Over 50,000 SWEPCO customers in Louisiana are still without power after Thursday’s severe weather. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (27)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

The Louisiana Senate Health and Welfare Committee will meet today to discuss the $100 million cut to the Department of Health in the final hours of the legislative session. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

_______________________________________________

House Speaker Clay Schexnayder fires back at critics of his leadership in the recent session, and the handling of the state budget. More from Brooke Thorington…:

Cut 3 (29)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

Approximately 3,000 workers have been mobilized in North Louisiana to restore power for the over 50,000 SWEPCO customers who’ve been without since Thursday. It could be as late as the weekend before power is restored in the Shreveport area. Bossier City spokesperson Louis Johnson says the storm was unprecedented with straight-line winds of up to 90 miles per hour…

Cut 4 (09)  “…one time.’”

Johnson says they are hopeful the majority of residents will have power restored by Thursday.

And with Heat Advisories in effect and the lengthy outage, Johnson says the city is providing cooling stations primarily for vulnerable individuals; the elderly, and those with health conditions.

Cut 5 (08)   “…the day.”

And to add insult to injury, Johnson says every hotel in a 30-mile radius is completely booked. He says the hotels are also having to accommodate line workers.

Cut 6 (08)  “…and availability.”

Johnson encourages residents to be as patient as possible. Among the damage from the storms that moved through the southeast last Thursday, Johnson says north Louisiana was among the hardest hit.

________________________________________________

Senate Committee on Health and Welfare will meet today to discuss what impact a $100 million reduction in funding will have on the Louisiana Department of Health. The reduction occurred as the House and Senate finalized a budget in the final hours of the legislative session. Governor John Bel Edwards says revenue was available so many lawmakers were blindsided by the cut.

Cut 7 (13) “…of Health.”

Lawmakers complained they only had 20 minutes to review the final budget before they were asked to vote to approve it. A healthcare reduction of that size had not been discussed for several weeks. AARP Director of Advocacy Andrew Muhl hopes Edwards will restore provider rates and waiver slots for adults with disabilities and seniors.

Cut 8 (13) “…they’re waiting.’”

The $100 million cut would equal around $400-$500 million because the state uses its health care money to draw down more money from the federal government. Edwards may use his line-item veto power to restore the 100 million dollars to LDH.

Cut 9 (12)  “…do that”

Edwards would have to take money from other portions of the spending plan to balance the budget. 

____________________________________________

House Speaker Clay Schexnayder fires back at critics of his handling of last-minute state budget negotiations in the recent legislative session. The Ascension Parish representative has drawn fire for pushing through a budget bill in the closing minutes; one that lacked desired funding for teacher pay raises, the Department of Health and more. Schexnayder says he stands by what came out of the session…:

Cut 10 (10) “…projects in it.”

He points to effectively investing surplus cash in needed road and bridge projects, replenishing the state’s so-called Rainy Day Fund, and making substantial reductions in state retirement system debt. Some of Schexnayder’s more vocal critics say there was little or no communication on budget matters between members and the Speaker’s office. Schexnayder rejects that idea…:

Cut 11 (11)  “…is crazy.”

Schexnayder is being criticized for his part in raising the state’s spending cap; something conservatives wanted to avoid at all costs. Some feel that’s not responsible, and call Schexnayder on it. As for the accusations of waiting until the last minute to pass a budget bill, Schexnayder blames fellow lawmakers who resisted voting up a procedural rules suspension that would have hastened the process…:

Cut 12 (07)    “…and dissect it.” 

Schexnayder calls his naysayers at the Capitol “a small group of blockers, instead of helpers.” This was Schexnayder’s last session as House Speaker, as he is term-limited. He is running for Secretary of State this fall.

____________________________________________

About half of Natchitoches Parish lost power after straight-line winds and thunderstorms moved through the area Thursday.  Assistant Director of the Office of Preparedness in Natchitoches Parish Mary Jones says only a handful of customers remain in the dark. She says fortunately the water systems have not gone down as a result of the power outages.

Cut 13 (10) “…have power.”  

Jones says the outages are scattered across the parish and they haven’t had any requests to open cooling stations.

And with a tropical storm in the Atlantic, Jones says last week’s storms and hurricane season serve as a reminder to be prepared for such emergencies in advance.

Cut 14 (11)  “…prepared for.”

