A government watchdog group is concerned the call for this special session is too broad. Collen Crain reports legislators will attempt to approve new Congressional and Supreme Court district maps, make changes to campaign finance laws and switch to a party primary system for all elections.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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 The special session to redraw the state’s congressional districts gets underway this afternoon, and the governor wants lawmakers to address a dozen other issues too. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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North Louisiana is seeing winter precipitation this morning, while the entire state will experience below freezing temperatures Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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If it was up to Governor Jeff Landry, he would not have called a special session a week after a new Legislature was sworn in. During an appearance on the Moon Griffon show, Landry says a mid-January special session is needed because a federal judge set a January 30th deadline to  redraw a Congressional district map with two majority-minority districts, instead of one..

Cut 4 (12) “..do it”

Five of the six Congressional districts have white majorities. Republicans fought for this map when it was approved in 2022, but a federal judge ruled it violates the Voting Rights Acts, because a third of the state’s population is Black. During an appearance on the Moon Griffon Show, Landry says legislators will draw a map with a second majority Black district…

Cut 5 (12) “…control the outcome.”

Lawmakers have until September 23rd to complete their redistricting work. Landry says after that they’ll turn their attention to a special session that will attempt to lower the crime rate…

Cut 6 (06) “…to work on.”

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This afternoon, Louisiana lawmakers convene a special Legislative session to address the court-ordered redistricting of Louisiana’s congressional map and there are several other complicated issues on the agenda. The special session must conclude on January 23rd. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says legislators do not have a lot of time…

Cut 7 (12) “…campaign finance.”

Erwin says it takes at least five days to pass a bill and with an eight-day special session, he’s concerned some lawmakers are trying to tackle too much, including Governor Landry’s proposal to move from jungle primaries to closed party primaries….

Cut 8 (10) “…new lawmakers.” 

The special session was called because a federal court ordered the Bayou State to redraw Louisiana’s congressional districts to include a second majority-black district by January 30^th. Erwin understands the need for a special session now, but maybe legislators should just focus on redrawing the Congressional map…

Cut 9 (10)  “…would look like.”

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The special session gets underway this afternoon for lawmakers to redraw the state’s congressional district map after the current six-district map with one majority Black district was ruled unconstitutional because the courts believe there should be two majority Black districts. LA-Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says it’s anybody’s guess what will happen this time around…

Cut 10 (07) “…or not.”

During the brief session scheduled to end a week from tomorrow, lawmakers will also, at the request of the State Supreme Court, redraw the state’s judicial districts, which Alford says a second Black majority district could be added to that map as well.

Cut 11 (12) “…make of.” 

Governor Landry issued a proclamation that outlined twelve additional items for lawmakers to debate during the special session. Alford says among them is changing from open primaries to closed party primaries elections.

Cut 12 (08) “…gum up the works.” 

The topics on Landry’s agenda are all related to elections, ranging from campaign finances to amendments to the state code related to the implementation of elections.

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The entire I-20 corridor is under a winter storm warning as snow, sleet and freezing rain is expected to fall through the afternoon hours. Ryan Knapp is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Shreveport….

Cut 13 (14) “..sleet accumulations”

There’s a chance for freezing rain for entire the state. It will be very light for south Louisiana. Knapp says central Louisiana could see one to two-tenths of an inch of freezing rain…

Cut 14 (11) “..heavier impacts.” 

And it will be cold for the next few days. Highs for north Louisiana will be in the mid to upper 20s today. Central Louisiana will see highs near the freezing mark. Mid-40s for south Louisiana today. Cameron Kowalski with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles says tomorrow will be the coldest day for south Louisiana…

Cut 15 (11) “…the coast”

Kowalski says this storm system will also produce northerly winds of 20 to 25 miles per hour which is why there is a wind chill advisory for nearly the entire state…

Cut 16 (12) “..single digits” 

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The seventh ranked LSU women’s basketball team’s 16-game winning streak ended yesterday with a 67-62 defeat to unranked Auburn. It was a back and forth game that saw 17 lead changes and seven ties, but LSU shot just 42-percent from the field. Coach Kim Mulkey says Auburn’s defense was disruptive…

Cut 17 (15) “…came at us” 

The loss drops LSU’s record to 16-2, 3-and-1 in the SEC. It was the first conference win of the year for Auburn. After the game, Mulkey spent a long time in the locker room with her team. She says they talked about what they could have done better…

Cut 18 (23)  “…accountable.” 

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The LSU men’s basketball team also lost in Auburn this past weekend as the Bayou Bengals trailed by as many as 28 points in the second half before falling to 16th ranked team in the country 93-78. Coach Matt McMahon says Auburn is an elite team with no weaknesses…

Cut 19 (19) “…in transition” 

LSU turned it over 17 times and shot jut 42-percent from the field. Trae Hannibal came off the bench and scored 18 points in a losing effort…

Cut 20 (12) “…stay together.”

LSU hosts Ole Miss on Wednesday.

