The mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando has saddened LGBT groups in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The giant sinkhole in Bayou Corne seems to have stabilized. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 2 (25)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Desoto Parish Sheriff’s office says they are still searching for answers in the death of a 21-year-old woman, as the murder charges against the suspect were dropped. Sheriff Rodney Arbuckle says they originally had booked 33-year-old Jarrod Earl Johnson of Logansport for the murder of Maranda Whitton, but they let him go after the autopsy’s findings…:

CUT 3 (10)  “cause of death”

Arbuckle says Whitton’s body was found in a pond on June 10th, and since Johnson was the last person to see her alive, he was charged with second-degree murder. He says they have since removed the charges and turned their investigation over to the DA’s office…:

CUT 4 (09)  “somebody else”

Arbuckle says they are waiting for the coroner to get some more official results in hopes of finding out how Whitton was killed, but in the meantime the investigation is still very much ongoing…:

CUT 5 (06)  “on that”

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Leaders of Louisiana’s LGBT community say they are reeling in pain today over the worst mass shooting in America’s history. At least 50 people were killed when a gunman attacked a gay nightclub in Orlando. Forum for Equality executive director Sara Jane Brady says the shooting demonstrates  there’s still much hatred and prejudice aimed towards homosexuals…

CUT 6 (10) “our expression”

It’s been reported New Orleans native, 39-year-old Leonel Melendez, is in a coma suffering after he was shot in the head. A former Lafayette resident, 27-year-old Frank Hernandez, is also said to be one of the 49 people shot dead by the gunman. Brady extends her sympathy to their family and friends…

CUT 7 (09) “our community”

Brady says they are holding a memorial vigil for all of the victims tonight in New Orleans. She says their message to political leaders is that if demonize or attempt to marginalize the LGBT community, you provide extremists with a green light to violence…

CUT 8 (05) “LGBT people”

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The massive sinkhole that formed about four years ago in Bayou Corne has showed reduced action and is close to stable. That’s the word from Assumption Parish Director of Emergency Operations, John Boudreaux, who says the sinkhole shows some growth but nothing intense. He says the deepest part has reached 174 feet and is filling up with soil from the sides.

CUT 9 (07) “the depth”

Officials say the sinkhole has grown up to about 35 acres. Boudreaux says some of the mandatory evacuations have been lifted on the east side on the sinkhole. He says there is another area that is under voluntary evacuations.

cut 10 (07)  “is completed”

The company, Texas Brine, is in charge of managing the sinkhole because of irresponsible drilling in the area. Boudreaux says although the sinkhole is stabilizing, experts believe it will continue to go on for decades. He says we won’t see trees being swallowed up like in the first year of the sinkhole, but you’ll continue to see minor changes.

Cut 11 (09) “slower progress”

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A moment of unity was held today in the Rotunda of the State Capitol as Governor Edwards and members of legislators took time to honor and pray for the victims of the Orlando mass shooting. Governor John Bel Edwards says when freedom is threatened all of our freedoms are threatened…

cut 12 (08) “and hate”

Governor Edwards has ordered that US and State of Louisiana flags should be flown at half-staff over all public building until sunset on Thursday as an expression of respect for the victims of the terrorist attack in Orlando…

Cut 13 (10)  “senseless tragedy”

House Speaker Taylor Barras says it’s a shame 50 people lost their lives while celebrating life…

cut 14 (12)  “to reconcile”

The Moment of Unity ended with those in attendance singing “Amazing Grace”….

cut 15 (11) “sound”

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The US House has passed a bill that seeks to block President Obama’s proposed $10.25 tax on every barrel of oil. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A Transportation Infrastructure Investment task force has been established by the governor to identify priority projects throughout the state. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LSU baseball season is over as Coastal Carolina completes a two-game sweep of the Tigers by beating the Bayou Bengals 4-to-3. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A recent independent poll of 800 voters shows Republican Scott Angelle is leading in the 3^rd Congressional District race as 39% of the respondents support the Public Service Commissioner. The Traflagar Group poll has Clay Higgins, who recently joined the race, at 18%. UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross the poll shows 24% are undecided.

cut 4  (07)  “nothing more”

Cross says name recognition will be a factor in the election, which is good for Higgins, who achieved internet fame for his viral Crime Stoppers videos.

Cut 5  (10)  “is everything”

Cross says Angelle and Higgins are both Republicans, and both of them have a good chance of pulling some Democratic votes as well.

Cut 6 (11) “strongest candidates”

Retired Army Lt. Col. Greg Ellison is polling at 8-percent, while former state representative Brett Geymann is at 5-percent, while all other announced candidates are at three-percent or less.

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The US House has approved a bill that seeks to block President Obama’s proposed $10.25 tax on every barrel of oil. Louisiana Oil and Gas Association Chairman Brian Hanks is pleased with the House’s action, because any additional burden would be a devastating blow to an already struggling industry.

