An LSU survey that tracks consumer sentiment finds that consumer confidence in this state has fallen below the national average for the first time in recent years. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Eye doctors say they’re seeing a spike in the number of technology crazed youth suffering from computer vision syndrome. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (25) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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An annual statewide survey from LSU finds that consumer confidence in Louisiana has fallen below the nation for the first time in recent years. Michael Henderson, research director of the LSU Public Policy Research Lab, says the Louisiana Consumer Sentiment Index fell by six points from the end of the third quarter of 2014 to the end of the first quarter of 2015…

CUT 3 (06)  “six months earlier”

While Louisiana’s consumer confidence was falling, consumer sentiment grew nationally by nearly 10-points. He says northwest Louisiana, southwest Louisiana and the New Orleans area all fell significantly below the national estimate, and the drop in oil prices and the effects it had on the state’s energy industry could be to blame

CUT 4 (07)  “similar pattern here”

LSU’s Public Policy Research Lab has tracked consumer confidence since 2012 and this is the first time consumer sentiment in the state is nearly 10 points below the nation. Henderson says since they conducted this survey, oil prices have stabilizied, slowing down lay-offs in the energy sector

CUT 5 (06)  “energy prices”

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The rising number of youth who are constantly on their cell phones and computers are putting strain on their eyes. Doctors say they’ve seen a growing amount of young patients suffering from computer vision syndrome. Dr. Monica Monica, spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, says when looking at screens your blink rate decreases.

CUT 6 (10)  “syndrome”

Both eye strain and headaches are associated with prolonged exposure to the screens. Monica says our eyes are suffering the consequences of smart phone, computer and tablet use. She says those in the millennial generation and younger are especially affected by the harmful effects..:

CUT 7 (10) “taking breaks”

A recent study found 68 percent of millennials reporting digital eye strain. Monica says when looking at things close up, muscles in the eye actually have to contract, to change the shape of the lens, to focus. She says the best thing to do if you’re in front of a computer all day is to take periodic breaks…:

CUT 8 (09)  “devices”

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

Same-sex couples who want to change their last name on their driver’s license to reflect the same name as their spouse can do so starting today. State Police Lieutenant JB Slaton says the Office of Motor Vehicles had to upgrade their computers so that it would allow a man to change his last name

CUT 9 (11)  “is working”

Slaton says couples who wish to change their name, must bring a certified marriage license, along with social security records

cut 10 (08) “social security level” 

Slaton says they also want to remind all residents, can get a six-year driver’s license, instead of a four-year license. He says it will cost four dollars more, but hopefully it will lead to shorter lines at the D-M-V…

cut 11 (10) “going to help”

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The St. Helena Parish Sheriff’s office says a 12-year-old boy died on the 4th of July when riding on a utility terrain vehicle and the adult driver is arrested. Detective Joe Chaney says 36-year-old Joshua Tharpe of Baton Rouge and the juvenile were riding the UTV on a wet sand bar and took a sharp sudden turn…:

cut 12 (10)  “on the child”

Deputies did not release the boy’s name. Chaney says Tharpe was charged with vehicular homicide and has since been released on a $100,000 bond. He says they are still working to determine what happened and if Tharpe was being negligent..:

cut 13 (07)  “homicide”

A UTV is similar to an ATV but is larger. Chaney says you should always be careful on these types of vehicles…:

cut 14 (10) “safety guidelines”

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Secretary of State Tom Schedler announces a major overhaul of the state’s geauxBIZ-dot-com website making it easier to start a business in Louisiana. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Gubernatorial  Candidate John Bel Edwards begins his statewide tour today. Michelle Southern has more on how this will help his campaign…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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DHH reminds parents to vaccinate children as the school year is rapidly approaching. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (24) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Secretary of State Tom Schedler announces a major overhaul of the state’s geauxBIZ-dot-com website. The website was launched in 2009 as a way for people to easily find information necessary to start and maintain a business. Schedler says this upgrade to the site means doing business in Louisiana just got easier…

cut 4  (10)  “opening their business”

The new website allows business owners to complete the legal steps necessary to start a business in one visit to the site. Schedler says this is all about improving the business climate in the state. He says feedback from the site has been overwhelmingly positive as they work out a few kinks…

Cut 5  (09)  “working smooth”

