Two bills on abortion will likely be heard today in the House Health and Welfare Committee. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana could see severe weather today and tomorrow. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor John Bel Edwards’ approval rating is up to 52-percent in Louisiana, according to a recent poll paid for by Rebuild Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The national Storm Prediction Center says Louisiana is one of several states at risk for severe weather today and tomorrow. Forecasters say damaging wind, hail and tornadoes are possible. State Climatologist Barry Keim says heavy rainfall is also a concern…

cut 4  (07)  “a problem”

Keim says two large weather systems are moving through the state, bringing with them the treat for all sorts of severe weather.

Cut 5  (10)  “into Friday”

In late February, Louisiana experienced a tornado outbreak and earlier this month widespread historic flooding occurred, which is still impacting several parishes. Keim hopes this latest storm system is not a repeat of these two events…

Cut 6 (11)  “heavy rainfall” 

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Two bills regarding abortion are expected to be heard in the House Health and Welfare Committee today. One of the measures would extend the waiting period for a person seeking an abortion from 24 to 72 hours. Deanna Wallace, Legislative Director for Louisiana Right to Life, says this proposed law is looking out for the well-being of the mother.

CUT 7 (08)  “process”

Wallace says studies show there is a statistic drop in the suicide rate when states adopt a longer waiting period because abortion can effect a woman’s mental health. She says when a mother has more time to make an informed and cautious decision.

Cut 8  (10)  “that child”

Wallace says another bill would require all doctors performing abortions in Louisiana to be board eligible or certified. She says it ensures the doctors are committed to the safety of their patients and it’s a common sense bill.

Cut 9 (08)  “the law”

___________________________________________________

Beginning April 1, the state tax will increase on all types of alcohol by one to two cents per serving. Executive Director of the Beer Industry League of Louisiana John Williams says although the state tax on beer in Louisiana has not been increased since 1948, Louisiana has always had a relatively high alcohol tax.

Cut 10 (09) “the rate”

This tax hike is permanent, and it does not have an expiration date like other similar bills that were passed in the special session. Williams says someone will have to absorb these costs, either consumers or alcohol retailers.

cut 11 (05) “obviously”

The new tax is expected to bring in nearly $5 million between April 1 and June 30. Williams says the brewery industry is growing in the state, and this increased tax will hurt them…

cut 12 (06) “tax”

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A new poll shows Governor John Bel Edwards’ approval rating is at 52-percent. The poll was paid for by Rebuild Louisiana, which is a pro-Edwards organization. ULM Political Science Professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says a previous poll found Edwards’ support at 42-percent, so these numbers are not outside the realm of possibility.

Cut 13 (11)  “of Louisiana”

The poll also asked respondents about issues the governor is supporting in the regular session. It found nearly 90-percent of respondents favor equal pay for men and women. Additionally, 73-percent support raising the minimum wage from $7.25 to $8.50 an hour. But Stockley says a republican-controlled legislature has a different stance.

Cut 14 (09)  “to doing” 

Stockley says the governor could use this poll to his advantage in showing legislators that their constituents support his proposals.

Cut 15 (08) “to see”

A majority of those polled also favor investing in a passenger rail service that connects New Orleans and Baton Rouge, as well as accepting federal funding to expand the state Medicaid program.

State health officials are advising flood victims to check their home for mold. Emelie Gunn has some tips…

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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 The F.D.A. has pushed back the date to enforce calorie content menu labeling. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (24) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The head of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association says it’s very quiet out there when it comes to production. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (24) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A report released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services finds Medicaid expansion will improve mental healthcare in Louisiana. Director for the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services Vikki Wachino says in states where Medicaid was expanded, there was an increase in residents receiving regular preventive care and a decrease in patients skipping medications because of costs.

cut 4  (09)  “their economy”

Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Richard Frank says expanding Medicaid offers states unique opportunities to address mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders. He says it brings people into effective treatment and is fully paid for under Obamacare.

Cut 5  (07)  “coverage”

The report says 81-thousand Louisianans who suffer from mental illnesses or substance abuse would likely qualify for Medicaid after the expansion. Frank says states can be expected to have a more productive workforce, because expanding treatment means healthier and more productive citizens.