___________________________________________________________

Tough, tough loss for the LSU Tigers last night in the College World Series as Wake Forest rallied back from a two to nothing deficit to beat the Bayou Bengals three to two. LSU failed to score with a runner at third base and no outs in the eighth inning, while the Demon Deacons pushed a run across in the bottom of the eighth and held on for the one run win. Tigers Coach Jay Johnson…

Cut 15 (09)  “…go tomorrow.”

LSU plays Tennessee tonight at 6 PM in an elimination game. First baseman Tre Morgan says they’ll be ready….

Cut 16 (16) “…together.”

In order to get to the championship series, LSU will have to win tonight and then beat Wake Forest twice. Johnson says it can be done and he’s seen it first hand, once in 2016 and then in 2017 by LSU…

Cut 17 (22) “…good spot”

The play of the game happened in the eight inning. Cade Beloso hit a weak grounder to Wake Forest star third baseman Brock Wilken who threw a one-hopper to the catcher Bennett Lee who tagged out Tre Morgan trying to score the go-ahead run. Morgan could have stayed at third, because there were no outs, but Johnson says Tre made the right decision

Cut 18 (22) “…that tonight.” 

Nearly 3,000 people in Louisiana every year are hospitalized or treated in the emergency room for heat related illness according to a new report by the Louisiana Department of Health. Teiko Foxx has more..

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

_______________________________________________

It’s been a difficult weekend for thousands in northwest Louisiana who have been without power since Thursday night as a result of severe storms. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

_______________________________________________

Among the casualties of the state budget fighting is the Human Society of Louisiana.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

A new report shows an average of nearly 3,000 Louisianans were hospitalized or treated every year due to heat-related illness from 2010-2020. The findings come from the Louisiana Department of Health.  Dr. Alicia Van Doren says disparities in the study show shows gender and race being disproportionately affected.

Cut 4 (13)  “…their counterparts.’”

Men accounted for over 80 percent of all cases. Parishes with the highest rates of heat-related hospitalizations were clustered around the Central and Northwest regions of the state. Van Doren says knowing the symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion is important for prevention.

Cut 5 (13)   “…aware of.”

Van Doren urges residents to avoid extreme heat but if you must be outside…

Cut 6 (11)  “…generating heat.”

The report is part of a CDC program through 2026. For resources, tips, and reports, visit ldh.la.gov/page/4817

________________________________________________

In this sweltering heat, thousands are without power in northwest Louisiana from strong storms that hit the area Thursday night and again Sunday morning. SWEPCO spokesperson Michael Corbin says as of Sunday afternoon 99-thousand customers in Louisiana were without power. Corbin says the damage to their infrastructure is extensive and the restoration is unfortunately tedious

Cut 7 (08) “…new wires.”

For SWEPCO customers in the Natchitoches area, power could be out until tomorrow night, for the Shreveport area, some customers may not get power back until the weekend.

Caddo Sheriff Steve Prator says there are cooling centers available

Cut 8 (13) “…your veterinarian.’”

For some people, it’s a double whammy, no power and damage to their home from a fallen tree. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arcenaux says unfortunately the damage is not extensive enough for federal assistance for those storm victims…

Cut 9 (13)  “…insurance company”

____________________________________________

Optimism among small businesses continues to slide. The National Federation of Independent Business maintains a Small Business Optimism Index, which shows a 17^th straight month of declining optimism among members. NFIB state director Dawn McVea says labor shortages and inflation woes have small locally owned & operated businesses “on the ropes”…:

Cut 10 (08) “…negative 50-percent.”

Concerns over labor have overtaken inflation worries in the periodic member survey. McVea says small businesses are finding it harder than ever to deliver goods & services and make a profit. 43-percent of members report trouble filling jobs and keeping help…:

Cut 11 (11)  “…and perform.”

The number of NFIB member businesses saying they expect business conditions to improve over the next 6 months has dropped to a net negative 50-percent. 44-percent say job openings are still very hard to fill – even impossible in some cases. Over 20-percent anticipate lower sales and revenues in the near future as well. McVea says debt service on loans is also a big concern for small businesses, as lending rates continue to rise…:

Cut 12 (07)    “…lot of frustration.” 

McVea says many member businesses say need to increase prices, but are reluctant to do so for fear of losing business.

