Senator Bill Cassidy is urging Louisianans with passport issues to reach out to his office. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

______________________________________

The DOTD announces tolls will be needed to fund a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge in Lake Charles and  the Louisiana Motor Transport Association opposes the use of tolls. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

Despite claims of hiring more staff and authorizing overtime, the State Department is still behind in issuing passports. US Senator Bill Cassidy says his office has received numerous calls from Louisiana residents who’ve missed vacations despite applying in advance and paying extra fees to expedite the process.

Cut 3 (06) “…situation.” 

Cassidy says his office in Baton Rouge has been successful in helping individuals with the passport process and he encourages Louisianans to contact his local office if they are having difficulty.

Cut 4 (07)  “…resolve this.” 

The State Department reportedly receives 400,000 applications a week and says the delays are a result of the pandemic and renewed interest in international travel. Cassidy says several families and individuals have been forced to forgo their travel because their passports did not arrive in time and the results are costly.

Cut 5 (07)  “…go on.”

Cassidy urges those with passport issues to call his office in Baton Rouge at 225-929-7711.

__________________________________________________

The Louisiana Motor Transport Association strongly opposes the state department of transportation’s proposal to use tolls to fund a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. DOTD says the new bridge will cost $2.1 billion and there’s only 800-million dollars in state and federal funds available, but L-M-T-A Director Renee Amar says legislators can do more…

Cut 6 (11)  “to fund it” 

Amar says existing gasoline taxes are meant to fund DOTD projects, and nowhere else on I-10 from Florida to California is the interstate tolled. She says discussions of the project began years ago with an $800 million budget. The project now has a price tag of over two billion dollars. Amar says the bridge does not have to be that expensive…

Cut 7 (07)  “…much smaller” 

DOTD says its entering negotiations with Calcasieu Bridge Partners, who will manage and oversee construction, maintenance and operations of the new bridge. The state says the new bridge will be lower than the existing one, with more lanes, full shoulders and have roadway lighting.

The Joint Transportation Committee is scheduled to meet in the coming weeks to review and approve the project. Amar says this committee can stop the toll from being implemented…

Cut 8 (12)  “…vote it down” 

_______________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards spoke before the U-S Senate Budget committee today to discuss the financial impacts of climate change on infrastructure. Edwards says the state’s coastal master plan seeks to reduce damage from rising sea levels, coastal land loss and weather events…

Cut 9 (13)  “….today”

Edwards says the 14 billion dollars spent on improved levees in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina is an example of how significant government investment can prevent damage to homes and businesses.  He says the levees held up well to Hurricane Ida in 2021. He says more flood control projects like this are needed…

Cut 10 (11)  “…over time.”

Edwards used his appearance before the Senate Budget Committee to push for the passage of the RISEE Act.  The governor says the legislation would result in the state receiving more federal dollars for energy production that takes place in federal waters off of Louisiana’s coast. He says currently the state is not receiving a fair share

Cut 11 (10)  “…Port Fourchon.”

Researchers from LSU and other universities, along with weather-related agencies are compiling data that could result in a longer hurricane season. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (32)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

The announcement of tolls to help pay for the construction of the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge is disappointing for local leaders. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

If your house was damaged by hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 or the May 2021 severe storms, August 1st is the deadline to complete a survey in order to be considered for financial assistance. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

________________________________________________

Hurricane season is officially June first through November 30^th but Louisiana State Climatologist Barry Keim, along with a group of researchers are finding that the season tends to last longer, kicking off earlier and ending later. He says over the last nine years, ten preseason storms have formed.

Cut 4 (10)  “…indeed occur.”

The million-dollar question Keim says is whether the season is longer because of climate change or whether technology has advanced so that meteorologists are able to detect storms better than in the past.

Cut 5 (11)   “…hurricane season.”

Researchers from LSU, the University of New Hampshire, and Colorado State University are among those participating in the study. Keim says they have great hurricane season records from 1970 on due to the implementation of satellites. Prior to the 70s, the records are less accurate because planes were used to compile storm data.

Cut 6 (06)  “… uncertainty.”

Keim says it makes sense to begin hurricane season before June first so residents and emergency officials prepare before June.

________________________________________________

On the heels of the announcement that the I-10 river bridge project will be partially funded by tolls, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury President Chris Landry says he and others are disappointed motorists will have to pay part of the tab. He says there’s no doubt whatsoever that the bridge is needed….

Cut 7 (11) “…the country.”

The project is estimated to have a two-point-one-billion-dollar price tag and $800 million of the project will be funded through various government sources. Landry says the estimated tolls range from $2.50 per auto to $12.50 for a large truck with a toll tag, and without a tag $3.75 per car and almost $19 for a semi.

Cut 8 (07) “…up there.”

Because I-10 goes from one end of the country to the other, Landry believes more federal funds should go towards the project. State Transportation receives funding for roads in bridges via the state gas tax, which Landry believes is not enough.

Cut 9 (05)  “…be fixed.”