Cut 6 (05)  “healthy” 

___________________________________________________

State health officials have tips to clean up and remove mold from flooded homes. Gina Lagarde, with the state Department of Public Health, says mold can cause coughing, itchy eyes and headaches. She advises when you’re cleaning up mold to wear protective gear, because spores can be released into the air.

CUT 7 (08)  “the mold”

Lagarde says look for water stained, water lined, and dark spots on the ceiling or walls. She says if you smell a musky order or earthy scent, you likely have mold…

Cut 8  (08)  “the home”

Lagarde says making sure you area is dry and fixing the moisture problem is just as important as cleaning the mold, because it can come back if damp. She says ventilation throughout the home is key to keeping the mold out.

Cut 9 (10)  “recurrence”

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The Food and Drug Administration is delaying enforcing rules to require chain-restaurants to post a calorie content on their menu until 2017. Pennington Biomedical Research Center Professor Dr. Catherine Champagne understands the challenges restaurants face in posting calorie information on their menu, but it would greatly benefit those who watch their calorie intake.

Cut 10 (10) “in advance”

Champagne says the biggest challenge will be enforcing the calorie content rule. She says often times menus change, so it makes it difficult for businesses to have up to date nutritional information.

cut 11 (10) “all times”

Champagne believes adding the calorie content of food to menus will be beneficial for people who care about what they eat. She says those that are conscious of what’s going into their bodies will be the people that pay attention to the labels.

cut 12 (09) “the population”

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Drilling activity has hit an all-time low in Louisiana. That’s according to Don Briggs, president of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association. Briggs says 25 rigs are running in the Gulf of Mexico and only five are in operation on land in south Louisiana…

Cut 13 (09)  “that low”

With oil trading at around 40-dollars a barrel, there’ s not much hope that rig activity will pick up in the near future. Briggs says this could lead to more layoffs and businesses in the oil and gas industry shutting down…

Cut 14 (11)  “hang on” 

Briggs says it’s a depressing time right now, but the industry will come back. He says on the bright side several financial institutions in New York are looking to take advantage of the slow activity and invest in the industry now…

Cut 15 (08) “buying production”

Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump is not happy with how Louisiana is allocating its delegates and he’s threatening a lawsuit. Don Molino has the story…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Don Molino”

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Hollywood South is in bad shape since a law was passed last year that essentially puts a cap on Louisiana’s film tax incentives. Michelle Southern speaks with Celtic Studios Executive Director Patrick Mulhearn..:

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump has tweeted out that a lawsuit is coming over the possibility he could receive fewer delegates from Louisiana than Senator Ted Cruz, even though Trump won the Louisiana Presidential Primary. State republican party executive director Jason Dore says they’ve followed the rules when it comes to allocating the delegates

CUT 3 (08)  “the delegates”

Trump has 18 delegates from Louisiana and so does Cruz, who lost by two-percent of the popular vote during Louisiana’s March 5th presidential primary. Dore says at issue is what will happen with the five delegates awarded to Senator Marco Rubio, who has since dropped out of the race and five other delegates that have been unallocated since the primary…

CUT 4 (11)  “certain way”

Dore says it’s likely the five delegates awarded from Rubio and the five unallocated delegates will remain uncommitted until the Republican National Convention…

CUT 5 (08)     “final decision”

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Hollywood South has taken a major hit over the past year since the legislature passed a measure that puts a cap on Louisiana’s film tax incentives. That’s according to Celtic Media Centre Executive Director Patrick Mulhearn. He says what’s scaring films away is the manner in which lawmakers capped the movie credits, which he compares to retail mail in rebate coupons…:

CUT 6 (10) “somewhere else”

Mulhearn says film executives are choosing to spend their money in states & nations where they know for sure obligations will be honored. He says the biggest film union in Louisiana reports that only 37% of their members are employed right now…:

CUT 7 (05) “out of work”

Mulhearn says they haven’t had any major movies filming at Celtic Studios in Baton Rouge since August. He says Louisiana’s film industry could be saved if lawmakers consider proposals to change the way the movie tax credit program is capped during the potential second special session…:

CUT 8 (08) “issuance cap”

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Four more parishes have been added to the Presidential Disaster Declaration area, which means victims of the historic flooding are eligible for federal assistance. One of those parishes is Rapides and their homeland security director Sonya Wiley-Gremillion says 60 homes were flooded along the Red River…

CUT 9 (06) “unrepairable”

