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“

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

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

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

Louisiana clerks of court who turn away gay couples seeking a marriage license could face lawsuits for refusing to do so. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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An associate professor at LSU has been fired after using foul language and telling sexually-themed jokes to students. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Louisiana clerks of court who turn away gay couples seeking a marriage license could face lawsuits for refusing to do so. Chairman of the Forum for Equality, Chris Otten, says they have sent a letter to the Louisiana Clerks of Court Association putting them on notice…

CUT 3 (10)  “federal law”

The Jindal Administration has stated that they are waiting on a ruling from the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals on Louisiana’s gay marriage law before complying with the Supreme Court’s decision. Otten is hopeful the court will rule soon and officials in all 64 parishes will immediately begin issuing licenses…

CUT 4 (11)  “significant problems”

He says if clerks refuse to follow the Supreme Court’s ruling, they could be sued for violating a civil rights protection statute under federal law. The Jefferson Parish clerk-of-court began issuing same-sex marriage licenses and several other parishes are doing the same.Sarah Jane Brady with Forum For Equality Louisiana says she hopes to see all parishes getting on board…:

CUT 5 (10)  “married”

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

The US Supreme Court rules a controversial drug called midazolam can be used for lethal injections. Gary Clements, an anti-death penalty lawyer in New Orleans, is disappointed with the ruling, because the sedative did not perform like it should have in executions in Arizona, Ohio and Oklahoma

CUT 6 (10)  “lot of sense”

This case originated in Oklahoma over concerns that it violated the Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. Louisiana’s lethal injection protocol allows for midazolam, but has never used it. And Clements wonders if Louisiana ever will

CUT 7 (06) “other options”

Last week, a federal judge in Baton Rouge put on hold any execution in Louisiana until July of 2016, until the state determines how they will carry out a death sentence. Clements says despite today’s 5-4 decision, there is hope that one day any form of capital punishment will be prohibited

CUT 8 (10)  “unconstitutional”

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

An associate professor at LSU has been fired after using foul language and telling sexually-themed jokes to students. Teresa Buchanan was terminated after school administrators stated her language and humor created a hostile learning environment. Professor Kevin Cope, LSU Faculty Senate President, says this incident stems from a false sense of the protection of students…

CUT 9 (09)  “to be productive”

Buchanan was dismissed even after a five faculty member committee in March recommended she keep her job. Buchanan taught elementary education at the school. Cope says there is a big difference in using bad language and targeting bad language. He says if you call someone a so-and-so, that’s something that would require discipline…

cut 10 (10) “matter, altogether” 

Buchanan says she will fight her termination in court. LSU has no comment pending potential litigation. Cope feels Buchanan has a strong case and a good chance of having this decision reversed. Cope says if the school is going to take this attitude on foul language, it should extend beyond the classroom…

cut 11 (04)  “of the coaches”

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

The National Weather Service is now calling for the Red River in Shreveport to crest Tuesday at 31-feet. Hydrologist C.S. Ross says this revised forecast puts the crest a few inches lower than what was previously expected

cut 12 (06)  “this morning”

Ross says the projected 31-foot crest is six feet lower than the crest in mid-June. He says impact from flood waters will be minimal…

cut 13 (05)  “in Shreveport”

Ross says the Red River will likely fall back below flood stage on July 2nd, but remain high through the Fourth of July Holiday Weekend

cut 14 (11) “late August”

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Yahoo reports Louisiana has the second most lightning strikes in the country right after Florida. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

A UCLA Williams Institute study finds same sex marriages could bring millions into Louisiana. Scott Carwile speaks with the study author to find out how…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

______________________________________

Louisiana appears to be the only state still fighting the Supreme Court’s decision on same-sex marriages. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

In Louisiana Radio Network’s ongoing gubernatorial Q&A, we asked the four major candidates about agriculture. We asked, if elected, would you propose a budget that keeps funding levels for the Department of Agriculture and the LSU and Southern AgCenters at least at their current level? Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says it’s important to keep funding these entities because agriculture has a $12 billion economic impact on the state…

cut 4  (08)  “our culture”

Democratic Amite Representative John Bel Edwards says he’s committed to maintain funding to the AgCenters. He says, since 2008, state funding for the LSU AgCenter has been cut 23-percent and Southern’s AgCenter funding has dropped by 30-percent…

Cut 5  (10)  “state’s economy”

US Senator David Vitter says it’s important to stabilize the budgets for these entities. He says since 2008, the number of full-time employees at the LSU AgCenter has decreased by 31-percent…

Cut 6 (12)  “reverse that” 2X

Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle says he’s committed to continue funding at current or higher levels. He says as as goes Louisiana’s farming, in a lot of ways, so goes Louisiana’s economy as a whole…

CUT 7 (10)  “development plan”

______________________________________

A report by Yahoo says Louisiana has the second most lightning strikes a year in the country.  Louisiana trails Florida but is just ahead of Mississippi. State Climatologist Barry Keim says we average about 827,000 strikes a year and lightning has caused 142 fatalities since 1959, or about 2.5 deaths a year.