The tolls would be in effect for 50 years until the project is paid off.

____________________________________________

After a law enforcement career of almost 40 years, Ouachita Parish Sheriff Jay Russell announced his retirement effective June 30, 2024. During his time as Sheriff, Russell oversaw numerous upgrades and improvements including the creation of the North Delta Regional training academy which trains officers from over 12 parishes, but Russell says…

Cut 10 (10) “…this department.”

Russell began his career with the OPSO at the Ouachita Correctional Center, served with two police departments, four years as Chief Deputy, and was sworn in as sheriff in July of 2012. Russell says everything he did was in service of his community…

Cut 11 (10)  “…for that.”

Although Sherriff Russell will not officially retire until 2024, he will not seek re-election in the October primary. Russell endorsed his Chief Deputy Marc Mashaw as his replacement. Marshaw has spent the last 11 years as Chief Deputy and Russell says has all the experience needed to be Sherriff of Ouachita Parish…

Cut 12 (09)   “…point in time.” 

______________________________________________________

Homeowners impacted by hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 or severe storms in May of 2021 have until next Tuesday, August 1st, to fill out a survey in order to be considered for grant dollars to pay for home repairs, reconstruction, or reimbursement of completed repairs. Office of Community Development Director Pat Forbes says the survey can be completed at restore.la.gov…

Cut 13 (11) “…help you.” 

Forbes says more than 33-thousand homeowners have completed the survey, but they know there are many more who were impacted by 2020 and 2021 hurricanes that have not completed it

Cut 14 (07)  “…yet.” 

The Restore Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Program launched in February 2022 and so far the program has offered 266 million dollars in funding to 33 hundred eligible homeowners. Forbes says many of the eligible homeowners need money for a new roof. He says others need a new house built outside of the floodplain

Cut 15 (12)  “…from the storm.”

Residents can also call 1-866-735-2001 from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, if they need assistance to fill out the form.

______________________________________________________________________

The Saints will have their first practice of training camp today. New Orleans are the favorites to win the NFC South after struggling the last two seasons following the retirement of Drew Brees. Longtime Saints GM Mickey Loomis says the feeling was always that the team may have to rebuild after Brees’s departure but with a talented roster, the front office went a different route…

Cut 16 (17) “…in front of us.”

One group to watch this offseason will be the running backs with free agent signing Jamaal Williams and third-round pick Kendre Miller joining Alvin Kamara this offseason. Kamara’s availability for this season is uncertain as he waits for an NFL ruling after resolving battery charges stemming from an altercation in a Las Vegas club. Loomis says the team still hasn’t heard anything and the decision could come at any time…

Cut 17 (18) “…as you’d like.”

The NFL’s conduct policy and suspension lengths have been wildly inconsistent, but many believe Kamara will face up to a six-game suspension.

______________________________________________________________________

The Sun Belt held its football media day at the New Orleans Sheraton yesterday. UL-Lafayette was picked to finish third in the Sun Belt West under second-year Head Coach Michael Desormeaux. The Cajuns also had one first-team All-conference selection in tight end Neal Johnson who Desormeaux says will be important to this team…

Cut 18 (19) “…be huge.” 

ULM was picked to finish last in the division after going 4-and-8 last season. Third-year Head Coach Terry Bowden though says he and his team’s goal is not just to have his first winning season in Monroe, but to compete for the Sun Belt title. Bowden says football doesn’t change…

Cut 19 (14) “…football games.” 

______________________________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech was voted to finish 4^th in a new-look nine-team Conference-USA. The Bulldogs and second-year Coach Sonny Cumbie will rely on a high-powered offense featuring many returning starters including 4 of 5 offensive linemen. Expected starter, Boise St quarterback Hank Bachmeier is 20-and-9 as a starter and has impressed since arriving in Ruston…

Cut 20 (15)  “…our offense”  

The Louisiana Pardon Board did not act on the clemency applications from 56 death row inmates at its Monday meeting. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

______________________________________

The state department of transportation announces toll rates for the new I-10 Lake Charles bridge. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

The Louisiana Pardon Board took no action during its meeting yesterday on 56 clemency applications from prisoners sitting on death row. Most of the clemency petitions were submitted last month and Louisiana District Attorneys Association director Loren Lampert is glad the board is taking its time

Cut 3 (11) “…own rules” 

Director of the Pardon Board, Francis Abbott, says the clemency petitions are the most scrutinized their office has ever processed. Abbott says they are keeping the concerned parties updated on their progress.

Earlier this year, Governor John Bel Edwards said he opposes the death penalty, which has led to nearly every death row inmate seeking a lesser punishment from the death penalty to a life sentence. Lampert is concerned about rushing these petitions through…

Cut 4 (10)  “…railroad” 

An attorney for the Capital Appeals Project says the district attorneys and Attorney General Jeff Landry are politicizing the process and attempting to circumvent the Board’s rules to prevent the Board taking a hard look at Louisiana’s broken death penalty system. But Lampert says prosecutors need time to review these cases and present a defense on why clemency should not be granted..

