A bill to prohibit the use of traffic cameras for speed enforcement by local governments has been filed for the upcoming regular session. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Jeff Landry is expected to sign the bills this week approved in the crime special session, including the legislation that will result in longer prison sentences for car jackers and fentanyl dealers. Jeanne Burns has more..

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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Artificial Intelligence technology continues to advance and a lawmaker concerned about possible misuse has proposed a bill to address it. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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Shreveport Senator Alan Sebaugh has filed legislation to prohibit the installation and use of red light and speed cameras by local governments. The Republican says such devices present a guilty until proven innocent approach..

Cut 4 (10) “…your car.”

Sebaugh says the cameras are also not routinely calibrated, compared to a law enforcement officer’s radar equipment undergoes regular maintenance.

But Sebaugh says the biggest problem with traffic cameras is the money. When individuals pay court costs for a ticket written by law enforcement it goes towards funding public defenders, the DA’s office, clerk of courts, crime lab, and various other entities. Sebaugh says when you pay a camera ticket…

Cut 5 (10) “…the wayside.” 

The shortfall of not collecting court costs from cameras is having to be made up with taxpayer dollars.

As for the argument the cameras encourage safer driving habits, Sebaugh says there’s no evidence to support they do.

Cut 6 (12) “…and safety.”

Sebaugh says he’s gotten positive feedback from lawmakers on Senate Bill 21 and he expects to have the support from law enforcement and district attorneys in Louisiana.

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Stronger penalties are coming for carjackers and drug dealers who package fentanyl so it attracts minors. It’s the result of legislation authored by Metairie Representative Laurie Schlegel and approved in the recently completed crime special session. Schlegel says if a carjacking results in serious injury to the victim, the minimum sentence starts at 20 years…

Cut 7 (10) “…our state.”

Governor Jeff Landry is expected to sign the bill this week. Schlegel says House Bill 7 also requires a minimum of a five-year sentence for a person convicted of carjacking. Right now the minimum penalty is two years…

Cut 8 (08) “… tackle carjacking.” 

Schlegel also authored a bill that calls for a 25 to 99-year prison sentence for a person convicted of designing fentanyl so it looks like candy or packaged in a way that would attract minors…

Cut 9 (11)  “..not acceptable.”

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Some lawmakers are concerned about the possible misuse of A.I. and have proposed a new law to address it. Marrero Senator Patrick Connick says the public needs to be protected from potential misrepresentation the new technology makes possible…

Cut 10 (11) “…person’s consent.”

The bill would also make it a crime to display synthetic media without constantly displaying an obvious notice within the media identifying it as synthetic media. There must also be intent to mislead. Connick says we have the right to protect ourselves from anyone using false information or images…

Cut 11 (10) “…new technology.” 

Synthetic media includes video or voice recordings generated by algorithms that appear to be a record of actual events. Connick says A.I. is not bad in and of itself…

Cut 12 (09) “…not true” 

If passed, those convicted of unlawful distribution of misleading synthetic media could face up to 6 months in jail and/or up to a $750 fine.

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The CDC says you no longer need to isolate for five days if you have COVID. The new guidelines advise you still stay home if you’re sick, but you can return to work or school if you are feeling better and have been fever-free for 24 hours. LSU Health New Orleans Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Fred Lopez says this mirrors other respiratory illnesses like flu and RSV.

Cut 13 (09)  “…as well.”

Lopez points out that the CDC still encourages you to play it safe for five days, especially if those around you at work or school are vulnerable to the virus or have family members who are.

Cut 14 (09) “…distancing.”

Lopez reminds you if you are sick to stay home and that hopefully the pandemic has erased the mindset that you’re considered a better employee or student if you show up sick.

While the new guidelines are welcome news Lopez says COVID still presents a significant threat and remains highly contagious.

Cut 15 (09) “…better phase.”

If you are among the more vulnerable populations, Lopez recommends staying up to date on your booters and along with vaccinations for other respiratory illnesses.

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ULM will face Coastal Carolina tomorrow in a 12 versus 13 matchup. The winner will play the Ragin Cajuns on Thursday. U-L Lafayette ended a three-game losing streak with a 77-61 win over Southern Miss on Friday. Coach Bob Marlin…

Cut 16 (13) “…about it” 

U-L Lafayette is the defending Sun Belt Tournament champions and they played in the title game in 2022. Marlin says previous success at the tourney should pay off this week…

Cut 17 (15) “…can win.” 

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The ninth ranked LSU women’s basketball team completed the regular season on Sunday with a 77-56 win over Kentucky. It was the Lady Tigers eighth straight win. Angel Reese had 22 points and 14 rebounds and she was honored at halftime as LSU conducted its Senior Day ceremony. Reese says it’s been a long four years in college basketball

Cut 18 (18)  “..for tonight” 

LSU also honored Hailey Van Lith on senior day. Van Lith had 15 points. Both Reese and Van Lith have the option to return next season, but are noncommittal….

