24 individuals associated with a Shreveport street gang have been indicted for a CARES Act fraud scheme. Kace Kieschnick has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick”

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After arresting 42-year-old Janice Frazier in the shooting death of her boyfriend found Saturday, Baton Rouge authorities tell Teiko Foxx they have also connected Frazier to the unsolved murder of an ex-boyfriend.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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The Republican controlled Louisiana Legislature overrides the governor’s veto of a ban on doctors from performing medical procedures on children designed to change their biological sex. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (43)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”

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U.S. Attorney Brandon Brown says 24 people closely associated with a Shreveport street gang are facing charges related to a CARES Act fraud scheme. Brown says the defendants defrauded the federal government of thousands of dollars by taking advantage of small business pandemic relief loans to fund criminal activity

Cut 4 (12)  “…vulnerable state.”

Brown says the defendants manufactured a variety of artificial businesses in order to fraudulently receive pandemic relief dollars…

Cut 5 (11)   “…money that way.”

All 24 defendants face counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and varying charges or wire fraud. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison, 1 to 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Brown says cases like this is why he became a federal prosecutor…

Cut 6 (13)  “…violent-crime organizations.”

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Authorities say a Baton Rouge woman arrested for killing her boyfriend over the weekend has also confessed to killing an ex-boyfriend in 2021. On Saturday, Baton Rouge Police detectives began investigating the shooting death of 34-year-old Christopher Holden, who was found dead in a park. Sergeant L’Jean McKneely says they determined 42-year-old Janice Frazier killed Holden and during questioning, they learned she was involved in another homicide…

Cut 7 (04) “…degree murder.”

McKneely says Frazier is not only facing a murder charge for fatally shooting Holden this past weekend, they now have a confession that she killed 29-year-old Emanie Anderson in October 2021…

Cut 8 (05) “…Mr. Anderson.’”

McKneely says detectives believe both murders are a result of domestic violence…

Cut 9 (09)  “…being involved.”

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The Office of State Parks kicks off a new pilot recycling project – Let Louisiana Shine Park Recycling Program – as recycling bins will be placed at four different state parks to collect aluminum cans and plastic drink bottles. Pontchartrain Conservancy Executive Director Kristi Trail says recycling bins help keep items out of the state’s waterways and off roadways…

Cut 10 (09) “…better use.”

The program has rolled out at the Fontainebleau, Fairview-Riverside, Tickfaw, and Bogue Chitto. Materials will be collected, sorted, and trash contamination will be removed. Trail says before this initiative, there was nowhere to separate recyclable materials…

Cut 11 (08)  “…the park.”

Trail says collection totals will be recorded on a bi-weekly basis to determine the program’s success rate…

Cut 12 (08)    “…going forever” 

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Louisiana lawmakers have succeeded in overriding the governor’s veto of a bill that bans doctors from performing a medical procedure that attempts to alter the biological sex of a minor. Pollock Representative Gabe Firment has called the bill the “Stop Harming Our Kids Act”….

Cut 13 (13) “…gender dysphoria” 

But New Orleans Representative Jason Hughes agreed with the governor’s veto message that the legislation is unconstitutional….

Cut 14 (12)  “…normal children” 

The House overrode the veto by five votes, on a 75-23 vote. Firment says 20 other states, including many in the South, have passed similar legislation

Cut 15 (12)  “…medical experiments.”

A federal judge last month struck down Arkansas version of the trans youth health care ban. Firment’s bill is set to go into effect in January. St. Martinville Senator Fred Mills voted no as he believes the Legislature should not get involved in the relationship between a patient and a child

Cut 16 (10) “..any of that”

The gender affirming care bill as some have called it, is the only bill that lawmakers successfully vetoed. The governor issued over two dozen vetoes from the recently completed legislative session.

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New Auburn Head Coach Hugh Freeze took the podium today at SEC Media Day. Freeze is known for his ability to turn programs around quickly after helping new FBS teams Arkansas St and Liberty to their first winning seasons and Ole Miss win its first SEC game in two years back in 2012. He’ll hope to help to rebuild Auburn after two losing seasons but says it starts with one position…

Cut 17 (20) “…that spot”

The first step for Freeze has been in recruiting adding 42 new players to the roster since last season ended. While Freeze thought Auburn might be an easier turnaround than his other rebuilds, he doesn’t underestimate the challenge of coaching a new roster…

Cut 18 (17) “…to this” 

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Mississippi State’s new Head Coach Zach Arnett spoke at SEC Media Days today. The Bulldog’s former defensive coordinator has the tall task of replacing the late Mike Leach which starts on the offensive side of the ball. Leach was known for his iconic Air Raid offense but Arnett says new coordinator Kevin Barbay brings a different approach…

Cut 19 (21) “…what they do.” 

