Stonewall Representative Larry Bagley is once again pushing legislation to eliminate vehicle inspection stickers, marking his fourth attempt. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Yesterday marked the 15th anniversary of the start of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Andrew Greenstein talked with one man who was in the middle of it all.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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There’s a push in this legislative session to increase the scholarship award amounts for TOPS recipients. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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State Representative Larry Bagley is once again pushing legislation to eliminate the need for passenger vehicles to have an up-to-date inspection sticker. It’s the DeSoto Parish Republican’s fourth attempt. Bagley says Louisiana is the only red state that requires them. Bagley has confidence he can get legislative approval this year, because he has the support of key players.

Cut 4 (09) “…the past years.”

State Police opposed Bagley’s bill in the past because they would lose funding if motorists did not have to pay for an inspection sticker. Bagley addressed this by proposing a $10 annual increase to vehicle registration fees, maintaining funding without the need for inspection stickers.

Cut 5 (04) “…inspection sticker.”

If passed, the bill would take effect July 1, potentially making current stickers the last. Currently, only 13 states require annual inspections, with six, including Louisiana, requiring them every other year. Bagley is optimistic, stating he’s worked to resolve past issues.

Cut 6 (07) “…problem for them.”

The bill is waiting for debate in the House Transportation Committee.

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As spring brings increased road construction, safety becomes more critical for both workers and drivers. National Work Zone Awareness Week, observed this week, encourages the need for caution in work zones. LWCC Jason Hazelton urges drivers to slow down, stay alert, and be mindful.

Cut 7 (08) “…behind the wheel.”

This year’s theme, “Respect the Zone So We All Get Home,” highlights the heightened risk of crashes during peak construction and holiday traffic. Hazelton says recent statistics show 891 in the U-S died in work zones.

Cut 8 (10) “…when we’re driving.”

Hazelton says drivers are encouraged to avoid distractions and expect sudden changes in traffic flow. Reduced speed limits, warning signs, and temporary traffic patterns must be followed.

Cut 9 (11)  “…at the last second.”

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This week marks 15 years since the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill off the Louisiana coast. It was on April 20th, 2010 – 15 years ago yesterday – that the Deepwater Horizon oil platform exploded, spewing almost five-million barrels of toxic oil into the gulf. 11 people were killed and 17 others injured, along with countless marine wildlife. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser was the president of Plaquemines Parish back then. He remembers not just the explosion and oil spill, but also the sheer chaos in the response. He says he found himself fighting BP and the consultants more than fighting the oil.

Cut 10 (15) “…the main passes.”

Nungesser says he remembers a lack of leadership on the ground in the wake of the oil spill, which inspired him to eventually run for lieutenant governor.

Cut 11 (10) “…do to help?”

Nungesser recalls the Coast Guard checking registration and insurance while people were putting their boats on trailers, with time of the essence. He says that wasted a lot of time that could have gone to rescuing people and marine wildlife.

Cut 12 (10) “…never understood that.”

In all, Nungesser says it’s an experience he hopes never to have to relive.

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There’s an effort in the legislative session to increase the award amounts for TOPS recipients. It’s held steady since the 2016-17 school year. Ruston Representative Christopher Turner’s bill would increase state funding for the TOPS scholarship program by 50 million dollars. Turner says the scholarship amount needs to be increased, because college costs a lot more than it did when he went to school…

Cut 13 (11)  “…Nicholls.”

But Lake Charles Representative Phillip Tarver is against Turner’s proposal because he wants to reduce state spending….

Cut 14 (07) “…going no more.”

Under Turner’s proposal, a TOPS recipient would receive three thousand dollars to attend a two-year technical school. TOPS Opportunity recipients would get six thousand dollars, TOPS Performance 65-hundred dollars, TOPS Honors nine-thousand dollars, and a new scholarship award would be created, called Excellence, and those students would receive $11,300…

Cut 15 (13) “…four year univerities.”

Under the proposal, students at LSU and LSU Health New Orleans would receive an additional $350 a semester, since those schools are more expensive to attend.

The House Education Committee has approved the bill. It still needs to be reviewed by Appropriations before it gets a vote on the House floor.

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Louisiana Tech won its sixth straight series as the Bulldogs defeated Liberty four to three on Saturday. Tech also won a one-run game on Thursday and dropped a five-to-three decision on Friday night. Coach Lane Burroughs….

Cut 16 (13) “…at all.”

The Bulldogs are 10-4 in Conference USA, a half a game back of Western Kentucky and Dallas Baptist, who are tied for first in the league. Burroughs expects a tight race for the regular season championship…

Cut 17 (18)  “…way to win.”

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After winning two of three from Alabama, the LSU Tigers are now 12-6 in the SEC. Right fielder Jake Brown gives his assessment of the Tigers…

Cut 18 (18)  “…team to beat.”

LSU had a chance to sweep Alabama, but they could not beat the Crimson Tide on Saturday, losing seven to four. Coach Jay Johnson says, despite the loss, it was a good week..