Cut 5 (12)  “…is paramount”

__________________________________________________

A major development today in the plan to build a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. The state has announced its entered negotiations with Calcasieu Bridge Partners who will manage and oversee construction, maintenance and operations of the the two-point-one billion dollar bridge. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says 800-million dollars will come from federal and state governments….

Cut 6 (10)  “tolling” 

Local officials have been pushing for a new I-10 Lake Charles bridge and hoping tolls would not be needed. But Mallett says area residents who get a toll tag could cross the bridge for less than a dollar once the bridge is open…

Cut 7 (09)  “…for large trucks” 

Passenger vehicles from outside of southwest Louisiana would pay 2.50 to 3.75 cents once the new bridge opens.

The current Calcasieu River Bridge was constructed in 1952 and traffic projections show daily volumes in excess of 110-thousand vehicles per day by 2042. Mallett says the new bridge will not be as steep as the current one, have more lanes, full shoulders and roadway lighting…

Cut 8 (07)  “…we get” 

Construction could start as early as next year and take about seven years to complete.

_______________________________________________

A 17-year-old is dead, and a 15-year-old is being treated for injuries after the two were fleeing Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s deputies when they attempted a traffic stop around 3 AM this morning. Chief Deputy Stitch Guillory says the car the teens were in had no lights on

Cut 9 (12)  “…the scene.”

The 15-year-old is being treated at a hospital with non-life-threatening issues. Guillory says they found possible burglary tools and stolen items inside the vehicle.

Cut 10 (09)  “…anything good.”

Deputies initially attempted to stop the vehicle at the intersection of Broad Street and Highway 14. The crash happened at a gas station less than half a mile away on Broad Street. The investigation reveals that the car the juveniles were in was stolen.

The case remains under investigation and Guillory says the 15-year-old passenger could be charged with possession of stolen items once he’s released from the hospital.

Cut 11 (11)  “…our community.”

Lake Charles Police will oversee the investigation of the crash because it happened within their jurisdiction.

________________________________________________________

The Saints kicked off training camp today with two veteran additions. New Orleans welcomed back 2010 third round pick Jimmy Graham. Graham spent 5 seasons in black and gold putting up almost 5,000 yards and 51 touchdowns. The 36 year old tight end hasn’t played football since 2021 but head coach Dennis Allen says he’s in great shape and a veteran presence in the tight end room…

Cut 12 (11) “…that room.” 

New Orleans also added 5-time Pro Bowl guard Trai Turner. Turner graduated from St. Augustine High School in New Orleans and was a standout at LSU. The 30 year old has spent nine seasons in the NFL, most of which were with the Carolina Panthers where Allen says he caused problems for his defense…

Cut 13 (14) “…our team.”

One of the biggest storylines of camp will be who wins the starting outside corner spot alongside Marshon Lattimore. 2021 third round pick Paulson Adebo and 2022 second rounder Alontae Taylor started 12 and nine games last season respectively. Both young talents have shown they have what it takes to win the job, and Allen believes the cornerback room is one of the deepest on the roster…

Cut  14 (12)  “…a lot of others.”

Louisiana has been surpassed for the highest average combined state and local sales tax according to Vice President of State Projects with the Tax Foundation Jared Walczak. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick” 

______________________________________

A survey conducted by a Louisiana pollster matches what other polls have shown, former President Donald Trump is the front-runner to receive the GOP nomination in the 2024 presidential race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

The Tax Foundation’s midyear report shows Louisiana has fallen from its spot as the highest average combined state and local sales tax rate. The state’s 9.547 percent average comes in just one-one-thousandth of a percent behind Tennessee’s. Vice President of State Projects with the Tax Foundation Jared Walczak says the two states have been neck and neck since Louisiana’s 2018 sales tax cut…

Cut 3 (09) “…local rate” 

The Bayou state is expected to see its first sales tax cut since 2018 as a temporary 0.45% portion of the state sales tax is set to expire in July of 2025. Louisan currently ranks 37^th in the nation with a 4.45% sales tax. Walczak says the reduction will be significant but not enough to bring Louisiana out of the top 5 combined averages in the nation…

Cut 4 (11)  “…real difference” 

Walczak commended legislators’ recent efforts to modernize the states antiquated tax system. Louisiana’s complex local sales tax collection system is a nightmare for businesses to navigate and while he says it may be better for the economy than some alternatives, rates are still too high…

Cut 5 (12)  “…should be.”

__________________________________________________

A Louisiana pollster conducted a nationwide survey that finds that if the Republican Presidential primary was held today, 53-percent  say they would vote former President Donald Trump. Trump beat out nine other candidates listed in the poll of 11-hundred Republican voters. John Couvillon of JMC Analytics conducted the poll…

Cut 6 (11)  “this point” 

Fourteen Republican candidates have announced they are running for the party’s presidential nomination next year. Couvillon says in order for one of these candidates to gain ground on the former president, they need to have a break out moment in one of the debates…

Cut 7 (10)  “…look weak” 

Couvillon says Trump getting indicted on multiple charges in two separate federal cases is not hurting his popularity among Republicans. And he says the large field of Republican presidential hopefuls is helping the former President’s 2024 campaign…

Cut 8 (08)  “…anti-Trump vote.” 