While the Bulldogs may be experiencing some major coaching changes, they’ll have many returning players this year including the top two tacklers in the SEC, linebackers Jett Johnson and Nathaniel Watson. Arnett says they’ll be essential in the team’s success…

Cut 20 (14)  “…they didn’t”  

Published campaign finance reports shows Republican Jeff Landry with a huge lead over his opponents in campaign dollars as Landry seeks to replace Governor John Bel Edwards. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (27)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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From film study to Moneyball, sports analysis is always changing, and LSU Coach Brian Kelly says AI could be the next step in LSU’s recruiting process. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Kace Kieschnick”  

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Grant Parish Deputies have seized over 71 pounds of marijuana worth over half a million dollars in the largest drug bust in parish history. Sheriff Steven McCain says the large quantity of pot had a street value of 586-thousand dollars…

Cut 3 (07) “….our community.” 

After a month-long investigation, 57-year-old Charles Dupry and David Hollis of Pollock were arrested in connection with the seizure. McCain says the THC levels in marijuana today are much higher than ever before…

Cut 4 (09)  “…forty percent” 

Hollis faces one count of possession with intent to distribute, four counts of illegal carrying of weapons, and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia. Dupry is charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Hollis says tips and leads made these arrests possible…

Cut 5 (10)  “…the information.”

Detectives also seized four firearms. Dupry and Hollis were booked into Grant Parish jail.

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The Louisiana House has voted to override the governor’s veto on a bill that would prohibit doctors from performing sex altering medical procedures on transgender minors. Marksville Republican Daryl Deshotel cut his family vacation in France short so he can vote “Yes” to override..

Cut 6 (12)  “…for it.” 

The vote was 75-23 in favor of overturning the veto. It needed 70 votes.

Deshotel says he had to stay up for 28 hours in order to fly back after spending a few days in France with his family. He wanted to be in Baton Rouge for this historic override session…

Cut 7 (11)  “…some of those vetoes.” 

As of publish time, the Senate has yet to vote to override the governor’s veto on a ban on transgender health care for youth.

The author of a vetoed bill that would phase out the corporate franchise tax decides not to seek an override vote. Franklin Senator Bret Allain says it’s Louisiana’s worst tax, because it hinders economic development

Cut 8 (08)  “…the veto” 

In his veto letter, Edwards agreed the corporate franchise tax is antiquated, but the fiscal impact is not known. Allain is term-limited so he hopes the next Legislature will take up this legislation again in 2025, which is the next fiscal session.

Cut 9 (12)  “…that opportunity”

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New campaign finance numbers show Republican Jeff Landry has a huge advantage in available dollars over his opponents. Landry reported raising 4.5 million dollars from April 8th to July 7th and has nine-point-two million dollars on hand. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross….

Cut 10 (08)  “… in the race”

Republicans John Schroder and Stephen Waguespack have about two million dollars in cash on hand and so does independent Hunter Lundy. Cross calls that a respectable total…

Cut 11 (07)  “…mean more”

Republican state legislators Sharon Hewitt and Richard Nelson have less than a million dollars on hand and so does Democrat Shawn Wilson. Cross says Wilson will have to do much better than 594-thousand dollars on hand…

Cut 12 (04) “…statewide office” 

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A heat advisory is in effect again today and we can expect near-record heat for the rest of the week. Heat indices will reach between 105 to 112-degrees. LRN meteorologist John Wetherbee says heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration are concerns for those who spend a lot of time outdoors…

Cut 13 (13) “…nine minutes.”

Wetherbee says if you plan to spend several hours outside, drink plenty of water.

Cut  14 (11)  “..elderly too”

A smaller pool of workers and higher salary demands have made it difficult to manage state parks, according to a report from the legislative auditor. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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State lawmakers convene an override veto session at noon today. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry is lapping the field when it comes to campaign dollars in the race for governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (27)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”

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If you meet certain income requirements, Cleco residential customers may be eligible for energy-efficient products and services at no out-of-pocket costs. Power Wise is Cleco’s energy efficiency program designed for qualified homeowners during the summer months. Cleco spokesperson Marianne Addy says weatherizing homes can save customers energy and money.

Cut 4 (12)  “…energy usage.”

The program helps low-income households make their homes more energy efficient. Addy says customers will be able to take advantage of a number of services and products at no expense.

Cut 5 (12)   “…the program.”

Homeowners and renters who may not meet federal income guidelines are also encouraged to apply. Addy urges all customers to this smarter approach to cutting energy use at no expense.

Cut 6 (06)  “…benefit you.”

Cleco customers can visit www.cleco.com/weatherization or call 833-373-6842

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The Louisiana Legislative Auditor releases a new report that finds low staffing levels present challenges for administering state parks. Director of State Parks Brandon Burris says recruiting new employees has been difficult…

Cut 7 (12) “…us yeah.”

OSP revenue increased by nearly fifty percent from 2016 through 2022 due to short-term revenue including the COVID-19 relief fund. OSP also generates visitation revenues through sources like cabins, campsites, and day-use admissions and non-visitation revues revenues. Burris says despite the audit’s findings, visitation numbers are high.

Cut 8 (11) “…we are.’”

According to OSP, $42 million is needed for improvements to keep parks and historic sites operating at expected service levels. Burris says fee and price increases are on the table but they are considering all options before a final decision is made.

Cut 9 (12)  “…comes through.”

While the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an increase in visitation, recent hurricanes have damaged or forced some parks to close.