Cut 19 (14) “..did today.”

It’s the biggest crawfish weekend of the year; and as Andrew Greenstein reports, those tasty tiny crustaceans can be had for relatively cheap.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU’s quest to repeat as national champions in gymnastics ended Thursday night as they failed to get past the semifinals. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Tariffs on Canada could harm Louisiana’s tourism industry, which is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says Canada is the state’s largest international tourism market. However, he says President Trump’s tariffs have discouraged travel, leading some Canadian officials to cancel upcoming visits.

Cut 3 (11) “…cancel this year” 

Although the Super Bowl in New Orleans is expected to boost tourism this year, the state has not yet returned to its pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, Louisiana welcomed over 53 million visitors, but Nungesser says because of tariffs, tourism this year will suffer.

Cu 4 (11) “…reach that record.” 

Nungesser says he is seeing cancellations all over the state from Canada and has talked with Canadian mayors.  He says Canada still love Louisiana, they can’t convince them to visit America this year. Nungesser hopes it gets worked out quickly…

Cut 5 (10) “…here in Louisiana greatly.”

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If ever there was a weekend to enjoy some tasty tiny crustaceans, this is it. This is the biggest weekend of the year for crawfish – and Laney King, the founder of The Crawfish App, says crawfish prices are very low this Easter weekend.

Cut 6 (13) “…dollars a pound.”

King says crawfish is so popular this weekend that some stores are sold out, so you’d better get a move on it.

Cut 7 (09) “…do that now.”

King says while this is certainly the peak of crawfish season, the prices are not the lowest they will be this year.

Cut 8 (06) “…month of May.”

King says live crawfish are averaging $3.10 a pound this weekend and boiled crawfish is going for about $5.50 a pound at your favorite restaurant.

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The top ranked LSU gymnastics team falls short of reaching the NCAA Championships as they struggled to hit on many of their routines in the semifinals and will not have a chance at defending its title. Coach Jay Clark says a great season ends in disappointment

Cut 9 (14)  “…this year.”

LSU freshman Kailin Chio (KAY-lin Chee-oh) is a champion as she won the vault title with a score of 9.975. Thursday night turned out to be the final meet for Haleigh Bryant, who goes down as the best gymnast in the history of LSU. The five-time SEC champion and national all-around champion in 2024 says it’s hard to say good-bye

Cut 10 (05) “…five years.”

LSU won its first national championship in gymnastics last year. The enter this year’s national championships as the favorites to win it after winning the Southeastern Conference regular season title, the SEC championship meet and their NCAA regional. But Clark says it’s different being the hunted than the hunter…

Cut 11 (13) “…future is bright.”

Not only is Bryant out of eligibility, but so is social media star Olivia Dunne, Sierra Ballard and 2024 Olympian Aleah Finnegan.

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The Ponchatoula Police Department issued arrest warrants for six men following a shooting at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival that injured two teens. Police Chief Bry Layrisson says they received tips from the community.

Cut 12 (10) “…good old detective work”

Last Saturday, multiple law enforcement agencies searched five homes tied to the incident. Layrisson says those arrested were all between 18 and 21 years old. Camryn Finley and Dealvin Davis, both charged with attempted second-degree murder and terrorizing, and Courtney McGee, Markus Dokes, Quentrel Smith, and Quenton Smith, who were charged with terrorizing.

Cut 13 (08)  “…these six individuals.”

Layrisson confirmed that all gunshot victims are expected to recover, and he is meeting with the Mayor and Chairman-elect of the Strawberry Festival next week.

Cut 14 (08) “…2026 Strawberry Festival.”

Elmer’s Chocolate has been a Louisiana Easter tradition for generations, and this year is no different. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The L-A GATOR program has proven to be a hit. As Andrew Greenstein reports, maybe too much so.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Funeral arrangements are announced for former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Easter wouldn’t be complete for generations in Louisiana without Elmer Chocolate’s Heavenly Hash and Gold Brick Eggs, seasonal treats produced at its Ponchatoula factory. Though Tangipahoa Parish is famed for strawberries, Elmer’s has added sweetness to the town’s legacy for decades. CEO Rob Nelson says a major transformation came in 2016.

Cut 4 (10) “…in the United States.”

Despite high-tech advances, Elmer’s still hand-makes its iconic Easter treats, preserving tradition.  Nelson says they start making Easter candy after Christmas.

Cut 5 (11) “…and Mobile, Alabama.”

Nelson says tariffs have had an impact on Elmer’s Chocolate due to having to importing cocoa from South Africa.

Cut 6 (12) “…aren’t helping us.”

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In its first year, the LA GATOR scholarship program has proven to be a hit – maybe a little too much of a hit. So much so that it’s unlikely that the state can accommodate all applicants. Barry Erwin, the chief policy officer for Leaders for a Better Louisiana, says 40-thousand students registered for the program during the now-closed registration period.

Cut 7 (08) “…on what happens.”