The overhaul allows the Secretary of State’s office to share information with the Department of Revenue and the Workforce Commission cutting down the steps people have to take to start a business. Schedler says the goal is to add other agencies to the system…

Cut 6 (10)  “in the future”

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Louisiana Radio Network’s ongoing gubernatorial Q&A asked the four major gubernatorial candidates, “If elected, what steps will you take to rebuild Louisiana’s coastline and how will you make sure that dollars intended for coastal restoration are actually used for that purpose?” Amite Representative John Bel Edwards says, as governor, he would make sure that coastal restoration money is only spent on coastal restoration…

CUT 7 (09)  “no other purpose”

US Senator David Vitter says it’s not only important to ensure coastal restoration funds are used for their intended purpose, but he plans to accelerate three to five key coastal restoration projects in the coastal restoration master plan…

Cut 8  (08)  “studying things” 

Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says rebuilding the coast is not only important for Louisiana, but the country as a whole. He says, as governor, he’s committed to implementing the coastal restoration master plan…

Cut 9 (09)  “into the plan”

Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle says we must ensure that coastal restoration remains a priority in Louisiana. He says he’s committed to take preventative measures to ensure coastal restoration money is used properly…

Cut 10 (09) “master plan”

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Gubernatorial candidate Democrat Amite Representative John Bel Edwards begins his first statewide tour today. He’ll be in Amite this afternoon, New Orleans this evening, covers Acadiana tomorrow then continues to hit every corner of the state through Sunday, July 12th. UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says Edwards needs to get his name out there.

cut 11 (07)  “the state”

In a release, Edwards says you’ll see their caravan on the highways and byways of the Bayou State and he plans to deliver solution driven ideas in person to voters.  Cross says although people generally like him for his strong record, most voters don’t know very much about Edwards.

cut 12 (07)  “at all”

The planned tour includes 25 cities across Louisiana as well as impromptu stops across the state.  Cross believes because Edwards has a D behind his name, he has a good chance of making the runoff. He says the endorsement from famous superstar Britney Spears and her Kentwood family is great publicity for him.

Cut 13 (10)  “for Edwards”

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As the new school year is quickly approaching, The Department of Health and Hospitals is reminding parents to get their children vaccinated as required by law. DHH Immunization Medical Director Dr. Frank Welch says now is the perfect time to prevent diseases like measles, mumps, the flu and whooping cough.

Cut 14 (10) “so busy”

Welch says getting updated shots is so important because it protects not only your children from missing school but the community, as well. He says children first entering school need proof they’ve had vaccinations for polio, mumps and measles, hepatitis, chickenpox and diphtheria.

Cut 15  (11)  “6th grade”

When entering middle school, students are required to have the meningitis vaccine and Tdap, once again. Welch says most Louisianians ensure their children are vaccinated.

Cut 16  (08)  “very well”

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The state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says it will use the announced BP settlement money to ensure Louisiana will remain Sportsman’s Paradise for years to come. The agreement means the state will receive at least $6.8 billion for damages associated with the 2010 oil spill. LDWF Secretary Robert Barham…:

Cut 17 (12) ” culture” 

Barham says we’ve come a long way in furthering the understanding of the effects of the spill on our wildlife and fisheries and they are eager to continue those efforts…:

Cut 18 (06) “by this event”

Details of the complex settlement will be worked through over the next 60 days according to state leaders. Barham says the science, and the money that supports that science, will be there for years to come…:

Cut 19 (08) “horrific event”

As festivities begin for the Fourth of July, the Department of Children and Family Services reminds parents to exercise caution around their children. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor Bobby Jindal signed into law a bill which now doubles littering fines. Eric Gill reports.

CUT 2 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The Department of Children and Family Services is urging parents and caregivers to be careful with fireworks around children during this weekend’s festivities. DCFS Secretary Suzy Sonnier says that although fireworks can be beautiful, adults need to be aware of the danger to children. She cites a statistic in a report from 2013…

CUT 3 (08)  “firework related injuries”

Sonnier says around the Independence Day weekend, children under the age of 15 accounted for 40% of firework related injuries according to a 2013 report. She encourages parents to not let children handle fireworks, but also to be directly involved in all activities with their children for the holiday.