____________________________________________

Another casualty of the state budget fighting is the Humane Society of Louisiana. HSLA Director Jeff Dorson says half of the state’s 64 parishes lack parish-wide facilities to provide essential services, and because there was a budget surplus again this year, Dorson says they asked for a small portion of the $1.6 billion.

Cut 13 (08) “…existing ones.”  

HSLA asked for $3 million of the state’s surplus to cover construction and repair costs of shelters across the state.  Dorson says there was even a plan to build two shelters at state prisons where the inmates would clean and interact with pets.

Cut 14 (09)  “…with nothing.”

Last year a request for $2 million to give shelters grants for repairs or renovations was also denied.  This year Dorson says a few lawmakers decided that HSLA’s request shouldn’t go towards animal welfare, and that is to the determinant of Louisiana.

Cut 15 (13)  “…have helped.”

Dorson says they will once again lobby for funding in the 2024 budget and he implores the public to urge their state representatives to provide funding for shelters.

___________________________________________________________

LSU’s win over Tennessee on Saturday night sets up a sensational matchup tonight in the College World Series as the Bayou Bengals face the top-seeded Wake Forest Demon Deacons. Wake Forest has the nation’s best team ERA at 2.82, while LSU leads the country in run scored at 594. Coach Jay Johnson credits his veteran hitters, who will need to be good tonight…

Cut 16 (22) “…give in.”

LSU is in the winner’s bracket after topping Tennessee six to three on Saturday, Johnson liked his team’s focus…

Cut 17 (17) “…batter’s box” 

LSU left-hander Riley Cooper entered the game in the eighth inning and earned his first save of the season. Johnson has been pitching well since the SEC Tournament…

Cut 18 (18) “…right now”

LSU right-hander Paul Skenes struck out 12 more hitters on Saturday and now has 200 on the season. He’s two behind LSU legend Ben McDonald for the SEC record in strikeouts for a season. Skenes was asked about being on the verge of breaking that record which has stood since 1989…

 Cut 19 (19) “…I think.” 

A year ago, Louisiana motorists were paying a record $4.56 a gallon for of regular gasoline. But today it’s nearly $1.50 lower. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

______________________________________

A massive cyberattack could possibly impact your financial and personal accounts. Brooke Thorington has more

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

______________________________________

LSU has made it to the College World Series and now the goal is to win the school’s seventh national championship. The Tigers have the best pitcher in college baseball in Paul Skenes. Skenes is also a good hitter but Coach Jay Johnson says having him focus on pitching has brought out the best in Skenes

Cut 3 (11) “…mastered that”

Skenes is expected to start on the mound Saturday night when LSU begins play in the C-W-S. The Tigers first opponent is Tennessee. LSU won two of three from the Volunteers in the regular season. LSU centerfielder Dylan Crews has a lot of respect for the Vols…

 Cut 4 (11)  “…best baseball” 

Since going 1-and-2 in the SEC Tournament, LSU has won five straight and Crews says they are clicking…

Cut 5 (11)  “…that’s it”

First pitch Saturday night against the Volunteers is at 6 PM.

 __________________________________________________

When it comes to gas prices, what a difference a year makes as the price at the pump is nearly a dollar and a half lower compared to last year’s record high gas prices. AAA Fuel Analyst Don Redman says motorists should be happy

Cut 6 (09)  “…those expectations” 

On June 15 last year, the price for a gallon of regular gasoline was at a record high of $4.56 and now it’s at $3.12. Redman says the drop is due to the price of oil and ease in demand.

Cut 7 (09)  “…initially anticipated” 

Redman says gas prices should hold steady for the summer maybe a slight bump around the 4th of July holiday but no steep hikes are expected unless a hurricane shuts down a bunch of refineries.

Cut 8 (13)  “… now today.” 

The national average for regular gas is $3.58 a gallon.

_______________________________________________

Mother Nature whipped up powerful and severe thunderstorms that rolled through Caddo and Bossier Parishes early this morning packing winds up to 80 mph. National Weather Service Meteorologist Shane Pendleton says the residents are now dealing with the aftermath.

Cut 9 (13) “…Bossier Parish.”

Storm damage is also reported in DeSoto, Red River, and Natchitoches Parishes. As of late Friday morning, more than 237-thousand customers were without power as a result of downed power lines. No significant injuries were reported but Pendleton the amount of clean-up is astonishing…

Cut 10 (05)  “…can see.”

Storms are expected to make their way back into northwest Louisiana later today into Sunday. Pendleton says extreme temperatures and more storms will make a bad situation worse.