Crawfish fans might want to start a savings account and prep for a much smaller platter this year. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Amazon announces plans to build a distribution facility in Monroe. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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LSU Ag Center Crawfish Specialist Mark Shirley warns crawfish connoisseurs that 2024 will be one of the worst mudbug seasons on record as far as prices and supply are concerned. He says it’s so dire farmers are averaging one to two mudbugs a trap.

Cut 3 (13) “…(x2) just not there.”

And he worries the freeze forecasted next week will only make things worse.

Shirley says Louisiana should have 361,000 acres of crawfish production, that’s what farmers probably would have flooded up back in the fall, but the drought hampered things severely.

Cut 4 (11) “…the farm.”

And the Super Bowl of Crawfish, Easter is March 31st.

The other unknown Shirley says is wild crawfish in the Atchafalaya Basin. Right now, he says the water levels are only two to three feet which is very low, and unless we get a lot of rain in the Mississippi watershed…

Cut 5 (09) “ …at all.” 

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Republican U-S Senator Bill Cassidy is not a fan of Governor Jeff Landry’s proposal to move Louisiana from an open primary election system to closed party primaries. A Louisiana pollster says such a dramatic change to how elections are held will cost the state an additional 90-million dollars a year. Cassidy says the state has bigger priorities to fund…

Cut 6 (11) “…coastal restoration.” 

In next week’s redistricting special session, legislators will have the opportunity to debate a move to closed party primaries. Louisiana Republican Party Chair Louis Gurvich told the Advocate newspaper the party has been arguing for it for decades.

Louisiana’s open primary system has been around since the 1970s. In 2008 and 2010 Louisiana party-run primaries for just federal races, but Cassidy says it caused confusion and independent voters were upset they could not vote in a closed primary…

Cut 7 (04) “…too expensive” 

Landry has yet to provide any additional comments on why supports closed party primaries. Supporters say it leads to better candidates in the general election and it would end the December run-off that occurs for  Congressional races. But Cassidy says how Louisiana elects its officials is not broken, so why fix it

Cut 8 (10) “…or police” 

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Amazon, the leading global online retailer, is opening a 56 thousand square foot distribution facility in Monroe. Mayor Friday Ellis says the facility will provide 200 jobs between 17 to 28 dollars per hour.

Cut 9 (09) “…people live.” 

Ellis says Amazon’s announcement will hopefully result in more economic development for the region.

Cut 10 (08) “…northeast Louisiana.” 

The distribution plant will be located at the intersection of Luffey Drive and I-20 North Frontage Road and construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks. Ellis says this will also be a win for local small businesses.

Cut 11 (11) “…as community.”

Career opportunities and job hiring will be offered closer to the facility’s launch date.

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A new poll finds the cost of insurance is the biggest issue facing Louisiana residents. There was talk of a special session on insurance reform before the regular session starts in March, but Senate President Cameron Henry says because of the complexity of insurance laws, it would be better to wait until the regular session..

Cut 12 (05)  “…bit more”  

The regular session begins March 11th and it will continue until June 3rd. Henry says new Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple has a lot of ideas on how to improve the insurance market in Louisiana and it would be better to discuss those ideas during a three month long session

Cut 13 (07) “..a difference” 

One of Jeff Landry’s first acts as governor is calling lawmakers to the state capitol for a redistricting session. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A statewide poll of 650 likely voters finds car and home insurance rates are the number one issue for Louisianans. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry has issued the call for a redistricting special session. It will begin Monday and legislators will have until January 23rd at 6 PM to finish their work. Senate President Cameron Henry says legislators will redraw the Congressional and Supreme Court map and debating a move to a closed primary elections…

Cut 3 (09) “…get done.”

Moving from open primary elections to closed primaries would be a major change in how we elect our officials. Henry says the special session is at least giving legislators the ability to debate this issue and can vote on it at a later time…

Cut 4 (08) “…cost of it.”

Currently all of the candidates are placed on a primary ballot, regardless of party and the top two vote getters head into a runoff, unless one of the candidates has a majority of the vote. A closed party primary system would have Republicans and Democrats holding their own primaries and the winners facing each other in a general election.

Henry says a closed party primary election would end the December run-off in Congressional elections, which  hurts newly elected U-S Representatives and Senators when it comes to seniority…

Cut 5 (10) “ …which is huge” 

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A JMC Analytics poll reveals 26 percent of Louisianans believe the cost of homeowner and car insurance is the biggest issue in the Bayou State. Legislation addressing the state’s high insurance premiums will be discussed in the regular session that begins in the spring and Pollster John Couvillon says residents will be paying attention to what lawmakers are going to do.

Cut 6 (07) “…insurance commissioner.” 

Homeowners in Louisiana pay on average about two thousand dollars every year for insurance. And Louisiana ranked second to Florida for the highest car insurance rates.

The poll of 650 likely voters indicates crime is the third top issue right behind education and healthcare. Couvillon says a new legislature will tackle crime in a special session next month. With Louisiana ranked one of the most dangerous state in the country in 2023, he says it’s not shocking that crime is an issue for Louisianans.