CUT 4 (05)  “at all times”

Sonnier says parents might consider attending public firework displays with their kids instead of lighting their own because it is often safer…

CUT 5 (07)  “community level”

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Governor Bobby Jindal signed into law a bill which will now double the fines for littering in Louisiana. Keep Louisiana Beautiful is asking residents to be mindful when disposing used fireworks and other party debris this weekend. Executive Director Susan Russell says they support anything that increases the enforcement effort.

CUT 6 (05)  “our state”

Currently, a first offense of simple littering can result in a $75 fine and a $500 fine for any other offenses. The new law increases that from $150 to $1,000. Russell says what’s most important is that Louisiana should be kept clean.

CUT 7 (11) “need to be there (2x)”

Improperly disposing items like furniture and appliances could end up costing offenders $10,000 under the new law. Russell says it’s very easy to pick up after yourself.

CUT 8 (06)  “ultimate goal”

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While many people will be out on Louisiana’s lakes and rivers this 4th of July, the Department of Health and Hospitals urges folks to be aware of open wounds when swimming. The main culprit to keep in mind is a flesh eating bacteria.  State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry is warning those out in salt or brackish water this weekend.

CUT 9 (11)  “summertime”

The bacteria invades the bloodstream and may cause a severe and potentially life threatening illness. Guidry also advises those with immune deficiencies to avoid eating shellfish because they can carry this bacteria. He says pay attention to wounds that look infected and seek medical help right away.

cut 10 (07) “treat it” 

Guidry says it’s important to get the word out to people to avoid exposure because that’s the best way to prevent new illnesses.  He says there have been four reported cases so far in Louisiana.

cut 11 (07) “15 cases”

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Amite Representative and gubernatorial candidate John Bel Edwards says, if elected, he has no intention to keep John White in place as Education Superintendent. Scott Carwile has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile“

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The Independence Day holiday begins today and firework safety is a top concern. Michelle Southern talks with the State Fire Marshall on how to prepare…

Cut 2 (23) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Bayou Teche Brewing is releasing a limited edition beer to be release on the 4th of July. Emelie Gunn has more on what makes this brew so special….

Cut 3 (24) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Amite Representative and gubernatorial candidate John Bel Edwards says, if elected, he has no intention to keep John White in place as Education Superintendent. In a statement, Edwards said “John White will never be superintendent on my watch.” Edwards says White lacks the credentials set forth in law to be the Superintendent of Education…

cut 4  (04)  “elementary schools”

White has been the state’s K-12 education leader since 2012. Although BESE chooses the Superintendent of Education, the governor typically has a lot of sway in that selection. Edwards thinks White’s approach to education is flawed…

Cut 5  (10)  “school districts”

In a statement regarding Edwards’ comments, White says politics don’t belong in the classroom and cited the improvement of high school graduation rates and ACT scores during his tenure. Edwards believes there are more qualified candidates right here in Louisiana to head the state’s education department…

Cut 6 (07)  “we do that”

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Safety with fireworks during 4th of July celebrations should be a top priority.  State Fire Marshall Butch Browning wants everyone to enjoy this holiday but take time to understand the precautions that come along with fireworks.

CUT 7 (08)  “biggest problem”

Browning advises adults under the influence of alcohol and  children to stay away from lighting firecrackers. He says make sure your surroundings are clear of flammable items and always keep a hose or bucket of water around in case the embers spark a fire.

Cut 8  (06)  “them igniting” 

Browning says never shoot a firearm into the air. He urges people to keep all weapons locked up and away from party-goers during the time of celebration.

Cut 9 (09)  “stray bullets”

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Arnaudville’s Bayou Teche Brewing is releasing a new beer for the 4th of July holiday and donating proceeds to military families. President Karlos Knott says the brew, named 31 Stout, was created in honor of 31 United States service members who lost their lives in the force mission in Afghanistan.