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State lawmakers return to the capitol today for an override veto session. Governor John Bel Edwards vetoed 25 bills and parts of three budget bills approved by lawmakers in the last legislative session. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says if legislators focus on just a few of the vetoes they can get the two-thirds vote needed in the House and Senate

Cut 10 (09) “…passing nothing.”

Last year, the Republican controlled Legislature was successful in overriding the governor’s veto of the congressional redistricting bill. This year, a bill that would ban doctors from performing medical procedures to alter the sex of a child has been the driving force of the override veto session. Pinsonat says a vote to overturn that veto could happen today…

Cut 11 (12)  “…be done.”

It will take 70 votes in the 105-member House and 26 votes in the 39-member Senate to override a governor’s veto.

Pinsonat says do not count out John Bel Edwards, because he’s a lame duck governor. He says Edwards still has control over spending and what projects get funded….

Cut 12 (12)    “…put together” 

Pinsonat says the votes are likely there to overturn the governor’s veto on a bill to ban medical procedures to alter a child’s sex and possibly a couple of the other anti-LGBTQ bills.

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Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says the suspect in a deadly double shooting at a shipyard in Harvey is dead after a shootout with authorities. Lopinto says a man who was recently fired from FMT Shipyard returned on Monday and killed two of his former-coworkers. The sheriff says they tracked the gunman down at St. Germaine apartments…

Cut 13 (10) “…pronounced dead” 

Lopinto the gunman was fired last week and he returned on Monday to kill his former co-workers who were part of a grass-cutting crew…

Cut 14 (14)  “…answer”

The Jefferson Parish coroner’s office has identified the two men killed at the shipyard as 48-year-old Nakie James Brown and 20-year-old Dustin Parrie Junior. Both of Harvey.

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LSU won an SEC West title in Coach Brian Kelly’s first season at the helm and the Tigers plan on building on that success this season. Jayden Daniels is back as the starting QB and Daniels believes they can have one of the top offenses in the country…

Cut 15 (15)  “…make plays.”

Kelly says Daniels will have to get better because back-up Garrett Nussmeier is getting better every single day as well…

Cut 16 (14) “..move forward”

Daniels is one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy, but the senior is more focused on victories than trophies…

Cut 17 (14) “…with it”

The Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate announced its official launch today. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick” 

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LSU Coach Brian Kelly likes the direction of his football program as he gets ready to begin his second year as head coach of the Tigers. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate announced their official launch today. The digital newsroom will provide in-depth local news for the Shreveport Bossier City area. Publisher Judi Terzotis says this is another step in achieving Chief Executive Officer John Georges’s vision for The Advocate…

Cut 3 (11) “….that mission” 

The launch brings a suite of digital news products for the area powered by a team of local journalists. The team now features seven journalists who have begun coverage earlier than expected following thunderstorms that knocked out electricity in Northwestern Louisiana. Terzotis says the goal is a team of ten journalists located in the heart of Shreveport…

Cut 4 (12)  “…community foundation” 

The Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate is partnering with the Community Foundation of North Louisiana to help provide a robust news report. With a goal of 1.5 million dollars, the community has already helped contribute over $460,000 in the last four months. Terzotis says this new financial model is proven and will go straight to journalists…

Cut 5 (14)  “…to hire journalists.”

Readers can find local news at ShreveportBossierAdvocate.com

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This week is Rural Road Safety Awareness Week, and Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reminds motorists to drive carefully, even in remote areas. Spokesperson Gregory Fischer says nearly 62 percent of all fatal crashes in the state in 2021 were on rural roadways.

Cut 6 (12)  “…data for.” 

In 2021, there were over one thousand alcohol-related crashes that injured at least one person and nearly two hundred fatal crashes involving alcohol on Louisiana’s rural roads, according to the Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety. Fischer says this initiative brings attention to topics that will save lives…

Cut 7 (13)  “…about awareness.” 

Fisher encourages motorists to do their part in promoting safe driving habits. He says everyone has a role to play in keeping the highways safe….

Cut 8 (11)  “…cars and trucks.” 

Rural Safety Awareness Week is a part of the “What’s SPEED got to do with it” campaign that’s scheduled for July 17th to the 21st.

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Candidates running for statewide office this fall must submit updated campaign finance reports to the state Ethics Board today. Republican Jeff Landry is expected to report nine million dollars cash on hand. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says that’s a huge number for his opponents to try and keep up with…

Cut 9 (08)  “…for competitiveness.”

There are seven major candidates running for governor. Slidell Gubernatorial candidates, State Senator Sharon Hewitt and Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson reported less than $1 million during first quarter campaign reports. Stockley says this is an important benchmark for all the candidates…

Cut 10 (13)  “… competitive candidates.”

Stockley says former transportation secretary and lone Democrat Shawn Wilson reported less than $1 million dollars but could see a surge in donations over the upcoming months.

Cut 11 (07)  “…raise money.”

Qualifying for the governor’s race is from August 8th to the 10th. The primary is set for October 14th.

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LSU football Coach Brian Kelly is in Nashville today as SEC Football Media Days is underway. Kelly says after watching women’s basketball and baseball win national championships, he knows what’s expected from his team as he enters his second year as  head coach…

Cut 12 (09) “…court now” 

LSU won the SEC West last season, but were blown out in the SEC Championship game by Georgia, who went on to win its second consecutive national championship. Kelly says there’s still more work to be done in the area of recruiting before they have the same level of talent as Georgia…

Cut 13 (09) “…playing field.”