Cut 7 (06) “…couple years.” 

Taxes and spending ranked fourth, inflation ranked fifth, and social issues like abortion ranked sixth.

During the regular session, Couvillon says Governor Jeff Landry and the new legislature will have to solve issues that are important to residents across the state.

Cut 8 (13) “…right now.” 

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Among Governor Landry’s first actions in office was overturning the appeals process for high school seniors who fail the LEAP exam. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says Landry mentioned early on that he was against this particular proposal for waving those graduation requirements…

Cut 9 (08) “…in office.” 

Erwin says if the governor hadn’t issued the executive order, he believes incoming BESE members would have overturned the appeal process that was at the center of controversy…

Cut 10 (12) “…requirements.” 

Erwin also points out that the governor makes three appointments to BESE.

Louisiana is the only state in the country that does not have an appeals process. Erwin says the debate highlighted two issues… one that the process was for students who were not fluent in English, and two that this particular process was implemented at the end of Edward’s term.

Cut 11 (12) “…the future.”

The first BESE Board meeting for 2024 is scheduled for January 17^th.

The potential for tornadoes hail, and flash flooding is expected for south Louisiana thru early tomorrow morning. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Mudbug season is questionable this year, after the heat and drought of 2023. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Severe weather is expected to impact the southern half of Louisiana for the next several hours. National Weather Service Meteorologist Christopher Bannan says flash flooding is possible this afternoon thru early tomorrow morning for southeast Louisiana…

Cut 3 (12) “…eight inches.”

Bannan says a strong line of storms could be capable of producing some tornadoes, which is why a tornado watch has been issued for southwest Louisiana..

Cut 4 (11) “…strong tornadoes.”

Once the line starts to develop, it will move to the east quickly and out of the Bayou State by early morning.

Bannan says there’s a moderate risk for flash flooding for southeast Louisiana…

Cut 5 (13) “ …potential develops.” 

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This crawfish season is among the most questionable in the Bayou State after the oppressive heat and drought of 2023. LSU AgCenter Crawfish Specialist Todd Fontenot says conditions have made it extremely difficult for the state’s favorite crustacean crop to thrive.

Cut 6 (08) “…this time.” 

Crawfish normally lay eggs in August but the drought dried out those areas where they normally retreat to reproduce.

Fontenot says many crawfish farmers made adjustments, for example, those who rotate from rice to crawfish, he says they irrigated post-harvest.

Cut 7 (11) “…as big as an effect.” 

On the bright side, Fontenot says the mild winter we’ve had so far has improved conditions for crawfish. But he’s quick to point out that for some farmers salinity issues and lack of rice stubble have devastated their mudbug crop.

Cut 8 (08) “…producers.” 

Fontenot says if you’re already craving crawfish, prepare for sticker shock due to the initial lack of supply.

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Eunice Republican Phillip Devillier was elected today as Louisiana’s new Speaker of the House. Devillier was elected to the House in 2015 and his district includes parts of Acadia, Evangeline and St. Landry Parishes. Devillier’s acceptance speech hit on a theme Governor Jeff Landry touched on during his inauguration speech and that’s unity….

Cut 9 (09) “… are coming” 

Devillier says Louisiana faces a lot of challenges and its residents have waited long enough for real change…

Cut 10 (14) “…Louisiana succeeds” 

Senators elected Metairie Republican Cameron Henry as its President. Henry was elected to the state House of Representatives in 2008 and he’s beginning his second term as a state senator…

Cut 11 (05) “…great honor”

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The Saints missed the playoffs despite blowing out Atlanta out 48-17 yesterday to finish with a 9-8 record. There’s a lot of talk about what happened at the end of the game when Jamaal Williams scored a touchdown from one yard out with three seconds left. Coach Dennis Allen didn’t want his team to score again

Cut 12 (10)  “…should be”  

Atlanta Coach Arthur Smith was furious after the game and refused to shake Allen’s hand. Quarterback Jameis Winston says it was a team decision to give Williams the ball so he can finish the year with one touchdown…

Cut 13 (09) “..good about that” 

What can we expect from a Jeff Landry administration? Teiko Foxx reports Lapolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford believes Landry will not wait long to put his stamp on the governor’s office

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The 73rd Louisiana Legislature will be sworn in today. Jeanne Burns reports Republicans have a supermajority in both the House and Senate…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns”

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A new era of state government begins as Republican Jeff Landry officially takes over as governor at noon today. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (45) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana’s 57^th Governor Jeff Landry officially takes over at noon today. Lapolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says Landry has been preparing for this moment since his election in October and will look to get a lot accomplished over the next few months …

Cut 4 (12) “…regular session.”

Alford also expects Landry to have a lot of success with his agenda because of a Republican supermajority in the House and Senate.

Cut 5 (11) “…comfortable with.”