CUT 7 (10)  “energy independent”

Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany says the proposed tax would drive up the price of gas by as much as 25-cents a gallon. A study by the Tax Foundation also found it would cost 137-thousand American jobs. Boustany’s office says Louisiana already lost over 11-thousand jobs in this industry last year. Hanks says we can’t afford to see any more job loss in this sector.

Cut 8  (08)  “of bankruptcy”

The proposed tax is an effort to pay for green initiatives and alternative energy research. Hanks calls it another attack on the oil industry by the Obama Administration.

Cut 9 (08)  “his administration”

Hanks is hopeful the Senate approves a similar piece of legislation.

_______________________________________________

A Transportation Infrastructure Investment task force has been formed by the governor to identify priority projects throughout the state. State Department of Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says the average driver pays about $108 a year in gas taxes to Louisiana, and they want to make sure those dollars go towards repairing roads, bridges and ports.

Cut 10 (08) “infrastructure system”

Wilson says they are looking at all of their options to fund the much needed infrastructure projects.

cut 11 (11) “to act”

Wilson says they will spend the next six months touring the state and getting ideas for funding infrastructure. He says they’ve already completed the statewide transportation plan and the highway priority program, so they know what projects need to be completed.

cut 12 (07) “the governor”

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Legislators return to the State Capitol today as they look to solve the state’s budget issues. Governor John Bel Edwards has asked legislators to raise revenues by 600-million dollars in this special session to avoid cuts to health care, higher education, public schools and TOPS. But so far the House has only agreed to 220-million dollars in tax increases. Democratic New Orleans Representative Walt Leger…

Cut 13 (08)  “revenue in”

The governor’s chief of staff, Ben Nevers, says if the legislature only approves 223-million dollars in new taxes in this session, it could lead to hospitals closing and TOPS funding cut in half.  Leger says they are not trying to expand government in this session…

cut 14 (07)  “this year”

So far many republicans are taking a strong stance against additional taxes and GOP legislators believe money can be freed up for health care, universities and TOPS by cutting out the waste in state government. Republican Kenner Representative Julie Stokes hopes a compromise can be reached…

Cut 15 (09) “founded on”

Many republicans say taxes have been raised enough and Stokes says she would like to see long-term tax reform as part of the fix to the state’s budget problems…

Cut 16  (11)  “12 months”

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For the third time in five seasons, LSU baseball has seen its season come to an end on its home field. Coastal Carolina’s Michael Paez’s single into left field scored the game winning run in the bottom of the 9th inning handing the Tigers a tough four to three defeat. Coach Paul Mainieri’s team finishes with a record of 45-and-21…

Cut 17 (18)  “gut”

LSU had plenty of chances to win this game and force a deciding game three in the Super Regional series. But the Tigers left eight runners on base in the final three innings and 12 for the game. Mainieri says clutch hitting is a big part of the game…

Cut 18 (14) “you that”

Center fielder Jake Fraley says give credit to Coastal Carolina’s pitchers, they made some big pitches at critical times…

Cut 19 (15) “some balls”

A majority of this team will return next season. Mainieri says it will take a lot of work in the offseason for this team to get back in this position again…

Cut 20 (16) “our attention”

Swimmers at beaches along the Gulf Coast have been developing rashes on their skin from sea lice. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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You can fish without a license this weekend. Jeff Palermo spoke with the Louisiana Department Wildlife and Fisheries about this annual event…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is holding free recreational fishing days on Saturday and Sunday. This means both Louisiana residents and non-residents can fish without a license in public waters. LDWF biologist Meghan Macmenamin says the goal is to get new anglers out on the water.

CUT 3 (10)  “in Louisiana”

Macmenamin says there are many different fishing events going on through the free recreational fishing days.

CUT 4 (09)  “in Cameron”

Macmenamin says in anticipating that some public bodiesof water will be busy this weekend, Wildlife and Fisheries has stocked some popular fishing areas.…

CUT 5 (06)  “the weekend”

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Sea lice have been posing a problem for swimmers at Gulf Coast beaches this summer. Texas A&M biology professor Dr. Kim Withers says the pesky little creatures are actually jelly fish larvae. She says they get under clothes, so people may be better off skinny dipping.

CUT 6 (10) “their nematocysts”

Withers says there is a combination sunscreen and jellyfish repellant that may keep the lice away. But she says the best thing people can do is limit the amount of clothes they wear in the water.

CUT 7 (12) “the nematocysts”

Withers advises people not to get back in the water if they get bitten by the lice. She says the irritation caused by the bites usually goes away after 24 hours, but it can become very severe.

CUT 8 (06) “and vomiting”

Withers says the jellyfish larvae should clear out in a couple of weeks.