Trump will be in Metairie tomorrow for a fundraiser.

_______________________________________________

So far this year, there have only been six boating fatalities on state waterways, that’s compared to 29 deaths in 2022. Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries spokesperson Adam Einck says it’s a significant drop from last year.

Cut 9 (11)  “…last year.”

Einck encourages everyone to take LDWF’s free boating education course. He says they are required for anyone born after January 1, 1984. And before you undock, he says it’s vital that you have a sober driver at the helm.

Cut 10 (08)  “…not impaired.”

And he also reminds you to make sure there are enough lifejackets for everyone on the vessel.

Einck says in the 18 years that he’s been with LDWF last year was among the worst for boating fatalities in the state.

Cut 11 (10)  “…numbers off.”

Visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ website for their free boating education course.

The state Office of Motor Vehicles is offering residents free identity theft protection due to the hack that compromised data for anyone with a state-issued driver’s license or ID. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 1 (29)  “Michelle Southern reporting”

_______________________________________________

The Louisiana Workforce Commission says the state set a record for the number of people who were employed for the month of June. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

_______________________________________________

State Senator Mike Fesi responds to the expletive-filled voicemail left by an LSU grad student over the lawmaker’s vote to ban certain medical procedures for transgender minors. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (29)  “Michelle Southern reporting”

________________________________________________

The restoration efforts of three heavily eroded islands along Louisiana’s coast are providing habitat for the state’s brown pelicans. Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Biologist Todd Baker says the islands serve as a nesting ground but attracting more birds was the objective…

Cut 4 (11)  “…more birds.”

The sites of restoration Rabbit Island off the southwest coast and North Breton and Queen Bess Islands off the southeast coast are the sites of the restoration projects. Funds from the BP Settlement were used to complete the island restoration projects. Baker says the North Breton project expanded by nearly 150 acres of new land…

Cut 5 (11)   “…very strongly.”

LDWF Project Manager Katie Freer says the goal is to make the habitat last for 20 years. She says islands have withstood the 2021 and 2022 hurricanes…

Cut 6 (11)  “…recover itself.”

________________________________________________

The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics says the number of seasonally adjusted employed individuals increased by 20 thousand from June 2022 to this past June. Chief Economist at the Louisiana Workforce Commission Emily DiPalma says there were 2,037,445 people working in this state last month…

Cut 7 (10) “…in Louisiana”

DiPalma says the Baton Rouge area has gained the most jobs over the last year, nearly 19-thousand. New Orleans has added 13-thousand jobs, Lafayette almost four-thousand and Shreveport 33-hundred. DiPalma says they are encouraged to see the Lake Charles area has added nearly three-thousand jobs. She says it’s a sign of recovery for southwest Louisiana…

Cut 8 (12) “…slower’”

DiPalma says if you are looking for work, there are over 12-thousand job openings on their HiRE website…

Cut 9 (10)  “…as well”

____________________________________________

State Senator Mike Fesi (Fay-Zee) responds to being cussed out on a threatening voicemail left by an LSU professor enraged the Republican from Houma voted to bring back a ban on gender-altering procedures for minors. Fesi says it’s a shame some people would go to such lengths..:

Cut 10 (09) “for sure”

Police were quickly able to track the call back to Marcus Venable who has now been banned from teaching at LSU. In the profanity-laced message, Venable indicated he can’t wait to see Fesi’s name in an obituary which is why the lawmaker involved law enforcement:

Cut 11 (07)  “if anything”

Fesi said they found posts about Venable on the RateMyProfessor page in which anonymous reviews claimed the teacher pushed his ideology on students and cursed at them in class. As to whether criminal charges would be brought, Fesi says he just hopes a lesson was learned…:

Cut 12 (11)    “to disagree” 

______________________________________________________

The NFL season is just around the corner as the Saints begin training camp Tuesday. The last two years have been disappointing for the black and gold as they struggle with coaching and quarterback changes. Nola.com’s Luke Johnson says the Saints have been historically unlucky with injuries, starting a record 58 players in 2021 and 49 last year…

Cut 13 (13) “…win the division” 

With Tom Brady’s retirement, the Saints are the favorites to win the NFC South this year, but with Carolina and Atlanta improving over the offseason it’s no sure thing. One of the many question marks for New Orleans will be its defensive line. With the departure of Marcus Davenport, David Onyemata, and Shy Tuttle, Johnson says New Orleans will rely on contributions from new additions…

Cut 14 (12)  “.marks there” 

