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”

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

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.

________________________________________________

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.

_______________________________________________

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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Public school students will soon be required to learn cursive writing, as a bill has been signed into law that takes effect in July of 2017. Halen Doughty spoke with an LSU English professor on whether this legislation is needed…

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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 A study from insurancequotes.com finds car insurance premiums for Louisiana parents increase by more than 86-percent when they add a teen driver to their policy. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Plans are being drawn up to reconfigure seating in Tiger Stadium to allow visiting bands to perform at halftime shows. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Teachers in public schools will soon have to teach students cursive writing because of a bill signed into law by the governor. LSU English professor Renee Casbergue says writing in cursive is becoming a lost art, and kids may not have much use for it in the future.

cut 4  (11)  “means nothing”

Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell authored the legislation, because she’s concerned children will not be able to sign their name in cursive. But Casbergue says there’s almost no time that people are asked to write in cursive, and in fact many times they are asked specifically to print when handwriting anything.

Cut 5  (08)  “a signature”

Casbergue says she wishes the legislature would stay out of managing anything that happens in classrooms. She says as lawmakers keep adding things teachers have to address, it takes away their ability to teach what they think their students need, which is causing them to lose access to arts and other things.

Cut 6 (08) “might be”

The new law goes into effect in July of 2017.

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A new study shows that, In Louisiana, parents average premium for car insurance increases by over 86-percent when they add a teen driver to an existing policy.  Senior insurance analyst with InsuranceQuotes.com Laura Adams says although it’s still expensive, rates have been dipping slightly. She says this is because many teens are waiting to drive under they’re older….

CUT 7 (11)  “social media”

Adams says the report finds a lot of teens would rather chat with their friends on social media rather than hang out in person, which could lead to less 16-year-olds wanting to get a driver’s license. She says rates do get cheaper as your teen gets older.

Cut 8  (07)  “your policy”

Adams says it costs more to add a male teenager than a female to an existing policy. She advises parents to take advantage of every discount available to them.

Cut 9 (10)  “student discount”

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The third installment of the “Ask the Governor” call-in radio show featured a wide variety of questions from callers. Governor John Bel Edwards was asked about everything from food stamps to marijuana and the budget was a key topic. One caller asked about changes to the state’s film tax credit program. Edwards says the state capped the program at 180-million dollars in credits paid out and there are no plans to change it.

Cut 10 (07) “million dollars”

Another caller asked whether a gas tax could be imposed to address the state’s budget shortfall. Edwards says he has established a transportation task force that will look into revenue raising measures such as gas taxes, tolls, and other ideas. But he says those dollars will have to go towards transportation.

cut 11 (10) “education”

One caller asked the governor about gun control, in light of the mass shooting in Orlando. Edwards says he is a big supporter of the Second Amendment, but he is in favor of a measure that would prohibit people on terrorist watch lists, who cannot even board planes, from purchasing guns.

cut 12 (11) “the public”

The next “Ask the Governor” show will be July 20^th.

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LSU says they will now allow visiting bands to perform during halftime, after not allowing them to do so during football games last season. LSU Deputy Athletic Director Eddie Nunez says their plan involves changes to seating in the South End Zone to allow bands to take a more direct route onto the field.

Cut 13 (12)  “the half”

Nunez says there were safety concerns with having two bands along the sidelines before the end of the first half, because having that many additional people on the field could be dangerous. He says they don’t expect many seats to be affected, as they hope to open up access to the field from where the visiting band has always been seated.

cut 14 (07)  “the field”

Nunez says the LSU Band will also perform first to give the visiting band more time to get down to the field. He says despite what some people may think, they do want visiting bands to be able to perform.

