Today, the Elmer Chocolate factory in Ponchatoula cuts the ribbon on a 40-million dollar expansion. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The special session ends at midnight tonight, and there’s still uncertainty surrounding the budget for next fiscal year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Law enforcement is mourning over the loss of a sheriff’s deputy from suburban New Orleans. Halen Doughty has details on the investigation…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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President Obama signed a bill into law that puts regulations in place to make chemical plants safer. U.S. Senator David Vitter is a co-sponsor of the legislation and says this benefits Louisiana residents, because it creates a federal system to make sure chemicals are made safely based on the latest science…

cut 4  (07)  “done that”

Vitter says the law gives a reasonable set of regulations with a single handbook that our companies can follow to remain a world leader in innovation. He says before this, states were developing their own inconsistent regulatory systems which wasn’t working.

Cut 5  (11)  “with them”

Vitter says this law gives the EPA the tools they need to properly test chemical plants in a timely manner so the burdens placed on the manufacturers aren’t extreme. He says the chemical industry is in support of these new regulations.

Cut 6 (10) “our economy”

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The Ponchatoula-based company Elmer Chocolate cuts the ribbon on their new $40 million expansion today. Elmer president and CEO, Robert Nelson, says they are excited to open their expanded facility right here in the Bayou State.

CUT 7 (10)  “the world”

Elmer is best known for its Easter candy, but Nelson says that only accounts for 10-percent of their total sales. Nelson says the new facility will include technology to make the company more efficient. He says this is good news for Elmer’s employees.

Cut 8  (12)  “our community”

The expansion is 70-thousand feet, bringing the total plant to 400-thousand square feet. Nelson says they will not make any new chocolates, but…

Cut 9 (08)  “very efficiently”

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There’s uncertainty involving next fiscal year’s budget as the second special session ends today. Lawmakers have approved legislation that raises tax revenues by $258 million. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says there could be one more attempt to raise even more revenue, as the Edwards administration is pushing legislators to approve a bill that would reduce a tax break many upper income earners enjoy.

Cut 10 (07) “governor wants”

Pinsonat says it’s unlikely the House will go along with the attempt to reduce the excess itemize deduction that can be claimed on state income taxes. He says the governor’s level of success in this second special session will come down to this bill.

cut 11 (10) “on it”

Legislators also have to determine how to allocate the revenues that have been generated in this special session. Pinsonat says there are still questions over how much money lawmakers really have to work with.

cut 12 (09) “just passed”

The special session ends tonight at midnight.

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Law enforcement around the state are mourning the death of 50-year-old Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Deputy David Michel, who was fatally shot yesterday while attempting to conduct a pedestrian stop. Police say a suspect is in custody. JPSO Chief Deputy Craig Taffaro says it’s a sad day for those who knew Michel.

Cut 13 (05)  “he had”

Authorities say Michel was shot three times in the back after an altercation with a black male pedestrian. After the shooting he was rushed to a local hospital, where he died less than an hour later. Taffaro says he spoke with Michel’s father when he was driving in from Mississippi.

cut 14 (05)  “to do”

Michel worked in street crimes and had been with the sheriff’s office since 2007. Taffaro says he knew Michel well because the two worked in the 4^th District at one time.

Cut 15 (02) “always cheerful”

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The Pelicans have the sixth overall pick in tonight’s NBA draft. Fox Sports college basketball writer Aaron Torres says several mock drafts have the Bees taking Providence point guard Kris Dunn…

Cut 16  (22)  “long run” 

The Pelicans might want to use their first round pick on a good shooter. Two of the best shooters in this draft are Oklahoma’s Buddy Hield and Kentucky’s Jamal Murray. Torres says there’s a good chance one of those players will be available at six…

Cut 17 (15)  “that one”

Former LSU star Ben Simmons is expected to be the number one overall pick and join the Philadelphia 76ers rebuilding effort. Duke’s Brandon Ingram would be the other potential number one pick. Many question if Simmons deserves to be the top overall pick after failing to lead LSU to the NCAA Tournament. But Torres predicts Simmons will have a great NBA career…

Cut 18 (12) “bum rap”

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New Louisiana Tech Head Baseball Coach Lane Burroughs says plans to take the Bulldogs to Omaha. Burroughs says he’s not shy about high expectations…

Cut 19 (10) “last year”

The Bulldogs are coming off a season where they reached the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 29 seasons. Burroughs says he has no problem with fans who expect postseason play every year…

Cut 20 (09) “what soever”

The Baton Rouge mother who was arrested after allegedly beating her sons for robbing a neighbor’s house might not have to stand trial, according to District Attorney Hillar Moore. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (24)  “I’m Don Molino ”

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The rehabilitation of the Jimmy Davis Bridge in Shreveport-Bossier has been cancelled, and the state Department of Transportation says they’ll build a new four-lane bridge over the Red River instead. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore is not sure yet if he’ll prosecute a Baton Rouge mother who was arrested after allegedly beating her children for breaking into someone’s home. Police say 30-year-old Schaquana Spears was charged with two counts of child cruelty for whipping her three children with an electrical cord. Moore understands parents need to discipline their children.

