the bill strikes a balance between preserving patient access and reducing the number of opioid prescriptions.

Cut 5  (04)  “to prevent”

The two other bills signed into law creates a task force to study how to prevent opioid abuse and another requires doctors to look at a statewide prescription monitoring system to make the sure the patient is not “doctor-shopping.” State Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee believes this legislation will slow down opioid abuse in our state.

Cut 6 (07) “we’ve made”

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It’s been 17 years since the legislature adjourned a regular session without passing a budget, until this year of course. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne was there nearly two decades ago, as chair of the Senate Finance Committee. He quoted some familiar phrases uttered on the House floor to the Baton Rouge Press Club.

Cut 7 (09)  “and universities”

That was the year the Stelly Plan was passed, and Dardenne says there was a lot of uncertainty about how much revenue the new taxes would bring in. He says the legislature was facing a similar problem then as they are today with temporary taxes set to expire in 2018.

Cut 8 (08) “sound familiar”

Dardenne says 17 years later, we’re having many of the same discussions. He says the one-penny sales tax enacted last year was supposed to be the so-called bridge to fiscal reform. He says this session was their chance to implement the reform they promised, and lawmakers failed to do so.

Cut 9 (10)  “fiscal reform session”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves files legislation aimed at providing financial relief to 2016 flood victims. Graves says even after Congress appropriated billions of dollars for flood recovery, there are thousands and thousands of flood victims who are far from whole following the floods.

Cut 10 (08) “they still have”

Graves says he’s spoken with many flood victims who had to tap their retirement savings to rebuild their homes or replace lost items. He says his bill also provides some financial relief for extra costs associated with drawing from retirement savings prematurely.

Cut 11 (10) “additional penalty”

The bill would help flood victims from both the March and August floods, as well as those impacted by the February tornado outbreak. Congress has appropriated $2 billion for flood recovery so far, and Governor Edwards is seeking an additional $1 billion in federal aid. But Graves says for many that still won’t be enough.

Cut 12 (10) “as we can”

The legislation has bi-partisan support from the entire Louisiana congressional delegation.

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The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approves a proposal to open the recreational red snapper fishing season in federal waters for the next 12 weekends as part of a compromise with the federal government and four other Gulf Coast states. The agreement could begin this weekend. Assistant Secretary for LDWF Patrick Banks….

Cut 13 (08) “located”

Louisiana fishermen are upset over the current three-day federal red snapper season. Under the proposal offered by the federal government, Gulf coast states would not allow red snapper fishing in state waters during the weekdays up until Labor Day weekend. Banks says Louisiana fishermen are pushing for this change because there is not a lot of red snapper in state waters.

Cut 14 (12) “red snapper”

The reason for the strict federal season is to ensure the once depleted red snapper population has time to grow, but Banks ensures there is enough red snapper off Louisiana waters. He says this compromise helps all Gulf States with an extended red snapper season.

Cut 15 (08) “involved”

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LSU is considered one of the heavy favorites to win the College World Series. The Tigers have won 16 in a row and Coach Paul Mainieri likes his team’s chances as well…

Cut 16 (16)  “as well”

LSU will play Florida State this weekend. Top-seded Oregon State and Cal State Fullerton are the other two teams on LSU’s side of the bracket. Mainieri says it’s hard to get to Omaha and it’s even harder to win the whole thing….

Cut 17 (19) “as you can”

LSU brings a 48-17 record to Omaha and they are five victories away from a national title. Mainieri says his team has been tested all year and they are ready for the challenge…

Cut 18 (24) “before” 

LSU is back in the College World Series for an 18th time in program history. Jeff Palermo has more from their senior shortstop..

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Nothing was done in the regular session to implement tax reform, and Democrats blame the Republican-dominated House Appropriations and Ways and Means Committees. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The LSU Tigers are Omaha Bound after sweeping Mississippi State in the Super Regionals. Its mission accomplished for the players, especially for those who came back for their senior seasons to help get the Tigers back to the College World Series. Shortstop Kramer Robertson…

Cut 3 (12) “I can do it”

LSU returns to Omaha for the first time since 2015 and it’s the fifth time Coach Paul Mainieri has led LSU to the College World Series. He says it’s a very gratifying feeling

Cut 4  (07) “make you proud”

The Tigers will play Florida State in the opening round of the College World Series this weekend. LSU has won 16 straight  and have scored 10 or more runs in eight of those games. Mainieri says his team can do more than just hit….

Cut 5  (08)  “try and do”

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After lawmakers failed to pass a budget or any tax reform bills in the fiscal session, some blame the Republican-dominated money committees. Minden Representative Gene Reynolds the ratio of the House is about 60 percent Republicans and 40 percent Democrats, and they’d like to see a more balanced representation in House Appropriations and Ways and Means.

Cut 6 (08) “solve problems”

Reynolds says currently these committees are not structured for success, they’re structured for turmoil.  He says the problem is that too many committee members have dug their heels in the far-right agenda, and they’re not moving. He is optimistic a moderate group of Republicans could change some of the voting patterns.

Cut 7 (08)  “solve the problems”

Reynolds says Democrats are looking for solutions, and they’re willing to work with anyone. He hopes lawmakers are able to get more accomplished in the special than they did in the regular session.