LSU ended last season with a 63-7 win over Purdue in the Citrus Bowl. Kelly liked what he saw from his starting quarterback Jayden Daniels on that day and wants to see more of it in 2023…

Cut  14 (11)  “..tight window throw”

A Louisiana actor says the walk-out by Hollywood entertainment workers will soon be felt by all of us. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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For the third straight year, lawmakers are returning for a veto override session tomorrow. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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With its $18.5 million investment to set up a manufacturing facility, SLB is bringing hundreds of jobs to the old General Motors Plant in Shreveport. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (33)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Starting today, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has increased the daily limit for red snapper from three to four for private recreational and state-charter boat fishermen. LDWF fisheries biologist Jason Adriance says the increase is the result of a lower-than-expected harvest rate…

Cut 4 (10)  “…on weekends.”

Adriance says the new daily creel limit of four red snappers also applies to federal waters off Louisiana, except for federally permitted charter boats…

Cut 5 (11)   “…federal waters.”

Adriance says L-D-W-F is happy to relax the regulations and give fishing opportunities back to the public…

Cut 6 (09)  “…the freezer.”

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The Screen Actors Guild has gone on strike and, along with the already striking Screenwriters Guild, you can expect big delays before you see any new TV or movies. Jason Bayle is an actor, based in Baton Rouge, who says SAG’s strike is about helping those in the industry who cannot demand multi-million salary deals…:

Cut 7 (10) “…work in entertainment.”

Bayle says a major issue among SAG members is compensation for work shown on streaming services like Hulu, Prime, or Netflix. He says movies and conventional TV can track ratings, which are used as a basis for pay and residuals. He says streamers treat viewing information as data and generally do not share the info with actors or their agents…:

Cut 8 (12) “…any money in the business.’”

Bayle says streaming technology is just one potential problem for actors and creative people in being fairly paid. He says artificial intelligence (AI) will further erode performers’ rights to proper compensation, and needs to be headed off in strike negotiations. Bayle says, as fall arrives, the effects of the writers’ AND actors’ strikes will soon be felt…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…start to notice it.”

Bayle and others feel the strike and negotiations to resolve it, will take quite some time.

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The veto override session begins tomorrow, and lawmakers could potentially overturn the governor’s rejection of 25 bills. The driving force of the session is the veto of a measure that bans gender-affirming care for transgender minors. Chair of the House Republican Delegation and Erath Representative Blake Miguez….

Cut 10 (12) “…duck governor.”

Miguez believes the Republican super-majority will overturn the governor’s vetoes and predicts the vote will not be down party lines. It will take 70 votes in the House and 26 in the Senate to override a governor’s veto.

Shreveport Representative and Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Sam Jenkins says he’s not surprised about the session, and he believes the governor’s reasoning of why rejected more than two dozen bills is fair. Jenkins says many of the bills are government overreach…

Cut 11 (11)  “…these laws.”

Two other bills that some have deemed as anti-LGBTQ, including a don’t say gay bill have also been vetoed by Governor Edwards. Miguez goes a bit further in referring to the bill banning medical procedures on minors.

Cut 12 (06)    “…of children.” 

Jenkins says the bill to prohibit classroom discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation places an extra burden on teachers, and the other two bills restrict parental rights.

Cut 13 (10) “…people’s identity.” 

Lawmakers could also overturn three-line-item vetoes in state budget bills and legislation to phase out the state’s corporate income tax.

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Global technology company, SLB announces it will invest $18.5 million to convert the former General Motors Plant in Shreveport into a digital infrastructure manufacturing facility. Louisiana Economic Development says the company will create nearly 600 direct jobs over the next three years. Governor John Bel Edwards says this is a historic milestone for economic growth…

Cut 14 (12)  “…long time.”

The company plans to hire 200 people by the end of the year. According to Louisiana Economic Development, the project will result in an additional 700 indirect jobs. SLB Vice President of Industry Affairs of North America Bruce Miller says the company will participate in a solution-based workforce training program to meet employment targets…

Cut 15 (10)  “…we hire.”

Miller says the infrastructure is in place and upgrades are underway to complete the company’s needs. 

Cut 16 (12) “..happening now.”

SLB expects renovations of the facility to be completed by early next year. Production is estimated to reach full capacity by the end of 2026.

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SEC Football Media Days begin today in Nashville. The LSU Tigers are one of three schools that will be featured today as Coach Brian Kelly and players Jayden Daniels, Josh Williams and Mekhi Wingo will speak with hundreds of reporters. Host of the Locked on LSU podcast, Caroline Fenton, says the expectations for the Tigers are much higher heading into the second year of the Brian Kelly era…

Cut 17 (26) “…this year”

LSU exceeded expectations last season, winning the SEC west, playing in the conference title game and winning ten games. So the expectation among fans is to win the SEC championship this year and play for a national title. Fenton says if LSU falls short of those goals, it doesn’t mean the program is taking a step back

Cut 18 (20) “…strides forward” 

Even Kelly said in an interview with the USA Today that with another year of recruiting, 2024 is a more realistic goal to win a national title.