CUT 3 (11)  “been pretty”

People from all over the nation have taken to social media in support of Spears’ actions. Authorities say the 10, 12, and 13-year-olds broke into a neighbor’s house and stole a hover board, electronics, and socks. He says there is a difference between discipline and child abuse, and his office is looking into the severity of the beating. But he says this may just be a family that needs help.

CUT 4 (11)  “criminality there”

Moore says it will take a while to go through all the facts of this case and decide whether or not to prosecute.

CUT 5 (09)  “is it not”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has signed into law two bills that will regulate drone use in Louisiana. Baton Rouge Sen. Dan Claitor authored one of the measures and says under his bill, you could be charged with criminal trespassing if you use a drone to peep on your neighbors.

CUT 6 (10) “that’s prohibited”

Claitor says there are some exceptions included in his bill.

CUT 7 (08) “an exception”

The other drone regulation law signed by the governor would prohibit the public from flying drones above schools or jails and prisons. The White House is also implementing rules that allow drones less than 55 pounds to fly up to 100 miles per hour and 400 feet high within the view of the operator. Claitor says he doesn’t expect to file any more legislation on the issue.

CUT 8 (09) “to speak”

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The state Department of Transportation cancels plans to rehabilitate the Jimmy Davis Bridge over the Red River in Shreveport-Bossier and instead they decide to build a new four-lane bridge. DOTD spokesperson Cindy Dorfner says this new bridge will mean less congestion and an easier drive for commuters.

CUT 9 (12) “and forth”

Dorfner says they aren’t sure at this point how much the new bridge will cost or when it will be complete. She says the old bridge will remain open during the construction. She says they have to get the design process started first.

cut 10 (07)  “the bridge”

Dorfner says they would have spent at least 20-million dollars on rehabbing a 60-year-old bridge, but that would not address the problem of congestion, which is why they’ve made the decision to move forward with a new bridge.

Cut 11 (11) “four lane bridge”

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The lawyer of a Marksville City Marshall accused of fatally shooting a 6-year-old boy has filed a motion to move the trial out of Avoyelles Parish. 31-year-old Derrick Stafford’s attorney, Christopher LaCour says with all the media coverage he doesn’t believe Stafford can get a fair trial in this parish…

cut 12 (09) “is corrupt”

Stafford and fellow officer Norris Greenhouse Jr. are facing second-degree murder charges in last November’s shooting death of Jeremy Mardis. LaCour says neither Stafford nor Greenhouse intended to kill the autistic boy. He says he wants to give Stafford the best defense he can and that won’t happen if the case is heard in Avoyelles Parish.

Cut 13 (11)  “fair trial”

Stafford and Greenhouse are set to go to trial this fall.

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K-through-12 public schools will see a cut in state funding as a result of a spending plan approved by the Senate finance committee. The head of the Louisiana School Board Association, Scott Richard (Ree-shard), says if schools receive fewer state dollars, it will jeopardize the successes that have taken place  in public education….

cut 14 (07)  “reading scores”

But on an 8-2 vote, the Senate Finance Committee decided to not to give public colleges a reduction in state dollars, instead K-12 public schools would be put on the chopping block. Shreveport Senator Gregory Tarver says universities have been cut enough….

cut 15 (09) “other schools”

This spending proposal still has to be approved by the full Senate and House before the special session ends at midnight on Thursday. Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns also supports the idea that public colleges shouldn’t be cut any further…

cut 16 (06) “young people”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry and law enforcement officers are partnering to stop the production and distribution of child pornography. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Former state legislator Ebert Guillory has released eye raising ad in support of his candidacy for the 4^th district Congressional race. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The industrial tax exemption program that benefits large manufacturers is costing local governments 1.6 billion dollars a year, according to Together Louisiana. Jeff Palermo reports…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry and law enforcement are teaming up to tackle cyber-crimes against children. Landry says since April, 57 alleged perpetrators have been arrested for the distribution and possession of child pornography as part of “Operation Broken Heart”

cut 4  (09)  “that exploitation”

 State Police is assisting in the effort to reduce internet crimes against children. Superintendent Col. Mike Edmonson says parents can help in this battle by being vigilant and keeping a close eye on your kids online activities…

Cut 5  (10)  “with them”

 Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre says no parish or town is immune from cyber-crimes and it needs to be a priority for law enforcement, because victims of internet crime tend to because unlawful individuals later in life……

Cut 6 (09) “children”

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Former state senator Elbert Guillory is in the race for the 4^th Congressional District seat, and he’s running a very unique YouTube ad to gain voters’ support, by using coconuts as a metaphor. He can be seen in the ad standing behind a podium, holding a mesh bag with two coconuts.