Erwin says while the LA GATOR program expands eligibility from the previous program, it’s unlikely that anyone outside those who the previous program was targeted for will be able to secure one of those scholarships.

Cut 8 (07) “…the poverty level.”

Erwin says furthermore, the state may need to scramble to come up with the money it had previously allotted to the program when it passed it last year.

Cut 9 (06)  “…that right now.”

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Funeral arrangements are announced for former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy. The celebration of life for Kyren Lacy will be held one week from tomorrow – April 26th – at 11 a.m. at the David Stopher Gymnasium in Thibodaux; it will follow a two-hour visitation. Meanwhile, we’re getting more insight into his final moments. Jacques Doucet (doo-SAY), the sports director at WAFB-TV in Baton Rouge, says Lacy’s family became concerned for his well-being following his involvement in a fatal crash in November.

Cut 10 (08) “…lives in Houston.”

Doucet says last Saturday, Lacy started acting erratically.

Cut 11 (10) “…into the ground.”

Doucet says after Lacy left the house with the gun, his family called police.

Cut 12 (10) “…the car crashed.”

Lacy was pronounced dead at the scene.

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If you drive a pickup truck, police will be paying close attention to see whether you’re wearing your seatbelt. Through April 27th, the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission is sponsoring “Buckle Up In Your Truck.” Spokesman Greg Fischer:

Cut 13 (10)  “…drivers and passengers.”

Fischer says if an officer catches you without your seatbelt on, expect to make a little donation to your local municipality.

Cut 14 (05) “…a subsequent offense.”

Why single out pickup trucks? Fischer says the reason is on average, seatbelt use in pickup trucks trails that in all other vehicles.

Cut 15 (12) “…their belt on.”

Louisiana’s overall seatbelt use is behind the national average of 91-percent.

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LSU football wrapped up spring practice on Thursday. After finishing dead last in the SEC in rushing offense last year, offensive guard Paul Mubenga says during spring practice, the o-line focused a lot on two specific areas…

Cut 16 (17) “…consistent now.”

The college football spring transfer portal is open, but running back Kaleb Jackson has no plans of entering the portal, despite only rushing for 150 yards last season as he backed up Caden Durham. Jackson says he beefed up to 235 pounds last year, but he’s making his way back to 225…

Cut 17 (17)  “…by now.”

Because of a lack of depth on the defensive line, Shreveport’s Gabriel Reliford saw playing time as a true freshman, playing in all 13 games and recording ten tackles, one tackle for a loss, and a half a sack. Reliford says last year was a learning experience, but he wants to be a  difference maker his sophomore season…

Cut 18 (11)  “…consistency now.”

An auto insurance reform bill advances to the full House, with the support of the governor and despite the opposition of the insurance commissioner. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The House National Resources Committee approves legislation that would make it a crime to intentionally release balloons into the air. Sean Richardson has more on the bill that’s heading to the House floor…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Louisiana lawmakers will reconsider New Orleans Representative Delisha Boyd’s bill, which would allow abortion exceptions for minors under 17 who become pregnant due to certain sex crimes. Boyd says the bill includes offenses such as rape, sexual battery, and molestation.

Cut 3 (04) “…young as 9-yeas-old” 

Boyd narrowed the scope of this year’s proposal after a similar bill failed in 2024. Currently, Louisiana’s abortion law only allows exceptions for fatal fetal abnormalities or serious health risks to the pregnant person. Boyd says this is a personal journey for her, referencing her mother being a victim of sexual abuse at the age of 15.

Cu 4 (11) “…before she was 30-years-old” 

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Governor Landry and Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple are on opposite sides of an auto insurance reform bill proposed by a Democratic representative that has advanced to the full House. HB 576 by Robby Carter of Amite would give the insurance commissioner the power to reject auto insurance rates that he believes to be unreasonable. Following debate, the House Insurance Committee advanced it on a vote of 13-to-4. Landry testified before the committee in support of the bill, saying insurance companies are charging exorbitant premiums despite taking in 1.4-billion dollars more than they pay in claims. Because of this, Landry says the insurance commissioner should have the ability to clamp down on those premiums.

Cut 5 (14) “…here in Louisiana.”

Landry says since auto insurance is a mandated purchase, free market principles should not apply; and giving the insurance commissioner the ability to reject rates regardless of market conditions should provide relief to policyholders.

Cut 6 (11) “…touch the law.”

Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple, also a Republican, testified against the bill, urging the committee to reject it because it would undo all the progress that he’s made with insurance carriers over the last year.

Cut 7 (06) “…direction of California.”

Temple says there is too much of a good thing, and insurance commissioners having too much power over insurance carriers will drive them out of the state.

Cut 8 (10) “…what we want.”

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The House Natural Resources Committee approves a bill banning the release of balloons outdoors, fining violators up to 150-dollars for a first offense. The bill’s author Harahan Representative John Illg says balloons are a source of litter and can cause problems for wildlife.