Cut 19 (18) “…this year.”

Reese didn’t know she would win a national championship when she transferred to LSU, but had a feeling the experience would be great…

Cut 20 (20) “…expectations”

LSU will play Friday in the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament.

Big news for Jefferson Parish, Japanese Chemical Company UBE to construct the first US facility to manufacture key components for electrical vehicle car batteries there. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (26)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Jeff Landry is calling the crime special session a great success, Democrats says it failed to address the root causes of crime. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The first U.S. manufacturing plant for Japanese Chemical Company UBE, which makes components for electric vehicle batteries, will be in Jefferson Parish.  President of Jefferson Parish Economic Development Jerry Bologna says it’s a significant foreign direct investment of $500 million to the community.

Cut 3 (12) “…supply chain.”  

Bologna says the synergy from Cornerstone Energy Park played a vital role in UBE’s decision to choose Jefferson Parish. He says they also liked the logistics the area provides…

Cut 4 (10) “…their capital.” 

The project intends to bolster the domestic battery components supply chain and reduce the current reliance on Asian imports. Bologna says the plant in Jefferson Parish will manufacture key elements for EV batteries.

Cut 5 (12) “…those batteries.”

To secure the project Louisiana offered a competitive incentives package that includes workforce development.

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Iowa women’s basketball player Cailtin Clark is 18 points away from surpassing LSU legend Pete Marvaich’s Division one career scoring record of 3,667 points. Clark could pass Pistol Pete when the Hawkeyes host Ohio State on Sunday. Maravich’ s eldest son, Jaeson Maravich, doesn’t see it as Clark breaking his dad’s record….

Cut 6  (07) “…5,000 points” 

Maravich scored 3,667 points from 1967 to 1970 at LSU, without a three-point line and averaged 44 points a game. Clark is in his fourth season at Iowa and averages 28 points a game. Jaeson Maravich says it’s an apples to oranges comparison….

Cut 7 (09) “…true record”  

Jaeson Maravich is also very complimentary of Caitlin’s game and her style reminds him a lot of his Dad’s…

Cut 8 (07) “…closest” 

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Governor Jeff Landry says the crime special session produced legislation that will make the state safer

Cut 9 (07) “…right direction” 

The Legislature approved measures to expand methods used to carry out executions, lowering the age one can be charged with a felony from 18 to 17 years old, restrictions on parole and probation and permitless conceal carry. Landry says he appreciates the legislators who passed these bills

Cut 10 (11) “…that process.”

But House Democratic Caucus Chairman Matthew Willard says the special session failed to address the root causes of crime. He says the lock them up and throw away the key approach does not work…

Cut 11 (11) “…special session”

Willard says the bills passed will explode Louisiana’s prison population and produce higher costs for taxpayers

Cut 12 (11)  “..costs”  

Governor Jeff Landry is expected to sign these bills next week.

After the body of missing 19-year-old Sheryl Turner of New Iberia was found in Catahoula Parish, authorities say they are following up on multiple leads. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Legislation that would restart executions of death row inmates in Louisiana received final legislative approval after an emotional vote on the Senate floor. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The body of 19-year-old Sheryl Turner of New Iberia was positively identified as the one found on January 24^th in the Ouachita River. She was last seen alive around New Year’s. Catahoula Parish Sheriff Toney Edwards says they are following up on leads which includes Turner’s social media activity and friends.

Cut 3 (09) “…particular area.”  

Turner’s dismembered body was found floating in the Ouachita River by a fisherman approximately three miles north of Jonesville. Edwards says deputies are working with deputies in Iberia Parish and areas in between.

Cut 4 (11) “…incident.” 

Edwards says Turner was last seen by family members and left with a friend headed to north Louisiana at the beginning of the year. He says they are following up on leads as to that person’s identity and multiple law enforcement agencies are assisting in the investigation.

Cut 5 (10) “..work with.”

If you have any information about the case, you are asked to contact the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Department.

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Preliminary estimates show Louisiana’s crawfish crop loss approaches 140 million dollars and Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain has written 2 letters this month to the Secretary of the US Department of Agriculture Tom Vilsack requesting federal assistance under the Emergency Livestock Assistance Program. His second letter sent Wednesday requested expansion or clarification…

Cut 6  (10) “…for crawfish.” 

Last year’s drought was unprecedented and losses to several of Louisiana’s industries reached around one point seven billion dollars. Strain says ELAP needs to expand to help struggling crawfish farmers.

Cut 7 (10) “…main problem.”  