CUT 7 (12)  “has coconuts”

This is not the first time Guillory has made a bold statement in an ad. Last year in the race for Lt. Governor, he used the n-word multiple times to “start a dialogue on race.” UL-Lafayette political science professor, Pearson Cross, says Guillory is trying to build his name recognition in northern Louisiana, as he resides in St. Landry Parish.

Cut 8  (10)  “big way”

Cross says this seems to be an emerging trend in politics, where candidates are becoming less politically correct. In the recent ad, Guillory demonstrates that idea, saying there are not enough “coconuts” in Washington, D.C.

Cut 9 (12)  “our homeland”

Cross says Guillory may be inspired to make these wild statements by presidential candidates Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders. He says Guillory may feel like people want elected officials who are not afraid to say what others may not want to say.

Cut 10 (09) “the person”

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A group called Together Louisiana says the state gives away 1.6 billion dollars in local tax revenue as a result of the industrial tax exemption program, which benefits large manufacturers. Together Louisiana spokesperson Broderick Bagert says school districts, parishes and other local entities are missing out on these dollars.

cut 11 (03) “tax money”

Bagert says local school districts and police departments in particular can really use this money. He says under the constitution, Governor John Bel Edwards has the authority to overhaul this program and allow local governments approve the exemption.

cut 12 (08) “on them”

Tax and Finance Council Director for the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, Jim Patterson, says 40 states give this kind of exemption. Patterson says this exemption draws big companies to build new facilities in our state. He says without this exemption, many businesses might not come to Louisiana.

Cut 13 (07)  “our state”

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With two days left in special session, lawmakers are struggling to raise enough money to tackle the state’s massive budget deficit. Jeremy Alford of LaPolitics.com says right now legislators are just short of raising 300 million dollars and Governor John Bel Edwards has asked for 600 million to cover the shortfall for next fiscal year. He says conservatives in the House say they’ve reached their saturation point on passing revenue generators.

cut 14 (11)  “more revenue”

Alford says the supplemental budget bill is currently in the Senate Finance Committee and right now, TOPS is funded at around 70-percent. He says other areas still don’t have adequate funding.

Cut 15 (10) “prisons”

Alford says so far, the legislature is poised to raise about 284 million dollars in new revenue. But he says the shortfall for next fiscal year is estimated at 600 million dollars and possibly even higher than that…

Cut 16  (08)  “being down” 

The governor has formed a Justice Reinvestment Task Force that aims to safely reduce the incarceration rate and cost of housing inmates. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty ”

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Louisiana ranks 48^th in the country when it comes to child well-being according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Justice Reinvestment Task Force has been established that will develop ways Louisiana can safely lower its prison population and reduce the cost of housing inmates. Corrections Secretary James LeBlanc says Louisiana incarcerates more residents per capita than anywhere else in the world and hopefully this task force can come up with solutions that the legislature will approve in 2017.

CUT 3 (07)  “some sense”

LeBlanc says many of the reforms will be aimed at the local level, because half of the prison population are housed in sheriff’s jails. He says right now they lack the needed resources on the local level that can provide an alternative to housing an offender in jail.

CUT 4 (09)  “that access”

LeBlanc says the recommendations will be a combination of legislation, policy, and budget reforms. He says one way they can reduce the recidivism rate is by making sure released inmates have access to healthcare and the state’s expanded Medicaid program should help in that area.

CUT 5 (07)  “big issue”

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When it comes to child well-being, Louisiana ranks 48^th in the country, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2016 Kids Count Data Book. Teresa Falgoust with the Agenda for Children says we rank so low because the number of kids in poverty in Louisiana is higher than in most other states. She says poverty drives a lot of other indicators of child well-being.

CUT 6 (09) “factor here”

Falgoust says the problem is getting worse with more children living in poverty and more children whose parents don’t have secure employment. She also says more families are burdened with high housing costs, which means parents don’t have a lot of money left over for food, clothing, and other needs.

CUT 7 (06) “on housing”

But Falgoust does says Louisiana teens are more likely to graduate on time and the teen birth rates in the state are dropping. She also says Louisiana children rank 7thin preschool attendance and literacy has improved.

CUT 8 (09) “71%”

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The governor has signed a bill into law that raised the age threshold for victims of sex trafficking from 18 to 21. Before this law, victims ages 18 to 21 could have been arrested for prostitution. Executive Director of Project 41, Lindsey Nadler, says sex trafficking is a bigger problem in Louisiana than people may realize. The Polaris Project reports almost 350 cases of sex trafficking reported in Louisiana since 2012. Nadler says there are likely even more cases than that.

CUT 9 (07) “as criminals”

Nadler says human trafficking occurs heavily along interstate routes, which means some areas of the state are hotspots.  She says they thrilled about the new law because jail is not what these victims need.

cut 10 (08)  “here locally”

Under the new law, denying knowing the victims’ age cannot be used as a legal defense, and those convicted of sex trafficking will have to register as sex offenders and could spend between 15 and 50 years in jail. Nadler says there a plenty of things people can do to get involved in the fight against human trafficking.