New Orleans biggest change this offseason was of course new signal caller Derek Carr. Carr, who spent nine seasons with the Raiders, has had ups and downs in the NFL. He’s passed for over 4,000 yards 4 times, but has a losing record as a starter and has yet to win a playoff game. Johnson says much of the Saints success will hinge on his performance…

Cut 15 (15)  “…this year”

A state senator receives a profanity laced voicemail after voting to override the governor’s veto on a bill to ban sex altering medical procedures on minors. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 1 (36)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

______________________________________

It’s been one year since the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline changed its number to 9-8-8 and the Louisiana Department of Health says call volume has increased by 11 percent. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx”  

______________________________________

State Police is investigating a profanity laced voicemail left on the phone of Houma Senator Michael Fesi. Fesi voted in favor of the override of the governor’s veto of a bill that bans sex altering medical procedures on minors. Authorities say the man who left the voice mail is LSU grad student Marcus Venable

Cut 3 (10) “…already suffering” 

Fesi said on the Senate floor prior to Tuesday’s override vote that there are adults who regret having undergone sex altering procedures as minors. But Venable said in his angry message to Fesi that he doesn’t have his facts straight…

Cut 4 (12)  “…get this care” 

Venable ended his nearly one minute long verbal tirade by wishing that Fesi has an awful day and an untimely death…

Cut 5 (10)  “…the ground.”

Venable also taught a class at LSU as a grad assistant. The university says Venable crossed the line with his voicemail and will no longer be able to teach at the university, but can continue his studies.

__________________________________________________

Mental health officials are celebrating the one anniversary of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. State Suicide Prevention Coordinator Dr. Robyn Thomas says since launching 9-8-8, call volume has increased by 11 percent and they’ve increased the number of counselors from Louisiana

Cut 6 (11)  “Louisianans face.” 

The in-state answer rate rose from 64 percent in June 2022 to 91 percent over the last year. Thomas says the previous seven-digit number was shortened to easy-to-remember 988.

Cut 7 (11)  “…for them” 

OBH launched an awareness campaign in May that included a 988 dashboard. The lifeline offers specialized support to veterans and their families, Spanish speakers, LGBTQ+ youth, and deaf and hard-of-hearing people. Thomas encourages anyone who is experiencing a crisis to call the 988 lifeline.

Cut 8 (11)  “…crisis worker.” 

Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org to receive support during a crisis.

_______________________________________________

The price of gas has increased by about 5 cents since just last week to a statewide average of $3.18 a gallon for regular gasoline. AAA fuel analyst Don Redman says demand for gasoline has decreased about 10% since the Fourth of July, but prices are rising despite the fall…

Cut 9 (12)  “…on production.”

Oil prices saw a recent jump as models hinted at the possibility of a tropical development in the gulf. As peak hurricane season approaches, Redman warned how developments in the tropics can cause oil prices to rise…

Cut 10 (08)  “…to increase.”

Redman says prices at the pump will typically stay down before a storm as companies absorb the price increase, but they can stay high for extended time after a storm as stations look to recoup their losses. He advises Louisiana residents to remain prepared for emergency situations…

Cut 11 (10)  “…evacuation.”

________________________________________________________

The media at SEC Media Days has picked Alabama to win the SEC West in a close vote over LSU, who is picked to finish second. But Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne believes the Tigers should be the preseason favorites to win the West…

Cut 12 (08) “…none of that.” 

LSU will travel to Tuscaloosa this season to take on the Crimson Tide on November 4th. Horne says LSU has shown they can win at Alabama…

Cut 13 (09) “…in Tiger Stadium.”

LSU Quarterback Jayden Daniels is a first team All SEC selection. Horne says he can’t argue against that selection…

Cut  14 (09)  “.Jayden Daniels”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says progress is being made in reducing the number of policyholders who have to rely on Citizens for their homeowners insurance. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

_______________________________________________

The federal government has issued a notice that up to 300 thousand acres will be auctioned in the first-ever offshore wind lease sale in the Gulf of Mexico on August 29th. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

_______________________________________________

State Representative Tanner Magee is not running for re-election. He says the toxic stew at the capitol is a major reason why he’s getting out. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”

________________________________________________

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announces companies that took advantage of the newly funded Insure Louisiana Incentive Program have written over 17 thousand homeowner insurance policies as of May 31^st.  Donelon says the program is working to reduce the number of Citizens policyholders, which is much more expensive than private insurance.

Cut 4 (08)  “…in need.”

The top five parishes for new policies are Jefferson, Orleans, St. Tammany, Terrebonne, and St. Charles. Donelon says SafePoint Insurance has been approved to take nearly 20 thousand policies out of Louisiana Citizens during the upcoming round of depopulation.

Cut 5 (11)   “…first year.”

Donelon says getting policyholders out of Citizens is vital to the state’s economic recovery. He urges all Citizens policyholders to contact their agents to be notified if they have an opportunity to leave Citizens…

Cut 6 (11)  “…of Citizens.”