Cut 9 (07)  “…released into the air.”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says animals can become entangled in balloon strings or ingest balloons, mistaking them for food, which can lead to death. They hope the bill will pass, helping raise awareness of the environmental damage balloon releases cause.

Cut 10 (06) “…but with balloons.”

Nungesser admitted that the law would be difficult to enforce, but they are hoping that having the law will encourage people to change the culture in the state.

Cut 11 (12) “…won’t release them.”

The bill was presented to the Natural Resources Committee this morning.

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LSU pitcher Gavin Guidry will not pitch this season as he’ll undergo back surgery on Friday. Coach Jay Johnson made the announcement following the team’s ten to three win over McNeese last night. Johnson says they wanted to get the junior right-hander on the mound this season, but at least he should be ready for 2026.

Cut 12 (10) “…next year.”

Guidry has the most experience on LSU’s staff pitching in SEC games, so he was an important piece to this season. But the Lake Charles native never pitched this season after sustaining an back injury in February. Johnson says despite treatments and medicine, they could not get him healthy enough to pitch…

Cut 13 (09)  “…can’t do it.”

LSU will begin an SEC series tomorrow night against Alabama.

If campaign finance reports are a telltale sign of voter support, State Treasurer John Fleming will have his work cut out for him against Senator Bill Cassidy. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Several education bills will be heard in the legislative session, ranging from school funding to TOPS scholarship changes. Sean Richardson has more…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A Republican state senator is proposing an alternative to the fortified roof grant program. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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While one poll shows State Treasurer John Fleming beating Senator Bill Cassidy in next year’s Republican primary, the latest campaign finance report numbers tell a completely different story. According to the official numbers released by the campaigns, Cassidy raised 1.36-million dollars in the first quarter of 2025, compared to just over 263-thousand for Fleming. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says that’s not a good sign for the state treasurer.

Cut 4 (10) “…in this race.”

Fleming is reporting a war chest of 2.2-million dollars, much of which he loaned to himself, while Cassidy is reporting a war chest of 7.5-million dollars. Cross says in terms of fundraising, Fleming has his work cut out for him.

Cut 5 (12) “…trouble matching Cassidy.”

This will be the first Senate election cycle to use a closed primary, which is scheduled for one year from Friday. With an electorate that skews much more to the right than in the previous jungle primaries, Cross says Fleming is hoping to capitalize on Cassidy’s vote in 2021 to convict then-former President Trump in his second impeachment trial, while Cassidy is hoping that voters have a short memory.

Cut 6 (13) “…of people’s minds.”

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Several education bills are waiting to be debated in the legislative session, ranging from school funding to testing requirements and proposed changes to the TOPS scholarship programs. Leaders for a Better Louisiana Chief Policy Officer Barry Erwin says there is also teacher pay, and whether teachers will continue to stay at the same pay level after the failure of Amendment 2.

Cut 7 (11) “…of people wanted.”

There is also a proposal for high school students to attain a minimum ACT score to graduate, eliminating the need for end-of-course exams. HB 243 proposes accountability measures for the LA GATOR voucher program, but Erwin says it will be tough getting it passed.

Cut 8 (10) “…wild about either.”

Changes to the TOPS college scholarship program include HB 70, which revises eligibility criteria; HB 77, which adjusts award amounts and adds a new category for high ACT scorers; HB 275, which allows unused awards to fund graduate study in Louisiana. Erwin says the challenge will come down to funding.

Cut 9 (13)  “…dollars to enact.”

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A Republican state senator has a bill that would provide an alternative to the fortified roof grants. River Ridge Senator Kirk Talbot says his proposal is geared towards people who want to take advantage of the grants but have the financial means to install the fortified roof.

Cut 10 (08) “…ten-thousand dollars.”

Talbot says the key is that this is a non-refundable credit – the state would not be mailing any checks under this plan.

Cut 11 (10) “…dollars in liability.”

Talbot says his bill is another way to make it easier for people to put a fortified roof on their homes to give them peace of mind living in the state during severe storms.

Cut 12 (07) “…and live here.”

To be clear – Talbot’s bill would not replace the fortified roof grant program; it would be an addition to it.

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Today is Tulane Day at the Capitol. The legislature will be honoring the school and its 5.2-billion dollar impact on the state economy. University President Michael Fitts says Tulane’s history goes back almost to the time when Louisiana became the 18th state.

Cut 13 (08)  “…time with Louisiana.”

Fitts says Tulane and Louisiana go hand in hand.

Cut 14 (09) “…at the hip.”

As he’s being honored at the Capitol, Fitts will be meeting with lawmakers to discuss how Tulane is helping the state’s quest to retain talent and grow new industries.

Cut 15 (12) “…really talented individuals.”

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This is the last week of spring football for the LSU Tigers. Coach Brian Kelly is searching for four new starters on the offensive line. The lone returning starter, D-J Chester, is expected to start at either center or guard in 2025. It’s a big of question mark who else will start on the o-line, especially in the interior, but Kelly feels good about his options…

Cut 16 (14) “…into preseason camp.”