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The Baton Rouge Police Department is still searching for a pregnant woman whose 3-year-old daughter was found wandering alone Thursday morning — and an arrest has been made in connection with the desertion of the child. Cpl. L’Jean McKneely says 39-year-old Robert Marks was with the daughter of 40-year-old Lyntell Washington on the night of June 8th….:

CUT 9 (06) “in the parking lot”

Arrest records indicate the child told detectives that her mother was in the lake. McKneely says they know Marks was in a romantic relationship with Washington. He is charged with kidnapping and child desertion. He says they believe foul play is involved in the disappearance of Washington…:

cut 10 (08)  “for him”

It’s reported that Marks is an assistant principal in East Baton Rouge Parish, and that Washington was also employed within the system as a teacher. McKneely says they know the routes Marks took the night before he left the child in a parking lot….:

Cut 11 (08) “St. Francisville area”

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A St. Charles parish man has been arrested after he allegedly shot his neighbor’s cat with a bow and arrow. Sheriff Greg Champagne says the cat apparently wandered onto 33-year-old Cody Dupre’s property.

cut 12 (04) “hunting arrow”

The 9-month-old cat was immediately rushed to a local vet clinic. Champagne says Dupre has been charged with felony cruelty to animals, and his bond was set at $30-thousand.

Cut 13 (06)  “somebody’s pet”

Champagne says Dupre has bonded out. He says fortunately the arrow did not hit any of the cat’s vital organs. He says the kitty should be alright.

cut 14 (07)  “be okay”

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Coastal Carolina stands in LSU’s way from reaching the College World Series. The Tigers and the Chanticleers (Shon-ta-kleers) begin their Super Regional Series Saturday at Alex Box and the winner advances to Omaha. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran says Coastal Carolina have hit a whopping 91 home runs, but they are more than just a power hitting team…

cut 15 (05) “pitching staff”

Moran says LSU got some excellent pitching performances from Jared Poche (Po-shay), Alex Lange and Hunter Newman in the Regional, but the Tigers need better production from their middle relievers…

cut 16 (08) “three guys”

==========================

Night clubs in Louisiana will soon be prohibited from hiring strippers who are under the age of 21 because of a bill signed into law. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Governor John Bel Edwards responds to the planned visit by Florida Governor Rick Scott to Louisiana in job recruitment efforts. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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US Senator David Vitter has joined 44 other Senators in an attempt to block implementation of the Obama Administration’s overtime rule, which doubles the salary threshold under which employees qualify for overtime pay. Vitter says this will drastically impact small businesses, particularly in Louisiana, as well as employees.

CUT 3 (10)  “the workplace”

Vitter says there is a motion of disapproval making its way through the Senate that would block the implementation of this rule. He says this is another example of executive overreach by the Obama Administration. He says the salary increase is far too drastic for businesses.

CUT 4 (09)  “administratvely”

The current rule says employees who make less than $23,660 can qualify for overtime if they work more than 40 hours. The proposed rule increases the salary threshold to $47,476. Supporters say this rule will put more money into the pockets of low and middle-income workers. But Vitter says the overtime rule is actually a bad thing for American workers.

CUT 5 (07)  “move up”

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Beginning August 1, establishments in Louisiana can no longer hire strippers that are under the age of 21, under a law signed by Governor Edwards.  Senior Vice President for Gulf Coast Bank and foster parent, Kim Carver, says this legislation is important because girls who age out of foster programs are at risk of becoming victims of sex trafficking, especially if they go to work in strip clubs.

CUT 6 (07) “young adults”

Jim Kelly with the Covenant House in New Orleans also supports the new law. He says a lot of the girls that come to Covenant House were strippers or victims of sex trafficking. He says if a girl has to be 21 to drink in an establishment, she should have to be 21 to take her clothes off in that same establishment.

CUT 7 (07) “strip club”

Robert Waters owns Rick’s Cabaret in New Orleans opposes this new law. He says not everyone who works in the adult entertainment industry is a victim. He says many of the dancers in his club do so for good reasons.

CUT 8 (10) “higher education”

Waters says he doesn’t know if this law will do any good, but he does know it will hurt a lot of people. He says there are dancers who depend on the money they make by dancing to support themselves.

CUT 9 (10) “this business”

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Florida Governor Rick Scott says he’s coming to Louisiana to encourage businesses here to move to the Sunshine State. In a statement, Scott said Governor John Bel Edwards called the special session for the sole purpose of raising taxes which will burden the job climate here. Edwards’ spokesman Richard Carbo…:

cut 10 (06)  “your own business”

Carbo says Governor Scott and former Governor Bobby Jindal are one in the same and come with policies that put Louisiana’s budget in the mess that it’s in now. He says this isn’t the first time Scott has been on these job hunting missions and the move is purely political…:

Cut 11 (08) “we stick together”

Carbo says the governor inherited from Jindal a budget with a $2 billion dollar hole, and right now Edwards is focused on putting Louisiana back on a path to prosperity. He says Louisianans will look past this maneuver by Scott…:

cut 12 (08) “are over now”

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The mayor of St. Joseph is at the center of a criminal investigation by Louisiana State Police. Earlier this year a legislative auditor accused Mayor Ed Brown of mismanaging St. Joe’s finances, and the auditor outlined several possible crimes he may have committed. But Trooper Michael Reichardt says Brown has not been arrested yet.