________________________________________________

The federal government announces the first ever Gulf of Mexico offshore wind lease sale, opening sites off the coasts of Lake Charles and Galveston, Texas. About 300-thousand acres will be auctioned off on August 29th. Director of Future Energy at Greater New Orleans Inc. Lacey McManus says this moment has been eagerly anticipated and officially makes the state a hub for offshore wind activity.

Cut 7 (08) “…into place.”

More than 102 thousand acres offshore from Lake Charles and two areas of about 100 thousand acres each near Galveston are under consideration. McManus says some of the world’s largest wind energy developers have already expressed interest.

Cut 8 (11) “…the country.’”

Several stipulations have been added on potential holders including agreeing to support workforce training programs. McManus says building wind farms may be a way off but Louisiana workers are ready.

Cut 9 (09)  “…do this.”

The areas could turn wind energy into nearly 4 gigawatts of electricity each year. A sale notice can be found in the Federal Register.

____________________________________________

Attorney General Jeff Landry has issued a legal opinion that advises the Louisiana Pardon Board not to hear the clemency applications sent in by 56 death row inmates. Landry says the pardon board has 440 applications to examine before they get to the death row inmates who are hoping Governor Edwards reduces their punishment to life in prison

Cut 10 (06) “…are pending.”

Landry says the Pardon Board’s own rules say that a clemency application should be filed within their last appeal was denied. He says there are emergency circumstances like an execution date, but that doesn’t apply in this situation…

Cut 11 (11)  “…follow the rules.”

But executive director of the Capital Appeals Project, Cecelia Kappel, says Landry’s legal opinion has no binding force on the board and there’s also a major conflict of interest….

Cut 12 (12)    “…clemency requests” 

Kappel says the pardon board can also waive its rules, including the rule that requests need to be filed within one year after last denied appeal. She says that rule has been waived before in death penalty cases…

Cut 13 (13) “…direct appeal” 

_______________________________________________________________

The Speaker Pro Tem of the Louisiana House has decided not to run for re-election, ending his legislative career after eight years. Houma Representative Tanner Magee says he has 14-year-old triplets, plus he calls the political atmosphere at the capitol toxic….

Cut 14 (09)  “..process” 

The 42-year-old Magee says Washington D-C partisan attacks have become too much…

Cut 15 (07)  “…really change”

Magee says he’s proud to help secure funds for rural roads and flood control projects in his district. But he says special interest groups have gained too much control…

Cut 16 (11) “..just a game”

______________________________________________________________________

Ole Miss Coach Lane Kiffin did not hold back at SEC Media Days when discussing the problems NIL and the transfer portal have created for college football. He called it a disaster. He says there needs to be more restrictions when it comes to the two transfer portal windows. He says no other sport allows its athletes to opt into free agency every year…

Cut 17 (20) “…issues”

Kiffin says he has no problems with players getting paid and he’s benefited from the transfer portal as he signed LSU transfer and former St. Thomas More Quarterback Walker Howard. But he’s concerned the best players are going to schools that have boosters with the deepest pockets

Cut 18 (09) “…their salary.” 

Kiffin says he knew it would turn into a disaster when NIL and the portal became a major part of college athletics. He says it legalized cheating…

Cut 19 (16) “…pay for play” 

On his monthly radio program, the governor was asked about a poll by Citizens for a New Louisiana that shows only 24 percent of residents believe the state is moving in the right direction. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

______________________________________

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry issues a legal opinion that may result in dozens of death row inmates not receiving a clemency hearing. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

Record breaking heat and drought is affecting crop yields. Farmers across the country will see smaller harvests this year. That’s according to Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain who says the heat causes plants to go into survival mode, slowing photosynthesis…

Cut 3 (13) “….United States.” 

One of the processes slowed by the suffocating heat is reproduction. Strain says fruit production is a luxury for plants in survival mode leading to full vegetation with no crop…

Cut 4 (09)  “…the fruit” 

Crop yields aren’t the only thing affected by the steamy conditions. Heat and humidity help suppress reproductive hormones in livestock which Strain says can cause Louisiana markets to be left behind…

Cut 5 (11)  “…heat and humidity.”

__________________________________________________

On his monthly radio call-in show Ask the Governor – Governor John Bel Edwards addressed a recent statewide poll by Citizens for a New Louisiana that shows 55 percent of residents think the state is heading in the wrong direction. Edwards says the state has made strides but agrees progress could be made in certain areas…

Cut 6 (10)  “to be.” 

Louisiana has ranked for years near the bottom in several education rankings. Edwards says it’s an ongoing battle that starts with pre-k education…

Cut 7 (08)  “…childhood education.” 

Edwards believes leading the state takes dedication and he will continue to do what is right for the citizens…

Cut 8 (11)  “…positive change.” 