Metairie Republican Cameron Henry is expected to be elected as Senate President today. Eunice Republican Phillip DeVillier is expected to be elected as House Speaker.

A special session looking at how to reduce crime in Louisiana will be held in February and the regular legislative session starts in March. But Alford says Landry can begin signing executive orders this afternoon to put his stamp on the governor’s office…

Cut 6 (12) “…things with.”

The inauguration Ball is still set for tonight.

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A new Louisiana Legislature gets sworn in today. Republicans continue to have a supermajority in the House and Senate, so where does that leave Democrats with a Republican taking over the governor’s office? Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields believes Governor-elect Jeff Landry will listen to the concerns of Democrats…

Cut 7 (12) “…with both parties”

In 2024, state lawmakers will look to address multiple issues. A special session is expected in February to pass laws that attempt to reduce crime. In the three-month-long regular session that begins in March, legislators will address the state’s property insurance crisis and what could be done to lower premiums. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson expects a robust discussion on insurance issues…

Cut 8 (11) “…fix that problem.” 

After electing their legislative leaders this morning, the next order of business for lawmakers will be a special session to redraw the Congressional district map. The courts have ruled that the map should contain two majority-minority districts. Republicans were committed in 2022 to having a map with only one black voting district. Fields believes the GOP-led Legislature will do the right thing this time…

Cut 9 (07)  “…next time.”

Thanks to term limits, several new legislators will be sworn in today. Johnson is impressed with the new crop of state legislators…

Cut 10 (11) “…regular people.”

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Republican Jeff Landry expressed his pride for Louisiana and gave his vision for a better Louisiana during a 32-minute long speech after he was sworn in as the state’s 57th governor. Landry says Louisiana residents seek a government that reflects their values and the public believes the most important voice in a child’s education should be the parents…

Cut 11 (11) “…mothers back.” 

Making Louisiana a safer place to live was a major part of Landry’s campaign. He plans to address it with a special session in February. He says too many families are being ripped apart by outrageous violence…

Cut 12 (10) “…for good.” 

Louisiana’s new governor has a great opportunity to get most of his agenda approved with a Republican controlled legislature and every statewide office is occupied by a Republican. He believes now is the time to make a real difference

Cut 13 (11) “…anymore.”

Landry officially takes office at noon.

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The Saints dominated their biggest rival the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, but they didn’t get the help needed from other teams to make the playoffs. New Orleans defeated the Dirty Birds 48 to 17 to finish the season winning four of its last five. But the 9-and-8 overall record was not good enough. Head Coach Dennis Allen…

Cut 14 (18) “..finish the season.” 

Tampa Bay’s 9-0 win over Carolina prevented the Saints from winning the NFC South. But New Orleans could have still earned a wildcard berth if the Bears beat Packers and the Cardinals defeated the Seahawks. Chicago and Arizona both lost. Safety Tyrann Mathieu says at least they ended the season with a blow out victory…

Cut 15 (15) “…still playing.”

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LSU has a new defensive coordinator. The Tigers announced Blake Baker will take over defensive play-calling duties after two successful seasons as the defensive coordinator at Missouri. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says Baker quickly emerged as the top candidate after the firing of Matt House….

Cut 16 (15) “…and Louisiana” 

Baker was LSU’s linebackers coach in 2021. He was the defensive coordinator at Louisiana Tech from 2015 to 2018. The Houston native is also a former Tulane linebacker. This past season, Baker played a major role in Missouri’s 11-2 season. Mizzou was fourth in the SEC in scoring defense and fifth in total defense. Horne says Baker has a good resume and head coach Brian Kelly needs this hire to work out…

Cut 17 (10) “…banking on” 

Baker replaces House, who was LSU’s defensive coordinator for two seasons. The 2023 Tigers’ defense ranked among the worst in the country. Horne says Baker gets credit for turning around a bad Missouri defense and he’ll try to do the same at LSU…

Cut 18 (21)  “…banking on.” 

Word that mortgage interest rates are decreasing sparks hope the real estate market can rebound this year. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Get ready to consume your favorite carnival treat. King Cake season gets underway on Saturday. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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2023 was not the best year for real estate with rising interest rates after an unprecedented hot market during the height of the pandemic. But Louisiana Realtors CEO Norman Morris believes things will improve with mortgage rates expected to settle in between five and six percent.

Cut 3 (10) “…buyers and sellers.”

Morris says the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage right now is 6.75%.

In addition to interest rates, Morris says the cost of homeowners insurance in the state is also a major hurdle for potential buyers. He says they are working with the legislature and new insurance commissioner to make them more affordable.

Cut 4 (07) “…in 2024.”

Morris says economists predict as we get further into the year, first quarter and beyond, that mortgage rates will stabilize around five percent which will make homes more affordable.

Cut 5 (11) “ …in twenty-four.” 

And with the cost of building materials decreasing, Morris says new construction will only increase the inventory of homes and give consumers more options in the housing market.