Cut 13 (06)  “very preliminary”

The water in the small Tensas parish town has been murky brown for nearly a decade, and state funds were appropriated to repair the water system. But because of Brown’s failure to submit the required audits, the town cannot access the money. Reichardt says it could be a lengthy investigation.

cut 14 (06)  “attorney’s office”

A judge has stripped Brown of the authority to make financial decisions and appointed a fiscal manager for St. Joe. Reichardt says he can’t say much about the case yet, as the investigation in ongoing.

cut 15 (07) “takes us”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has signed into a law a measure requiring municipalities to post signs notifying motorists if they are approaching an intersection that has red light cameras. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (26)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Louisiana High School Athletic Association voted to keep expanded split championships during a special meeting held in Baton Rouge. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Starting August 1^st, signs will be required to be posted 500 feet ahead of intersections that have red light cameras, because of a bill signed into law by the governor. New Orleans Senator Troy Carter says it’s a great day for the citizens of Louisiana.

CUT 3 (09)  “for motorists”

Carter says red light cameras should be about public safety, not collecting fines. He says this bill protects citizens the right of due process, because if a motorist gets a ticket where a sign is not posted, they can get the ticket waived.

CUT 4 (07)  “no ticket”

The measure was approved with bipartisan support from both chambers. Carter says he’s glad the legislature passed this bill that has a real benefit for Louisianans.

CUT 5 (08)  “our citizens”

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Two days into the second special session, several of Governor Joh Bel Edwards tax proposals have hit a wall. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says proposals that would have raised income taxes on middle and upper class income earners received a frosty reception from the House Ways and Means Committee.

CUT 6 (09) “session agenda”

The committee killed a proposal to reduce tax credits for corporations. All revenue generating bills must start in the House Ways and Means Committee and Alford says based on early action, he doesn’t see the legislature raising the $600 million needed to close the budget gap.

CUT 7 (12) “Means Committee”

The committee passed the construction budget bill and a measure to tie up loose ends from the first special session, including taxes that should not have been placed on things like Girl Scout cookies and school lunches. Alford says some lawmakers may be feeling session fatigue, as no legislature in the history of the state has met as long as these members have been in session.

CUT 8 (12) “these hallways”

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Governor John Bel Edwards and members of the legislature are supportive of changes to the Common Core academic standards suggested by a 26-member review panel. BESE President Jim Garvey says the panel was made up of people recommended by local school boards.

CUT 9 (09) “good product”

Twenty-one percent of the English and math standards were changed by the panel. Garvey says that may not sound like much, but it’s about the same amount of changes that were made when they switched to Common Core initially.

cut 10 (06)  “the calssroom”

This puts to rest nearly a three year debate over whether the Common Core standards should be taught in public schools.  Garvey says the changes will give teachers the freedom to teach these standards how they want.

Cut 11 (05) “flexibility”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is looking for new field agents, and they are taking applications for up to 23 cadets. LDWF spokesman Adam Einck says the academy is starting in September…:

cut 12 (08) “June 30th”

Applicants can apply online through the Department of Civil Service website. Einck says the class of graduating agents will fill field office vacancies around the state. He says they’ll train on general enforcement work on the state’s many wildlife management areas…:

Cut 13 (07)  “as well”

They’ll train to enforce the state’s recreational boating laws, the state and federal wildlife and fisheries laws, and general law enforcement work on the stat’s many wildlife management areas. Einck says each cadet is assigned to a parish and must reside in that parish upon completion of the academy. He says if you like law enforcement and the outdoors, this is a perfect job for you:

cut 14 (09)  “entire career”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is signing the Ban the Box bill into law today. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Humane Society of Louisiana says they’ve seen a higher than usual number of animal abuse arrests and seizures over the past 6 months, and they credit teamwork. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Louisiana remains one of 32 states not in compliance with a Supreme Court ruling, as a bill dealing with child killers failed to pass in the final minutes of the regular session. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LHSAA principals meet today in Baton Rouge to vote on four proposals regarding the public-private playoff split, which is set to expand to other sports beginning next year. LHSAA President Vic Bonnaffee says one reason for this meeting is because the expanded split to other sports has created logistical issues for the venues that host championship events in basketball, baseball and softball.

cut 4  (11)  “the problems”

Bonnaffee says the expanded split will also also create brackets that only feature six or eight teams. There are four proposals on the table that all seek to combine the classes differently. Bonnaffee says whatever happens today, the debate over public versus private schools will not end.

Cut 5  (12)  “it was”

The public-private playoff split has been a controversial issue in Louisiana high school sports. If the split is expanded more, the LHSAA is in jeopardy of losing a major sponsor and there’s talk of a competing association forming. Bonnaffee says hopefully high school principals understand the importance of this vote…

Cut 6 (06) “the LHSAA” 2x

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The Humane Society of Louisiana says they’ve seen a higher than usual number of animal abuse arrests and seizures over the past 6 months. Director Jeff Dorson credits newly formed partnerships between humane societies and law enforcement agencies that work together as a team to investigate cases of animal abuse…:

CUT 7 (09)  “this approach” 

Dorson says now when people report cases of animal abuse, members of the humane society will go out with the law enforcement agencies as they coordinate the arrests, and seize the animals to find them new homes…:

Cut 8  (07)  “prices” 

Since the beginning of the year, several agencies have been involved in more than 14 arrests, and the seizure of more than 30 animals including horses, pigs, chickens and dogs. Dorson says this additional training for deputies and teamwork is paying off..:

Cut 9 (09)  “good results”

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The governor is signing the Ban the Box bill into law today. The measure would prohibit state employers from asking about criminal history until the interview process. Executive Director for the US Justice Action Network, Holly Harris, says they’re excited to see this legislation pass with bipartisan support, because Louisiana is the incarceration capital of the world and in serious need of criminal justice reform.