_______________________________________________

Attorney General Jeff Landry issues a legal opinion that is a setback for death row inmates seeking a clemency hearing with the state Board of Pardons. Louisiana District Attorneys Association Director Loren Lampert says Landry states that clemency requests must be made to the Pardon Board within a year after a judge issues a ruling on their appeal

Cut 9 (09)  “…emergency exception”

Landry’s legal opinion says emergency clemency requests can be made when an execution date is near, but the Attorney General points out no execution dates have been scheduled. Lampert says based on the A-G’s opinion, most of these clemency requests should not be heard

Cut 10 (10)  “…an emergency”

Cecelia Kappel, an attorney for several of the clemency applicants, says Landry’s opinion has no binding force. Kappel says the timing provision on which Landry relies on is not applicable, because Louisiana’s death penalty system is broken.

Earlier this year Governor Edwards voiced his opposition to the death penalty and he’s set to leave office in January. Lampert is concerned about taking up these clemency petitions in a short time frame, because death penalty cases are complex….

Cut 11 (13)  “…clemency”

Former LSU Tennis great Neal Skupski and his partner Wesley Koolhof of the Netherlands claimed the Wimbledon Men’s Doubles title Saturday. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick”

_______________________________________________

With writers and actors on strike, Hollywood South is quiet on the set and the industry is hoping for the best. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

_______________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards believes pressure from the Louisiana Republican Party led to the override of his veto on a bill to ban procedures on minors that would alter their biological sex. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (35)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”

________________________________________________

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy has secured $2.4 million in funding for new equipment to outfit the New Orleans Criminal Justice Crime Lab as part of the 2024 annual appropriations bills. Cassidy says the upgrade will be a difference-maker…

Cut 4 (10)  “…our state.”

The State Police Crime Lab has been the subject of longstanding complaints about backlogs in rape kits. Cassidy says if Orleans can process their own crime lab material, it helps everyone…

Cut 5 (10)   “…state police.”

Cassidy secured more than $28 million for the state. The funding includes $5 million for a new USDA Sugarcane Research Facility in Houma and $4.5 million to provide law enforcement in St. Landry and Grant Parishes with the equipment they need. Cassidy says…

Cut 6 (12)  “…it better.”

The bills will be a part of a year-end funding package and will receive a Senate vote soon.

________________________________________________

Former LSU Tennis great Neal Skupski and his partner Wesley Koolhof took home the 2023 Wimbledon doubles title. Skupski becomes only the second Tiger to claim a men’s double major title and the second Englishman to win Wimbledon doubles in the “Open” era. Skupski says it’s been a dream come true…

Cut 7 (13) “…at Wimbledon.”

It’s the pair’s first major victory who started together just 18 months ago. Although its Skupski’s first major in men’s doubles, the Liverpool native won back-to-back mixed doubles title alongside partner Desirae Krawczyk in 2021 and 2022. Skupski, though, says this one means a little more…

Cut 8 (13) “…world to us.’”

Skupski becomes the first Englishman to claim both a mixed and men’s title and Wimbledon since Leslie Godfree in 1926. He says it’s a great honor but one that may not sink in for some time…

Cut 9 (10)  “…on my season.”

____________________________________________

Hollywood South has been silenced due to the ongoing labor strike by the Writers Guild of America and the Screenwriters Guild. Louisiana Entertainment and Digital Interactive Media Director Chris Stelly says despite the setbacks he hopes the Bayou State will be the film industry’s top selection when it ends…

Cut 10 (10) “…is resolved.”

Lawmakers extended the lucrative film tax credit program which was supposed to end in 2025 but will now expire in 2031. The motion picture productions tax credit provides motion picture productions with up to a 40 percent tax credit. Stelly says they will continue to promote the benefits of filming in state …

Cut 11 (08)  “…training endeavors.”

Stelly says the film industry impacts the economy. He hopes there will be equitable settlements between all parties when cameras start rolling again

Cut 12 (08)    “…going forever” 

______________________________________________________________________

Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s disappointed but not surprised the Republican led Legislature overturned his veto of a bill that bans doctors from performing medical procedures on children that could alter their biological sex. Despite the defeat, Edwards stands by his veto…

Cut 13 (10) “…inside families” 

Edwards says the legislation harms a very small population of vulnerable children, their families and health care professionals. But the bill’s author, Pollock Representative Gabe Firment, says his legislation protects kids who might be temporarily confused about their biological sex…

Cut 14 (11)  “…not health care” 

75 House members and 26 Senators voted to override the governor’s veto. But Edwards says there are Republicans who have privately acknowledged problems with the legislation, but had to vote in favor of the override to satisfy their party leaders…

Cut 15 (09)  “…two thirds vote”

Edwards also says the legislation is unconstitutional and points to rulings made before federal judges that support his argument. But Firment says appellate courts have disagreed with the district court judges’ decisions…

Cut 16 (09) “..into effect”

Louisiana’s law is set to go into effect on January 1st.

______________________________________________________________________

Alabama was one of the schools featured at SEC Media Days yesterday. Coach Nick Saban and his team will look to return to their championship pedigree after missing the College Football Playoffs for the first time since 2019 and just the second time in the CFP era. The first order of business will be replacing Heisman winning quarterback Bryce Young, but Saban says he’s in no hurry…

Cut 17 (18) “…to rush.”