LSU has plenty of options at wide receiver too. Oklahoma transfer Nic Anderson was slowed by an injury earlier in the spring, but Kelly says he’s getting healthy and the coach is excited about his potential…

Cut 17 (16)  “…into spring practice.”

LSU filled many needs during the winter transfer portal period. The spring transfer portal opens today and Kelly hopes his roster does not change…

Cut 18 (14)  “…development of it.”

The legislature is taking aim at distracted driving this session. Andrew Greenstein is at the Capitol, where a news conference was held.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple has faced difficulty arranging a meeting with Governor Jeff Landry, even as Landry emphasizes tackling Louisiana’s soaring auto insurance rates, the highest in the country.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (00) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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LSU football coach Brian Kelly spoke publicly this morning for the first time since the death of former Tiger football star Kyren Lacy. Lacy was one of Kelly’s first signees out of the transfer portal after he arrived in Baton Rouge in November of 2021…

Cut 3 (05) “…incredible personality” 

Lacy died Saturday night in Houston from an apparent suicide. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office says Lacy, who shot a gun at the ground earlier in the night during a verbal argument with his sister, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during a police chase.

Lacy was just 24 years old. Kelly says he’ll always remember Lacy’s incredible personality…

Cut 4 (07) “…full of energy” 

Lacy was a two-sport star athlete at Thibodaux High School. His first two seasons of college football were at UL Lafayette. He was the Cajuns leading receiver his freshman season and transferred to LSU for the 2022 season. Lacy developed into a second-team All-SEC receiver his senior season. Kelly says Lacy will be missed…

Cut 5 (10) “…great emotion.”

Funeral services for Lacy are still pending.

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The legislature is taking aim at distracted driving this session. A bill by Slidell Representative Brian Glorioso and Covington Senator Patrick McMath would make using a hand-held cell phone while driving illegal. Study after study has shown that using a hand-held cell phone while driving has deadly consequences. That’s something that Suzanne Salter knows all too well. Her 31-year-old daughter, Nicole, was killed by a distracted driver in Livonia in late 2014.

Cut 6 (14) “…heard the thump.”

Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Director Lisa Freeman says texting while driving is tantamount to driving blindfolded.

Cut 7 (13) “…miles per hour.”

Governor Landry says addressing distracted driving will also go a long way towards addressing another one of his top priorities in this session.

Cut 8 (11) “…their insurance premiums.”

Glorioso’s and McMath’s bill — House Bill 519 — would make hand-held cell phone use a secondary violation, meaning officers won’t pull drivers over for that reason alone. But they can tack that charge onto another moving violation. Hand-held cell phone usage is already a primary violation in school zones and construction zones.

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Despite rising egg prices across the United States, families continue to embrace the beloved Easter tradition of dyeing eggs. Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says at the start of April the average wholesale price in Louisiana was $3.75 per dozen and in other markets $6.23 per dozen.

Cut 9 (09)  “…before you buy them.”

Strain says the Department of Justice was told by the Trump Administration to take a hard look at the price of eggs.

Cut 10 (09) “…pricing of eggs.”

Strain urges that buyers to shop around for the best prices before they buy.

Cut 11 (12) “…see that spike.”

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Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple has struggled to secure a meeting with Governor Jeff Landry, despite Landry’s push to address the state’s sky-high auto insurance rates, currently the highest in the nation. Temple says he’s made every effort to talk but hasn’t been able to engage in a substantive discussion with the governor.

Cut 12 (12) “…hasn’t taken place.”

While Temple agrees with Landry that excessive claims and litigation drive up insurance costs, he disagrees with the governor’s focus on curbing legal advertising by injury attorneys. Temple calls that approach a “red herring,” arguing that advertising costs only account for a small fraction of rate calculations.

Cut 13 (10)  “…cost of the claim down.”

Temple says that the legislative package he supports targets the real cost drivers, excessive bodily injury claims and litigation. Temple stresses the need to “bend the loss curve” to bring down rates, indicating that while there are disagreements, both he and Landry ultimately share a common goal: reducing Louisiana’s oppressive insurance premiums.

Cut 14 (10) “…committed on doing.”

Tomorrow is tax day and here are some tips for those who haven’t filed their returns yet.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Former star LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy is dead at the age of 24 and for those who know him personally, today is a difficult day. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Four people were shot during a shooting last night in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. NOPD Captain Samuel Palumbo says gunfire rang out as crowds were leaving the French Quarter Festival…

Cut 3 (12) “…this subject” 

New Orleans Police has not identified the person arrested. The shooting victims were transported to the hospital and they are expected to be ok. Palumbo says there was plenty of law enforcement in the area when the shooting took place…

Cut 4 (12) “…chooses to do this” 

The four people wounded are expected to be okay. The person apprehended has not been identified.

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The deadline to file your federal taxes is midnight tomorrow night. If you’re among those waiting until the last minute to get your taxes done, CPA Jerry Schreiber with the accounting firm Schreiber and Schreiber says, get organized.