Strain was in Washington D.C. earlier this month and met with Louisiana’s congressional delegation. He discussed the struggles of the crawfish farmers and how slow the season is going. He’s also meeting with state legislators.

Cut 8 (09) “…the drought.” 

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Legislation that would expand the methods Louisiana can use to carry out a death sentence has received final legislative passage. The Louisiana Senate approved the bill that would allow the state to use the electric chair or nitrogen gas to end a death row inmate’s life. New Orleans Senator Royce Duplessis voted against the proposal…

Cut 9 (09) “…simply unacceptable.” 

Religious arguments were also made against the bill. New Orleans Senator Gary Carter says the legislation is unconstitutional because the death penalty is applied in a discriminatory way…

Cut 10 (13) “…against this.”

The last execution in Louisiana was in 2010 as the state can not obtain the drugs needed to carry out a lethal injection. This bill requires that lethal injection records must be sealed. This will give the drug companies who make the chemicals needed for a lethal injection more confidence to supply the necessary drugs.

Turkey Creek Senator Heather Cloud says the death penalty is already legal and this legislation gives the state the tools to resume executions…

Cut 11 (10) “…this vote”

Right before the vote, Port Allen Senator Caleb Kleinpeter recognized the families of victims of death penalty cases who were watching from the Senate Gallery with Governor Jeff Landry…

Cut 12 (05)  “…the victims”  

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Louisiana lawmakers passed a bill that will lengthen the amount a time a first-offense DWI offender must have an ignition interlock device in order to drive. Current law is three months, a bill approved by the House extends it to six months. Covington Representative Mark Wright says the longer time period will help create the habit of not drinking and driving

Cut 13 (09) “..what’s necessary”  

The bill passed the House on 93-to-1 vote. Several lawmakers raised concerns about the installation and maintenance of the interlock ignition device, which Wright estimated was 500-dollars. He says financial assistance is available for low-income individuals…

Cut  14 (08) “..drink or drive.”

Legislation to allow permitless carry in Louisiana is the first bill in the crime special session to receive final legislative approval. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (37)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The piglet that was tossed around like a football after a Mardi Gras parade has a new home and made Louisiana history today. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Louisiana adults who are not felons will soon have the ability to carry a concealed handgun without a permit or training as a result of a bill given final legislative approval by the House today. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson says crime is a major problem and this legislation will give law abiding residents a chance to defend themselves

Cut 3 (09) “…a gun”  

For Louisiana adults to conceal carry, they have to get a permit, which requires training. Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle does not like the idea of thousands of people possessing a gun without adequate training…

Cut 4 (06) “….pull it out” 

New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry expressed concern about numerous individuals possessing a gun in large crowds

Cut 5 (11) “..Bourbon Street”

Johnson says criminals are walking around with concealed guns without a permit, so law abiding citizens should legally have the same opportunity…

Cut 6  (15) “…defend themselves.” 

The House approved the bill on 75-28 vote. Governor Jeff Landry plans to sign it and it will go into effect on July 4th.

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The piglet that was tossed around like a football after a Mardi Gras parade received a full pardon from Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser today and “Earl the Pig Long” has been officially adopted by East Baton Rouge Representative Lauren Ventrella.

Cut 7 (12) “…least of these (clapping).”  

Nungesser thanked the individuals who rescued Earl along with the veterinarians who cared for him. The swine was placed in the care of the Louisiana Humane Society and Nungesser says Earl will now reside at Ventrella’s family farm.

Cut 8 (12) “…in Louisiana.” 

And even though the piglet was assured a cruelty-free remainder of his life, Nungesser and Ventrella hinted at possible career options Earl could entertain.

Cut 9 (09) “…lobbying efforts.” 

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Former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels reportedly met with the Saints at the NFL draft combine. Daniels could be the number two overall pick, but the Saints have the 14th selection in the first round. WWL Radio Saints analyst Mike Detillier says Saints executives like to speak with the top players in the draft…

Cut 10 (11) “…twice a year.”

Daniels is not working out at the combine in Indianapolis. Detillier says that’s not a big deal for a player like Daniels who just won the Heisman Trophy. He says the physical exam and interviews with several NFL teams teams are way more important…

Cut 11 (08) “…for the NFL”

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The Tiger Athletic Foundation is discussing building a new arena on campus that would be designed to hosting sporting events as well as music concerts and other entertainment activities. Lady Tigers basketball coach Kim Mulkey has said in the past it’s time to replace the 52-year-old Maravich Center as a basketball arena…

Cut 12 (11)  “…the ground”  

According to the Advocate newspaper, The Tiger Athletic Foundation has begun soliciting proposals from developers. LSU is also working with East Baton Rouge parish government as the goal is to make this venue a great place for concerts. Mulkey would rather see a new arena just for LSU’s athletic teams…

Cut 13 (11) “..everyday”  

Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple will push for fewer regulations as part of his agenda for the regular legislative session. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Legislation to place a lifetime limit of two terms as governor in Louisiana has been filed for the upcoming regular session. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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More than one in four Louisiana rural hospitals are at risk of closing or having to cut services according to a report from Chartis, a national health care consulting firm. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple is discussing his agenda for the upcoming regular legislative session. Temple says he’ll ask lawmakers to put more state dollars towards the popular fortified roof program, which gives homeowners in south Louisiana ten thousand dollars to strengthen their roofs.