The three candidates are believed to be junior Jalen Milroe, redshirt sophomore Tyler Buchner ,and redshirt freshman Ty Simpson. LSU will visit Tuscaloosa November 4^th

Also taking the podium in Nashville was Arkansas Head Coach Sam Pittman. In a seemingly off-year for the quarterback position in the SEC, the Razorbacks boast one of the most talented in the conference in returning senior KJ Jefferson. Pittman says Jefferson’s role under new offensive coordinator Dan Enos may change slightly, but he’ll be essential to the Razorbacks’ success… 

Cut 18 (19) “…for a reason.” 

Arkansas will visit Death Valley September 23

Florida Head Coach Billy Napier spoke to the media about the Gators quarterback situation. After Anthony Richardson was picked fourth overall, Florida brought in Wisconsin transfer Graham Mertz to compete with returning redshirt sophomore Jack Miller. Napier was impressed by Mertz’s work ethic and maturity but says Miller had a strong response…

Cut 19 (18) “…the team.” 

The Gators head to Baton Rouge November 11

Lottery fans are feeling the excitement. Tonight’s Powerball Jackpot of $1 billion is the seventh largest in U.S. lottery history. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Revenue plans to move millions of dollars in tax refunds to unclaimed property if taxpayers do not claim them. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

Tonight’s Powerball Jackpot of $1 billion dollars is the third-largest jackpot ever for Powerball and the seventh-largest in U.S. lottery history. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Dustin Annison says Powerball fever is spreading…

Cut 3 (10) “….normally play.” 

A winner who opts to take the lump-sum payment will receive an estimated 517 million dollars before taxes. Those who choose the annuity payment will receive $33.3 million before taxes. Annison says Louisiana is due for a Powerball jackpot winner…

Cut 4 (10)  “…to win” 

Annison says the odds of winning the jackpot is 1-in-292 million…

Cut 5 (08)  “…luck everyone.”

__________________________________________________

Rapides Parish authorities have identified the severely decomposed body of 58-year-old Robert Owens, a “geocacher” from New Jersey, who was reported missing Monday in Kisatchie National Forest southwest of Alexandria. RPSO Spokesperson Tommy Carnline says authorities located Owen’s body in a wooded area near a creek off the trail…

Cut 6 (10)  “…is deceased.” 

Owens flew to Louisiana alone on July 9th. Brown’s “geocache” colleagues alerted Melville authorities that Owens had not been heard from. Carnline says “geocache” is a familiar activity for outdoorsmen.

Cut 7 (10)  “…the country.” 

Carnline showed gratitude towards everyone who assisted in the search.

Cut 8 (09)  “…tragic end.” 

_______________________________________________

Advocates are asking a judge to remove a group of juvenile inmates being held at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. A court filing alleges the youth offenders are sleeping in hot conditions, they are isolated and forced to shower while shackled and handcuffed. Southern Poverty Law Center senior policy analyst Delvin Davis

Cut 9 (09)  “…as a whole”

On the one year anniversary of the state announcing plans to send incarcerated youth to Angola, the Southern Policy Law Center has released a report that provides recommendations to improve Louisiana’s youth justice system. Davis says one of their recommendations is to invest in community-based alternatives to youth incarceration that prioritizes rehabilitation

Cut 10 (09)  “…incarceration”

Davis says a major problem with the state’s youth justice system is that it’s over-reliant on incarceration, which is ripe with abuse. He says there are other alternatives that focus on rehab..

Cut 11 (09)  “…own communities”

The Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice is not commenting on the legal fight to remove the incarcerated youth from Angola or the Southern Poverty Law Center’s recommendations for improving the state’s juvenile justice system.

________________________________________________________

LSU Catcher Alex Milazzo told Tiger Rag radio last night that he plans to suit up for the Purple and Gold one last time. Milazzo appeared in 53 games last season before fracturing his fibula in the final game of the championship series, but the Zachary native says he’s not done yet

Cut 12 (13) “…play here.” 

Milazzo has spent the last 4 years with the Tigers, batting .201 with a .993 fielding percentage. After learning under 2 coaches and helping LSU to 3 postseason runs, Milazzo says he can help the next generation of LSU baseball…

Cut 13 (13) “…down the road.”

______________________________________________

The SEC’s single-season strikeout leader has etched his name in the record books yet again. After being selected No. 1 overall in the MLB draft, LSU pitcher Paul Skenes agreed to a deal with the Pirates that includes a $9.2 million signing bonus, the highest for a draft pick in MLB history. Skenes says signing the deal didn’t take much convincing…

Cut  14 (10)  “..to take”

Skenes is expected to begin his professional career in the Florida Complex League, a rookie-level Minor League Baseball league. Skenes says his stuff is almost MLB ready, but he’ll need some time to adjust to the pros…

Cut 15 (12) “…than college”