Cut 10 (10) “Extortion 17”

Grandson of multiple New Orleans French Quarter bars, Trey Monaghan, approached Knott with the idea of crafting a beer to benefit the soldiers’ families. Knott says members of Extortion 17 were also a part of SEAL Team 6.

cut 11 (11)  “in Afghanistan”

Knott says 31 Stout will be released on Independence Day at the brewery, where a band and party will follow for anyone who wants to attend. The beer will be available at a few retailers in Louisiana and in select restaurants. He says 45 dollars from every case and keg purchased will go to families of service members lost in the mission.

cut 12 (08)  “this money”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has signed into law a new measure which gives domestic violence victims more housing protection. Baton Rouge Senator Sharon Weston Broome sponsored the bill and says this law will help prevent further victimization of those being abused…

Cut 13 (06)  “to live”

The law allows domestic violence victims to break their lease to leave an abusive situation. Broome says it also ensures that victims will not be evicted because of their situation…

Cut 14 (12) “place of residence”

Landlords will also have the power to evict those the courts deem as abusers. Broome believes the law, which goes into effect August first, will give victims peace of mind over where they will live…

Cut 15  (10)  “housing issues”

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Officials in 5 Gulf States announces they’ve reached a settlement with BP for $18.7 billion dollars which resolves litigation over the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission announces their 4th of July “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign begins today.  Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Officials in 5 Gulf States, including Louisiana, announce they have reached a settlement with BP for $18.7 billion dollars which resolves litigation over the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Attorney General Buddy Caldwell says this is the largest environmental settlement in history…:

CUT 3 (08)  “billion dollars”

Caldwell says this $6.8 billion dollars  is the beginning of real restoration for Louisiana. He says $5 billion would be for natural resource damage, $1 billion for economic losses and $787 million would be paid in Clean Water penalties via the Restore Act…:

CUT 4 (10)  “16 years”

Caldwell says this finally and fairly resolves all issues associated
with the disaster. He says this settlement creates immediate action in what would have otherwise likely taken years of litigation in the courts to provide needed restoration to the Gulf…:(Caldwell says the exact details of the agreement will be released in the coming weeks in the form of a consent decree.)

CUT 5 (08)  “spill’s impact”

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

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission announces their Independence Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign begins today. Deputy Director Ken Trull says their goal is to remove impaired drivers from the roadway and save lives. He says during last year’s 4th of July holiday period, there were 374 fatal and injury crashes in Louisiana…

CUT 6 (08)  “alcohol related”

Trull says that of the 10 fatal crashes during last year’s 4th of July holiday, seven of them were alcohol related. He says they have given overtime grants to law enforcement agencies across the state in order for them to increase patrols statewide…

CUT 7 (08) “off the roadway”

He says if you are going to drink, you should always pick a designated driver. Trull says traffic safety is every motorist’s responsibility and following a few rules can help you have a safe holiday weekend…

CUT 8 (05)  “task of driving”

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Fishing begins today for the 67th Annual Tarpon Rodeo at Moran’s Marina in Fourchon. The rodeo starts today and ends on the 4th.  Rodeo Admiral Eddie Callais says this year there will be more that 15-thousand dollars worth of prizes.

CUT 9 (08)  “are available”

Callais says the different categories of fish are inshore, offshore, blue water fish, ,spearfish, a kayak division, and a children’s category . He says every child, ages 4 to 12, to purchase a ticket to the rodeo will receive a free fishing rod and reel.

cut 10 (08) “family friendly” 

Callais says even if you aren’t participating in the tournament, there is still a lot to do. He suggests coming out to the air conditioned tent to check out the scales and cook-off . Visit fourchontarponrodeo.com for more information.

cut 11 (10) “go to”

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Lockport Police say a man is under arrest after stabbing a dog and setting a house on fire in Lafourche Parish. Chief Warren Vedros says the incident started with a verbal altercation between 24-year-old Duane Ryan, Jr. and some friends. He says Ryan became irritated and grabbed a couple of knives from the kitchen to confront the men who fled…

cut 12 (11)  “of the house”

He says, at some point, Ryan allegedly stabbed the pet dog near the eye and poured gasoline inside the house. Vedros says Ryan’s girlfriend then left the house with the pet and her children…

cut 13 (07)  “house on fire”

He says after Ryan threatened to set the house ablaze, the woman later learned there was smoke coming from her residence. Vedros says when officers learned what had transpired, they took Ryan into custody… (Ryan is charged with simple arson and cruelty to animals.)

cut 14 (07) “to animal charge”

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The Louisiana Chemical Association filed a lawsuit challenging a measure passed in the last session which would impose a 1 percent sales tax on business utilities and natural gas. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “reporting“