Texas A-and-M and Missouri are the other two schools that will take the podium today. Fenton says the Aggies are an interesting team as Jimbo Fisher enters his sixth season as the head coach of the Aggies…

Cut 19 (24) “…look like” 

As expected, state lawmakers are coming back for a veto override session. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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A machete attack of a priest in St. Landry Parish last night leaves a small town in shock. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Lawmakers will return to the State Capitol  next Tuesday for a veto override session. House Speaker Clay Schexnayder says Governor Edwards vetoed 25 bills and specific items in three different budget bills…

Cut 3 (12) “….vote as well” 

Lawmakers had until midnight Thursday to cancel the veto session, but the votes fell short of a majority vote needed in either the House or Senate.

Schexnayder says the governor’s veto of a bill to ban gender affirming care of transgender minors has motivated Conservative lawmakers to hold a veto session for a third consecutive year…

Cut 4 (07)  “…canvassing bill” 

Representative Les Farnum’s bill would move voters to an inactive list if they have not voted in ten years and they would then be purged from the voter rolls if they do not correspond with the Secretary of State’s Office or fail to vote in two federal elections.

Twelve members in the Senate and 31 members in the House voted to cancel the veto override session. The Legislature will meet at noon on Tuesday and Schexnayder says it will take a two-thirds vote in the House and Senate to override any of the governor’s vetoes…

Cut 5 (11)  “…will get there.”

The veto override session is scheduled to take five days. The Legislature successfully overrode the governor’s veto of a new Congressional district map last year, but in 2021 legislators failed to override a veto of a bill that banned transgender athletes from playing girls sports.

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The small town of Melville in St. Landry Parish is in shock after a man used a machete to attack a priest. Police Chief Phillip Lucas says 58-year-old Johnny Neely of Melville is in custody after the alleged attack on a St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church priest Thursday night.

Cut 6 (12)  “…machete knife.” 

Lucas says the witness who was with Neely fled the scene and called 9-1-1. The priest is listed in critical condition following the attack and Neely faces second-degree attempted murder charges. Lucas says he could also be charged with a hate crime.

Cut 7 (07)  “…head today.” 

Lucas says Neely had been walking around town looking for work and that he has a history of being in and out of jail. Lucas says the investigation is ongoing and the machete attack has shaken the community.

Cut 8 (09)  “…in custody.” 

The priest is being treated for lacerations to his head and body. Neely is also charged with home invasion.

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Cancer patient advocates are thrilled that Governor Edwards has signed four bills into law aimed at getting folks facing cancer the treatments they need. Former state Rep. Julie Stokes is now with the Louisiana Oncology Society and the Survivors Cancer Action Network. She says the bills help assure care without un-needed exclusions and help keep covered treatments in pace with developing medical technologies…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…from last year.”

Biomarker testing allows doctors to gather more and better genetic information with which to formulate cancer treatments.

Stokes says another important bill signed into law by the Governor assures a patient’s right to speedy review and coverage…:

Cut 10 (10)  “…involves cancer.”

The new law also requires insurance to approve whatever oncologists prescribe as treatment.

Another new law taking effect January 1st will offer you the choice to list yourself as a bone marrow donor on your driver’s license; which Stokes says is a now-painless procedure. And the last of the package of bills signed by Governor Edwards provides that health insurance must cover fertility preservation procedures for persons undergoing cancer treatment. Stokes says it’s an advancement for women and for prospective dads…:

Cut 11 (10)  “…and retrieve them.”

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The police chief in Grand Coteau has been arrested after authorities received a tip that Jeffrey Guilbeau was involved in the use and distribution of illegal drugs. St Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz says they began surveillance and verified the information.

Cut 12 (05) “…been doing.” 

Guilbeau is charged with distribution, theft, obstruction of justice, and malfeasance in office.

The investigation revealed the drugs involved in the case had been previously seized by police in Grand Coteau. Guidroz says it’s bad enough that the small community has drug dealers…

Cut 13 (09) “…disheartening.”

The investigation is ongoing and Guidroz says other individuals along with more charges could be filed in the case. As for who’s leading the Grand Coteau Police in the meantime…

Cut  14 (11)  “…assistant chief.”

According to KATC-TV in Lafayette, last week Guilbeau turned in his resignation and the following day he withdrew it.

Senator Bill Cassidy is working on bipartisan legislation to give relief to property owners who are being priced out of their homes with flood insurance hikes. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A team of researchers and students led by Lafayette researchers has uprooted thousands of artifacts from Kisatchie National Forest in Vernon Parish. Teiko Foxx reports the findings…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”  

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Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy is working with New Jersey Democrat Senator Bob Menendez in reforming the flood insurance program and cap premium increases. Cassidy expects there will be a hearing soon in DC on their legislation.

Cut 3 (12) “….red tape.” 

Cassidy says FEMA has yet to explain the 18 percent increase and their calculations for Risk Rating 2.0.

Before premium increases were capped at nine percent annually, Cassidy says under Risk Rating 2.0 the increase can be as high as 18 percent. His proposal caps the annual maximum increase to nine percent.

Cut 4 (06)  “…even that.” 