Cut 4 (11) “…stay dry.”

Temple says he also wants to cut down on the number of regulations insurance companies face in Louisiana. He says that’s keeping property insurance providers from doing business in Louisiana. He says he’ll lobby for the end of the three-year rule, which prohibits insurers from dropping a customer they’ve insured for three years…

Cut 5 (05) “…in the state.” 

Temple also wants to give insurance companies more freedom to adjust their rates and he also wants to see new guidelines for the appraisal process in an effort to reduce lawsuits. He says these measures will not immediately lower rates, but it will keep them from spiking…

Cut 6 (08) “…affordability.”

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Legislation to place a lifetime limit of two terms as governor in Louisiana has been filed for the upcoming regular session. Chalmette Republican, Representative Mike Bayham says serving as governor is one of the highest honors any civilian can have in the state.

Cut 7 (07) “…already served?”

In Louisiana, a governor can serve two consecutive terms and then must sit out the next election cycle but can run again in four years. Bayham wants to limit gubernatorial terms to two and no more.

Cut 8 (09) “…for Louisiana?” 

In the 20^th century, he says two governors, Edwin Edwards and Earl Long, served for a combined 25 years. When asked if the legislation is to keep former Governors Bobby Jindal and John Bel Edwards from running again, Bayham says the bill is about changing the political culture and future of Louisiana.

Cut 9 (12)  “…political past.”

If passed by the legislature the change would be added as a constitutional amendment and go before voters in the November general election.

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Rural hospitals across the country are in precarious financial situations and in Louisiana more than one in four are struggling financially, putting them at risk for closure. Tulane Professor of Health Policy and Management Mark Diana says closure isn’t the only risk…

Cut 10 (12) “…communities.”

Chemotherapy is another service disappearing from some rural hospitals.

Diana says rural communities are generally poorer and less healthy and the struggle to keep rural hospitals solvent is a problem all over the US. But he says, Louisiana has taken some steps that may put the state in a better position than other states.

Cut 11 (08) “…expanded Medicaid.” 

Independent rural hospitals are at the highest risk of closing and cutting services, says Diana. He also says those owned by hospital systems may fare better because they benefit from the size of the system.

Cut 12 (11) “…rural hospitals.” 

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State officials are urging residents to be extremely cautious about lighting anything on fire after dry and windy conditions contributed to a record number of wildfires over four days. State Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says from Friday to Monday there were 124 fires in Louisiana.

Cut 13 (07)  “…four-day weekend.”

As a result, Strain says there are burn bans in Beauregard, Morehouse, Union, Washington, and Calcasieu Parishes. Dry vegetation and high winds allowed brush piles that were being burned to quickly get out of control and others who were burning timber.

Cut 14 (09) “…get away from you.”

Strain says if you plan to burn any brush piles anywhere in Louisiana with the current conditions, do not leave them unattended.

Cut 15 (11) “…on fire.”

Because the grass is extremely dry right now, he says it will easily burn and quickly spread. Strain says there have even been cases where vegetation above the waterline in bottomlands caught on fire.

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The 7-0 Louisiana Tech baseball team is in Lake Charles tonight to take on the McNeese Cowboys. It’s the first time since 2017 that the Bulldogs started a season 7-0. Bulldogs infielder Dalton Davis is off to a good start as he has 10 hits, three doubles, one home run and he’s driven in seven runs. Tech Coach Lane Burroughs on Double-D

Cut 16 (16) “…all the time.” 

Tech ranks 11th in the nation in E-R-A. Burroughs gives a lot of credit to pitching coach Cooper Fouts…

Cut 17 (23) “…you quit.” 

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Louisiana Tech men’s basketball goes after its fifth straight win tonight as the Bulldogs visit Western Kentucky. Isaiah Crawford is the Conference USA Player of the Week and is coming off a double-double. Bulldogs Talvin Hester says Crawford is one of the most underrated players in the nation…

Cut 18 (19)  “…every game.” 