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Gas prices are at an all time low for the first time in years around the 4th of July Holiday. Emelie Gunn fills us in on how much we’re saving…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Louisiana Federation for Children has found that 91 percent of parents are satisfied with their child’s scholarship school. Scott Carwile reports.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

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The Louisiana Chemical Association filed a lawsuit challenging a measure passed in the last session which would impose a 1 percent sales tax on business utilities and natural gas. HCR 8 is a temporary suspension of a 1 cent sales tax exemption on services expected to hit chemical plants hardest. LCA spokesman Rob Landry says it was passed unconstitutionally

cut 4  (11)  “magic number of 70”

The measure, which went into effect Wednesday, raises more than 100 million dollars and was enacted to balance the state’s budget. Landry says their plants depend heavily on purchased power and natural gas to generate steam, heat and electricity…:

Cut 5  (10)  “to our business”

Landry says the Louisiana Constitution says tax measures must pass both houses by a two-thirds vote and this measure fell short of 70 “yeas” two times. He says they made a major campaign to repeal utility taxes on natural gas in 2008 and since then the plants have seen major growth

Cut 6 (10)  “warm as possible”

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As many travelers hit the road today,  they’ll be seeing the lowest gas prices for the Independence Day holiday in years. Gregg Laskoski with GasBuddy.com says when drivers pull up to the pump, they’ll be paying about 95 cents a gallon less than last year.

CUT 7 (06)  “year ago”

Laskoski says we’ll see a steady decrease from now until the end of the summer as long as we are without any weather event that could distrupt the pattern. He says the prices are going down because of the decline in the of crude oil.

Cut 8  (08)  “the two” 

Laskoski says its unusual for prices to peak like this before Memorial Day and continue to decline, yet this happened two out of the past three years.

Cut 9 (05)  “declining”

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The four candidates for Governor were asked during a debate at the Farm Bureau Convention how they felt about the Supreme Court legalizing same sex marriage nationwide. Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle says this should issue should have been decided by individual states..:

Cut 10 (11) “man and a woman”

Senator David Vitter says this flies in the face of what the citizens of Louisiana said they wanted in the state constitution which is that marriage should be between a man and a woman..:

cut 11 (12)  “next assault”

Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says most legal experts would tell you that this ruling did not come as a surprise…:

cut 12 (12)  “as governor”

Amite Representative John Bel Edwards says the Supreme Court is the body that determines the constitution that is the law of the land and this issue is resolved and it’s time to move on…:

Cut 13 (12)  “as well”

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A recent survey finds that 91 percent of those parents participating in the Louisiana Scholarship Program are satisfied with their child’s scholarship school. The scholarship program assists children from low-income families in choosing the school that best fits their needs. President of Louisiana Federation for Children Ann Duplessis says the program also benefits students’ personal and social lives…

Cut 14 (03) “pride ourselves in”

Duplessis says the Federation has conducted previous surveys with similar results, proving the consistency of parental opinions. About 92 percent of parents reported they were happy with their child’s academic performance at the scholarship school. Duplessis says this means the program is working…

Cut 15  (09)  “choose those environments”

With the continuation of the program, Duplessis says there are many ways to improve, including teaching lawmakers of the importance of letting parents choose their child’s education…

Cut 16  (07)  “better outcomes”

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A Justice of the Peace in Grant Parish is resigning because same sex marriage is now legal. Emelie Gunn has more..

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A recent CNN presidential poll shows that Governor Bobby Jindal’s numbers have jumped from one to two percent since he announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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A Justice of the Peace in Grant Parish has resigned because her religion does not believe same-sex couples should be married. Patricia Gunter took the position in February, knowing she would resign if this came into law. Gunter says she decided to leave because she would no longer be able to perform the duties of the job due to her religious beliefs.

CUT 3 (10)  “like that”
Gunter is the wife of a Baptist pastor. She says her beliefs come from the bible and doesn’t have the right to go against what it says.

CUT 4 (08)  “an option”

Gunter says she left to avoid problems and disagreements that could come with a same-sex couple asking her to perform a marriage.