Cut 11 (11)  “… anywhere fast.”

______________________________________

A massive software breach could possibly affect Louisianans that have a state-issued ID, driver’s license and/or vehicles registered with the Office of Motor Vehicles. Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Casey Tingle urges residents to take preemptive measures to secure their accounts.

Cut 12 (12) “…three services.” 

The three credit monitoring services are Experian, Equifax, and Transunion.

Louisiana is not the only state impacted by the cyberattack, the third-party data transfer service MOVEit is widely used around the world. Tingle says they know passwords were not included in the data that was involved in the breach.

Cut 13 (11) “…every 90 days.” 

Tingle says if you see unusual activity on your credit card, bank account or any other financial account notify the company associated with the account immediately.

Cut  14 (11)  “…identity.”

Tingle says this is an ongoing investigation and they will provide updates on their website. For more information visit NextSteps–dot-LA -dot- gov.

The Fortified Grant Program which provides grants to homeowners to reinforce their roofs has received $30 million in funding and could begin the application process as early as October. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

______________________________________

Fifty-one death row inmates have filed to have their sentences commuted to life in prison. It was just this year that two-term Governor Edwards made his views on the death penalty known. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (24)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

______________________________________

The Fortified Homes grant program recently received $30 million in funding and could begin taking applications by October for Louisiana homeowners to strengthen the quality of thier roof construction. House Insurance Chairman Mike Huval says offering these grants will motivate homeowners to upgrade.

Cut 3 (13) “…fortified standard.”

The program will allow homeowners to receive as much as $10 thousand to retrofit their roofs to the Fortified standard which will make their homes stronger in the face of future hurricanes. The program mirrors Alabama’s efforts where more than 35,000 homes have been built or upgraded to the Fortified standard. The Breaux Bridge Representative says additional legislation requires insurers to change existing policies.

Cut 4 (13)  “…roof replacement.” 

Certified builders install the roofs and the quality of work is verified by a third party. Homeowners will then receive a certificate to provide to their insurer to receive the discount. Huval says this was an important step to make homes safer.

Cut 5 (13)  “…this session.”

Anyone interested in staying updated on programs and details visit ldi.la.gov.

 __________________________________________________

Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy is a co-sponsor of a Republican plan that seeks to lower college costs and student debt. It’s a package of five bills that Cassidy says addresses the root causes of the student debt crisis…

Cut 6 (10)  “…financially succeed” 

Cassidy says the legislative package includes a bill he’s introduced before, the College Transparency Act. The Baton Rouge lawmaker says it would help students decide whether to take on debt to attend programs that do not translate into high-paying jobs…

Cut 7 (15)  “…that program” 

The bills are filed as U-S Supreme Court is expected to rule soon on President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness program. Cassidy says the president’s plan does nothing to address the causes of the debt crisis…

Cut 8 (11)  “… for the left.” 

_______________________________________________

Clemency has been filed for fifty-one of the state’s fifty-seven death row inmates, asking Governor John Bel Edwards to commute their death sentences to life in prison. Edwards has made several comments recently that he opposes the death penalty, and when asked if he plans to commute the sentences…

Cut 9 (12) “…happens.”

Edwards even addressed his feelings on the death penalty at his State of the State address in April…

Cut 10 (06) “…exonerations.”

According to the Louisiana Capital Appeals Project since 1999, nine innocent people have been exonerated from death row and the state’s death penalty is overwhelmingly imposed on people of color.

Edwards says he’ll consider the petitions after they’ve been reviewed by the Board of Pardons.

Cut 11 (12)  “… judgment.”

The state’s constitution authorizes the governor to commute a death sentence upon favorable recognition from the Board of Pardons.

______________________________________

The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has approved an appeals process for high school seniors who are unable to graduate because they do not meet the LEAP test scoring requirement. BESE President Doctor Holly Boffy (Bow-fee) says this new policy will prevent teens from dropping out of school…

Cut 12 (11) “…high school diploma.” 

Boffy says four-percent of high school seniors are unable to graduate,  because they didn’t pass the LEAP test. She says appeals will be administered at the local school level…

Cut 13 (11) “…employability.” 