Cut 5 (11) “…the return.”

Schreiber says there are several options to file online, like free file on the IRS website and other commercial filing software…

Cut 6 (11) “…complexity of the return.”

If you can’t make tomorrow night’s deadline, Schreiber says file an extension to avoid getting penalized.

Cut 7 (12) “…oenalties and interest.”

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The fallout from the Pelicans’ awful season is underway. Less than 24 hours after wrapping up a 21-and-61 campaign, the Pelicans have fired David Griffin as executive director of basketball operations. Griffin had served in that role for six years, almost to the day. Jake Madison, the host of the Locked On Pelicans podcast, says this move was not unexpected.

Cut 8 (17) “…sort of thing.”

Madison says Griffin’s firing is a clear message from Pelicans ownership.

Cut 9 (11)  “…needed to happen.”

One big question-mark at this time is the status of Head Coach Willie Green. Madison says that decision may ultimately be in the hands of whoever Griffin’s successor is.

Cut 10 (07) “…of the roster.”

The roster was the big issue for the Pelicans this season, with the team losing a whopping 369 man games to injury. 25 players suited up for the Pelicans this season, and Coach Green started 46 different starting lineups in the 82-game season.

Shreveport native and McNeese basketball legend has reportedly emerged as the front-runner to replace Griffin. Dumars is currently heading NBA basketball ops.

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It is a tough day in Thibodaux as they remember Kyren Lacy, a two-sport star in high school who went on to become an All-SEC performer at LSU. Authorities in the Houston area say Lacy took his own life on Saturday night during a police chase. Harris County Sheriff deputies say they found Lacy dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Lacy’s former high school football coach Chris Dugas (Doo-gah)…

Cut 11 (12) “…I knew.”

Dugas was the head coach at Thibodaux High when Lacy played football and basketball at the Lafourche Parish school. Dugas says Lacy helped Thibodaux win a state championship in boys basketball in 2019 and was a late bloomer as a football star…

Cut 12 (09) “…leader on the team.”

Lacy concentrated on basketball in his first couple of years at Thibodaux, but Dugas helped convince him that he could be a standout wide receiver, with his six-foot-two size and his speed and ability to catch passes. He had a sensational senior season with 54 catches for 864 yards and 18 touchdowns. Dugas says it’s very sad to see Lacy dead at the age of 24…

Cut 13 (09)  “…part of your family.”

Lacy spent his first two years of college football at U-L Lafayette. He led the Cajuns in receiving his freshman season and helped them win a Sun Belt title in 2021. He transferred to LSU after the 2021 campaign and in his senior season he caught 58 passes for 866 yards and an SEC high nine touchdown passes.

He was preparing for the NFL draft, but he was also facing negligent homicide charge for a fatal wreck that State Police say he caused in December in Lafourche Parish on Highway 20.

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We’re learning details of the final moments of former LSU star wide receiver Kyren Lacy from law enforcement in the Houston area. Senior Deputy Thomas Gilliland with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office says it started when Lacy’s sister called 911 late Saturday night.

Cut 14 (10) “…into the ground.”

Gilliland says Lacy drove off in a Dodge Charger, and deputies found him a short time later and tried pulling him over. But Lacy would not stop and instead led deputies on a pursuit that lasted several miles before Lacy crashed into a curb.

Cut 15 (12) “…deceased on scene.”

Gilliland says bodycam footage proves that no deputies discharged their weapons during the pursuit that did not reach extraordinary speeds.

As the legislature gets set to fight for auto insurance reform, Governor Landry and Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple are fighting one another. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Last month, the Port of New Orleans set a new monthly record with 165-thousand cruise passenger movements. Sean Richardson reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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When it comes to the high price of auto insurance, Governor Landry and Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple are pointing their fingers – not at the insurance companies or trial lawyers, but at one another. When he announced the 20 insurance reform bills he’s supporting, Temple noted that he has not had a conversation with Landry about the issue in a long time. 

Cut 3 (11) “…for property reform.” 

Earlier this week, in announcing his own insurance reform plan, Landry said he wanted to rein in the ability of trial lawyers to advertise. Temple says, good luck with that. He says Florida passed a regulation limiting attorney advertising, and that was overturned by the courts.

Cut 4 (08) “…of that conversation.”

Temple says nothing will be accomplished through bickering.

Cut 5 (11) “…of Louisiana benefit.”

In a statement, Landry called Temple’s press conference, in his words, a media spectacle, and despite a package of bills Temple gave the legislature last year, there has been no relief for Louisiana drivers.

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Visit Lake Charles has launched the “Always Here” campaign to highlight tourism’s vital role in Southwest Louisiana’s economy. Visit Lake Charles CMO Timothy Bush says in 2023, the region welcomed over seven million visitors, generating $800 million in spending.

Cut 6 (06) “…to our local economy.”

Tourists come for leisure, events, business, and sports, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and shops. Bush emphasized the often-overlooked impact of visitors on everyday life.