The other three parishes added to the major disaster declaration are Jackson, Red River and Sabine parishes, bringing the total number of parishes eligible for federal assistance to 30. Wiley-Gremillion says affected families in her parish will likely take advantage of the federal aid…

cut 10 (10)  “that group”

Wiley-Gremillion says many of their flood victims still have not begun the clean-up process…

Cut 11 (09) “extremely difficult”

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Another person has died following an ATV crash at Muddy Bottoms in Webster Parish, and three others are injured. Sheriff’s Office spokesman Bobby Igo says two all-terrain vehicles slammed into each other at the park Friday evening, and the crash killed 40-year-old Alissa Wiley of Dry Prong and injured three others…:

cut 12 (10) “collision”

Igo says this is the fourth fatality at the park since 2014. He says the park is on private property and the people who visit and pay to go to the events sign consent forms before they ride…:

Cut 13 (08)  “private business”

Muddy Bottoms issued a statement say they are fulling cooperating with law enforcement and that their hearts and prayers go out to the families of the individuals involved. Igo says thousands and thousands of people show up at these events, and the majority drive responsibly and don’t get hurt…:

cut 14 (09)  “ultimate consequence”

(Igo says no charges have been filed in this incident at this time.)

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The Public Service Commission holds a special meeting today on the sale of the Cleco  to a foreign investment group. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It was a common belief that vipers, which are venomous snakes like cottonmouths, had the fastest strike, but new research from UL-Lafayette suggests that isn’t true. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (24) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A proposed bill would establish the process by which pharmacies go about selling medical marijuana, including a 5-thousand dollar application fee. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Public Service Commission is expected to meet today for a special hearing on the sale of Pineville-based CLECO to Macquarie Infrastructure. The PSC rejected the proposal last month, and since then two sides have revised terms they say would further benefit the utility company’s employees and customers. PSC member Foster Campbell says “real” money from the sale should go to customers..

cut 4  (06)  “not enough”

CLECO says during the last meeting with the sale was turned down, inaccurate statements were made that they hope to clear up today. Commissioner Lambert Boissiere says, no matter what the new proposal entails, they all want to see rate reductions for CLECO customers…:

Cut 5  (04)  “anyone else”

CLECO and Macquarie have offered additional commitments including 100 million dollars of immediate rate relief for customers, and a 15 million dollar contribution to economic development in Louisiana. Commissioner Clyde C. Holloway says they want to know where all this money is coming from…:

Cut 6 (10)  “with money” 

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Vipers, which are venomous snakes like rattlesnakes and cottonmouths, were thought to have the quickest strike, but researchers at UL-Lafayette say that’s not the case. Doctoral student David Penning says their study shows that all snakes can strike quickly.

CUT 7 (09)  “snake world”

Penning says to observe snakes striking they filmed them with cameras capable of capturing high-speed action. He says they noticed that nonvenomous Texas rat snakes struck with the same velocity and acceleration as vipers.

Cut 8  (06)  “as vipers”

Penning says it takes a snake 70 milliseconds to strike, and it takes a human 200 milliseconds just to blink. He says what people can take away from this study is that they should not try to grab a venomous snake before it strikes.

Cut 9 (10)  “animals alone”

___________________________________________________

It appears pharmacies who want to sell medical marijuana in the state will have to jump through a lot of hoops. Based on a bill moving through the legislature, an application fee of $5-thousand would be needed to cover inspections, background checks and paperwork. And Ville Platte Representative and pharmacist Harvey LeBas says federal law prohibits the sale of medical marijuana in the same facility where other prescriptions are sold.

Cut 10 (07) “Medical marijuana”

LeBas says once medical marijuana is available, it will only be sold at ten different locations around the state. He says there are still a lot of unknowns surrounding the issue.

cut 11 (09) “start somewhere”

LeBas says this situation will not be like what’s happening in Colorado. These dispensaries will only offer medications derived from the plant for medical uses, not the actual plant itself. He says this will be quite an investment for pharmacies, between the application fee and opening a new facility.

cut 12 (07) “to be seen”

-______________________________________________

Legislative hearings begin today on the state’s spending plan for the fiscal year that starts July 1st. Over the course of the next two months, legislators will have to pass a budget that will contain 750-million dollars in cuts from the previous year. Governor John Bel Edwards says since he’s been in office, 170-million dollars in budget cuts have been put in place…