Cut 10 (07) “crime-free lives”

Harris says this bill will impact a lot of people, as most American families are touched by the criminal justice system in some way. She says it’s not just about helping those with criminal records, it’s about making our communities safer.

cut 11 (07) “to prison”

Harris says this legislation is about showing that convicts are more than just their one mistake. She says many companies that hire people with criminal records will say that those employees are their best workers.

cut 12 (07) “been given”

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A bill that failed to make it out of the final hours of the regular session would have given convicted teen killers serving life sentences parole hearings after 30 years in prison. The bill was a reaction to a Supreme Court ruling that says convicted minors cannot be sentenced to life without the chance for parole. Metairie Senator Danny Martiny says it’s unfortunate they couldn’t pass this measure.

Cut 13 (09)  “6 o’clock”

Roughly 300 inmates who were convicted as minors are serving life sentences in Louisiana. Martiny says this could cost the state a lot of money, as inmates start to request parole hearings or file motions to be resentenced.

cut 14 (10)  “expensive proposition”

Louisiana is one of 32 states who are not in compliance with the Supreme Court ruling. Martiny says while a lot of inmates will probably try to get parole hearings, he doesn’t think many of them will succeed in actually getting paroled.

Cut 15 (07) “of jail”

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The Saints have signed free-agent safety Roman Harper, who spent the first eight seasons of his career NFL career in New Orleans before playing his last two with the Carolina Panthers.Harper started 104 games out of a possible 108 during his first tenure with the Saints, racking up 743 tackles and 17 sacks. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says Harper provides familiarity, a player with high football IQ and depth.

Cut 16  (15)  “Kenny Vaccaro”

The Saints face depth issues at safety as they lost safety Rafael Bush in the off-season, who signed to the Detroit Lions as a free-agent. Starting strong-safety Kenny Vaccaro has faced injury concerns throughout his NFL career.
Harper can potentially help a Saints defense who finished 31st in yards allowed per game but Detillier does not expect him to have a full-time role at this stage in his career.

Cut 17 (9)  “in the NFL” 

Harper was a two-time pro-bowler with the Saints in 2009-10 and help the team win Super Bowl XLIV. He has started all 16 games for the past two seasons.

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The LSU baseball team is headed back to the Super Regionals as the Tigers rallied from a two-run deficit to beat to beat the Rice Owls five to two. The most valuable player in this game was Jared Poche, who on three days rest, threw six shutout innings and kep LSU in the contest, until the bats woke up in the 7th. Poche says he felt good going into the game…

Cut 18 (10) “best chance to win”

The Most Valuable Player of the Regional was Greg Deichmann, who had three hits on Tuesday, including a moster home run that put the Tigers up 3-2….

Cut 19 (16) “swing on it”

Deichmann’s blast went 417 feet and the home run impressed head coach Paul Mainieri…

Cut 20 (16) “with your team”

During a joint session of the legislature kicking off the special session, Governor John Bel Edwards called on lawmakers to raise enough revenue to reduce cuts to state services. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The family of slain Tulane graduate Thomas Rolfes held a news conference today to beg for information about the murder which happened a month ago today. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Several lawmakers are in a foul mood after failing to approve a construction budget. Ways and Means Chairman Neil Abramson says Senate changes to the spending plan made the bill unworkable and he didn’t bring it up for a vote in the regular session. Franklin Representative Sam Jones asked Abramson why not send the bill to a conference committee to resolve the issues…

CUT 3 (12)  “out of here”

The construction budget funds road projects, repairs to public buildings and improvement to state parks. It will be taken up again in the special session, but Marrero Representative Patrick Connick says it should have been done in the regular session…

CUT 4 (11)  “the Senate”

The frustration over the lack of a vote on the construction bill can be felt on the senate side too. Metairie Senator Danny Martiny says what House leaders did was disrespectful…

CUT 5 (07)  “we do”

A new version of the construction budget bill has begun to move in the special session as the four-billion dollar financing plan was approved by the Ways and Means Committee today.)

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Governor John Bel Edwards addressed a joint session of the legislature this morning, calling on lawmakers to find the political courage to raise enough revenue during this special session to reduce cuts to state programs. Edwards says they cannot wait any longer to resolve the fiscal crisis.

CUT 6 (12) “afford to wait”

In addition to tying up some loose ends from the last special session, Edwards is asking lawmakers to look at altering income taxes as a means to raise revenue, which he says is part of long term tax reform. He says they should also look at reducing corporate tax exemptions.