Cut 7 (10) “…southwest Louisiana.”

The campaign includes billboards and digital displays illustrating visitors’ engagement in the community, from dining to experiencing hospitality.   These efforts aim to foster local pride and demonstrate how tourism supports the entire community. Bush stresses that tourism is more than numbers…

Cut 8 (12) “…really important.”

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Last month, the Port of New Orleans recorded over 165-thousand cruise passenger movements, setting a new monthly record and surpassing its previous high of 155-thousand in March 2023. Port NOLA Pres Secretary Kimberly Curth says this milestone follows a record-breaking 2024 with more than 1.2 million cruise passenger movements.

Cut 9 (11)  “…prime cruise desination”

Curth noted as the 6th largest U.S. cruise port and the only one offering both ocean and river cruises, Port NOLA benefits from its prime location near the French Quarter.

Cut 10 (07) “…one of a kind.”

Major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian continue strong partnerships, offering year-round sailings. River cruises also thrive, including American Cruise Lines and Viking. Curth emphasized that the increased number of port calls further highlights New Orleans’ appeal.

Cut 11 (12) “…Big Easy hospitality.”

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The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is this weekend. Since 1972, Tangipahoa Parish has hosted this festival to celebrate the strawberry industry, which generates an estimated 12-million dollars to the economy. Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain, who’s from nearby Abita Springs, says if you love strawberries and music this is the festival for you…

Cut 12 (12) “…incredible.”

Strain says the Strawberry Festival is the largest free harvest festival in the state…

Cut 13 (09)  “…and jellies.”

The Strawberry Festival Parade begins at 9:30 in the morning on Saturday and starts at the Ponchatoula Lions Club and ends Kiwanis Park. The three-day festival attracts an estimated 300-thousand visitors every year.

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Crawfish prices are dropping as Easter approaches. According to The Crawfish App Co-founder Laney King live crawfish average $3.14 per pound, and boiled crawfish about $5.55. Some live crawfish sacks are now under $3 per pound.

Cut 14 (12) “…anticipation of Easter.”

King says the weather is going to be perfect, and the crawfish supply will be plentiful. So, plan ahead for Easter weekend.

Cut 15 (08) “…sooner than later”

A “mayday” has been called at the St. Tammany Parish’s no-kill animal shelter due to extreme overcrowding,  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson”

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Insurance reform will be the biggest issue in the legislative session that begins Monday, and Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple has unveiled the bills he supports in that quest. Andrew Greenstein is in Ascension Parish, where Temple held a news conference this morning.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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House Bill 279, known as the Caleb Wilson Act, has been filed for the upcoming legislative session. Sponsored by New Orleans Representative Delisha Boyd, the bill requires college students joining an organization to complete one-credit-hour anti-hazing course within their first two semesters of membership.

Cut 3 (08) “…these organiziations” 

Boyd says the bill was introduced after20-year-old Caleb Wilson died after he was punched multiple times in the chest while pledging Omega Psi Phi fraternity at Southern University in February. Three men were arrested, with one facing a manslaughter charge.

Cut 4 (12) “…join those organizations.”

The proposed law expands on current requirements by formalizing hazing prevention education. It is compared to the 2018 Max Gruver Law, which increased criminal penalties for hazing, but the Caleb Wilson Act focuses more on education and prevention rather than punishment. Boyd says this is a bipartisan “feel-good” bill.

Cut 5 (08) “…party does not matter.”

It will take effect in the fall of 2025 if passed.

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There is a concern public school teachers could see a drop in pay, because Constitutional Amendment Two did not pass. Passage of that amendment would have made a two-thousand dollar stipend for teachers permanent. Governor Jeff Landry says because the amendment failed, the state currently does not have the money to keep paying that two-thousand dollars…

Cut 6 (07) “…to that.”

It’s unclear if the state will continue to pay teachers at its current level. If Constitutional Amendment two had passed, it would have allowed the state to pay down high-interest pension debt. Landry says that would have freed up dollars to make two-thousand-dollar stipends that teachers first received in 2022 –permanent…

Cut 7 (13) “…to accomplish that.”

In a letter to teachers, Landry says it’s back to drawing board, because no alternative recurring resources exist to fund the permanent salary increase teachers deserve. Senate President Cameron Henry says he’s hopeful that as the budget makes it way through legislative process dollars will emerge to keep teacher pay at its current level…

Cut 8 (08) “…to do.”

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St. Tammany Parish’s no-kill animal shelter is in “mayday” mode due to extreme overcrowding, currently operating at 70-percent more than it was designed to house. Animal Shelter Director Rob Bremer says the shelter is waiving adoption fees for dogs that have been there over six months.

Cut 9 (10)  “…their forever home”

Bremer stressed the urgency, saying that overcrowding could lead to dog fights, disease, and compromised animal welfare.

Cut 10 (09) “…stressed out.”

Bremer emphasized that the shelter cannot maintain a no-kill status without community support. All adopted animals are vaccinated and microchipped…

Cut 11 (07) “…in the first place.”