Cassidy says he wants to help homeowners along the coast who are being priced out of remaining in their homes. He says the same problems Louisianans are facing with flood insurance are also happening in New Jersey and New York. Reduced rates, he says would be based on need and no one would necessarily receive free coverage.

Cut 5 (09)  “…her insurance.”

Cassidy says the bipartisan Infrastructure Act is putting funds towards making areas vulnerable to natural disasters more resilient and once completed it should lower flood insurance rates.

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During a six-week excavation in the Kisatchie National Forest in Vernon Parish, researchers with UL Lafayette have discovered rare artifacts dating back to the last Ice Age. UL Lafayette Professor of Anthropology Dr. Mark Rees says they unearthed a collection of projectile points and stone instruments…

Cut 6 (13)  “…the sharpening..” 

Rees excavating team uncovered artifacts such as ceramics, stone tools, and evidence that suggests that a bow and arrow was used by nomadic groups of people that occupied this land 13,000 years ago.

Cut 7 (12)  “…South Louisiana…” 

Researchers uncovered the first evidence of a permanent structure in the national forest. Rees says the post-molds will help interpret time and societal associations…

Cut 8 (12)  “…of dating…” 

Students from UL-Lafayette, LSU, and Tulane University also participated in the excavation.

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Tonight’s Powerball Jackpot of $750 million is among the largest jackpots in the game’s history. Dustin Annison with the Louisiana Lottery says most winners choose to take cash value which would be almost $379 million for this jackpot versus an annuity of $750 million.

Cut 9 (10)  “…full jackpot.”

The last time someone held a winning Powerball ticket was April 19^th

Tickets must be purchased by nine o’clock tonight to be eligible for the drawing and Annison says to always sign the back of your ticket and be sure to check your ticket before throwing it away. He says even if you don’t hit all the jackpot numbers you might still be a winner.

Cut 10 (05)  “…prizes you can win.”

The easiest way to check your ticket is by using the Louisiana Lottery app on your smartphone to scan you ticket.

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In a new million dollar ad buy, Attorney General and the Republican frontrunner in the governor’s race, Jeff Landry, tells voters he understands the struggles of working class families. Landry says he dug ditches in a sugarcane field, served our country and worked nights as an officer, while raising a family…

Cut 11 (11)  “…delivers solutions.”

Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat believes the 30-second TV ad will resonate with voters because it touches on the lack of progress in Louisiana…

Cut 12 (09) “…fixed” 

Landry, Republican Treasurer John Schroder, and former Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack are the only candidates in the race who have released statewide TV ads.

Landry’s most recent campaign finance report showed he had six-million dollars on hand. The primary election is three months away and Pinsonat says Landry has way more resources than his opponents…

Cut 13 (11) “…you are the front-runner”

The lone declared candidate for Insurance Commissioner is about to start his campaign media blitz. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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After pleading not guilty to a felony charge of battery, Saints running back Alvin Kamara pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of breach of peace for his involvement in a 2022 fight in Las Vegas. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Small business optimism has improved since last month but it’s still well below average with inflation disparities and quality workers as a big problem. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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DeRidder insurance professional Tim Temple has begun his campaign for Louisiana Insurance Commissioner in earnest. Temple’s campaign announced it will start buying statewide media ads to promote his run. In a Tuesday call to LRN, Temple says he has been traveling the state since he announced last fall, but the time has come to invest in a broader message…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…in this campaign.”

Louisiana has the highest auto insurance rates in the nation, and property insurance costs are threatening some residents with the loss of their homes. Temple says we have too few insurance companies doing business here, and hence there is no competition to drive costs down. He says, if elected, he’d work to change that…:

Cut 5 (11)   “…business in Louisiana.”

Current Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon will not seek re-election, and –as of now – Temple is the only declared candidate in the race. With a month to go before qualifying, Temple says he will campaign as hard as if he did have a challenger…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…every single day.”

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A more than four hours standoff with Shreveport Police Monday morning ends with what authorities believe is the suspect’s charred remains found inside a Crook Creek home. Names of those involved have not been released and Police Chief Wayne Smith says it ended when the suspect set the home on fire.

Cut 7 (09) “…this time.”

Smith says the suspect was heavily armed when he went to the home intent on causing harm to any and everyone he encountered. The gunman shot two neighbors before entering the home, and he also fired shots toward a room where a 13-year-old girl hid as others escaped. Smith says the teen was hit and three officers entered the home amid gunfire to save her.

Cut 8 (09) “…to safety.’”

Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the standoff and the gunman exchanged gunfire multiple times with officers and he also destroyed two police drones used in the standoff. Smith says police spent hours trying to negotiate with the suspect.

Cut 9 (03)  “…of surrendering.”

Smith says all of the shooting victims are expected to make a full recovery.

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Saints running back Alvin Kamara has pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges stemming from a fight that took place in a Las Vegas hotel in 2022. As part of the plea deal, Kamara must perform community service and pay over $100,000 to the victim, Darnell Greene, for medical bills. Host of the Locked-On Saints Podcast Ross Jackson says Kamara avoids jail time…

Cut 10 (10) “…Alvin Kamara.”