Cut 8  (07)  “time outdoors” 

Keim says Louisianians spend most of our time hunting, fishing, and participating in other outdoor activities which increases our vulnerability to lightning strikes. He also debunks a myths about what happens when lightning hits.

Cut 9 (09)  “by lightning”

According to State Farm, Louisiana ranks 4th in the nation for lightning claims. In 2014, State Farm paid 6.5 million for more than 13-hundred insurance claims related to lightning stikes in Louisiana. Keim advises people to get in a car or go inside if lightning gets bad during a thunderstorm and no matter what, don’t hide under a tree. He says be careful when touching metal objects when lightning can be seen.

Cut 10 (07) “to be”

______________________________________

According to a UCLA Williams Institute study, same sex marriages in Louisiana could mean a 28 million dollar boost to the economy over the next three years. Study author Lee Badgett says many small businesses will thrive if this estimate proves true.

cut 11 (11)  “and florists”

Badgett says there are about 4,000 gay couples living in Louisiana and it is expected that half will get married within the next three years. She says they used the US census to calculate the economic impact these marriages could have on the state.

cut 12 (10)  “different factors”

Badgett says this will also increase the amount of jobs available in the wedding fields. She says the state government will find sales tax revenue from hotels and restaurant meals.

Cut 13 (11)  “and families”

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

Despite a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, Louisiana is still not recognizing same-sex marriages. The Jindal Administration has said they are waiting on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to rule on a case involving Louisiana’s same-sex marriage ban. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says the state is fighting an uphill battle…

Cut 14 (12) “marriage licenses”

Clerks of Court are holding off on issuing marriage licenses until a 25-day period concludes where Supreme Court decisions can be challenged. State Attorney General Buddy Caldwell says the decision has no mandate or order from the highest court that makes the decision final. Ciolino says this statement sends the message  Louisiana intends to fight the federal government over a civil rights issue…

Cut 15  (06)  “perhaps baffling”

Now that the Supreme Court has ruled that states must recognize same-sex marriage, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will likely move forward with its case on gay marriage. The ruling by the appeals court will most likely be a formality, and Ciolino says the state won’t have to wait long for its decision…

Cut 16  (03)  “days or weeks”

______________________________________

According to 24-7 sports, LSU football’s 2016 recruiting class is ranked number one in the country. With national signing day still several months away, the Tigers have 17 verbal commitments, including two five-star prospects, cornerback Saivion Smith from Florida and St. Thomas Aquinas defensive tackle Edwin Alexander from Hammond. 24-7 sports, Shea Dixon, says Coach Les Miles has hired some great recruiters…

Cut 17 (17) ” in the country” 

Dixon says not only is LSU receiving verbal commitments from some talented football players, they are also filling positions of need, especially on the defensive side of the ball

Cut 18 (12) “outside linebacker”

Ten of LSU’s commitments are from Louisiana. Dixon says the Tigers are also doing the well in Texas, as four of their verbal pledges are from the Lone Star state

Cut 19 (20) “…Erick Fowler “

It is now illegal in Louisiana to post or share nude images of people on the internet without their consent. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Same sex couples are celebrating the US Supreme Court’s landmark decision that legalizes gay marriage. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

It is now illegal in Louisiana to post or share nude images of people on the internet without their consent. Governor Bobby Jindal signed Kenner Representative Julie Stokes’ “revenge porn” bill into law. Stokes says she is not surprised the governor signed the measure…

CUT 3 (07)  “things like this”

The new law makes it a crime to share an explicit image of someone on the internet without their permission. Stokes says she’s read and heard about many people who have had this happen to them…

CUT 4 (10)  “that they’re used”

She says there are numerous cases of “revenge porn” that has caused irreparable damage to victims. Violators of the law could face up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Stokes says this legislation sends a strong message…

CUT 5 (12)  “the line somewhere”

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Same sex couples across Louisiana are celebrating today’s historic Supreme Court ruling that legalizes gay marriages in every state. Matthew Patterson, with Equality Louisiana, says it’s hard to put into words what this decision means to gay and lesbian couples…

CUT 6 (09)  “actually happen”

But Gene Mills, with the Louisiana Family Forum, says the Supreme Court has stripped all Americans of the freedom to debate and decide marriage policy through the democratic process