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If you are a king cake connoisseur, get ready to find the baby. One of the tastiest seasons in the Bayou State – King cake season kicks off this Saturday. Co-Owner of New Orleans Haydel Bakery David Haydel says they have been quite busy between local sales and shipping out orders nationwide.

Cut 6 (13) “….on Friday.” 

With a shorter carnival season, sales are expected to be much lower compared to last year.

Third-generation baker Haydel says the sweet Mardi Gras tradition comes in many variations when it comes to fillings, but when it comes to the most popular…

Cut 7 (12) “…the tradition.” 

In 2010, Haydel’s Bakery broke two Guinness World Records by creating two giant king cakes that wrapped around the Superdome.

It’s not just folks in the Bayou State who order his tasty king cakes. Haydel says he’s shipped one of the hand braided sweet treat topped with purple, green, and gold sugar to Linda Boogs at the Vatican. And he expects a busy season through the end of Mardi Gras.

Cut 8 (09) “…as hell.” 

To place an order, visit haydelsbakery.com.

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A 15-year-old student from Neville High School in Monroe is dead and five of his classmates injured after their deer camp caught on fire early this morning. The incident happened in Jefferson County, Mississippi and Sheriff James Bailey says his deputies were among the first on scene…

Cut 9 (11) “… burning camp.” 

Bailey says the student who died was 15-years-old. He says the five other teenagers were sent to Mississippi hospitals with burns and cuts from trying to escape.

Cut 10 (11) “..five injuries.”

A cause of the fire has not been determined.

News of the fatal fire got back to Neville High School Friday morning and school was dismissed after the second period. Students were encouraged to gather at the Methodist Church in Monroe to pray for the individuals and families involved. Bailey says their hearts go out to those impacted…

Cut 11 (10) “…classmates”

Social media posts identify the deceased teenager as Tarver Braddock. He was a junior and a defensive back on the Neville football team and an outfielder on the baseball team.

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A new governor and Louisiana Legislature will be sworn in on Monday. Republicans will be in control of both the executive and legislative branches. Council for a Better Louisiana president Barry Erwin on what that means for the first regular session that begins in March…

Cut 12 (12)  “…vetoed.”  

Last year Governor John Bel Edwards vetoed a bill that would have prohibited public schools teachers from discussing gender identity and sexual orientation in front of the entire classroom. He also vetoed legislation that would have required transgender youth to have parental permission for school employees to call them by their preferred names and pronouns.

There was conflict between Governor Edwards and the Republican controlled Legislature. But Erwin expects a better working relationship with Republican Jeff Landry as governor, but it will not be smooth sailing…

Cut 13 (13) “..work together” 

Landry has said he wants to pass legislation to reduce crime, lower property insurance rates and improve public education. But he hasn’t provided a lot of specifics. Erwin says the new governor will back legislation that he knows can get the necessary votes in the Legislature…

Cut  14 (11) “..the Legislature.”

Governor John Bel Edwards’ two terms in office were met with what some deem as victories along with controversies. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (42) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A new state law that went into this week requires health insurance plans to cover fertility preservations for cancer patients or those facing medical treatment that could prevent them from having a child. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (25)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Louisiana’s longest-serving Insurance Commissioner, Jim Donelon, will leave office on Monday. Jeff Palermo has more on the 79-year-old who is retiring from politics…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards’ two terms in office ends Monday, ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says the Democrat from Tangiaphoa Parish constantly battled with a Republican-controlled Legislature. He says the battle started on his first day in office when the House rejected the governor’s choice for House Speaker.

Cut 4 (11) “…predecessor.”

Edwards and the Legislature had to address a two-billion dollar budget deficit in his first year in office. It took a sales tax increase and other budgetary moves to get the state out of the red.

Edwards first executive order was expanding Medicaid coverage to some 400,000 Louisianans. In 2017 Edwards pushed criminal justice reform measures aimed at reducing the state’s prison population and taking the savings to fund programs to cut down on recidivism.

In 2020, the governor had to impose Covid restrictions that many Republicans thought went too far…

Cut 5 (09) “…of course.”

During his eight years, Cross says the Edwards administration navigated multiple natural disasters and civil unrest in 2016 following the Baton Rouge police shooting of Alton Sterling.

Cross says Edwards tenure will be marred most notably by the death of Black motorist Ronald Greene while in State Police custody. He says the governor and State Police were accused of covering up what happened in Union Parish in 2019…

Cut 6 (12) “…the carpet.”

Cross believes Edwards will also be tarnished by the deaths of three toddlers whose endangerment had been reported to the Department of Children and Family Services in 2022, but the state agency didn’t act quick enough. Edwards supported DCFS Secretary Marketa Garner Walters until she resigned.

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A new law requiring Louisiana health insurance providers to pay fertility preservation costs for cancer patients whose treatment could render them sterile went into effect this week. The bill’s author, Baton Rouge Representative Paula Davis says it applies to new health plans and existing health care plans.

Cut 7 (11) “…is completed.”

The new legislation also allows religious organizations to apply for exemptions if they have conflicting beliefs about fertility preservation.