CUT 5 (08)  “problems either”

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Star forward Anthony Davis has verbally agreed to accept the New Orleans Pelicans’ maximum extension deal that will reportedly pay him $145 million over five years. Davis took to social media to make the announcement last night. Jake Madison, with Bourbon Street Shots, says this deal will keep Davis in New Orleans until, at least, 2020…

CUT 6 (09)  “not going anywhere”

He says the deal can’t officially be signed until next week. Madison says it appears new head coach Alvin Gentry and really sold Davis on his vision for the future, which includes making the All-Star the focal point of the team’s offense…

CUT 7 (09) “22-year-old”

This extension will keep Davis from entering free agency until 2020. Madison says this deal should make Pelican fans very happy. He says Davis’ deal will go into effect for the 2016-2017 season…

CUT 8 (07)  “goes into effect”

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A recent CNN presidential poll shows that Governor Bobby Jindal’s popularity has risen since he formally announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination. The survey, conducted between June 26 and June 28, shows the governor going from one-percent to two-percent. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says the media coverage from Jindal’s announcement can help explain Jindal’s jump in the poll…

CUT 9 (08)  “paying attention”

The poll currently has Jindal ranked 12th out of the 14 announced Republican candidates. Jindal will need to be in the top 10 to participate in the first presidential debate. Stockley says, right now, it will only take a few percentage points for the governor to make the cut…

cut 10 (08) “Governor Jindal” 

He says while it is possible for Jindal to make it into the debate, it doesn’t mean it is guaranteed. Jindal’s campaign launched an #AskBobby Twitter dialogue that some say may have backfired. Stockley says this was a noble attempt by the campaign, but it clearly shows the dangers of social media…

cut 11 (10) “you will receive”

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Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says the Supreme Court decision which allows same sex couples to be married impacts spousal coverage offered by businesses. He says several years ago our legislature changed the law to accommodate groups providing coverage, to offer insurance benefits for domestic partners…:

cut 12 (08)  “court ruling”

Donelon says this affects companies that offer spousal coverage of health insurance…:

cut 13 (06)  “spouses”

Donelon says because of our laws, he doesn’t foresee any hurdles in the transition. He says they are only having to update paperwork…:

cut 14 (10) “those changes”

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A 50 cent tax increase for a pack of cigarettes starts today. Emelie Gunn finds out how people in the state feel about this….

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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AAA expects 42 million people traveling for Independence Day, the most since 2007. Scott Carwile has more….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

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The state legislator who authored a religious freedom bill comes to the defense of Governor Bobby Jindal who faces a lawsuit from the ACLU. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A pack of cigarettes will cost you an extra 50 cents today as the state’s new tax of cigarettes goes into effect. The state legislature approved a law that raises the tax on a pack of cigarettes from 36 cents to 86 cents. Bill Bailey, owner of Smoker’s Paradise in Pineville, is concerned it could hurt his business.

cut 4  (10)  “whatever reason”

Bailey says the legislature also increased taxes on e-cigarettes and vapor products.

Cut 5  (11)  “down the road”

The American Heart Association’s Louisiana Advocacy Director Stasha Rhodes pushed for the tax increase and she says the money generated from additional tax will go to health care in Louisiana.

Cut 6 (08)  “tobacco illness”

Rhodes says she originally wanted the tax above one dollar because many studies show that could get around 36-thousand people to quit smoking. She says she proposed the higher tax because often times tobacco companies and stores can find ways make up for the raised prices.

CUT 7 (11)  “health impact”

______________________________________

The four candidates for Governor were asked during a debate at the Farm Bureau Convention what is the biggest challenge they’ve ever faced in their personal life. Senator David Vitter made reference to his prostitution scandal that lead to him apologizing for a “serious sin.” He says it caused issues in his marriage many years ago…:

Cut 8  (09)  “stronger” 

Jay Dardenne says while he was a candidate for Lt. Governor he was diagnosed with prostate cancer…:

Cut 9 (12)  “you need to do that”

Amite Representative John Bel Edwards says his biggest challenge in life was when he was in Ranger School in the Army…:

Cut 10 (10) “what my limits are”

Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle says the biggest challenge in his life was telling his mother he’d witnessed his sister die in a fatal crash as he was following her home from school…:

cut 11 (11)  “19-years-old”

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The American Automobile Association projects nearly 42 million Americans will travel for the 4th of July holiday, the most since 2007. AAA Spokesperson Don Redman says the fact that Independence Day falls on a weekend helps but that’s not the only reason people are out on the road.

cut 12 (05)  “this summer”

Redman says the statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $2.55, which is significantly cheaper than it’s been in the past 5 years and that certainly helps the family budget.