Cut 15 (08) “Tiger Stadium”

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The Saints have one more mini-day practice today and then they take a break until training camp starts in late July at The Greenbrier in West Virginia. New Orleans linebacker James Laurinatis says it’s been a good offseason as the coaching staff has found ways to make the team better…

Cut 16  (25)  “or whatever” 

Laurintatis is one of the new additions to the Saints defense. Linebacker Nathan Stupar is also new to the defense after spending the last two seasons in Atlanta. Stupar says he’s been impressed with recently acquired linebacker Craig Robertson, who started nine games in Cleveland last season…

Cut 17 (22)  “that group”

Saints running back Mark Ingram is coming off a season where he caught 50 passes and rushed for 769 yards, but his season was cut short, because of a shoulder injury. Ingram says he wants to play all 16 games this year…

Cut 18 (14) “left off”

The governor has signed a bill into law that increases the fine for texting and using social media while driving from $175 to $500 for a first offense. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Don Molino”

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The northern part of the state is under a heat advisory until 7 o’clock tomorrow night. Emelie Gunn reports it’s hot across the entire state…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The fines for texting or using social media while driving have been increased from $175 to $500 for a first offense, as a bill has just been signed into law by the governor. Major Doug Cain with State Police says they see this is a lot in crashes caused by distracted driving.

CUT 3 (10)  “pulling out”

Drivers could pay a fine of up to $1,000 for a subsequent offense. Cain says state police deal with distracted driving accidents almost every day, and it’s something that’s entirely avoidable. He says using a cell phone while driving can be a deadly decision.

CUT 4 (08)  “everybody else”

The fines more than doubled for minors who text and drive, and subsequent offenses could result in a 6 month suspension of their driver’s license. Cain says State Police do issue tickets for this offense, they are usually are made aware that a person is playing with their phone while behind the wheel, based on the driver’s actions.

CUT 5 (09)  “stop sign”

The new law is now in effect.

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FEMA has released a smartphone app to help residents get prepared for potential natural disasters. FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate says app is available in the iTunes store and on Google Play. He says it gives you a checklist to follow in the palm of your hand even if you lose cell service.

CUT 6 (10) “an emergency”

It also allows users to receive prescheduled safety and preparedness tips, including practicing a fire escape plan and updating emergency tips. Fugate says in today’s society everyone is always on their phone. He says many tools are built in to the app.

CUT 7 (06) “anything else”

Whenever you have service, the FEMA app sends weather alerts for up to five locations across the nation, making it easy to follow severe weather that may be threatening family and friends. Fugate says the app will remind you to check your smoke detector and make sure you have emergency supplies prepared in the event of an emergency.

CUT 8 (10) “your family”

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A heat advisory is in effect for the upper half of Louisiana until 7 o’clock Thursday night. State Climatologist Barry Keim says summer has kicked off with a vengeance with temperatures reaching into the mid and upper 90s. He says on top of that, humidity levels are running high leading to high heat index values.

CUT 9 (09) “is here”

Keim says contributing to the extreme heat is the lack of rain the state will see this week. He says we’re going to have lots of sun baking us with heat index temperatures reaching a possible 108 degrees.

cut 10 (09)  “all the time”

Keim says these high temperatures don’t necessarily mean we’ll see an extremely hot summer but at least for this week, stay inside. He says a high pressure system is giving us these sky high temperatures.

Cut 11 (10) “high temperatures”

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The Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs committee approves a bill that would make industries decide between taking an industrial tax exemption or receiving an inventory tax credit. The measure would generate an estimated 146-million in state revenues. Alexandria Sen. Jay Luneau says the state is struggling financially and can’t afford to give big businesses large tax breaks…

cut 12 (10) “like this”

Jim Patterson with the Louisiana Association for Business and Industry spoke out against the legislation because he believes these tax incentives help our state’s economy.

Cut 13 (10)  “this state”

But New Orleans Sen. Karen Peterson says it’s time to stop cutting from higher education, public schools  and healthcare and come up with a real solution to our budget problem.

cut 14 (09)  “we have”

The measure is heading to the Senate floor, if the proposed law gets to the house, it’s not expected to get a warm reception.