Louisiana is one of eight states that still require minimum standardized test scores, but only Louisiana did not offer students an appeals process. Boffy says BESE recognizes some kids do not perform well on tests and that should not serve as the sole barrier from graduation…

 cut  14 (12)  “…standardized test.”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon seems pleased, overall, with insurance reforms passed by the Legislature this year. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

Nearly every prisoner on Louisiana’s death row is asking Governor John Bel Edwards to commute their death sentence to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

_______________________________________________

Tiger fans are headed to the College World Series in Omaha for the first time since 2017. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx”

_______________________________________________

The National Security Agency (NSA) selects LSU as the first university in the country to create and pilot and cybersecurity clinic to help Louisiana small businesses. LSU Economic Development director Greg Trahan (TRAH-hahn) says the university has a lot to offer the NSA in helping businesses fight cybercrime…:

Cut 4 (13)  “…point of entry.’”

When up and active, LSU’s Cybersecurity Clinic will offer free help in preventing, detecting and responding to cyberattacks. Trahan says it will be offered through the LSU Ourso College of Business, the LSU Center for Computation & Technology, the College of Engineering and the Small Business & Development Center at LSU…:

Cut 5 (13)   “…point of entry.”

Trahan says work will begin right away to implement the clinics and they hope to have them up and running within 12 months. Sub-clinics will deal with threat assessment & vulnerability, and move onto defensive strategies. He says the LCC will be a great learning environment for small business owners and also for students…:

Cut 6 (12)  “…go to class.”

________________________________________________

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon and House & Senate insurance committee leaders hold a press conference today to talk about the package of bills aimed at fixing an ailing home insurance market. Donelon tells LRN one bill he’s glad to see pass will offer homeowners free state financial help with hardening roofs and structures to storm-resistant standards…:

Cut 7 (10) “…ten thousand dollars.”

Louisiana has lost a large number of property insurance writers; mostly due to severe hurricanes that have hit the state (and those companies) pretty hard. A great many folks were forced to the state-run insurer of last resort, Louisiana Citizens (which is very costly). Donelon says lawmakers also approved additional funding for the Insure Louisiana Incentive Program…:

Cut 8 (10) “…for their homes.’”

Donelon says the incentive program has already brought nine new insurance companies to the state and he expects to more coming soon.

He says lawmakers passed bills to assure that executives with failed insurers could not simply move to another company and continue exploiting Louisiana. Donelon is happy to see final passage for a bill giving property owners more options when filing a damage claim…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…residential claims.”

This was Donelon’s last legislative session as Insurance Commissioner. He is not seeking re-election this fall.

____________________________________________

51 Louisiana death row prisoners file clemency petitions in the hopes Governor John Bel Edwards and the Board of Pardons will commute their death sentences to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Louisiana Capital Appeals Project director Cecelia Kappel is an attorney for several of the inmates who have filed clemency applications

Cut 10 (09) “…on them.”

Kappel says when looking at these cases collectively, it’s clear the system is fundamentally broken. She says nine innocent people have been exonerated from Louisiana’s death row. She says 42 of 57 people under a death sentence are people of color, at least 23 have a documented intellectual disability and 39 have been diagnosed with serious mental illness and or brain damage

Cut 11 (09)  “…pardon board”

Kappel says they hope the pardon board will hold hearings this fall. Earlier this year, Governor Edwards announced his opposition to the death penalty. She hopes Edwards decides to commute the death sentences of 51 inmates before he leaves office in early January…

Cut 12 (07)    “…for clemency.” 

57 people are on Louisiana’s death row. A spokesperson for the governor’s office says any applications recommended to the governor by the Board of Pardons for gubernatorial approval are reviewed on a case-by-case basis before a final decision is made. A-G Jeff Landry says he’ll fight the clemency pleas.

____________________________________________

Thousands of Tigers fans will flock to Omaha for the College World Series as the Bayou Bengals are in the C-W-S for the first time since 2017. Executive Director of Visit Omaha Deborah Ward says there’s plenty to do besides the game.

Cut 13 (12) “…going strong.”  

Eight teams including LSU will compete in Omaha, which gets underway Friday and runs through June 26. Ward says Omaha will be the baseball capitol of the world.

Cut 14 (13)  “…this period.”

Omaha is famous for steak, one of the best zoos in the world, and the Reuben sandwich. Ward says the city is excited to welcome Tiger fans but there’s also a change in baseball…

Cut 15 (12)  “…on Friday.”

The Tigers are playing in the College World Series for the 19th time in the school’s history.