Kamara also faced a civil suit in Louisiana that sought $10 million in damages, but Greene’s attorney says the suit has been settled. The NFL, who was waiting for the judicial process to play out, has yet to announce their own consequences as part of its personal-conduct policy. First-time offenders facing felony charges involving assault or battery usually receive at least a 6-game suspension, but Jackson says it’s hard to predict what the league will do…

Cut 11 (10)  “…their players.”

While Kamara said he was glad to have this put behind him and Saints training camp just around the corner, Jackson says this could still be drawn out longer. The NFL has been monitoring proceedings closely but has given no timetable on when a ruling will be passed down. Jackson says even that may not be the end…

Cut 12 (09)    “…even longer.” 

Kamara will be eligible for Saints training camp which begins July 26. The Saints are scheduled to begin preseason August 13 while the regular season kicks off September 10.

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A new survey of members by the National Federation of Independent Business indicates a slight uptick in optimism among small businesses last month but inflation and labor quality are still a major concern. NFIB State Director Dawn McVea says owners are more optimistic about future conditions compared to last year’s reading of 21 percent worse…

Cut 13 (11) “…61 percent.”  

Eight percent of ‘Mom and Pops’ mentioned labor costs as their top business problem, which is down by two points from May and 24 percent said that labor quality was their top business problem. McVea says nearly half of the owners reported job openings that were hard to fill…

Cut 14 (12)  “…a problem.”

However, 36 percent of owners say they have raised compensation, and 22 percent plan to raise wages in the next three months. McVea is hopeful the economy will improve for owners by the end of the last quarter…

Cut 15 (13)  “…the year.”

A state judge has thrown out obstruction of justice charges against two former state troopers indicted in the 2019 fatal arrest of Ronald Greene. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Schools and athletic events in Louisiana will be required to have AEDs (automated external defibrillators) and trained individuals to use them in case something goes terribly wrong. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Two former state troopers could be cleared of wrongdoing in the Ronald Greene case.  Judge Thomas Rogers has quashed the obstruction of justice charges against John Peters and Dakota DeMoss. Legal analyst Franz Borghardt says the judge determined Peters’ actions did not meet the level of obstruction of justice by saying “Bury it in the report” when discussing the in-custody death of Greene…

Cut 3 (08) “….right” 

Judge Rogers has also ruled DeMoss should not face obstruction of justice charges for turning off his body camera audio. Borghardt says he’s surprised the judge dismissed that charge

Cut 4 (10)  “…obstruction of justice” 

District Attorney John Belton can appeal.

The judge is also giving prosecutors three days to fix deficiencies in some charges against the three other defendants. Borhardt says it appears Judge Rogers is tightening up the case…

Cut 5 (10)  “…not a judge.”

Former state trooper Kory York faces the most serious charge. York is accused of negligent homicide as he was involved in the beating Greene took after a police chase along rural highway in Union Parish in 2019. York also faces ten counts of malfeasance, but the judge is considering quashing eight of those counts, unless D-A John Belton can identify a specific criminal act.

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The state health department is reporting Louisiana’s first two human cases of West Nile Virus for  2023. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says it only takes one bite so protect yourself

Cut 6 (09)  “…severe complications…” 

LDH advises eliminating standing water from around your home, keeping gutters and swimming pool properly cleaned, and also wearing EPA-approved mosquito repellent if you will be outside. Kanter says mosquito pools are present and cases have been discovered in two parishes across the state.

Cut 7 (12)  “…out there…” 

Cases of malaria, caused by certain types of mosquitos, have been reported in Florida and Texas. Although there are no locally acquired cases of malaria, Kanter says mosquito vectors are present in the state creating the potential for local transmission.

Cut 8 (12)  “…the summer…” 

Last year, Louisiana experienced 41 West Nile neuroinvasive disease cases and seven deaths.

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According to Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data, Louisiana paid its more than 13,000 patrol officers and sheriff’s deputies an average annual salary of $45 thousand in 2022 compared to the national average of $71 thousand. PAR President Steven Procopio says comparing Louisiana to neighboring states, law enforcement patrol officers are paid six-thousand below the regional average…

Cut 9 (11)  “…job well.”

Louisiana has the third lowest police pay compared to nine southern southern states. The average hourly pay for officers is around $22 in Louisiana

Procopio says it’s unclear whether the numbers include supplemental dollars that the state provides, but in most states local governments are responsible for police pay….

Cut 10 (09)  “…in money.”

While the South has the lowest wages for police in the country, it also has the highest concentration of jobs in law enforcement. In Louisiana, seven out of every 1,000 jobs are in law enforcement. Procopio says in order to keep boots on the ground, salaries must stay competitive…

Cut 11 (12)  “…make priorities.”

Officers in the New Orleans-Metairie receive the highest annual salary in the state,  making $49 thousand.

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Schools and athletic events in Louisiana are now required to have an automated external defibrillator, better known as an AED. Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields authored the legislation, and he says two lives have already been saved in those settings because an AED was readily available.

Cut 12 (11) “…talk about it” 

The state health department will have oversite of the devices, so they are properly maintained. Fields says LDH will also provide instruction on how an AED should be used.

Cut 13 (06) “…CPR training.”