Davis says the mandate doesn’t apply to Medicaid or health insurance plans through the state health care exchange. Coverage for patients who are going through chemotherapy, radiation, and other procedures is limited.

Cut 8 (08) “…own expense.” 

Deductibles, co-payments, and coinsurance may still apply for some patients. Davis says lawmakers heard emotional testimony from female patients who testified in support of the bill…

Cut 9 (12)  “…a family.”

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The state’s longest-serving Insurance Commissioner, Jim Donelon, will leave office on Monday. The 79-year-old from New Orleans has been the state’s insurance commissioner since 2006. Donelon says one of his greatest achievements was an incentive program that resulted in more insurance companies providing homeowners coverage after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita…

Cut 10 (10) “…five years running.”

Donelon leaves office at a time when property insurance premiums are skyrocketing following several consecutive years of destructive hurricanes along the Gulf Coast. He says his final acts as commissioner attempted to stabilize the market again, with another incentive program for insurance providers and a grant program for homeowners to strengthen their roofs…

Cut 11 (12) “…program.” 

When Donelon entered office, the state had some of the most expensive auto insurance rates in the country and it remains a big problem…

Cut 12 (08) “…House Insurance Chairman.” 

Donelon began his career in public office serving on the Jefferson Parish Council. He served in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1982 to 2001 and was appointed deputy Insurance commissioner in 2001.

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As we begin the new year, labor quality is the top concern among small businesses according to the latest National Federation of Independent Business survey. Regional NFIB Director Dawn McVea says unfilled positions continue to plague small businesses.

Cut 13 (12) “…out there.”

Forty percent of members say they were unable to fill positions in the last two months of 2023. McVea says 55 percent of small businesses report they were trying to hire employees in December.

Cut 14 (05) “…want to do.” 

Job openings in the construction industry were up nine points from last month and over half have a job opening they can’t fill. McVea says the highest were in construction and transportation.

Cut 15 (12) “…those sectors.”

Thirty-three percent of owners say they have job openings for skilled workers and 14 percent have openings for unskilled labor.

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The LSU men’s basketball team tips off SEC play tomorrow night in College Station against Texas A&M. The Fighting Tigers went 8-5 in the non-conference. Coach Matt McMahon says despite some struggles he’s seen his team improve…

Cut 16 (17) “…we stand.” 

LSU went a dismal 2-16 in the SEC. McMahon revamped the roster and added a bunch of transfers. He believes he has a better team this year…

Cut 17 (17) “…getting better.” 

LSU and A&M will tip off at 7:30 on Saturday night.

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Louisiana Tech begins Conference USA play on Saturday by taking on Sam Houston. The Bulldogs went 10-5 in the non-conference while the Bearkats are 7-8. Bulldogs Coach Talvin Hester says it’s not easy to win games in Huntsville…

Cut 18 (18)  “…to win.” 

Tip off on Saturday ist 4:30.

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The Saints are a slight favorite to beat Atlanta at home on Sunday. New Orleans needs a win and a Tampa Bay loss to win the NFC South. Quarterback Derek Carr says they will not scoreboard watch…

Cut 19 (20) “…afterward.” 

The Black and Gold can also secure a wild-card berth with a win against the Dirty Birds and victories by the Bears and Cardinals.

The Saints lost to the Falcons in Atlanta during Thanksgiving weekend. The Falcons rushed for 228 yards that day. Safety Tyrann Mathieu on shutting down the Atlanta ground game…

Cut 20 (20) “…run game.”

Governor John Bel Edwards plans to continue his quest to bring more renewable energy sources to the state as an attorney. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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If you’re looking for a healthy eating plan as part of your New Year resolutions, the DASH diet has been ranked number two overall, according to U.S. News and World Report. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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The next chapter in Governor John Bel Edwards’ career will be written at the New Orleans law firm of Fishman Haygood. Senior partner Kerry Miller says Edwards, who was an accomplished attorney before his political career, will mesh well with their firm.

Cut 3 (10) “…throughout the state.”

During his two terms, one of the governor’s environmental goals for the state was to be carbon-neutral by 2050. Miller says Edwards will be able to continue to focus on the economic and environmental benefits of green energy with their firm.

Cut 4 (09) “…of Louisiana.”

As governor, Edwards announced more than $50 billion in renewable energy projects for the Bayou State. And now with the EPA allowing the state to issue permits for carbon capture projects, Miller says Edwards’ expertise on the subject and legal experience is invaluable in bringing more projects to the state.

Cut 5 (11) “ …that knowledge.” 

Miller says Edwards will work out an office in Hammond that will allow him to also spend time with his first grandchild.

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Governor John Bel Edwards touted his accomplishments during a farewell address last night in his hometown of Amite. Edwards says he entered office with a historic budget deficit, but now the state enjoys surpluses that resulted in investments into teacher pay, higher education and roads. He believes the state is better off than it was eight years…

Cut 6 (14) “…Laughter)

Edwards says the state’s unemployment rate is well below the national average and the state’s economy is growing….