Cut 13 (07)  “about to do”

Edwards says despite the recent cuts to state funding and revenue increases, legislators will have to make some more difficult cuts, because of the large shortfall they are still facing…

Cut 14 (11)  “750-million dollars” 

By law, legislators must approve a balanced budget. Edwards predicts legislators will find out during this regular session that state government can’t sustain anymore deep cuts

Cut 15 (07) “more revenue”

Governor John Bel Edwards unveiled the plan to balance this year’s budget, and fill the $70 million dollar hole that must be done by June 30th. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The state may have to give up control of its museums because of budget concerns in Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Crawfish-lovers can expect to find a good batch of mudbugs this Easter weekend. That’s according to David Savoy, president of the Louisiana Crawfish Farmers Association, who says they should be able to meet the demand

Cut 3 (03) “right time”

Savoy says as the weather has warmed up, the crawfish have gotten bigger in the last few weeks, but consumers will not get break on prices. He says it doesn’t make sense to him that the cost to harvest crawfish is down from a year ago, but consumers are still paying the same prices as they did in 2015…

cut 4  (10)  “the same”

Savoy says the untold story of this crawfish season is that the farmers are not making as much money for their catch as they did last year. He says someone has to be making money, because customers haven’t seen a break for what they are paying…

Cut 5  (11)  “gone down”

_________________________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards unveiled the plan to balance this year’s budget, and said the $70 million dollar hole will be filled within the state Department of Health and Hospitals. Edwards said he could not in good conscious make any more reductions to higher ed…:

Cut 6 (12)  “in the country” 

Lawmakers did not fully fill the deficit in the special session, so it was left to the Edwards’ Administration to pull the state out of the red before June 30th. Edwards says $40 million dollars in the cuts to DHH are from less than expected Medicaid spending…:

CUT 7 (11)  “to our people”

Edwards says the other $30 million dollars will be cut to the private-public partnership hospitals.  He says DHH was better positioned to absorb these cuts, but it still wasn’t an easy thing to do…:

Cut 8  (09)  “for our citizens”

______________________________________

Louisiana may have to relinquish control of state museums over to local agencies due to money concerns. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says his budget has taken a massive hit amid the fiscal crisis in the state.

Cut 9 (05)  “proposed scenario”

Schedler says he usually spends about $3.5 million on museums, but he only has $1.5 million allotted for this year, which he says is only enough to run the Old State Capitol. Schedler says he has already turned over four museums back to local governments. He says tough decisions are coming regarding the rest.

Cut 10 (08) “close some”

Schedler says budget concerns like this have been an issue for several years. He says in the past, the legislature always found more money, but he doesn’t think that will be the case this time. He says he hopes they are able to keep all of the museums in the state open.

cut 11 (07) “local community”

 _________________________________________________________

Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain is urging those affected by the recent flooding to take precautions to prevent termites during clean-up and remodeling. Strain says when you have flooding you can have a breakdown of a termite barrier. He says a little water damage can also cause an initial onset of terminates.

cut 12 (10) “barrier out”

Strain says infected wood must be burned on site or moved to an approved landfill. He says also beware of spreading termites when moving wood.

Cut 13 (08)  “your home”

Strain says in the first few weeks after flooding there may be a decrease in termites but once the water is gone termites that remain tend to come back more prevalent than before.

Cut 14 (07)  “to infest” 

Three people were killed and three more were seriously injured in a fire in Winnsboro during the overnight hours. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Alto Congressman Ralph Abraham is visiting Cuba next month to establish potential agriculture trade with the island…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Three people were killed in a tragic fire during the overnight hours in Winnsboro, a father and two sons. A mother, a daughter, and another son were also seriously injured. Brant Thompson, with the State Fire Marshal’s Office, says when the firefighters arrived, they found the singlewide trailer fully engulfed in flames.

CUT 3 (10)  “8-year-old-child”

Derrick Boley, his 3-year-old son Kenderrick Boley, and 8-year-old Bryson Scobbee were killed in the fire. Thompson says the investigation will continue throughout the day as fire investigators systematically examine debris from the home.

CUT 4 (09)  “at this time”

Thompson says 29-year-old Victoria Guthrie, a 6-year-old, and a 19-month-old child were transported to an area hospital, where they are being treated for injuries.