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The Ragin Cajuns will try to snap a three-game losing streak tonight when they host Troy. Coach Bob Marlin’s team is coming off a loss to Southern Miss and the Cajuns lost by six to Troy earlier this season.

Cut 19 (19) “…physical game.”

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The third-ranked LSU baseball team is in Houston where they’ll play Rice tonight and then they’ll play three games at Minute Maid Park in Houston. Coach Jay Johnson says the Houston area is very important to the LSU baseball program…

Cut 20 (20) “…show up.”

After several wildfires sparked over the weekend several parishes have begun instituting outdoor burn bans. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The family of Jerome Stevenson have hired nationally renowned civil rights lawyer Ben Crump as they are seeking justice and more information on Stevenson’s in-custody death in Marksville. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Wildfires in the Bayou State increased dramatically over the weekend. Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says some of the fires were a result of burn piles that got out of control or were abandoned.

Cut 3 (10) “…aggressively.”  

Several parishes have already issued their own burn ban. Strain urges people not to do any outdoor burning…

Cut 4 (08) “…massive wildfires.”

Wildfire activity has been reported across the state and in DeRidder alone, Strain says within 10 minutes they had six fires.

Cut 5 (09) “…the parish.”

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Civil rights lawyer Ben Crump was in Avoyelles Parish today as he’s representing Jerome Stevenson. He died while in custody at the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s jail in Marksville last November. An inmate and two correction officers have been charged in his murder. Crump says he will fight for justice for the Stevenson family

Cut 6  (11) “…were fighting” 

The Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office has not released many details about Stevenson’s in custody death. Crump says an autopsy report shows the 26-year-old died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head and stomach…

Cut 7 (13) “…to death”  

37-year-old John Williams of Mansura has been charged with second degree murder. He was an inmate at the jail. Corrections deputies, 60-year-old Byron White and 61-year-old Frank Overbey also face charges. White has been charged with malfeasance in office and Overbey principal to second-degree murder. Crump says the family deserves answers to what happened with Stevenson

Cut 8 (10) “…that yet” 

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51-year-old Leon Ruffin, who’s been in custody for second-degree murder in the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center, escaped from the parking lot of Ochsner Westbank Sunday and drove off in a deputy’s marked car. Sheriff Joe Lopinto says Ruffin was being treated for a seizure and other injuries they believe he was now faking.

Cut 9 (11) “…on her.” 

The stolen unit was later found abandoned in Algiers.

Ruffin was being transported back to the correctional center from the hospital when he escaped. Lopinto says Ruffin pepper-sprayed the deputy to gain control of the car.

Cut 10 (08) “…point and time.”

Lopinto says State Police, NOPD, and the FBI are assisting in the search. He considers Ruffin, armed and dangerous…

Cut 11 (12) “…his custody.”

Ruffin has been in custody since July 2023 for second-degree murder, aggravated assault, a convicted felon with a firearm, and obstruction of justice.

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Legislation that would give non-felon adults the ability to legally carry a concealed handgun without a permit or training continues to sail through the Legislature. The full Senate has already approved New Iberia Senator Blake Miguez’s measure and today it received approval from the House Criminal Justice Committee…

Cut 12 (10)  “…our state”  

Officials from New Orleans oppose. City council president Helena Moreno says New Orleans police officers question individuals when they believe a person may be possessing a gun underneath their clothes. Moreno says it’s a important police tactic used during Mardi Gras and other big events…

Cut 13 (10) “…possible”  

Miguez says his legislation does not change current law, which prohibits guns near a parade route or in bars. He also says there’s evidence his legislation will help deter shootings…

Cut  14 (09) “.took effect”

Louisiana Senate unanimously passed a bill that would require an ignition interlock device to be placed in the vehicle of all drunk driving offenders. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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UL Lafayette Economist Gary Wagner’s latest Louisiana Economic Activity Forecast brings some good news. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Among the bills filed for the regular legislative session is one to amend definitions related to abortion in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Legislation that would require drivers convicted of a DUI to install an ignition locking device in their vehicle unanimously cleared the Senate. Baton Rouge Senator Rick Edmonds says the interlock device will not let the car start unless it knows the driver is sober.

Cut 4 (09) “…your car.”

The bill increases the use of the device to a minimum of six months for first time offenders. In 2021, 299 people were killed in crashes that involved a driver who had been drinking, according to the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission.

Edmonds points out thirty states already have this law on their books. He says it also allows the state to qualify for federal grant money from the National Traffic Safety Administration.

Cut 5 (09) “…having struggles.” 

LHSC report reveals 40 percent of all crashes in the state were alcohol-related.

Edmonds says it’s time to do more to change the negative behavior and help save lives,”. He says it also expands the requirement for multiple DUI offender to have the interlock device on their vehicle for four years.

Cut 6 (09) “…while intoxicated.”