Cut 11 (10) “is key”

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A recent study released by ManpowerGroup finds that New Orleans is the worst city for jobs during the summer months. According to the survey, The Big Easy has only a 1% net employment outlook for the third quarter of 2016. Baton Rouge is at 2%. But LSU Economist Dr. Loren Scott says the state of the oil industry is what is driving the majority of the job losses in Louisiana…:

cut 12 (10) “at all there”

The outlooks report was put together by asking employers in the top 100 metropolitan areas how they expect to see their payrolls between now and September. The numbers in are not seasonally adjusted, and Scott believes New Orleans ranks so low because tourism takes a big hit in the summer…:

Cut 13 (07)  “heat is brutal”

Scott says there is some truth to the report that construction of large scale construction projects between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is slowing down due to the energy market. But he says right in the middle is St. James Parish, where there are a large number of huge potential projects that are in the design and financing stages…:

cut 14 (11)  “New Orleans area”

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A Shreveport man has been arrested after he broke a historic monument while trying to climb on top of it. Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson, Cindy Chadwick, says surveillance footage shows 27-year-old Tromell Cornelious playing a trumpet and walking around in front of the Caddo parish courthouse after midnight on June 10.

cut 15 (11) “arm off”

Chadwick says Cornelious was arrested today when police found him at a Greyhound bus stop trying to leave town. She says he won’t face many charges, because they don’t believe he broke the monument on purpose.

cut 16 (06) “with tresspassing”

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Toledo Bend on the Texas-Louisiana border came in as the number one fishing destination in the country for the second straight year. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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We’re in the final days of the second special session of the year, and lawmakers are still arguing over TOPS funding. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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 LSU’s Pennington Biomedical is looking for volunteers ages 50 to 85 to participate in a research that aims to slow memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (25) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana ranks third in the country for lightning claims, according to State Farm. Roszell Gadson with State Farm says in 2015, the insurance company paid out over $6 million on almost 14-hundred lightning claims, averaging $46-hundred each.

cut 4  (07)  “related losses”

Gadson says this week is Lightning Safety Awareness Week. He says they want to encourage people to make sure their homes are properly grounded. He says if you have an expensive device or appliance, you should plug it into a surge protector.

Cut 5  (08)  “thousands of dollars”

State Farm reports lightning is most frequent during June, July, and August. Gadson says people should take precautions when lightning storms hit.

Cut 6 (10) “lower ground”

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Louisiana anglers rejoice as Toledo Bend has been ranked the number one bass fishery in the country for the second straight year by Bassmaster. Magazine Editor James Hall says the 185-thousand acre reservoir in Sabine and DeSoto Parishes has better catch rates in quality and quantity than every other fishery in the country. He says you don’t have to be a professional to reel in a great catch at Toledo Bend.

CUT 7 (10)  “bass fishing”

Hall says this is the first time in the history of ranking the best fishing destination in America that one fishery has won back to back or even won twice. He says there were over 130 10-pound bass catches at Toledo Bend this year.

Cut 8  (11)  “is fantastic”

Caddo Lake ranked number 7 in Bassmaster’s Central Division of top 25 best fisheries. Hall says tourism in the area increased 23-percent last year when Toledo Bend ranked 1. He expects this trend to continue…

Cut 9 (10)  “go back”

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With three days left in the special session, lawmakers are arguing over how much to fund TOPS. A bill approved by the House funds the scholarship program at 70-percent. Bogalusa Representative Malinda White believes fewer dollars should go to TOPS in favor of more money for hospitals that provide care for the poor and uninsured. She asked them what they would do if they came upon a wreck in her district and a safety net hospital was closed, because of a lack of funding.

Cut 10 (11) “to college”

White says the same people who want to fund TOPS did not vote in favor of revenue raising measures to get the funding. She says hospitals should take priority with the funds that are available.

cut 11 (09) “or death”

Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala urged House members not to take any more funding away from the scholarship program. He says LSU students will leave the state for better scholarship opportunities or attend cheaper schools if they do stay in Louisiana.

cut 12 (11) “or Nicholls”

If TOPS is only funded at 70-percent, all TOPS students will get a portion of their tuition paid for, but will have to cover the rest. Bacala says he would like to see TOPS funded at least at 80-percent…

Cut 13 (10)  “a promise”

The Senate Finance committee will talk more about TOPS funding at its meeting today. The special session ends Thursday at midnight.

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LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center is looking for volunteers for a first-of-its-kind study to slow memory loss as a result of Alzheimer’s. Director of Pennington’s Institute for Dementia Research, Dr. Jeffery Keller, says they’re seeking people ages 50 to 85 who are concerned about their memory and don’t have a confirmed case of Alzheimer’s Disease to undergo this new investigational treatment.

cut 14 (11)  “from occurring”

Keller says this is a lengthy three year study, but it’s necessary because the disease forms in individuals who are asymptomatic and don’t show symptoms. He says Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the country, with 15 million people expected to be diagnosed by 2050.