CUT 5 (09)  “at this time”

Thompson says their thoughts and prayers go out to the survivors and their family.

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

Alto Congressman Ralph Abraham is traveling to Cuba in April to ensure Louisiana becomes a trading partner with the country, once Congress lifts the trade embargo. Abraham says he’ll speak with Cuban officials to determine potential delivery and distribution. He says currently, the island receives imports from Asian countries, but the Port of New Orleans is only 36 hours away so a partnership makes sense.

CUT 6 (06) “right there”

Abraham says we’re on the tip of the spear to be the first state to get our goods to Cuba in a big way. He says Cuba imports about 80 to 90 percent of their agricultural products.

CUT 7 (10) “Louisiana”

Abraham expects the trade embargo with the island to be lifted by 2017. But he understands Cuba still has some significant human rights issues to fix…

CUT 8 (11) “those changes”

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Matthew Flugence of Marrero has entered a guilty plea in the death of a 6-year-old girl who was killed then stuffed into a trashcan in 2013. Flugence was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree murder. Jefferson Parish District Attorney Paul Connick Jr. will not pursue the death penalty. Legal analyst Tim Meche says money may be a factor in the DA’s decision.

CUT 9 (12) “pleasant experience”

Meche says in Louisiana there is no chance of getting out of a life sentence, like there may be in other states.

cut 10 (05)  “in Angola”

Meche says the process of prosecuting a death penalty case takes time. He says the family needs closure, and this decision gives it to them.

Cut 11 (08) “in America”

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness says so far over 12-thousand homes have received flood damage and 26 parishes are available for federal assistance. GOHSEP spokesperson Mike Steele recovery efforts are still underway and more severe weather is possible Easter Sunday.

cut 12 (09) “cause problems”

Steele advises people to document and take pictures of damage to their homes sooner than later.

Cut 13 (09)  “assessment teams”

Steele says begin your cleanup if possible but you still must register your damage with FEMA, even if you’re in a parish that hasn’t yet been declared as part of the emergency process. He says registering lets GOHSEP get a better picture of the state’s total damage.

cut 14 (08)  “3362”

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An LSU survey finds Louisiana residents have mixed feelings about public schools in the state. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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Elmer’s Chocolate, the Ponchatoula-based candy manufacturer, is enjoying another successful Easter. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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International Paper has made a $500-thousand donation to the Red Cross for flood relief. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A bill to allow blaze pink to be worn while hunting in addition to hunter’s orange has been passed by the Natural Resources Committee. Author of the legislation, Bogalusa Rep. Malinda White, says Wisconsin already passed this law and it’s been successful. Cole Garrett with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says they don’t have any issues with adding blaze pink.

cut 4  (09)  “high vis”

White says the pink color can be worn by both men and women. She hopes with the addition of pink more women across Louisiana will get outside and hunt to see what our great state has to offer.

Cut 5  (08)  “paradise”

Oil City Rep. Jim Morris was also in full support of the legislation.

Cut 6 (06)  “favorable” _________________________________________________________

An LSU survey finds Louisiana residents are becoming more skeptical of Common Core. Dr. Michael Henderson, director of LSU’s public policy lab, says support for the academic standards in English and Math fell from 39-percent to 34-percent over the past year. Henderson says this is likely due to political tension surrounding the issue.

CUT 7 (08)  “in their minds”

The survey also asked about standardized tests and Henderson says nearly half of the respondents say there is too much emphasis on testing in public schools.

Cut 8  (09)  “like half “

Forty-six percent of Louisiana residents think there’s too much testing, compared to 64-percent of the nation as a whole. Henderson says he was also surprised to see the public’s concerns about Louisiana public schools differ from the concerns of legislators.

Cut 9 (12)  “currently reflecting”

Henderson says the biggest education topics among lawmakers are charter schools, vouchers, and how to use standardized tests to evaluate teachers, as well as policy concerns from the Jindal administration.

______________________________________

Ponchatoula-based Elmer’s Chocolate says they’ve had another successful year producing the popular Gold Brick Eggs and Heavenly Hash Easter candies. Elmer’s CEO Rob Nelson says the company produces about 12 million Gold Brick Eggs each year. He says in the past, production continued all the way through Good Friday, but fortunately technology allows them to produce more ahead of time now.