CUT 7 (08) “policy”

Patterson says the Supreme Court made the right decision in this case, because individual liberties should not be left up to individual voters or states to protect…

CUT 8 (10)  “to be married”

Mills says the Supreme Court has created a litigation rich environment, because there will be churches who will seek to stand by their religious belief that marriage is only between a man and a woman…

CUT 9 (11)  “wave of litibation”

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On the heels of the Supreme Court’s landmark decision legalizing same-sex marriage, Clerks of Court offices in Louisiana are initially holding off issuing marriage licenses to gay couples. Louisiana Clerks of Court Association Executive Director Debbie Hudnall says they will not issue licenses until the Supreme Court challenge period is over…

cut 10 (11) “or decision” 

Hudnall says Supreme Court rules allow for a 25-day challenge period for any judgement or decision. She says clerks are going to do what they’re legally required to do, but for right now, same-sex couples are not able to get a marriage license in Louisiana…

cut 11 (09)  “any license”

(A statement from the Attorney General’s Office said that it has found nothing in today’s decision that makes the Court’s order effective immediately. Therefore, there is not yet a legal requirement for officials to issue marriage licenses or perform marriages for same-sex couples in Louisiana. The AG’s Office will be watching for the Court to issue a mandate or order making today’s decision final and effective and will issue a statement when that occurs.)

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is taking part in Operation Dry Water this weekend. The operation calls for increased patrols on the water to check for boaters driving while drunk. LDWF Spokesperson Adam Einck says they’ve participated in this federal event since 2009.

cut 12 (11)  “for DWI”

Einck says we’re getting close to the 4th of July and the boating season is in full force. He says LDWF’s boaters safety course has helped to keep fatalities on the water lower than ever.

cut 13 (09)  “do so”

Einck says patrols will be checking the hot spots for drinking this weekend. He says many people aren’t aware that DWI laws on the water are the same as if you were driving a car.

cut 14 (07) “9 yards”

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The Louisiana Peach Festival begins today and there are plans to create the worlds largest peach cobbler. Emelie Gunn has more on how they made the big cobbler…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Two events benefiting Governor Bobby Jindal’s presidential campaign, that involve some pretty big names, will take place in Baton Rouge Saturday. Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

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As temperatures continue to rise this summer it’s a good idea to remember your pets require special care to avoid heatstroke. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The 65th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival begins today and there are hopes to make a little history. Festival Organizer Brandon Sutherland says they plan to set a Guinness World Record for the largest peach cobbler.

cut 4  (10)  “metric ton”

Sutherland says it’ll take over 800 pounds of peaches to create the cobbler. He says businesses all over Ruston donated ingredients and materials to achieve the goal.

Cut 5  (08)  “Ruston Brick”

Sutherland says festival goers will be able to get a taste of the worlds largest peach cobbler. He says there will be no charge for a piece, but there will be a donation bucket.

Cut 6 (12)  “big cobbler”

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Two events benefiting Governor Bobby Jindal’s presidential campaign, that involve big names like Tom Benson, Les Miles, and Sean Payton, will take place in Baton Rouge Saturday. First there will be a fundraising event at a local hotel, hosted by Benson, shipbuilder Boysie Bollinger, former Congressman Bob Livingston and others. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s not a surprise that Jindal would begin raising funds for his campaign in Louisiana…

CUT 7 (08)  “so to speak”

The second is an invitation only event at the Governor’s Mansion featuring honorary hosts LSU head football coach Les Miles and Saints head coach Sean Payton. Pinsonat says these events are a smart way for Jindal to begin his campaign…

Cut 8  (04)  “fund raising efforts” 

But he says the governor will have to raise a lot of money from a lot of different places to be competitive in this race. Pinsonat says this is probably Jindal’s best and last chance to raise money in Louisiana…

Cut 9 (05)  “or 40 days”

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As temperatures continue to rise this summer it’s a good idea to remember your pets require special care to avoid heatstroke. The LSU Veterinary School says they have already seen two fatal cases of heatstroke this month. Associate professor and veterinarian Dr. Kirk Ryan dogs can’t tolerate scorching temperatures and extreme exercise..:

Cut 10 (09) “related illness”

Ryan says dogs cannot tell us when they feel hot, so it’s our responsibility to ensure that our pets have sufficient shelter from the sun. He says one of the most important things you can do is always make sure your pet has plenty of water…:

cut 11 (09) “these conditions”

Ryan says puppies, kittens, older dogs and cats and animals with short snouts or muzzles such as pugs and bulldogs are at increased risk. He says heatstroke is an absolute emergency and needs to be treated immediately by cooling off with a water hose and going to a vet…:

cut 12 (12)  “as well”