Cut 15 (10) “disease”

Keller says this study is extremely promising because this approach has appeared to be something that’s moved the needle in people with Alzheimer’s. He says they hope this drug can prevent people without symptoms from developing the disease later in life.

Cut 16  (08)  “disease” 

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Thursday night is the NBA Draft and the Pelicans have three picks. The sixth overall pick and then two in the second round. New Orleans General Manager Dell Demps believes they can add some significant pieces around All-Star Anthony Davis…

Cut 17 (14)  “free agency”

Last season’s Pelicans team failed way short of reaching its goal of making the playoffs. The team was hit with multiple injuries. Demps says not having small forward Quincy Pondexter for the entire season was a huge blow…

Cut 18 (16) “us back”

Once the draft concludes, the Pelicans will focus on free-agency. Eric Gordon, Ryan Anderson and Norris Cole are players that the Pelicans will have a chance to re-sign, but Demps says it has to be a good fit…

Cut 19 (20) “everybody”

Data from the Department of Children and Family Services indicate the number of food stamp recipients is declining nationally, but increasing in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo ”

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Two children died after being locked in a hot pickup truck in Bossier City, and authorities are still unsure of what happened. Halen Doughty has the story…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Authorities continue to investigate the deaths of 3-year-old twins Oliver and Aria Orr, who died after being locked in a hot pickup truck. Bossier City Police spokesperson Mark Natale says at some point Saturday afternoon, the children’s mother realized she didn’t know where the kids were.

CUT 3 (09)  “unresponsive”

A Shreveport television reports the children were in the truck for two hours and temperatures were in the 90s Saturday afternoon. Natale says once the children were found, a neighbor immediately called 911.

CUT 4 (11)  “the hospital”

Natale says a preliminary result from autopsies shows the children died of heat related causes. But He says at this point, authorities have more questions than answers.

CUT 5 (09)  “pickup truck”

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The number of food stamp recipients is increasing in Louisiana, while that rate is falling nationwide. The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services says nearly one in five Louisiana residents are on the federal food assistance program. Director of the Louisiana Budget Project, Jan Moller, says that increase is due to job loss in the oil and gas industry because low oil prices hurt Louisiana’s economy more than other states.

CUT 6 (11) “find work”

According to DCFS, the number of food stamp recipients jumped 9% from April 2015 to April 2016. Some southern parishes saw that rate increase even more, up 37% in Jefferson parish, 26% in St. Martin, and 90% in Cameron. Moller says those rates should go down when oil prices come back up.

CUT 7 (10) “to decrease”

Moller says hopefully these people will not be on the program for long, as the average recipient gets food stamps for nine months. He says we should all be happy that there’s a program to help people get through these tough times.

CUT 8 (10) “their children”

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32-year-old Margaret Sanchez has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the 2012 death and dismemberment of the former Bourbon Street dancer Jaren Lockhart. She also pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in a Jefferson Parish courtroom and was sentenced to 40 years. Legal analyst Chick Foret says the case is now over and the family finally has closure…:

CUT 9 (09) “involved”

Lockhart was stabbed to death in Kenner, then cut up and tossed into the Gulf of Mexico by Sanchez, and her ex-boyfriend Terry Speaks who has already been convicted of the same crime. Foret says Lockhart has a young child and the family did not want to have to endure a lengthy trial…:

cut 10 (10)  “any appeals”

Sanchez was originally set to appear in court on July 11th on charges of second degree murder, obstruction of justice and conspiracy to obstruct justice. Foret says the Lockhart family has had enough with litigation as the trial of Speaks was a fiasco…:

Cut 11 (10) “that took place”

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The Louisiana approved two bills today that would generate an additional 75-million dollars in tax revenue. If approved by the Senate, legislature will raise nearly 300-million dollars in this special session, far short of the $600 million sought by Governor John Bel Edwards. Political analyst Clancy Dubos…:

cut 12 (10) “for raising taxes”

Dubos says if the budget falls short, then it will be up to lawmakers and the governor to determine what will get cut. He says Governor Edwards has said he would start cutting proportionally over 12 months…:

Cut 13 (10)  “fewer services”

Based on the money that’s been raised as a result of the 2 special sessions, at least 70% of TOPS would be funded under a bill to be heard this afternoon on the House floor. Dubos says this will likely have the biggest affect on Louisianians. He that would mean only 70% of a student’s tuition would be paid instead of all of it…:

cut 14 (11)  “higher tuition”

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The two Alabama football players & North Louisiana natives that were arrested in Monroe in May will not be prosecuted on drug and gun charges due to lack of evidence. DA Jerry Jones told KNOE he didn’t want to ruin the lives of Cam Robinson and Laurence “Hootie” Jones because they’ve been working and sweating while we were all in the air conditioning. Legal analyst Tim Meche…:

cut 15 (09) “and he has the discretion”