Cut 10 (09) “good thing”

Nelson says Elmer’s Easter candies are wildly popular throughout the Gulf South. He says that is probably because an abundance of people here practice Easter and keep family traditions.

cut 11 (06) “to generation”

Nelson says their Heavenly Hash and Gold Brick Eggs are the best sellers. He says Emler’s is getting ready for a big company expansion, but that will not affect their Easter candy.

cut 12 (08) “our hands”_________________________________________________________

International Paper has donated $500-thousand to the Red Cross in response to the recent flooding in Louisiana. Red Cross spokesperson Nancy Malone says they are incredibly grateful for the company’s generosity. She says the Red Cross is continuing to work with families in need as they move into recovery.

Cut 13 (10)  “relief items”

Malone says their health services workers are helping people with lost medications, eyeglasses, medical equipment and minor first aid needs. She says the estimated damage is between four and seven million dollars, but it could easily surpass that.

Cut 14 (10)  “do it” 

International Paper has 9 facilities in Louisiana, employing 2-thousand people throughout the state. Malone says other companies, including Entergy, have also stepped up to donate. She asks that people who are in a position to help to consider making a donation.

Cut 15 (09) “with them”

The paper company also donated more than 50-thousand boxed to local food banks and churches to help with distribution of relief items, like comfort kits and cleaning supplies.

  _____________________________________

The 13th ranked LSU baseball team begins a three-game series tonight against second ranked Texas A&M. The Aggies are 19-and-2 and they have the highest team batting average in the SEC. Coach Paul Mainieri is eager to see how his club performs

Cut 16  (13)  “our team”

Junior left-hander Jared Poche will get the start on the hill for the Tigers. Poche knows the Aggies have the potential to score a bunch of runs…

Cut 17 (14) “to it”

The Aggies have won 18 straight games at home. Mainieri says Blue Bell Park is a terrific venue for college baseball…

Cut 18 (19) “play hard”

Burl Cain, the former warden at Angola, spoke at a press conference today about the investigation that eventually disproved the allegations he was a corrupt warden. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Legislation that seeks to put an end to the LHSAA’s split playoff format won approval from the House Education Committee. Jeff Palermo has the story….

CUT 2 (3)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Residents of Donaldsonville have been advised not to drink the water until further notice, because the Peoples Water System has been treating its drinking water with elevated levels of chlorine dioxide. State health officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says they will conduct an on-site inspection of the system, including testing the water.

CUT 3 (09)  “take samples”

Chlorine dioxide was found in the water treatment system at levels four to five times the EPA standard for the chemical. Guidry says this chemical is an EPA-approved water treatment disinfectant.

CUT 4 (12)  “impact health”

Guidry says they have notified the water company that it must immediately change how it treats its water. He says the health risks are minimal for most people, but it could be dangerous for pregnant women and children.

CUT 5 (09)  “I’m pregnant”

Exposure to chlorine dioxide can cause serious health effects to the nervous systems of infants, young children and to the fetuses of pregnant women. The water system serves about 10-thousand customers. The “do not drink” alert will remain in effect until further notice.

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

A proposed bill to prohibit school boards from requiring uniforms does NOT get out of the House Education Committee. Author of the legislation, Hammond Representative Chris Broadwater, filed the bill after working with a group for fourth graders, who came up with the idea to get rid of uniforms. New Orleans Representative Joe Bouie opposed the legislation…

CUT 6 (10) “have it”

Houma Rep. Beryl Amadee says she supports uniforms in public schools because she remembers a time where kids would get beat up at school for wearing name brand tennis shoes or expensive clothing.

CUT 7 (09) “uniforms”

Gonzales Rep. Ed Price was a member of the Ascension Parish School Board when they were the first parish to switch to uniforms. He says students do better in school when they wear uniforms.

CUT 8 (09) “than anything”

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

Saints coach Sean Payton today told reporters that the franchise wants him to stick around 5 more years, and that he couldn’t see himself anywhere else. The Saints say Payton agreed to the extension. Payton said at the owners meeting this morning that the proposal means a lot…:

CUT 9 (10) “another 5 years”

Payton came to New Orleans in 2006 and coached the team to it’s first NFC Championship that year. He went on to bring the Saints their first Super Bowl appearance and victory in the 2009 – 2010 season. Payton says it feels good to know he’s working for an organization that is confident about the future…:

cut 10 (07)  “through 2020”

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Former Angola Warden Burl Cain spoke briefly this morning about the investigation into allegations that he was a corrupt prison leader during his 20 year tenure. The investigation eventually cleared him, as the Inspector General said there was no evidence to support these accusations. Cain says these false claims ruined his life.