The bill will be discussed in the House this week.

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A little good news from UL Lafayette Economist Gary Wagner’s latest Louisiana Economic Activity Forecast. The state has gained nearly 40,0000 jobs in the last 12 months, the biggest increase in almost 20 years…

Cut 7 (07) “…metro region.”

New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas are responsible for about 62% of the growth.

Wagner says the areas of employment have been broad, mostly in healthcare, and in New Orleans especially, robust growth in hospitality. He says we’re not only seeing growth in the number of Louisiana jobs, but jobs seem to be paying more too…

Cut 8 (08) “…outpacing inflation.” 

Expect more of the same for the next 12 months, says Wagner. He expects the Bayou State will gain another 27,000 jobs but he does mention one concern…

Cut 9 (08)  “…the economy.”

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Among the bills filed for the regular legislative session is one to amend definitions related to abortion. New Orleans Representative Candace Newell says her bill clears up confusion so the removal of a miscarriage would not be considered an abortion.

Cut 10 (09) “…as well.”

The bill also defines that the removal of an ectopic pregnancy is not considered an abortion. Newell says women shouldn’t be forced to carry an ectopic pregnancy because it’s not viable and it can cause their fallopian tubes to burst. As the law reads now she says physicians can face criminal penalties.

Cut 11 (09) “…woman through.” 

Since Roe v Wade was overturned abortions are completely banned except for the case in which a fetus is found non-viable, or the mother’s life is at risk. Newell says the current law is not clear and healthcare providers are fearful of prosecution.

Cut 12 (08) “…our citizens.” 

Under current law whoever commits the crime of abortion shall be imprisoned for no less than a year or more than 10 years and fined no less than $10,000 or more than $100,000.

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Most of Governor Landry’s proposals are halfway through the process as we enter week two of the crime special session. The Louisiana Senate has approved legislation that would allow non-felon adults to conceal carry without a permit. Opponents say the proposed law will make Louisiana a more dangerous state. Landry says 27 other states have this law, including every state around Louisiana…

Cut 13 (11)  “..than us.”

Landry says if concealed carry passes in Louisiana, it does not mean gun owners can possess their gun everywhere…

Cut 14 (07) “…in Louisiana.”

Landry is also backing legislation that will give the state more options to carry out death sentences. The House-approved bill that will be heard in the Senate this week will also take steps to make sure companies that supply lethal injection drugs are not identified. Landry says the state owes it to the victims of death penalty cases to pass this bill..

Cut 15 (10) “..my position.”

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There was no big comeback for the LSU men’s basketball team on Saturday night. The Tigers who rallied from double-digit deficits to beat South Carolina and Kentucky, trailed Mississippi State by seven points at halftime and lost to the Bulldogs 87-67. Jordan Wright says it’s hard to keep coming back from large deficits…

Cut 16 (16) “..you know.” 

Second-chance points were a big stat in this game. Mississippi State had 16 offensive rebounds and had 27 second-chance points to LSU’s ten. Coach Matt McMahon’s team also had 15 turnovers…

Cut 17 (13) “…with that.” 

The Bulldogs also got a big game from Josh Hubbard, who scored a career-high 32 points. The freshman from Madison, Mississippi hit six threes. LSU point guard Trae Hannibal says he didn’t do a good enough job of minimizing Hubbard’s touches…

Cut 18 (18)  “…come Georgia” 

LSU hosts Georgia on Tuesday.

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The LSU Lady Tigers missed 59 shots on Sunday, but guard Haily Van Lith had a hot hand and finished with a season high 26 points as the Lady Tigers defeated Tennessee 75-60. As a team LSU shot 33-percent from the field but Coach Kim Mulkey’s squad held the Volunteers to 31-percent from the field…

Cut 19 (12) “…third shots.”

It was LSU’s third game in three days and Flau’jae Johnson was not feeling well, but still contributed nine ponts and four blocks. Mulkey liked how her team responded after nearly blowing a 12 point halftime lead…

Cut 20 (14) “…make us better.”

LSU is at Georgia on Thursday.

The full House approves legislation that increases the penalties for convicted carjackers. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Louisiana House has approved a measure that expands the methods to carry out a death penalty and also puts penalties in place for releasing information on drugs used for a lethal injection. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Legislation that would lower the age from 18 to 17 at which a person charged with a felony could be charged as an adult successfully cleared the Senate in a 30-9 vote. New Orleans Democratic Senator Royce Duplessis says putting juveniles in adult court and correctional systems is not the answer.

Cut 3 (13) “…these facilities.”  

The bill would Repeal the Raise the Age Act approved in 2017. It’s resulted in many 17 year old offenders being charged as juveniles for crime. West Monroe Republican Senator Jay Morris says having 17-year-olds in the juvenile justice facilities is not working.