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A Baton Rouge federal judge has scheduled a hearing today to decide if Angola death row inmates should have air conditioning. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Lotte (Low-tay) Chemical and Axiall begin construction on a massive chemical manufacturing complex in Lake Charles. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana is now in compliance with a federal identification law, as Governor John Bel Edwards has signed the REAL ID Act into law. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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U.S. District Judge Brian Jackson has scheduled a hearing today to determine if death row inmates at Angola should have air conditioning. Legal Analyst Tim Meche says the state came up with their own heat remediation plan that consists of fans, ice chests, and cold showers for the prisoners, rather than AC. He says with all the legal fees the state spent fighting this, window units could’ve been placed in that area of the prison.

cut 4  (08)  “taxpayer money”

Meche says Judge Jackson will not likely reverse his ruling of installing air conditioners in death row, which would cost about a million dollars. He says this is a big waste of taxpayer money.

Cut 5  (07)  “air conditioning”

Jackson ruled that it is unconstitutional for the inmates to live where the heat index is higher than 88 degrees. Last July, the 5^th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said inmates could get relief from the heat without air conditioning. But Meche says if Jackson rules again that air conditioning needs to be installed at death row, the 5^th circuit court will likely not overturn Jackson’s decision.

Cut 6 (10) “he decides”

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Lotte (Low-tay) Chemical and Axiall have broken ground on a three billion dollar chemical manufacturing complex in Lake Charles. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says this investment will create hundreds of quality jobs…

CUT 7 (08)  “indirect jobs”

Pierson says with these jobs coming to southwest Louisiana it will help make up for the employment losses in the oil and gas industry….

Cut 8  (10)  “construction workers”

Pierson expects the plants will be up and running by 2019. He says the project will greatly benefit the workforce in Louisiana.

Cut 9 (10)  “our citizens”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has signed the REAL ID Act into law, bringing Louisiana into compliance with the 2005 federal ruling that created national identification standards in the wake of 9/11. Edwards says these ID’s will be required for air travel, even domestic, in the near future.

Cut 10 (08) “an airplane”

Opponents say the federal law is government overreach and raise concerns about sharing information with a national database. Edwards says getting a REAL ID is not mandatory.

cut 11 (08) “their option”

The REAL ID is also required to enter federal courthouses and military bases. Edwards says this new law makes flying more convenient for those who choose to get a REAL ID because it means travelers won’t need a passport, birth certificate, or social security card with them when they fly domestically. He says it’s not mandated that everyone gets the Real ID driver’s license.

cut 12 (07) “an airplane”

The Office of Motor Vehicles anticipates it will begin issuing REAL ID licenses in the fall of this year, and they will not cost any more than a regular driver’s license.

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Lawmakers are taking another look at a bill that would limit itemized deductions on personal income taxes, after the House Ways and Means Committee rejected the proposal 11-10 last week. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says the measure, which would mostly impact upper-income taxpayers, would raise an estimated $120 million in taxes for next fiscal year’s budget. He says legislators are trying to come to a compromise.

Cut 13 (12)  “the books”

Alford says House Republicans have been hesitant to raise any more taxes, despite the governor’s push for them to raise $600 million during the special session. He says so far the House has already approved $220 million, and they may not be willing to raise much more revenue.

cut 14 (10)  “standoff”

Alford says this bill could give the governor his first big win in this special session. But he says it seems like the Ways and Means Committee has already considered all the tax measures they are interested in approving.

Cut 15 (10) “special session”

The special session must end by midnight on June 23.

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Saints head coach Sean Payton has confirmed that second-year defensive end Hau’oli Kikaha will likely miss the season after he tore the A-C-L in his left knee. It’s the third time he’s torn that ligament in his knee.  Payton says Kikaha is gathering medical opinions on what kind of procedure will be required, but the coach doesn’t think it will end his career

Cut 16  (21)  “that’s encouraging” 

Kikaha was expected to be one of the Saints top pass rushers in 2016. Potential replacements on the roster are third year pro Kaism Edebali and Obum Gwacham, who appeared in nine games as a rookie last season. Payton says there’s no rush to sign a veteran pass rusher, but that could change…

Cut 17 (16)  “not signed”