Cut 11 (10) “and so forth”

Cain stepped down January first. He says he does not feel any animosity towards Governor John Bel Edwards, who asked him to step down, because Edwards was just doing his job. He says so far he is enjoying retirement, and he’s just ready for all this to be over.

cut 12 (06) “in corrections”

Cain condemned investigative reporters for not checking the facts, because he says their sources could have been inmates who had axes to grind with him. He says he is pleased with his accomplishments at Angola, and hopes the investigation doesn’t tarnish his legacy.

Cut 13 (09)  “Catholic church”

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Legislation seeking to end the public-versus-private school split impacting the LHSAA scored a victory in the House education committee. The panel approved the measure after hearing from two highly successful coaches at select schools. John Curtis Head Football Coach JT Curtis called on the legislature to help bring the association back together

cut 14 (08)  “right page”

Three years ago, member principals of the LHSAA voted to split the playoffs in football and the split will be expanded to other sports next school year. Metairie Park Country Day boys basketball coach Mike McGuire says the split will double the number of state champions in basketball and that’s a bad thing…

cut 15 (08) ” apart” 

The measure now heads to the House floor. There were several members of the committee who opposed the bill. Gonzales Representative Ed Price says the LHSAA is a private organization and should handle its own business like any other group not owned by the state…

cut 16 (11) “his team”

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A bill to be reviewed by the House Natural Resources Committee today proposes to add “blaze pink” as another option to the hunter orange requirement. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A bill will be heard today in the House Education Committee to prohibit public school boards from requiring students to wear uniforms. Emelie Gunn has more on the origin of the bill…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A multi-agency investigation finds that former Louisiana State Penitentiary Warden Burl Cain did not  participate in any illegal activity. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A proposed bill seeks to add “blaze pink” as an alternative for the hunter orange requirements. Bogalusa Representative Malinda White says the House Natural Resources Committee is expected to hear this proposed legislation today. She says this would give female hunters more options, without detracting from the safety aspect.

cut 4  (09)  “are hunters”

White says the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is in support of the blaize pink proposal and other states have passed similar bills. She hopes this measure would inspire more girls to participate in outdoor activities.

Cut 5  (07)  “the outdoors”

White says this bill demonstrates that women can participate in the Sportsman’s Paradise as well.

Cut 6 (06)  “in Louisiana” _________________________________________________________

A bill to be heard in front of the House Education Committee today would prohibit public school boards from requiring school uniforms. Author of the legislation, Hammond Rep. Chris Broadwater, says this came after he conducted a project with Hammond fourth graders to come up with different bills. He says he invited the children to the capitol to vote on their proposed legislation.

CUT 7 (11)  “fourth graders”

Broadwater says he made a commitment to the students that whatever bill idea turned out to be the best, he would file in the regular legislative session. He says the students argued that some students may not be able to afford more than one school uniform.

Cut 8  (10)  “Friday “

Broadwater says although the students made a good point, maybe banning school uniforms isn’t the right way to keep kids in school. He says this topic is getting a lot of positive and negative attention.

Cut 9 (09)  “concept”

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Every year animal shelters see an influx of bunnies after Easter, because parents bought rabbits for their children, but were unprepared to care for them. Alicia Haefele (HAY-flee), with the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, says parents might be putting too many eggs in their basket by getting these bunnies.

Cut 10 (09) “a bunny”

Haefele says rabbits require as much care as a dog or cat, plus they like to chew electrical chords, rugs and even furniture. She says many of these Easter bunnies end up in rabbit rescue facilities after the holiday.

cut 11 (07) “after Easter”

Haefele advises people to get plush or chocolate bunnies instead. She says if parents are set on getting a rabbit, they should do their homework first.

cut 12 (08) “a rabbit”_________________________________________________________

North Louisiana is still hurting from the massive downpour that dumped upwards of two feet of rain in some areas. West Monroe Senator Mike Walsworth is concerned how parish governments will pay for the damage, even if they are eligible for federal assistance and only have to pay a quarter of the cost for a road that was washed away by the floods….