Cut 13 (09)  “year ago”

Redman says most people will travel by car to get to their destination and over 4 million people in our region. He advises drivers to plan ahead to avoid the crazy traffic.

Cut 14 (09) “as well”

______________________________________

Governor Bobby Jindal says he will not back down from religious liberty. Jindal made the statement in reaction to a lawsuit filed by the Louisiana ACLU and others who are challenging an executive order signed by the governor back in May that seeks to protect those who oppose same-sex marriage.  Bossier City Representative Mike Johnson supports Jindal on this issue

Cut 15  (08)  “completely unfounded”

Jindal’s executive order was signed, after Johnson’s religious freedom bill was defeated in a House committee. The order prohibits state agencies from taking adverse action on a person, business or non-profit if they make a decision based on their religious belief that marriage is a man and a woman.  Johnson, who is an attorney, says all the executive order attempts to do is protect religious liberty

Cut 16  (10)  “executive order does”

Louisiana ACLU Executive Director Marjorie Esman says this order goes beyond the scope of a governor’s constitutional power, because it creates a class of citizens who are protected, which only the legislature can do. Johnson calls the lawsuit frivolous

Cut 17 (07) ” unfortunate it” 

__________________________________

Governor Bobby Jindal has signed into law legislation that reduces the penalties for simple marijuana possession. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

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A lawsuit has been filed by the Louisiana ACLU, Forum for Equality, and 6 individuals challenging Governor Bobby Jindal’s “Marriage and Conscience Order”. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has signed into law legislation that reduces the penalties for simple marijuana possession. New Orleans State Representative Austin Badon is thrilled his measure was signed into law. Badon says this legislation will help a lot of people in Louisiana…

CUT 3 (12)  “periods of time”

Under the new law, a first offense of simple possession of less than 14 grams of marijuana would face up to 15 days in jail. A second conviction drops from a felony to a misdemeanor. Badon says what he likes about the measure is that it gives people a second chance…

CUT 4 (10)  “educational facilities”

The legislation drops the maximum sentence from 20 years in prison to eight. Badon says people arrested for simple marijuana possession need counseling, not jail time…

CUT 5 (06)  “lot of people”

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Wal-Mart has apologized for making a cake at its Slidell store with the ISIS flag on it after denying a man’s request to design one with the Confederate flag. Chuck Netzhammer originally ordered a “Heritage Not Hate” Confederate flag cake, but the bakery did not honor the request. He outlines what happened in a YouTube video…:

CUT 6 (10)  “printed”

Netzhammer says he can’t fathom why the Confederate flag cake would be denied, but the ISIS image ended up being printed and sold.

CUT 7 (08) “beheading Christians”

A spokesman for Wal-Mart told ABC News that the store associate did not know what the design meant and it was a misunderstanding. In the video, Netzhammer was asking for an explanation…:

CUT 8 (10)  “not allowed”

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A Baton Rouge City Councilman is upset over the Capitol City losing out in international television exposure as a result of NBC’s decision not to broadcast the Miss USA Pageant. Last year the pageant, which was held in Baton Rouge for the first time, was shown in 70 countries. As a guest on the Jim Engster Show, Councilman John Delgado says the broadcast was a big infomercial for the city.

CUT 9 (11)  “this year”

As of now, the July 12 pageant will not be televised. NBC decided not to air the pageant after Miss Universe owner Donald Trump made controversial comments regarding Mexican immigrants.  Delgado says it’s an unfortunate situation for Baton Rouge….

cut 10 (11) “the line” 

Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne issued a statement today that they are still moving forward with the events planned for the MISS USA contestants including a welcome reception at a Downtown Baton Rouge restaurant on July 2nd.

cut 11 (09)”the broadcast”

Dardenne says the state office of tourism is also withholding a 50-thousand dollar payment to the pageant, if the event goes untelevised.

cut 12 (09)  “the broadcast”

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A lawsuit has been filed challenging Governor Bobby Jindal’s “Marriage and Conscience Order”. The suit alleges it creates a class of persons who are protected over others due to their opposition to same-sex marriage. Louisiana ACLU Executive Director Marjorie Esman says this order goes beyond the scope of what the state constitution allows a governor to do…

cut 13 (12)  “to uphold”