The Monroe TV station reported that Jones said he dropped the charges because he could not prove who was in possession of the drugs and the gun in question. Meche says Jones has been in office for over 20 years, and he knows what he’s doing…:

cut 16 (09) “of the cases”

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There are some encouraging upticks in the oil and gas industry, according to the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Right to Life says the state’s abortion rate dropped 10-percent from 2014 to 2015 based on data from the Louisiana Department of Health. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Lawmakers have raised $220 million in taxes during this second special session, and that may be all they can agree to do. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The head of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association says there are some encouraging signs for the struggling industry. LOGA President Don Briggs says one positive sign is that oil prices are near 50-dollars a barrel, after falling to 26-dollars in February.

cut 4  (07)  “for sure”

Briggs says they hope the price can rise some more during the second half of 2016, because of the break-even point for the industry is between 60-and-70-dollars a barrel. He says the price of natural gas is also up, which is particularly good for the northwestern part of the state.

Cut 5  (12)  “Haynesville shale”

Briggs says natural gas is used to power air conditioners, so a hot summer will be good.

Cut 6 (11) “of us”

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The number of abortions that took place in 2015 fell 10-percent from the previous year. That’s based on numbers from the Louisiana Department of Health. Louisiana Right to Life spokesperson Ben Clapper says there were 93-hundred abortions last year, a decrease of about a thousand from the previous year. He credits pregnancy resource centers for the decline….

CUT 7 (06)  “in Louisiana”

Clapper says Caddo Parish had the highest number of abortions in a single parish with 34-hundred. He says based on 2015 data, about 26 abortions are performed every day in Louisiana.

Cut 8  (10)  “considering abortions”

Clapper says the number of abortions could drop even further in 2016, if the U.S. Supreme Court rules later this month that abortion doctors need to have admitting privileges at a hospital.

Cut 9 (09)  “large wave”

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Louisiana has the third worst roads in the country, according to a new report from CarInsurance.com. Oklahoma came in 49^th on the list, and California finished last. Michelle Megna with CarInsurance.com says poor quality roads had a big impact on the state’s low rating.

Cut 10 (10) “49-percent”

The report also indicates that 29% of bridges in the state are classified as structurally deficient. Megna says Louisiana is also the second worst in the nation for how much drivers spend on their car insurance.

cut 11 (11) “insurance rate”

Megna says almost 14% of Louisiana drivers do not have auto insurance. She says the report also looked at how many hours drivers spend stuck in traffic during their daily commutes.

cut 12 (10) “80 hours”

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It looks like the appetite just isn’t there for lawmakers to raise any more taxes. Governor John Bel Edwards asked legislators to increase revenue by 600-million dollars in this special session, but it appears the legislature will fall way short of that figure. Alexandria Representative Lance Harris says many lawmakers believe they’ve raised enough revenue.

Cut 13 (11)  “we implemented”

Last night, state representatives failed to pass a measure that would limit excess itemized deductions in personal income taxes, which would have raised an additional 60-million dollars. So far in this session, the legislature has approved tax changes that would generate 220-million dollars. Harris says this money will be spread around to cover shortfalls in TOPS, education and health care services.

cut 14 (09)  “cuts there”

The special session concludes at midnight on Thursday. Governor John Bel Edwards remains hopeful the House will agree to a Senate-approved bill that would force huge industrial businesses to choose between one of two tax credits they currently receive. The measure faces opposition from business groups. Edwards says the legislature needs to do what’s best for the state, not lobbyists…

Cut 15 (10) “we are”

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More charges have been filed in the death of 40-year-old Lyntell Washington, the Baton Rouge teacher whose body was discovered in a ditch in Iberville parish. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Governor John Bel Edwards spoke with the media today and continued to express his frustration with lawmakers who refuse to raise revenue needed to fill the $600 million dollar shortfall. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A former Livingston Parish teacher has been arrested following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student at Walker Freshman High School. Walker Police Capt. John Sharp says 33-year-old Lynsie Pendarvis was arrested following an interview with the 15-year-old student who confirmed they had engaged in a sexual relationship.

CUT 3 (10)  “a juvenile” 2x

Sharp says the juvenile was a student in Pendarvis’ science class. He says Pendarvis was staying in Hattiesburg, Mississippi when the warrant was issued.

CUT 4 (12)  “dollar bond”

Sharp says it’s a helpless feeling for both parents and law enforcement because it’s hard to know if someone without a criminal background might be a predator.

CUT 5 (11)  “gonna happen”

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According to LSU economist Dr. Jim Richardson, Louisiana could finish this fiscal year with a 200 million dollar deficit. Senate President John Alario says Richardson informed him that corporate income taxes are way below what was projected. But he says there are some circumstances that could improve this…

CUT 6 (08) “some improvement”

Alario says if the state finishes this fiscal year with a 200 million dollar deficit, programs that were going to be enhanced would greatly suffer. He says healthcare and higher education seem to always be on the chopping block. The Senate President hopes this bad news encourages legislators to approve additional revenue in this special session.