In addition to athletics Fields says there’s a need in the classroom for AEDs. Lawmakers dedicated $1.5 million to pay for the devices.  Schools that don’t have a device can apply one through state education.

Fields says he’d been working on the “Jump Start Your Heart” legislation prior to the collapse of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin in January during the Cincinnati Bengals game. He says the incident only highlighted the need for AEDs and CPR training.

Cut  14 (10)  “…nation.”

The new law also dictates that schools should have a response plan to incidents that involve the use of AEDs and CPR.

Time is running out for homeowners who suffered damage from hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 to complete a survey to find out if they are eligible for rebuilding grant dollars. Teiko Foxx reports an outreach session takes place today in Lake Charles at the Allen P. August Center from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. …

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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With qualifying for the fall elections just 4 weeks away, could we see some declared candidates for Governor decide NOT to run? Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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According to research by the Public Affairs Research Council, the average teacher salary in Louisiana is just over $52,000, well below the national average. Brooke Thorington has more with PAR president Steven Procopio.

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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As an August 1 deadline approaches, Restore Louisiana holds an outreach event in Lake Charles today to help homeowners who suffered damage from hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 apply for federal rebuilding grant dollars. The event is at the Allen P. August Center from 3:30 to 6:30 pm. State Office of Community Development Director Pat Forbes says many hurricane victims have not completed a survey to see if they are eligible

Cut 4 (12)  “…their homes.”

Restore LA provides grant funding to homeowners who suffered damages from Hurricanes Laura and Delta and the May 2021 severe storms. The money can pay for repairs, reconstruction, and/or reimbursement for repairs already completed. Forbes says the survey is easy to complete and takes little time…

Cut 5 (12)   “…application started.”

Louisiana’s total allocation is $3.1 billion for the 2020-2021 disaster events. Homeowners may be eligible for up to $250 thousand in assistance and homes will be built to meet fortified standards.  Forbes says they have helped thousands of homeowners but the goal is to help every homeowner who could use the financial aid

Cut 6 (12)  “…Lake Charles.”

Since its launch in February 2022, the program has offered more than $208 million in grant awards to over 2,590 homeowners affected by 2020-21 disaster events. Homeowners who are unable to attend the event can complete the survey at restore.la.gov.

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State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter is reminding parents to be sure their children are up to date on their immunizations before school begins. Childhood vaccination rates, in Louisiana, typically exceed the national average, but Kanter says those numbers have been trending downwards the last few years, from 97 percent to 94 percent.

Cut 7 (11) “…that we are.”

Kanter says a 95% immunization rate equates to herd immunity.

He credits the state’s above-average vaccination rate to awareness, broad insurance coverage, and access to immunizations.

Kanter says immunization rates for children have also dropped nationally. The interruption of the pandemic in general is one reason and…

Cut 8 (11) “…concerning here.’”

For example, to prevent a measles outbreak, Kanter says the community needs to have at least a 95 percent vaccination rate. Some children are unable to be vaccinated due to allergies, their age, or they are immune compromised.

Cut 9 (11)  “…threshold.”

Kanter says despite Louisiana having one of the broadest vaccine exemption laws in the country, the childhood immunization rates remain above the national average.

For guidance, Kanter urges parents to speak with their child’s pediatrician about vaccinations. For more information visit Immunizations-dot-LA-gov.

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Qualifying for the fall elections in just one month from now, and the field of announced candidates for governor is fairly big. At last count nine people say they’ll run, but will they still feel that way in 30 days? U.L.-Monroe political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says he anticipates someone will drop out before then…:

Cut 10 (11) “…happens every cycle.”

The six Republicans declared are A.G. Jeff Landry, Treasurer John Schroder, former LABI head Stephen Waguespack, State Senator Sharon Hewitt, state Rep. Richard Nelson and Crowley businessman Xan (ZAN) John. Hunter Lundy is the lone independent, and there are two democrats declared; former DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson and central Louisiana educator Daniel Cole. Stockley expects no more democrats will get in, because the state Democratic Party’s plan is to unite all support behind Wilson…:

Cut 11 (07)  “…chance of an upset.”

Stockley says he would not be surprised to see some of the six GOP hopefuls back out before qualifying starts next month. He says it’s likely that state Republicans also want to focus the conservative vote down…:

Cut 12 (10)    “…to reconsider.” 

Qualifying is August 8th thru the 10th at the Secretary of State’s office in Baton Rouge.

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According to research from the Public Affairs Research Council, the average teacher salary in Louisiana is $52,472, more than $12,000 below the national average. PAR President Steven Procopio says teacher salaries in Louisiana are also below the southern regional average.

Cut 13 (08) “…than ours.”  

As for how long Louisiana can get away with subpar teacher pay remains to be seen. Procopio says the million dollar question is what is it that we have to pay to get and keep quality teachers.

Cut 14 (09)  “…teacher pay.”

Procopio says there’s also an equity issue when it comes to teacher salary in Louisiana. He says typically educators in larger cities make more than those in smaller towns, and in some cases, those in rural areas make just over half the state average.

Cut 15 (05)  “…quality education.”

During the legislative session, lawmakers gave teachers in Louisiana a one-time $2,000 pay increase for the upcoming school year.