The Louisiana ACLU, Forum for Equality, and 6 individuals are the plaintiffs in this lawsuit. The governor’s office has yet to comment on this case. Esman says the governor violated the Louisiana Constitution by setting up special protections for those who share his belief on same-sex marriage…

cut 14 (07) “to protect you”

Jindal’s controversial order prevents the executive branch of state government from taking adverse action against a person or a business for their belief in traditional marriage. Esman says the State Constitution clearly states what a governor can do and what the legislature can do…

cut 15 (07) “to do that”

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There is some concern that the recent Supreme Court ruling legalizing gay marriage in the United States could potentially lead to lawsuits against churches. Scott Carwile has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

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A study ranks Louisiana 5th in the country more the most couch potatoes per capita. Emelie Gunn has more on why we ranks so high…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Same sex couples are showing up at clerks of court offices across the state to get their marriage license. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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There is some concern that the recent Supreme Court ruling legalizing gay marriage in the United States could potentially lead to lawsuits against churches. Louisiana Baptist Convention President Steve Horn says it’s his understanding that the ruling gives protection to churches and pastors. But he says that doesn’t mean the issue could not come up in the future…

cut 4  (11)  “in that regard”

He says, as he reads the ruling, lawsuits are not something that should overly concern churches. But Horn says the Supreme Court ruling sort of negates ultimate protection for churches who refuse to perform or host same-sex marriages due to their religious beliefs…

Cut 5  (12)  “right now”

But Horn, who pastors at First Baptist Lafayette, says the four dissenting Supreme Court Justices seemed to be concerned about lawsuits against churches when they wrote their dissent.

Cut 6 (04)  “of concern”

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One of the first same-sex marriage licenses in the state went to Scott Kirkland and Kenneth Parker. They arrived at the East Baton Rouge Clerk of court’s office shortly before 2 PM on Monday. Louisiana was the last state to start issuing licenses and Kirkland says it was frustrating when they couldn’t get one after the Supreme Court ruling on Friday

CUT 7 (09)  “enough it did”

The Louisiana Clerks of Court initially advised parish clerks to wait 25 days before issuing the licenses, but many parishes starting issuing them on Monday, knowing that it was unlikely for the nation’s highest court to reverse its decision that legalized gay marriage. Kirkland says it was important for them to get a license in Louisiana

Cut 8  (09)  “ceremony and party” 

Sarah Jane Brady, executive director for the Forum for Equality, is thrilled that clerks of court around the state are allowing same sex couples to get married

Cut 9 (09)  “good actions of people”

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According to a study by Estately.com, Louisiana comes in number 5 for the states with the most couch potatoes per capita.  Lead blogger Ryan Nickum says they came up with this ranking by calculating 8 different factors, including hours per day watching TV and Laz-E-Boy retailers per capita.

Cut 10 (10) “video games”

Nickum says the state came in 5th for hours per day watching TV and saw a correlation with  watching TV and the obesity ranking throughout all states. He says this study could open people’s  eyes and push them to get up and moving.

cut 11 (10)  “at it”

Nickum says the Louisiana summer heat is a factor on why we have so many couch potatoes. He says his study found that people who live in colder climates, tend to get out more expect for Ohio who ranked number one for couch potatoes per capita.

cut 12 (08)  “air conditioning”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has signed into law a bill that establishes a framework for the legal dispensing of medical marijuana. But state Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says it could be another two years before anyone can get a prescription for medicinal marijuana filled. Stain says that’s because numerous steps need to be accomplished first.

Cut 13 (13)  “of rules”

Strain says they must start with the Board of Medical Examiners creating a set of rules for the prescription, then the Board of Pharmacy has to adopt a set of regulations and a document that describes the production parameters. He says LSU and Southern’s AgCenter’s will have first opportunity to grow the weed that will turn into pill for medical purposes.

Cut 14 (11) “the product”

Strain says the purest and safest form of the drug will only be for people suffering from cancer, glaucoma and some forms of cerebral palsy. He says they are starting from scratch because rules need to be made to obtain seeds or get seeds from other states.

Cut 15  (10)  “being treated”

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