CUT 7 (11) “a dilemma”

So far, the House has only agreed to 220 million dollars in additional revenue through various bills that make tax changes. Alario says the 2016 budget shortfall would be dealt with in the next regular session. He says they won’t be sure of the actual amount until later in the year when the expenditure level and the July collections are added together…

CUT 8 (08) “this point”

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Charges have been added in the murder of the Baton Rouge pregnant teacher whose body was discovered in Iberville Parish. Baton Rouge Police Cpl. L’Jean McKneely says based on the coroner’s report, blood inside her car and interviews conducted with people who knew the victim, investigators were able to conclude 40-year-old Lyntell Washington was fatally shot by 39-year-old Robert Marks.

CUT 9 (10) “unborn child”

McKneely says Washington’s’ 3-year-old daughter was very helpful in this investigation. He says police confirmed that Washington and Marks had a romantic relationship, and he was the father of her unborn child.

cut 10 (11)  “her life”

McKneely says Marks was the assistant principle where Washington was a teacher, and she was threatening to reveal the true nature of their relationship.

Cut 11 (08) “for him”

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Governor John Bel Edwards spoke with the media today and continued to express his frustration with lawmakers who refuse to raise revenue needed to fill the $600 million dollar shortfall. He says those same legislators who refuse to offer their own plan are just hoping money is going to show up…:

cut 12 (06) “of action”

The state House has decided to wait until Sunday night before voting on an Edwards backed tax bill that would temporarily reduce a deduction for those who itemize on their state returns. Edwards says lawmakers need to know that the days of kicking the can down the road are over. He says he’s offered plan after plan to help solve this crisis…:

Cut 13 (09)  “do their work”

The fiscal year begins 2 weeks from Friday, and the special session must end Thursday. Louisiana governors have a lot of power, and one reporter asked Edwards if he thinks he’s failed because lawmakers continue to reject items on his agenda. Edwards believes the way he’s governing is what’s best for the state…:

cut 14 (10)  “my style”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries recovered the body of a 22-year-old Arnaudville man in the water in St. Landry Parish after a boating accident. LDWF spokesperson Adam Einck says Arron Baber and the driver of the boat were traveling on Bayou D’Arbonne when the vessel hit a railroad bridge piling.

cut 15 (10) “the bank”

Einck says a witness on the shore was able to call authorities after seeing the accident and neither Baber nor the driver were wearing life jackets when they struck the piling. He says they’re not sure if impairment is a factor.

cut 16 (10) “those results”

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Kids are expected to spend more than ever on Dad for Father’s Day this year. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Filming for the new Wolverine movie has been underway this week in Ferriday. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A study from 24/7 Wall Street shows Louisiana is home to four of the least healthy cities in the country. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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According to the National Retail Federation, people will spend more on Dad this Father’s Day than ever before. Spokesperson Ana Serafin-Smith says it’s expected Americans will spend about 14 billion dollars this weekend. She says the uptick is linked to kids treating Dad to a nice steak dinner or giving him the latest in electronics…

cut 4  (06)  “everyday tie”

But Serafin-Smith says moms are still more spoiled than dad, coming in at about 21 billion dollars spent for Mother’s Day. She says dads aren’t the only ones who will receive gifts this weekend…

Cut 5  (10)  “thank him”

Serafin-Smith says consumers are likely to spend about 126 dollars on dad for Father’s Day.

Cut 6 (09) “memorable one”

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Fox Louisiana Productions has been filming for the new Wolverine movie in Ferriday this week. Mayor Gene Allen says the town’s residents are thrilled to have such a big cinematic event taking place in the small Concordia Parish town.

CUT 7 (05)  “about it”

Allen says the filming is taking place along Highway 425, and the film crew has set up shop at the Ferriday Shopping center. He says the filming has boosted local business tremendously.

Cut 8  (10)  “each day”

Allen says Hugh Jackman and other stars have been spotted around town. He says he hopes this draws more movie producers to film in Louisiana, especially Ferriday.

Cut 9 (05)  “our community”

Ferriday was reportedly chosen for its beautiful countryside and abundant cornfields. Filming is also scheduled in Sicily Island later this week.

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Four Louisiana cities rank in the top 20 least health cities in the US, according to a study from 24/7 Wall Street. Hammond came in third on the list, Monroe ranked sixth, Shreveport-Bossier is ninth, and Alexandria came in at number 12. Bob Johannessen with the state Department of Health and Hospitals says unfortunately, he is not surprised.