Cut 7 (12) “…laughter) 

Edwards will leave office Monday and wishes his successor Jeff Landry the best of luck and he’s rooting for him…

Cut 8 (12) “…will continue” 

Edwards became a grandparent for the first time today as his daughter Samantha Bel gave birth to Rosalie Marie in New Orleans this morning.

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U.S. News and World Report once again ranked the DASH Diet, developed in part by LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center, the second-best diet overall of 2024. Pennington Biomedical Registered Dietician Cathy Champagne says DASH was designed to lower blood pressure and the eating plan includes…

Cut 9 (12) “… dairy products.” 

Dash also came in first for the best heart-healthy diet, third for best diet for diabetes, and eighth for best weight loss. The diet has ranked in the top five overall of the publication for years. Champagnes says the plan has also proven effective in helping those with a history of heart disease.

Cut 10 (13) “..heart association.”

The DASH plan also includes whole grains, poultry, nuts, and fish. But the diet calls for two major changes from the way most people eat – lowering red meat consumption, sweets, and sugars.

Champagne says the DASH diet is a proven plan for healthy eating and they are pleased with its long history.

Cut 11 (10) “…Pennington Center.”

The full diet is available online at Pennington Biomedical Center’s website.

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As of January 1st, State Police must record the demographics of individuals from traffic stops. Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle authored the legislation, and she says it’s important to show troopers are not racially profiling drivers they pull over.

Cut 12 (12)  “…of people.”  

The race, age, and gender of individuals pulled over by state police will then be entered into a database that Marcelle says can be reviewed to see if there are trends of law enforcement targeting any particular group.

Cut 13 (12) “…be available.” 

Since the death of Black motorist Ronald Greene in 2019, State Police have been under the microscope and Marcelle believes the public collection of such data will make the agency more transparent.

Cut  14 (06) “..they’re doing.”

Rick Gallot has started his new job as president of the state’s largest university system. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Governor-elect Landry is being applauded for his choice to head the Department of Natural Resources. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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House Speaker and Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson says there’s a catastrophe at the Southern Border and the Biden administration needs to enact tougher immigration policies. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Former Grambling State President Rick Gallot is on his first week on the job as President of the University of Louisiana System. Gallot says one his top goals is to recruit prospective students to the nine colleges that make up the U-L System…

Cut 4 (09) “…system schools.”

Gallot was offered the job on October 25th but Governor Elect Jeff Landry expressed concerns with the board’s decision to hire Gallot. Later, Landry decided to move forward with the contract.

The Ruston native believes his experience will benefit him as he advocates for resources on behalf of the 90 thousand students.

Cut 5 (12) “…system schools.”

The U-L System is the largest higher education system in Louisiana with nine universities including Grambling, La Tech, McNeese, Nicholls, Northwestern, Southeastern, UL Lafayette, ULM, and UNO.

During Gallot’s tenure at GSU, the university set enrollment records and saw a 200 percent improvement in its fiscal health score. He says he will continue the momentum of moving the system forward

Cut 6 (12) “…already has.”

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Tyler Gray will serve as the next Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources. President of the Louisiana Oil & Gas Association Mike Moncla applauds Gray’s appointment because of his conservation background and experience with the Louisiana Mid-Continent’s Oil and Gas Association.

Cut 7 (06) “…fantastic pick.”

The boon of carbon capture in Louisiana will be among the industries DNR will regulate. Moncla says Gray’s current position on the operations side with Placid Refining Company adds even more knowledge for the oversite of DNR.

Cut 8 (07) “…another plus.” 

Before Gray’s appointment, Moncla says the two even discussed who they thought would be an ideal choice for the position and Moncla encouraged him to apply.

Cut 9 (09)  “…great choice.”

Landry has also appointed Jacques Thibodeaux to serve as Director of the GOHSEP and Susana Schowen as Director of the Louisiana Workforce Commission.

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Governor John Bel Edwards delivered his farewell address last night as he’s set to leave office on Monday after two terms. Edwards says the state is in much better shape than it was eight years ago and the best evidence to support that statement is the state’s finances…

Cut 10 (12) “…two reserve accounts.”

Edwards says improved budgeting practices resulted in teachers receiving more than five thousand dollars in teacher pay raises and historic investments in higher education. The governor says he’s leaving the office with the state’s unemployment rate well below the national average. He says his administration also allocated nearly five-point-five billion dollars to more than 2,00 infrastructure projects.

Edwards says natural disasters from hurricanes to floods to winter storms were huge challenges. He says there was no playbook for handling the COVID pandemic…

Cut 11 (15) “…public health.” 

Edwards delivered his farewell address in his hometown of Amite, where he’ll return as a private citizen. He says it’s been an honor to be Louisiana’s 56th governor…

Cut 12 (12) “…inhabit it” 

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House Speaker and Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson is urging President Biden and Senate Democrats to enforce policies along the U-S Mexico border. Johnson and House Republicans visited the Southern Border on Wednesday and he says the situation is bad…

Cut 13 (10) “…our communities.”