Cut 4 (10) “…corrections officer.”

Turkey Creek Senator Heather Cloud says an increase in crime including deadly shootings, home invasions and carjackings was the motivation behind the bill. She says the state has suffered from high crime rate and the current system for juvenile offenders is broken.

Cut 5 (12) “…not working.”

Duplessis points from 2017-2020 the number of under 18 crimes decreased from 6400 to 3700. He says putting juveniles in adult jails isn’t going to solve the problem.

Cut 6  (10) “…begin with.” 

The measure heads to the House for more discussion.

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A bill to double the minimum prison sentence for carjackings receives full passage in the House. Metairie Representative Laurie Schlegel was questioned by New Orleans Democrat Matthew Williard if the state can handle an influx of prisoners with new laws passed in the crime special session.

Cut 7 (12) “…to jail.”  

The bill would raise the minimum prison sentence from two to five years and for carjackings that result in serious injury from 10 to 20 years. Williard asked Schlegel if doubling the sentences would reduce the number of carjackings.

Cut 8 (12) “…our laws.” 

New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry questioned if judges asked for the minimum sentences to be raised and if the bill takes away their discretion. In Schlegel’s bill judges can sentence one five to 20 years for carjacking and 20 to 30 years if bodily injury is involved.

Cut 9 (10) “…we’ll go.” 

The bill passed on an 89-15 vote and heads to a Senate committee for debate.

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Early Literacy Matters ranks Louisiana for its comprehensive literacy policy for kindergarten through third grade students. Department of Education Deputy Superintendent Jenna Chaisson says the state was recognized for implementing a universal reading screener for students having trouble reading.

Cut 10 (13) “…reading plan.”

Education Recovery Scorecard found Louisiana is one of only three states where average reading achievement in 2023 was above levels in 2019.

Chaisson points out the most impactful policy requires kindergarten through third grade teachers and school leaders to undergo a science of reading training. She says getting rid of the three-cuing systems has also provided positive results.

Cut 11 (11) “…been eliminated.”

Chaisson says the state is leading the way with common sense reading reforms including parental notification of students with reading difficulties. She says kindergarten through third grade students are at critical ages when it comes to learning how to read.

Cut 12 (11)  “…later grades.”  

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The Louisiana House has approved legislation that expands the methods the state can carry out an execution. Hammond Representative Nicholas Muscarello’s measure would give the state the option to use the electric chair or nitrogen to end the life of a death row inmate…

Cut 13 (12) “…ultimate decision.”  

The House voted 71 to 29 in favor of the legislation and heads to the Senate for further debate.

Democrats oppose the bill. Marrero Representative Kyle Green filed a bill last year to abolish the death penalty and questions Muscarello about whether the death penalty would actually reduce homicides…

Cut  14 (14) “..that commitment”

Louisiana has not executed anyone since 2010. The state can not get the drugs to perform a lethal injection.

Muscarello’s bill also provides penalties for anyone that would publicize where the state obtained the drugs for an execution….

Cut 15 (10) “…novel concept”

According to The Board of Regents 2023 report, Louisiana’s high school dual enrollment participation increased for a third consecutive year. Teiko Foxx explains…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Governor Jeff Landry has removed a job creation requirement for manufacturers to receive a significant property tax break. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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For the third straight year, the number of Louisiana high school students taking college courses while in high school has increased. More than 32 thousand students enrolled in courses at colleges during 2022-2023, a 13 percent increase over the previous year. Higher Education Commissioner Doctor Kim Hunter Reed says more students and families are seeking early pathways to success.

Cut 3 (09) “…high school.”  

The Board of Regents 2023 report reveals participation in career and technical fields increased to a level exceeding pre-pandemic enrollments.

Nearly 60 percent of high school seniors graduate with early college experience. She says minority student participation has increased over three years by seven percentage points.

Cut 4 (09) “…the board.”

Hunter-Reed says they are committed to dual enrollment opportunities for all students. She points out a virtual instruction program is accessible to students in underpopulated parts of the state.

Cut 5 (07) “…larger school.”

To access more information on dual enrollment for high school students, visit Ladualenrollment.com.

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LSU men’s basketball took down another Top 25-ranked team last night as the Tigers rallied from 15 points down in the second half to beat 17th-ranked Kentucky 75-74 on a buzzer-beating shot by Tyrell Ward. Coach Matt McMahon says it’s a great character win…

Cut 6  (12) “…get it done.” 

McMahon says taking better care of the basketball led to the second half rally…

Cut 7 (13) “…three times.”  