Cut 10 (12) “disppointing”

The study shows many unhealthy cities have a high uninsured rate, and Louisiana’s uninsured rate is currently about 13%. Johannessen says DHH is working to remedy that with the newly expanded Medicaid program. He says they’ve already enrolled over 200-thousand people in the two weeks since enrollment began.

cut 11 (08) “to receive”

Johannessen says Louisiana ranked 42^nd in the nation for lack of health insurance. He says uninsured people tend to put off getting the care they need until a health problem progresses to the point where it becomes life threatening because they don’t have access to quality clinical care.

cut 12 (07) “right time”

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After a brief flirtation with Texas, LSU Baseball Coach Paul Mainieri is staying in Baton Rouge. In a statement, Mainieri says LSU is home to his family and it’s his intention to keep it that way for a long time. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran is not surprised with Mainieri’s decision

Cut 13 (05)  “LSU”

Mainieri just completed his 10th season at LSU. Texas is looking for a big time coach to replace the Augie Garrido, who is the winningest coach in college baseball history, but was relieved of his coaching duties after the Longhorns failed to make the NCAA Tournament. Moran says Mainieri has a good thing going at LSU and there’s really no reason to leave…

cut 14 (07)  “at LSU”

LSU returns eight starting position players next season, plus ace pitcher Alex Lange and closer Hunter Newman. Mainieri’s base salary is 750-thousand dollars, but Moran says after meeting with Alleva on Thursday, Mainieri could see his annual pay reach seven-figures…

Cut 15 (09) “mark”

Heat indexes are exceeding 100 degrees, and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness warns residents to take precautions. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Beginning August 1, victims of domestic violence who have active restraining orders will be able to get temporary concealed carry permits. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness urges residents to take precautions as the state is experiencing dangerously high temperatures this week. GOHSEP spokesperson Mike Steele says all of Louisiana  is under a heat advisory, as heat indexes are reaching triple digits. He says the biggest concern is heat exhaustion.

CUT 3 (09)  “need help”

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness, nausea, cramps, and fatigue. Steele says people working out in the heat especially need to take steps to avoid potential health risks.

CUT 4 (10)  “whenever possible”

Temperatures are in the mid to upper 90s across the state, but high dew points are driving heat indexes above 100 degrees. Steele says we are experiencing these scorching temperatures earlier than usual.

CUT 5 (10)  “as dangerous”

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A review by the International Agency for Research on Cancer finds drinking beverages above 149 degrees Fahrenheit could cause people to develop esophageal cancer. Deputy Director of LSU Health New Orleans Cancer Center, Dr. Edward Trapido, (truh-PEE-doe) says hot drinks cause damage to the superficial cells in the upper esophagus.

CUT 6 (09) “abnormal”

Trapido says there is no evidence that shows coffee causes cancer so they should feel okay having their morning cup of joe. He says it’s a good idea to add milk or cream to coffee to cool it down…

CUT 7 (09) “all day”

Trapido says constantly scalding your esophagus isn’t good for your health but having about one hot cup a day shouldn’t be too harmful.

CUT 8 (09) “you’re fine”

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Domestic violence victims with active restraining orders will soon be able to get expedited temporary concealed carry permits under a bill that’s been signed into law. Baton Rouge Concealed carry instructor Wade Duty says the wait to get into a concealed carry training course can be over a month.

CUT 9 (08) “as well”

The new law goes into effect August 1. Duty says more and more people are seeking these permits, which is why the classes stay booked.

cut 10 (05)  “five years”

Duty says these victims will have access to temporary permits, but they will still have to undergo background checks. He says once this permit expires they will have to take a training class and get a regular permit.

Cut 11 (10) “permit expires”

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Law enforcement is taking extreme precautions in New Orleans for the Gay Pride parade and Festival this weekend after the tragic mass shooting at an Orlando gay nightclub. Mayor Mitch Landrieu says they’ve beefed up security in the French Quarter and are working hand in hand with festival organizers. He says their mantra is if you see something, say something.

cut 12 (08) “begin with”

A moment of silence is planned for the victims of the nightclub shooting at 2 p.m. Sunday on Bourbon Street. New Orleans Police Chief Michael Harrison says they will be at 100 percent staffing in the French Quarter for the Pride Festival. He says his officers have been planning, training and practicing for the last month for the event.

Cut 13 (08)  “the city”

State Police Major Carl Saizan says authorities have a solid security plan in place to ensure a safe environment for everyone attending the Pride Festival. He say it’s important to work together with the public and urges festival goers to report any specious activity they might see.

cut 14 (11)  “and partnerships”

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The University of Texas has reportedly approached LSU’s Paul Mainieri about filling the Longhorns vacant baseball head coaching position. Augie Garrido left Texas in May after 20 seasons. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran says Mainieri has not returned phone calls seeking comment…

cut 15 (08) “this point”

Mainieri just finished his 10^th season with the Tigers and his contract with LSU is through 2020 paying him about $750,000 a year. Moran says Texas’ interest in Mainieri could lead to him getting a pay raise…

cut 16 (10) “Paul’s mind”

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