Johnson made the remarks at a press conference in Eagle Pass, Texas. He says the lack of a strong border policy has resulted in lethal drugs pouring into the country and hundreds of terrorists have also entered the U-S.

Johnson believes the President should reinstitute a Trump-era policy of keeping migrants in Mexico until their U-S immigration court date…

Cut 14 (09) “…or more.” 

The Biden Administration is seeking 50-billion dollars in security assistance for Ukraine. But Johnson says House Republicans are not willing to spend that kind of money without a stringent border security policy…

Cut 15 (10) “… (clapping)

The White House has proposed more money to hire Border Patrol agents and asylum officers in an effort to reduce the number of illegal crossings. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says Johnson’s trip to the border was an attempt to score political points. He urges the Congressman to negotiate in a bipartisan way.

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The seventh ranked LSU women’s basketball team tips off SEC play tonight by hosting Missouri. After losing their season opener, the Lady Tigers have won 13 in a row. Mizzou enters the game with a 9-4 record and they are led by Haley Frank, who averages 16 points and seven rebounds a game. LSU Coach Kim Mulkey…

Cut 16 (16) “…the same” 

LSU beat Missouri 77-57 last season, but two years ago in the PMAC, the game went into overtime and the Lady Tigers won 87-85. Tip off is at 8 PM and fans are encouraged to dress like Mulkey and the person who looks the most like Mulkey will win one of the coach’s game worn jackets. Mulkey is not a fan of the promotion…

Cut 17 (21) “…sequins right.” 

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The Ragin Cajuns men’s basketball team looks to extend their home winning streak to 20 games when they host 19th ranked James Madison at the Cajundome tonight. It’s the first nationally ranked team to visit Lafayette since Nevada in 2006. Coach Bob Marlin is glad the game is on their home court…

Cut 18 (13)  “…assure you” 

Marlin’s team is looking to bounce back after losing its Sun Belt Opener to Marshall by 14 points last Saturday…

Cut 19 (15) “…big games” 

The Cajuns shot just 33-percent from the field in the loss to the Thundering Herd.

After a poor season on defense, LSU football coach Brian Kelly has fired his defensive coordinator and three other assistants. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor-Elect Jeff Landry has named the leaders for the Department of Natural Resources, homeland security and workforce commission. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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A major shakeup within the LSU football coaching staff went down today as LSU Coach Brian Kelly fired defensive coordinator Matt House, along with three other assistant coaches. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says  changes had to be made after a historically bad season for LSU on defense…

Cut 3 (11) “…do that.”

Defensive line coach Jimmy Lindsey, safeties coach Kerry Cooks, and cornerbacks coach Robert Steeples were also let go today.

House is fired after two seasons as the defensive coordinator at LSU. He came to LSU with a solid resume. In 2018, House was the defensive coordinator at Kentucky and in 2018 they had one of the best defenses in the country. He was the linebackers coach with the Kansas City Chiefs when they won the Super Bowl during the 2019 season. Horne says House might prefer the NFL game over college

Cut 4 (12) “…hot mess”

Horne expects Kelly to act quickly in hiring their replacements…

Cut 5 (06) “ …having a plan.” 

LSU ranked 105th in the nation in total defense giving up 417 yards a game. LSU also allowed 28 points a contest, third worst in the SEC.

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About 200-thousand people in Louisiana who were on Medicaid lost their health insurance coverage in 2023 as part of the nationwide Medicaid disenrollment process. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana healthcare economist Michael Bertaut (BURR-toe) says if you are without coverage, you have until January 15th to apply for health insurance through Health-Care-dot-gov…

Cut 6 (08) “…into Medicaid”

Bertaut says individuals with an income between 100 and 400-percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for tax credits that can lower your monthly premium for a Marketplace health insurance plan.

Cut 7 (10) “…out of their own pocket.” 

If you’re not familiar with the Medicaid online process, Bertaut suggests calling an agent to answer any questions and to help select the right plan for you.

Cut 8 (12) “…licensed agent.” 

For more information visit healthcare.gov

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If you received a cost of living raise you could find yourself in a higher tax bracket when you file your 2024 taxes. Shreveport CPA Hardy Foreman says even with a raise your expenses have gone up so you’re not necessarily bringing home more bacon…

Cut 9 (12) “…in 2025.” 

He says the federal tax brackets have not been adjusted for inflation in more than four years.

Foreman says for example a married couple with a joint income of more than $94,300 their tax bracket jumps from 22 percent to 24 percent.

Cut 10 (11) “..everything else.”

So, while you’re preparing your 2023 taxes, Foreman says you need to make some smart moves about your 2024 deductions. For example, if you have a small business keep receipts and write off your home office expenses, mileage, wifi, etc.

Cut 11 (12) “…tax bracket.”

For a listing of the tax brackets for 2024 visit LouisianaRadioNetwork.com