___________________________________________________________

LSU made it past Kentucky to secure its first Super Regional title and trip to the College World Series since 2017. After a 14-0 victory late Saturday night, the Tigers got the series winning 8-3 victory Saturday. Right hander Ty Floyd got the start and allowed a solo home run in the bottom of the first inning but with runners on second and third retired the side to keep the Tigers down just one. Floyd pitched three innings and allowed three runs on seven hits but Coach Jay Johnson had nothing but praise for his junior pitcher…

Cut  16 (19) “…he didn’t”

The Tigers made it to Omaha just as many expected them to at the start of the season. The preseason favorites for the CWS title, LSU struggled towards the end of conference play as they traversed the 14th toughest schedule in all of college baseball. Johnson says the team played four games a week all season without a losing week, and sometimes rest is all you need…

Cut 17 (16) “…last weekend.” 

LSU will take on SEC rival Tennessee in the first round of the College World Series. The Tigers and Volunteers were both top five teams heading into the season and have experienced their share of struggles. LSU took home the series win in the regular season, but Johnson says they’re a very talented team playing some of their best ball…

Cut 18 (14) “…out there”

The Tigers and Vols are scheduled to face off 6:00 Saturday

_____________________________________________________

The Saints had their first day of minicamp in the Derek Carr era yesterday. Carr got the chance to build chemistry with some new faces and continue to learn the Saints attack. He said New Orleans will have to tackle the welcome problem of trying to share the ball to almost too many offensive weapons. Carr particularly praised the talents of running back Alvin Kamara who he was able to get reps with yesterday…

Cut 19 (20) “…on the field.” 

On the defensive side of the ball Marshon Lattimore had a good first day as he looks to return to form following injuries last season. Carr had the chance to play against Lattimore during his time with the Raiders, but he says seeing him in practice has helped him understand why he’s one of the best in the league…

Cut 20 (17)  “…way he does.”  

State lawmakers approved legislation that would provide a $500 tax break to gun owners for purchases of gun-safe storage devices. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

______________________________________

In January the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources will have a new name. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

______________________________________

Among bills passed last week, was a measure to give a $500 tax break to Louisiana gun owners for purchases of safes, locks, and other gun storage devices. Bill’s author, New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry says her legislation mirrors a Virginia bill passed earlier this year.

Cut 3 (12) “…as well.”

53% of adults in Louisiana have guns at home, the 13^th highest level among states, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, which measures only licensed weapons. Landry hopes her bill provides a layer of gun safety

Cut 4 (12)  “…all times.” 

Gun owners should keep receipts of purchases to receive a tax credit through the Department of Revenue. Landry says this is an effort to prevent gun-related accidents involving children and adults.

Cut 5 (13)  “…harm someone.”

The bill awaits the governor’s signature.

__________________________________________________

House and Senate leaders are facing criticism for cutting 100-million dollars from the Louisiana Department of Health’s budget. House Appropriations Chairman Jerome Zeringue says L-D-H’s budget is over 15-billion dollars and a majority of the Legislature believes they can handle this cut

Cut 6 (14)  “…of the funding” 

But Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne, who manages the state’s finances for the governor, says the 100-million dollar cut will be impactful…

Cut 7 (08)  “…to the department” 

Dardenne says they are looking into the possibility of the governor using his line-item veto power and taking the 100-million dollar cut to L-D-H out of the budget bill. Zeringue understands that’s a real possibility

Cut 8 (09)  “… address that” 

_______________________________________________

Louisiana’s largest military base Fort Polk officially changed its name to Fort Johnson today. The Army base in Vernon Parish has been named after World War I hero Sgt. William Henry Johnson, a Black U.S. soldier who fought in France in 1918 and 1919. Brigadier General David Gardner says Sgt. Johnson embodies the warrior spirit.

Cut 9 (09) “…every day.”

The process of renaming Fort Polk began in 2021 after the changes were mandated by Congress. The 2021 National Defense Authorization Act requires any and all Army bases with ties to the Confederacy in their namesake to undergo a name change. Gardner says today’s redesignated celebration in honor of Sgt. Johnson was well attended.

Cut 10 (10) “…the base.”

Sgt. Johnson served in New York National Guard’s 369^th U.S. Infantry Regiment and was a World War I Medal of Honor recipient and posthumously received the Purple Heart in 1996. Gardner says all Fort Johnson signage will be prominently displayed.