Ward scored the winning bucket on a tip-in as he took a pass from Jordan Wright who was falling out of bounds along the baseline. McMahon says it was an amazing ending

Cut 8 (10) “…buzzer.” 

LSU is now 6-7 in the SEC after back-to-back wins over nationally ranked South Carolina and Kentucky.

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Governor Jeff Landry signs an executive order that keeps a big property tax break in place for manufacturers, but it removes the job creation requirement that was added during the Edwards’ administration. Landry says the job creation requirement only created bureaucratic red tape

Cut 9 (05) “…into Louisiana.” 

But the faith-based group, Together Louisiana, says the change to the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption Program is just a gift for corporations. They say local governments will lose millions in tax revenue for a tax break that will not lead to more jobs. But Landry says removing the job requirement is about capital investment…

Cut 10 (08) “…retaining jobs.”

Landry is keeping a change made by former Governor John Bel Edwards that businesses have to pay at least 20-percent of the taxes owed for the first ten years and then 100-percent after ten years. The current governor says the tax exemption only needs approval from one government entity in a parish, instead of multiple…

Cut 11 (10) “…in Louisiana”

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There are three bills sponsored by Kenner Republican Debbie Villio that will gut the 2017 Justice Reinvestment Initiatives and drastically reduce a prisoner’s opportunity for early release. In House Criminal Justice, Villio advocated for House Bill 9 that eliminates parole eligibility for crimes committed after August 1^st of this year.

Cut 12 (13)  “…a difference.”  

Former Gretna Representative Joe Marino attended the House Criminal Justice Committee hearing on the bill to speak against it. He says the 2017 reforms are beginning to work but the main hurdle is that prisoners in parish jails are not provided rehabilitative services to reduce recidivism. He says eliminating parole and forcing prisoners to serve 85% of their sentence…

Cut 13 (13) “…to want.”  

Marino says there’s proven that data showing rehab programs work and that severely limiting one’s opportunity for parole doesn’t….

Cut  14 (14) “..the smartest.”

The bill passed in committee on a 9-5 vote and heads to the House floor.

For the first time in the company’s history, Entergy Louisiana has reached a new milestone in its commitment to using sustainable energy solutions. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Legislation that would allow prosecutors to charge 17-year-olds accused of a felony as an adult is receiving support from state senators. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Entergy Louisiana announces its renewable power is exceeding coal in energy production for the first time. Director of Resource Planning Laura Beauchamp says this is a significant milestone for the company.

Cut 3 (12) “…five years.”  

Data from the company’s 2023 power generation report shows renewable energy production totaled one point one million megawatt hours. Beauchamp points out solar energy reduces carbon emissions and offers many benefits.

Cut 4 (13) “…in Louisiana.”

Beauchamp says the company has approximately 230 megawatts of renewable resources including the Capital Region Solar facility, which began delivering power to the grid in October 2020. She says they’re proud to transition towards cleaner energy sources while delivering reliable and affordable power.

Cut 5 (10) “…in Louisiana.”

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A bill that would Repeal the Age Act that went into effect in 2019 is making its way through the legislative process. The legislation approved in 2017 raised the age to 18 at which a person charged with a felony can be charged as a adult. But lawmakers want to lower the age back down to 17. It has the support of prosecutors. Avoyelles Parish District Attorney Charles Riddle

Cut 6  (08) “…for that” 

Current law does allow prosecutors to charge a 17-year-old as an adult in cases when a violent crime is committed. But 17-year-olds who commit lesser crimes go through the juvenile justice system. But University of Louisiana at Lafayette professor Matthew Green says existing law should stay in place…

Cut 7 (10) “…state”  

But state lawmakers are hearing from law enforcement and prosecutors that crimes involving 17-year-olds is on the rise. Lake Charles Senator Jeremy Stine says having 17-year-olds in the juvenile justice system is not working…

Cut 8 (11) “…ridiculous” 

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Lawmakers debated the privacy portion of a bill to protect the names and drug manufacturers involved in the executions of death row inmates. In House Governmental Affairs, Mandeville Representative Christopher Kim Carver asked Hammond Representative Nick Muscarello about his legislation.

Cut 9 (12) “…novel content.” 

New Orleans Democrat Candace Newell fears protecting the identities of those involved with an execution goes against “truth and transparency,” however she also believes those who are merely doing their jobs should not be threatened.

Cut 10 (14) “…not going to do that.”

The bill would allow for criminal and civil penalties against those who reveal the identities of those involved with an execution. New Orleans Democrat Rep. Delisha Boyd reiterated a goal for truth and transparency in government and made the point that bullies should be held liable for their actions.

Cut 11 (10) “…as well.”

The bill passed in House Criminal Justice Tuesday and passed favorably in House Governmental Affairs on a 12-5 vote today and advances to the House Floor.