CUT 7 (10) “overall”

Edwards also wants lawmakers to limit the itemized deductions taxpayers claim on their state returns. He says he does not want to raise taxes, contrary to popular belief, but this proposal would not affect the majority of Louisiana taxpayers.

CUT 8 (08) “on them”

Legislators have until midnight on June 23 to try and raise enough revenue to close a $600 million budget shortfall.

===================================================

It’s been one month today since a 25-year-old Tulane graduate was shot and killed in New Orleans while visiting to look for a good spot to get married, and authorities still do not have a suspect. The family held a Crimestoppers news conference today at the site where Thomas Rolfes was murdered. His fiance, Elizabeth Fried (freed), is pleading for answers…:

CUT 9 (10) “find closure”

The reward for information regarding Rolfes’ death is $30,000. Investigators say they are working tirelessly to find the killer or killers. According to NOPD, Rolfes had been out celebrating with friends on May 7th, then went to the gas station where his body was found by a passerby. His mother, Julie Rolfes, says this has been a total nightmare…:

cut 10 (09)  “really been terrible”

Fried says Rolfes was a wonderful man who touched the lives of everyone he met…:

Cut 11 (09) “as my own”

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The state Department of Environmental Quality has resumed mercury testing in public waterways after the program was halted in 2008 because of budget cuts. DEQ environmental scientist Al Hindrichs (HINE-drix) says they are testing for mercury in 36 sites in southwest Louisiana this year. Hindrichs says if a waterway is found to have a high level of mercury, fish consumption advisories are posted.

cut 12 (08) “small children”

Hindrichs says they are staring in the southwest part of the state because the centers in Lake Charles and Lafayette are familiar with the sampling program. He says they’ll expand to other areas of the state next year. He says there are currently 48 consumption advisories in place for 85 water bodies in Louisiana.

Cut 13 (06)  “individual advisory”

Hindrichs says mercury poisoning can cause neurological damage, particularly in children, and it can lead to birth defects if consumed by pregnant women. He says they need to update some of the advisories in effect because some of them are as much as 14 years old.

cut 14 (08)  “out there”

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Lawmakers are looking at their options to raise revenue to fill the budget holes, as the second special session of 2016 is currently underway. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Natchitoches has unveiled plans for a Riverfront Improvement Project. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The second special session is underway, and Governor John Bel Edwards is calling on legislators to fix the state’s budget problems. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The second special session of 2016 is underway and lawmakers are looking at their options to raise enough revenue to reduce cuts to state programs, like TOPS and hospitals that provide care for the poor and uninsured. Personal and corporate income taxes are an option for raising revenue, but Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says he is not okay with raising anymore taxes.

cut 4  (09)  “do that”

Lawmakers have also proposed reducing or eliminating some corporate tax exemptions. But Henry says they can’t be sure that will generate enough revenue to be worthwhile.

Cut 5  (08)  “at this point”

Senate President John Alario believes the legislature needs to raise about $450 million to ensure that TOPS, higher ed and safety net hospitals are adequately funded.

Cut 6 (09) “the budget”

Alario says he is not opposed to altering state income tax rates or removing exemptions, if it means all of the state’s priorities will be funded.

CUT 7 (06)  “it accomplished” 

The special session must end by June 23^rd at midnight.

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Governor John Bel Edwards is set to address a joint session of the state legislature at 10 this morning, which marks the official kickoff to the special session that was called to address a $600 million revenue shortfall. Edwards says revenues need to be raised the budget that was passed in the regular session is in bad shape.

Cut 8  (11)  “172 million” 

Legislators also have to pass a $4 billion construction budget that would pay for road work and improvements to public buildings and state parks. Edwards is upset the House failed to negotiate the construction spending plan during the regular session.

Cut 9 (09)  “the bill”

The special session must end by June 23 at midnight. Edwards is optimistic they will approve the necessary revenue raising measure to avoid cuts to TOPS, safety net hospitals, and education.

Cut 10 (05) “the future”

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The University of New Orleans will soon have a new digital animation lab on campus. UNO fine arts instructor Jeff Rinehart led the effort to secure a $94-thousand grant for the school’s new Innovation Lab, which will be open to all students working on digital media projects. Rinehart says the department is working toward creating a new media and animation degree.

cut 11 (05) “digital animation”

Rinehart says the lab should be open to students by the 2017 spring semester. He says the lab will be equipped with computers, a 3D printer, motion capture equipment, and the software students need to complete all kinds of digital media projects.

cut 12 (10) “digital cameras”

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the number of jobs for multimedia artists and animators is growing substantially. The annual mean wage for people in this field in the New Orleans area is about $73-thousand. Rinehart says increased demand in this field is due to the growing need for animation in television, movies and other multimedia projects.

Cut 13 (03)  “like that”

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Plans have been unveiled for a Riverfront Improvement Project in Natchitoches. Mayor Lee Posey says the project will update some infrastructure along the river and improve handicap accessibility.

cut 14 (11)  “about this”

Posey says they will put new bathrooms on the riverbank, double the size of the stage on the river, add new landscaping, and even repave the asphalt along the riverbank. He says the project will cost just over $4 million. He says state and private agencies will split the costs of the project.