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Former NFL stars headline the 2015 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame class that will be inducted this weekend in Natchitoches. Former Saints and Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme is part of the eight member class.  The Breaux Bridge native was a record-setting QB for the Ragin Cajuns and led Carolina to the Super Bowl during the 2003 season. Delhomme credits former Saints offensive coordinator and current Packers head coach Mike McCarthy for the success he had in the NFL

Cut 13 (14)  “right team”

While Delhomme missed out on winning a Super Bowl, former LSU Tiger Kevin Faulk won three Super Bowl rings as a running back for the Patriots. The former Cancrencro standout and three-time all-SEC selection is also going into the hall this weekend. Faulk says his football career took off in New England

Cut 14 (11) “just playing”

The 2015 class also includes former St. Aug High School Football Coach Otis Washington, former McNeese State defensive back Leonard Smith, New Orleans native and former NBA player/coach, Avery Johnson, former Cajuns and LSU softball coach Yvette Girouard, horse trainer Frank Brothers and former Northeast Louisiana University coach Pat Collins, who led the Monroe school to a Division 1-AA national championship in 1987. Collins credits the staff he had at N-L-U

Cut 15  (08)  “high school”

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The US Supreme Court upholds tax subsidies under the Affordable Care Act which supporters say preserves health care for thousands of Louisianians. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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New Census figure shows the country’s population is more diverse.  Emelie Gunn has a look at what’s happening in Louisiana.

CUT 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Monsanto announces possible plans to make a 1 billion dollar expansion to their Luling plant.  The addition would produce a new product line to help  soybeans, cotton and corn. St. Charles Parish President V.J. St. Pierre says this is very exciting and Monsanto has always been a great industrial partner…

CUT 3 (09)  “of Louisiana”

St. Pierre says the plant would create 95 direct, 450 indirect, and 1,000 construction jobs. He says the final decision to expand the plant will be in the early part of 2016.

CUT 4 (09)  “project”

St. Pierre says Monstano is one of the biggest employers in St. Charles. He says plant employees are always involved in the community and often help out with different charity events.

CUT 5 (12)  “plant people”

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The US Supreme Court upholds tax subsidies under the Affordable Care Act which supporters say preserves health care for thousands of Louisianians. Opponents argued subsidies should not be available in the 34 states that did not set up their own health insurance marketplace, which includes Louisiana. US Senator Bill Cassidy is disappointed by the court’s ruling…

CUT 6 (08)  “must continue”

This is the second time the Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Affordable Care Act. Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party, Stephen Handwerk, says this ruling is a victory for the people of Louisiana…

CUT 7 (06) “health care”

The Court voted 6-3 to uphold the subsidies. Cassidy says the Supreme Court’s decision doesn’t repeal the problems with “Obamacare”, which includes insurance premiums increasing up to 60-percent per year on the marketplace…

CUT 8 (08)  “as un-American”

6.4 million people nationwide were at risk of losing their health insurance subsidies because their state did not set up its own exchange. Cassidy says the fight against “Obamacare” will continue. Handwerk says Chief Justice John Roberts’ majority opinion explains the Court’s decision best…

CUT 9 (08)  “exactly that”

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New census figures show the nation’s population is becoming  more diverse and Millennials now outnumber babyboomers. Demographer Greg Rigamer says Louisiana is following the national trend, as the state’s Hispanic population has increased increased since 2010.

cut 10 (13) “African American population” 

Rigamer says Louisiana and the nation’s population is more diverse because people are not afraid to leave one state for another in search of better employment.

cut 11 (09)  “in history”

The U.S. Census says there are now 83 million people who are considered millennials, people born between 1982 and 2000 and their size exceeds that of babyboomers. Rigamer says you can see that trend happening here in Louisiana.

cut 12 (08)  “in Louisiana”

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A man wanted for the murder of his estranged wife in Calcasieu Parish has been added to the F-B-I’s Most Wanted fugitive list. Forty-seven-year-old Joe Matthew Constance has not been seen since he shot and killed Mary Duhon on June 5th, 2011. Calcasieu Sheriff Tony Mancuso says they hope the F-B-I’s help can bring Constance to justice…

cut 13 (09)  “us out”

Mancuso says now that the F-B-I is involved, they receive better tips on whether he is outside the country or in a different state. He says there is a reward for information leading to Constance’s arrest.

cut 14 (08) “he is”

Mancuso says Constance forced himself into Duhon’s home and demanded the residents inside tell him where his ex-wife was, he found her in another area of the residence and shot her. He says Constance was charged with first degree murder, aggravated assault and aggravated burglary the day he killed Duhon.

cut 15 (11) “murder”

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