The public is encouraged to adopt, while understanding the responsibilities involved. The shelter, located in Lacombe, is open Monday through Saturday. More information and adoptable animals are available at St-Tammany-dot-gov-slash-pets

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Insurance reform will be the overwhelming biggest issue in the legislative session that begins Monday. And Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple announced his plan for lowering vehicle insurance premiums in the state. In a news conference in Ascension Parish, Temple announced his support for 20 bills, all filed by Republicans, aimed at addressing the biggest drivers of high premiums in the state.

Cut 12 (14) “…families and businesses.”

Temple says several of the bills he’s supporting deal with frivolous lawsuits that he says are forcing insurance companies to charge high premiums

Cut 13 (08)  “…twice to litigate.”

Yesterday, Governor Landry unveiled his own insurance reform plan, but Temple says a couple things he pointed out are not true, including Landry’s claim that Temple does not have the authority to deny a rate increase.

Cut 14 (08) “…exercise it.”

Temple also said Landry’s claim that insurers can conceal information that he needs to regulate them is also wrong.

The consulting firm New Orleans hired in the wake of the New Year’s Day terror attack on Bourbon Street is out with its recommendations. Andrew Greenstein explains.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Governor Jeff Landry unveiled his insurance reform plan today. He says if approved by lawmakers in the upcoming legislative session it will lower prices for Louisianans. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The seven-year-old girl injured in the house fire in Shreveport over the weekend has died. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux confirmed that this morning in an interview with LRN affiliate KEEL radio.

Cut 3 (14) “…to her injuries.” 

That seven-year-old girl was the first to notice the fire and called her mother, who in turn called 911. The other three victims are the girl’s five-year-old sister, her grandmother and her great-grandmother. Investigators say all were awake at the time of the fire; but without working smoke detectors, they didn’t have time to escape before being overcome with smoke inhalation. Mayor Arceneaux says he normally does not go to fire scenes because he would only interfere with the firefighters; but he says this was one that he felt he needed to go to.

Cut 4 (12) “…as a mayor.”

Arceneaux says this is the worst outcome possible.

Cut 5 (05) “…a long time.”

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Consultants hired by the City of New Orleans have recommended that Bourbon Street be permanently closed to vehicular traffic. Now, the question is – will the city heed that recommendation? In a news conference this morning, Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick seemed non-committal.

Cut 6 (11) “…the community wants.”

The city hired Teneo, led by former New York Police Commissioner Bill Bratton, to make a recommendation in the wake of the New Year’s Day terror attack, in which a man plowed into a crowd with a pickup truck, killing 14 people. Superintendent Kirkpatrick says Teneo’s recommendation to turn Bourbon Street into a permanent pedestrian mall only addresses ramming.

Cut 7 (11) “…have prevented that.”

The subject of closing off Bourbon Street to vehicular traffic has come up in the past, but businesses had previously pushed back on that notion. Teneo also recommended that St. Charles Street be closed to vehicular traffic as well. But Kirkpatrick says that’s a little more problematic.

Cut 8 (16) “…to their homes.”

Kirkpatrick says it will be up to the City Council to decide which of Teneo’s recommendations to ultimately implement.

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The University of Louisiana at Monroe plans to request approval from the University of Louisiana System Board to implement staff furloughs to address up to a 6-million-dollar budget shortfall before the end of the fiscal year on June 30th. Acting President Nick Bruno, who returned temporarily after retiring in 2020, emphasized that the financial position of the University is fragile.

Cut 9 (09)  “…correcting that problem.”

Bruno says layoffs aren’t currently being considered, though campus restructuring is likely. A hiring freeze began on Monday and all employees working remotely have been recalled…

Cut 10 (12) “…to disperse that.”

Bruno says the primary goal now is to make sure that their estimates and budget align with the revenue of the university for the 2026 fiscal year; and even if furloughs are implemented, it will not affect students.

Cut 11 (10) “…reduced staff anyway.”

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Governor Jeff Landry released an insurance reform plan that if approved by lawmakers in the upcoming legislative session would put new regulations on both insurance companies and trial lawyers. The governor says one of the bills he’s pushing would require attorneys to prove injuries in a claim are the result of the accident…

Cut 12 (15) “…after the accident.”

Landry says he’s poured over the data on why Louisiana’s auto insurance rates are among the highest in the country and found minor injury claims in Louisiana double the national average.

The governor says he also wants to rein in lawyer advertising as he believes that’s pushing car crash victims to seek big settlements…

Cut 13 (15)  “…Louisiana families.”

Landry says his insurance reform plan is a balanced approach as he’s not seeking to pass laws that benefit trial lawyers over insurance companies or vice versa. He says another key to lowering auto insurance rates is fewer wrecks and one to accomplish that is through efforts to minimize distracted driving…

Cut 14 (08) “…today.”

Landry says he supports a bill that would allow law enforcement to pull drivers over that are caught texting or using social media while driving.