Cut 13 (07)  “25-percent”

Walsworth is also concerned about the agriculture industry. He says hundreds of acres of crops are still underwater.

Cut 14 (08)  “crops back” 

Walsworth says many business owners are seeking assistance. But he says the Small Business Administration’s “low-interest loans” do not seem to offer such low rates for all businesses.

Cut 15 (12) “bad credit”

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All 32 NFL teams were in attendance for Louisiana Tech’s Pro Day. A lot of attention was paid to defensive tackle Vernon Butler, who could be selected in the first round. Draft analyst Mike Detillier says NFL general mangers and coaches like that Butler is more than just a pass-rush specialist

Cut 16  (18)  “everybody’s eye”

Detillier says a lot of NFL teams are also interested in running back Kenneth Dixon. He says it’s because of his ability to catch passes out of the backfield…

Cut 17 (20) “round three”

Detillier says because of quarterback Jeff Driskel’s successful one season in Ruston, he’ll likely be a late round draft pick…

Cut 18 (11) “for Tech”

The LSU Vet School is hosting seminars to teach first responders how to perform CPR on animals. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Two Louisiana cities came in the top 10 fattest metro areas in the country, according to a new study from WalletHub. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine wants emergency personnel to learn animal CPR. Professor Dr. Kirk Ryan says they’re hosting multiple events to train first responders because often times they come across animals in need of assistance. He says cats and dogs usually can’t receive the same method of CPR as humans.

CUT 3 (10)  “compressions”

Ryan says dogs are susceptible to smoke inhalation, so in the event of a house fire it’s important EMS or firefighters know how to help an animal.  He says giving CPR to pets is a little different than humans…

CUT 4 (10)  “CPR”

Ryan says previously, in different veterinary schools there were different methods of animal CPR. He says they want to hold these seminars to standardize a method and get all emergency personnel on the same page.

CUT 5 (10)  “not helpful”

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Shreveport and New Orleans rank in the top 10 fattest metro areas in the country, according to a new study from WalletHub. Shreveport ranked second and New Orleans came in at number five. WalletHub analyst Jill Gonzales says the study analyzed fat prevalence, weight-related medical problems, and a healthy environment. Gonzales says health problems caused by obesity can lead to financial problems later.

CUT 6 (12) “obesity treatment”

Gonzales says Americans spends 316-billion dollars a year on obesity-related medical treatment. She says Louisianans unhealthy lifestyles contribute to the high obesity numbers.

CUT 7 (09) “physically inactive”

Lafayette also ranked high on the list, coming in at number 17. Gonzales says the study looked at obesity in children and teens as well, and she says Louisiana did not perform well in that category either.

CUT 8 (08) “very closely”

The fattest metro area is Memphis, Tennessee, and the thinnest is Honolulu, Hawaii.

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The president isn’t the only one making a trip to Cuba this week as LSU coach Les Miles is also in the Pearl of the Antilles. Former Tiger baseball star Mikie Mahtook, who currently plays for Tampa Bay, tweeted that The Mad Hatter would be on hand to watch the Rays play the Cuban National Team. LSU Sports Information Director Michael Bonnette says this is Miles’ spring break trip…:

CUT 9 (08) “to Cuba”

Bonnette says Miles wanted to take advantage of the time off to experience such a unique culture, and make several rounds while he’s there…:

cut 10 (08)  “with him”

President Obama is also expected to attend the game during this groundbreaking trip. Bonnette says Miles will meet with the media next week and share his experience…:

Cut 11 (04) “stay tuned”

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State Police rescue two abducted North Carolina teens that were traveling with their uncle on Interstate 10. Sgt. Nick Manale says authorities in Winston-Salem called LSP to report 40-year-old Jose Melchor was likely traveling west through New Orleans, possibly on his way to Mexico. He says both the 15-year-old boy and 13-year-old girl were found unharmed.

cut 12 (06) “their family”

Manale says everyone is happy to see this incident come to a safe resolution. He says Melchor was booked into the St. James Parish Jail and is awaiting extradition back to North Carolina.

Cut 13 (04)  “abduction”

Manale says the investigation is still ongoing to determine why Melchor took the children. He says everyday law enforcement around the country work together to resolve cases like this and urges the public to come forward with any information.

cut 14 (07)  “they are”

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