Cut 15 (10) “electrical department”

Posey says they hope to have everything ready by the beginning of next year so it can hopefully be done in time for the Festival of Lights in November of 2017. He says there are lots of events on the riverbank, so this is a worthwhile project.

Cut 16  (06)  “really excited”

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Its win or go home for the LSU Baseball team today after losing to Rice 10-6 last night to force a winner take all matchup at 4 PM in the Baton Rouge Regional. If LSU won last night, they would be heading to the Super Regionals. Coach Paul Mainieri doesn’t think there’s more pressure on his team to get it done today…

Cut 17 (14)  “some runs” 

LSU had 15 hits in the loss, but they were just 2-of-10 at the plate with runners in scoring position. Center fielder Jake Fraley says they can’t dwell on Monday night’s loss…..

Cut 18 (13) “this next game”

The Ragin Cajuns season came to a quick end last night as they lost two games to Arizona, which resulted in the Wildcats winning the Lafayette Regional and advancing to the Super Regionals. UL Lafayette had won 12 in a row heading into Monday, but lost the first game to Arizona 6-3 and then lost the regional championship game 3-1. Cajuns outfielder Kyle Clement says baseball can be a cruel sport at times…

Cut 19 (14) “wrong time”

The Cajuns finish with a 43-21 record. Coach Tony Robichaux says Arizona’s pitchers threw the ball well and his team had trouble putting runs on the board…

Cut 20 (16) “deficit down”

A second special session for 2016 begins tonight at 6:30 pm, and lawmakers will look at changes to income taxes as they try to close a $600 million shortfall for next fiscal year. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Family Caregiver Act has been signed by the governor and goes into effect August 1. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Lawmakers will begin a special session tonight at 6:30 pm to attempt to raise $600 million to close the budget deficit for next fiscal year. LSU economist Jim Richardson, also serves as the chairman of the task force for long term budget reform and says to raise that much money, lawmakers will likely have to alter personal income taxes.

CUT 3 (11)  “do constitutionally”

State Capitol observers say a key to bill to watch in the session is House Bill 11 which would limit federal itemized deductions on income taxes. Richardson says reducing or removing these deductions could affect a lot of Louisiana taxpayers, particularly those with higher personal incomes.

CUT 4 (11)  “income brackets”

The call for the special session also calls for changes to income tax brackets. Richardson says this approach would impact most taxpayers.

CUT 5 (08)  “notice it”

Richardson says legislators will probably not do anything with the sales tax, other than cleaning up some exemptions that should have been placed on the increase in the last special session.

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The Governor has signed the Louisiana Family Caregiver Act into law, which supporters say will provide critical help for families across the state. Advocacy Director for AARP Louisiana, Andrew Muhl says this will assist the more than 660-thousand family members who help out an aging relative.

CUT 6 (08) “more independently”

Twenty-two other states have passed similar legislation. Muhl says this measure requires hospitals to offer caregivers instruction and demonstrations of medical tasks. He says the bill also allows a family caregiver to be designated in the patient’s medical records.

CUT 7 (07) “post-hospital stay”

It’s estimated this type of unpaid care to family members in our state amount to about 6-point-4 billion dollars annually. Muhl says this legislation will save the state money by reducing costly hospital readmissions, as family caregivers will be able to perform the tasks the patients need.

CUT 8 (10) “be required”

The unanimously-approved law goes into effect August 1.

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A small Tensas parish town is one step closer to having clean water after being plagued by murky brown tap water. The town of St. Joseph has agreed to appoint a fiscal administrator so audits on the town can be cleared up and work can begin to repair the town’s water system. The governor’s Communications Director, Richard Carbo says getting a fiscal administrator is a step in the right direction.

CUT 9 (05) “St. Joe”

St. Jo has not been able to get approval to use state funds to fix the water system because Mayor Edward Brown missed the December deadline to file an audit. Carbo says the Governor’s Office has been working to get clean water for St. Jo since Governor John Bel Edwards took office in January.

cut 10 (07)  “finish line”

Carbo says they’re making progress, but at this point it’s still not clear when clean water will flow from the taps in St. Joseph.