Cut 8 (07) “get this done”

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House Appropriations began discussing the budget, and once again it’s the committee’s plan to hold back $206 million dollars in spending to avoid a midyear shortfall. But Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says if money isn’t appropriated, it won’t be available in the event of a shortfall…:

Cut 9 (11)  “with a crisis”

But Covington Representative John Schroder says needs and wants are not relevant, but this is about what the state can afford…:

Cut 10 (09) “money or not”

Dardenne says he doesn’t understand why the committee doesn’t want to consider the budget plan the Senate approved, as it protects critical state services, and finally fully funds higher ed…:

Cut 11 (09) “to cut em”

House Republicans argue they want to hold back money because the amount of money the revenue estimating conference predicts the state will have to spend is wrong more often than not. Denham Springs Representative Valarie Hodges says there is an 86% chance that the dollars won’t be there, and it’s not that they want to cut these agencies…:

Cut 12 (09) “you have to cut back”

(The full House is expected to vote on a budget plan on Wednesday.)

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A Shreveport man is in serious condition after he was shot while driving on Interstate 20 this morning near the Common Street overpass. Shreveport Police Corporal Marcus Hines says another vehicle on the roadway shot multiple rounds into a car driven by 23-year-old Perdarius Marshall…

Cut 13 (07) “remains”

Authorities say Marshall suffered a gunshot wound to the midsection. Hines says detectives are still searching for a shooter and a motive…

Cut 14 (10) “that experience”

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Investigators say a 59-year-old Baton Rouge man fatally stabbed another man with a broken beer bottle after a verbal argument. Baton Rouge Police Sergeant Don Coppola says Elvis Graham turned himself into authorities today in connection with the death of 52-year-old Vinell Easley…

Cut 15 (09) “Easley’s death”

coppola says the homicide took place near downtown Baton Rouge on Saturday night. He says Eisley died at the scene, while Graham was charged with second degree murder…

Cut 16  (10)  “took place”

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At the start of this special session, another special is already looming. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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Lawmakers in the House convene at 9 a.m. today to restart the budget discussions after failing to pass a spending plan for next fiscal year during the regular session. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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After a grueling fiscal session, some Democratic lawmakers are calling for a change of leadership in the House, staring with Speaker Taylor Barras. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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With one special session started, another one is already looming in the future. The goal of the current special is to pass a budget for the next fiscal year, but the governor says another one will be needed to implement tax reform and address a looming fiscal cliff in 2018. Kenner Representative Julie Stokes is disappointed the legislature didn’t accomplish that during this year’s fiscal session.

Cut 4  (10) “with its problems”

Stokes says 2017 was the year to implement real tax reform because the legislature won’t enter another fiscal session until 2019. But she says both chambers couldn’t come to an agreement on how to address the state’s inadequate tax code that leads to annual budget deficits.

Cut 5  (10)  “complete quandary”

Over $1 billion in temporary taxes that were approved last year are set to expire in 2018. Jackson Representative Kenny Havard says a sunset was placed on the new revenue, so the legislature would be forced to address the financial problems the state has faced for years. He says lawmakers still owe meaningful tax reform to its citizens.

Cut 6 (08) “of the deal”

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The House convenes at 9 a.m. as lawmakers try again to pass a spending plan for next fiscal year, after failing to do so in the regular session. Governor John Bel Edwards says his recommendation is that lawmakers pick up where they left off with the conference committee report.

Cut 7 (08)  “their committees”

The big debate over the budget came down to lawmakers arguing over how much, if any, of the revenue forecast to withhold in case of midyear cuts. The House wanted to hold back about $200 million, while the Senate pushed to spend more. House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry of Metairie says were it up to him, he’d save even more.

Cut 8 (08) “young people”

The budget will start on the House side in committee, and from there it still has to pass the House floor and make it through the Upper Chamber. Henry says there are some key priorities lawmakers hope to fully funds, like TOPS. He says giving parole workers a pay raise is also high on the list.

Cut 9 (10)  “take care of that”

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Democratic lawmakers are calling for a change of leadership in the House after what many call a grueling session. Some blame House Speaker Taylor Barras and Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry specifically for not approving a budget. Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says currently there is no leadership in the House.

Cut 10 (08) “complete chaos”

James says either lawmakers are going to continue to ignore the needs of the state or continue to embarrass themselves. He says partisan politics have created a House divided along party lines.

Cut 11 (08) “elected for”

But Shreveport Representative Alan Seabaugh says he absolutely disagrees with that. He says the House has the perfect leadership.

Cut 12 (11) “of Louisiana”

Seabaugh says Barras is looking out for the interest of the people in the state, and the people do not want to see their taxes increased. He says the Speaker is doing his job by adhering to the will of the constituents.

Cut 13 (10) “tax increases”

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At least two cases of dog flu have been confirmed in Louisiana, as canine influenza is rearing its head in Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida. Dr. Phillip Cancellari says some early symptoms include coughing, running nose, and red eyes. He says the virus can look a lot like allergies, so it’s important to get your pet checked at the vet.

Cut 14 (08) “their vet”

It’s believed the two confirmed cases in Monroe were a result of exposure at a dog show. Cancellari says some pets from Florida participated in the show and may have brought the virus with them to the Bayou State. He says typical backyard dogs probably aren’t at much risk of contracting the virus.

Cut 15 (11) “have been”

Dog flu is spread the same way as the flu humans get, through contact. Cancellari says there is a vaccine available that can be given to dogs as young as 7 weeks old. He advises dog owners to consult their vet to determine if their dog should be vaccinated.

Cut 16 (08)  “and symptoms”

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LSU is heading to the College World Series for an 18th time in program history after beating Mississippi State 14-4 in a game that did not end until 1:36 this morning. But Coach Paul Mainieri says it was well worth the wait…

Cut 17 (13) “this team”

LSU trailed 4-3 in the 5th inning, but took control of the game with a six-run, 5th inning. Michael Papierski delivered the big hit, a two-run double to give the Tigers the lead for good…

Cut 18 (18) “happened to be a double”