Cut 11 (10) “projects underway”

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A trooper was injured in a fatal St. Charles Parish incident that involved two suspected drunk drivers and a man who stopped on the Bonne Carre spillway to urinate into Lake Ponchartrain. State Police trooper Melissa Matey says Louis Hernandez pulled his truck over to pee, and at that time a man suspected of being impaired, 42-year-old Joel Ybarra, crashed into the stopped vehicle

cut 12 (06) “not belted”

Matey says as a trooper was responding to the first crash scene on the spillway, his unit was hit from behind by another impaired driver. She says the trooper was wearing a seat belt and sustained minor injuries in the crash:

Cut 13 (06)  “operation”

Matey says Ybarra is charged with vehicular homicide and careless operation. She says charges are pending for Hernandez as you are not allowed to just relieve yourself off the side of a bridge…:

cut 14 (05)  “emergency purpose”

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It’s the last day of the regular session, and political analyst Clancy Dubos looks at what passed and what didn’t. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Legislation to require pet stores to keep records of breeds’ names and addresses, along with licensing information is on the governor’s desk to be signed into law. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The number of Louisiana homes at risk of storm surge damage has gone up by over 40-thousand since last year, according to CoreLogic. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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State lawmakers have approved a 26-billion dollar budget for next fiscal year that does not fully fund the TOPS scholarship program and hospitals that provide care for the poor and uninsured. House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says the spending plan is not perfect, but they can address gaps in the budget in a special session that begins tonight…

cut 4  (04)  “is a priority”

Because of a 600-million dollar revenue shortfall, the budget also contains cuts to public schools, universities, prisons and child welfare programs. Henry says under this plan TOPS would be funded at 48-percent…

Cut 5  (05)  “18-hundred dollars” (2x)

The senate approved the budget on a 35-2 vote, but the vote was much closer in the House, 63 “yeas” and 38 “nays”. Baton Rouge Representative Barry Ivey voted against it, because health care and higher ed are underfunded…

Cut 6 (06) “less than 50-percent”

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The regular session must conclude by 6pm tonight. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says Governor John Bel Edwards had a hard time getting key pieces of his legislative package through the legislature, like the bills for equal pay for men and women and increasing the minimum wage.

CUT 7 (11)  “of representatives” 

Dubos says there were some victories for the governor. He says the budget lawmakers passed is close to the one he first proposed. Also, a bill that increases the age to 18 for which a person can be tried as an adult was approved.

Cut 8  (12)  “change as well” 

Dubos says the governor is feeling pressure to veto a bill that gives patients the ability to see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral. He says a strong majority of lawmakers voted for the bill, but Edwards is hearing from the opponents of the measure.

Cut 9 (09)  “his allies”

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A bill that would require pet stores to keep records of breeders’ names, addresses, and licensing information is on the governor’s desk to be signed into law. Alicia Haefele with the Louisiana SPCA says also included under this legislation is that no pet under 8-weeks old can be sold in a store. She says these regulations are to make ensure pet stores are held to certain standards.

Cut 10 (07) “cared for”

Haefele says these regulations do not apply to animals up for adoptions from shelters. She says another big part of this legislation is pet stores are required to keep records on their dogs and cats for at least two years.

cut 11 (10) “its owner”

Haefele says the main target of this legislation is to stop puppy mills from selling sick puppies who have been living in unsanitary conditions.

cut 12 (09) “potential owner”

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The number of Louisiana homes at risk for storm surge damage has increased since last year, according to CoreLogic. Senior hazard risk scientist for CoreLogic, Tom Jeffery says that has a lot to do with new homes being built along the coast.

Cut 13 (07)  “about everywhere”

According to CoreLogic, last year there were just over 760-thousand hones at risk in Louisiana, and that number has grown to over 800-thousand. CoreLogic’s report says the cost to rebuild all those homes would be $184 billion. Jeffery says despite the danger, he doesn’t see construction slowing along the coast anytime soon.

cut 14 (12)  “those areas”

Almost 7 million homes along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts are at risk of potential storm surge damage this year. Florida has the most homes at risk, followed by Louisiana. Jeffery says the potential for storm surge is one of the most dangerous things about hurricane season.

Cut 15 (08) “of life”

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The Ragin Cajuns are one win away from advancing to the Super Regionals after UL Lafayette easily defeated Arizona 10-3 yesterday afternoon. Sophomore left-hander Gunner Leger won his 7th game of the year as he threw five innings and allowed three runs…

Cut 16  (13)  “great job”

At the plate, Stefan Trosclair drove in three runs and hit a home run. Kyle Clement scored three times. Brian Mills and Brenn Conrad each drove in two runs. Robichaux is well-rounded effort…

Cut 17 (07)  “timely hitting” 

(The Cajuns will face Arizona at 1 PM. UL Lafayette needs one win to advance, Arizona needs two.)

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LSU starting pitcher Alex Lange struck out 10 hitters to help lead the Tigers to a 4-2 win over Rice. The victory puts the Bayou Bengals into the championship round of the Baton Rouge regional. Lange threw eight plus innings and only gave up two runs. Coach Paul Mainieri says it was an impressive outing from his sophomore…

Cut 18 (12) “their numbers”

Not an even rain delay could slow down Lange. The game was halted for about an hour in the 6th inning, but Lange returned to put a couple more zeros on the scoreboard…

Cut 19 (12) “locked in” (2x)

LSU’s offense came in the 1st inning on an inside-the-park grand slam by Greg Deichmann. The Tigers first baseman smoked a ball down the right field line and it got stuck underneath a bullpen bench, which allowed the three base runners and Deichmann to come on home…

Cut 20 (12) “kept running””

(LSU will play the winner of today’s game between Southeastern Louisiana and Rice at 7 PM.