Cut 11 (13)  “…as well.”

Johnson became one of the first Americans to be awarded France highest award for valor.  Fort Polk is one of nine army installations redesignated to remove its Confederate name.

______________________________________

In January, the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources will under go a name change. DNR spokesperson Patrick Courreges says the state agency will be known as The Louisiana Department of Energy and Natural Resources because the agency’s role has expanded over the years and oversees much more than oil and gas now.

Cut 12 (10) “…Halo group.” 

The department also oversees solar, and wind energy projects.

Another reason for the name change is the agency’s application for federal funds from the US Department of Energy. Courreges says some of those federal funds are funneled through DNR for rebates on energy-efficient changes to homes.

Cut 13 (10) “…the DOE.” 

Another issue that prompted the name change, Courreges says DNR is often mistaken by those out of state as the wildlife agency for Louisiana.

Cut 14 (11)  “…Fisheries does.”

The name change will be official when the next governor is sworn-in in January because the department will have to update its letterhead and more at the same time.

Louisiana is in an early summer heat wave of record proportions this week. Entergy encourages customers to consider energy efficiency steps to lower usage and save on utility bills. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

______________________________________

The LSU Tigers are headed back to the College World Series for the 19th time. Jeff Palermo was at the Box for the celebration…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

The 2023 legislative session will be remembered most for its final minutes of confusion over the state budget. But Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says overall the session was productive and he believes lawmakers dedicated the more than $2 billion of extra funding appropriately.

Cut 3 (12) “…pretty good.”

Among the points of contention were one-time pay raises for teachers and a $100 million cut from the Department of Health’s budget.

Erwin says because the state has in the long-term more than $18 billion in debt in the retirement system and short-term debt on top of that…

Cut 4 (11)  “…that’s good.” 

Erwin says the two chambers differed on how they wanted to allocate the extra funds. He says the House was focused on paying down debt while the Senate wanted to spend the one-time dollars on projects.

Cut 5 (07)  “…retirement debt.

__________________________________________________

We’ll see some of the highest heat indexes of the year this week which will force your air conditioner to kick into full throttle. Entergy says here’s what you can do to keep your utility bill down. Spokesperson David Freese says setting the thermostat lower than 78 degrees raise your bill by 3% for every degree.

Cut 6 (12)  “…the thermostat.” 

Customers can save by closing blinds, shades, and curtains to keep the sun out and the cooler air in. A programmable thermostat can help manage costs and monitor usage. Freese says ceiling fans and box fans use very little electricity.

Cut 7 (11)  “…to you.” 

Cleaning or replacing air conditioning air filters can also help lower your electricity bills during the summer months. Freese suggests sealing cracks and holes around doors, windows, and ductwork. He points out that centralizing air in rooms that are only being used can help.

Cut 8 (13)  “… your bills” 

Entergy customers can manage usage by installing energy upgrades through the Entergy Solutions program by visiting myentergy.com.

_______________________________________________

After a well-known Louisiana Baptist leader, Daryl Stagg was arrested in Central Louisiana for a number of sex crimes last week, authorities are asking the public to contact them if they have any knowledge of the crimes. Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain….

Cut 9 (08) “…in jail.”

60-year-old Stagg of Pollock faces three counts of oral sexual battery, first-degree rape, aggravated crimes against nature, and indecent behavior with juveniles. In addition to Grant Parish, McCain says Stagg allegedly committed crimes in Union and Rapides parishes and in Wisconsin also.

Cut 10 (13) “…with us.”

Rapides Parish Sheriff Mark Wood says multiple law enforcement agencies are working together to build the case against Stagg and they encourage any other victims to come forward.

Cut 11 (09)  “…for you.”

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office is the lead agency in the investigation, and they can be reached at 318-627-3261.

______________________________________

LSU is back in the College World Series for the first time since 2017 after sweeping Kentucky in the Baton Rouge Super Regional. Star center fielder Dylan Crews reached base seven times in the two games and had a two-run double last night…

Cut 12 (08) “…butts off” 

Senior designated hitter Cade Beloso cranked out a three-run homer in the third inning in his final game at Alex Box Stadium…

Cut 13 (11) “…everyday” 

LSU pitcher Paul Skenes was the winning pitcher Saturday in the 14-0 shutout win. Skenes has been dominant all season long and is looking forward to his first experience in Omaha…

Cut 14 (08)  “…cool opportunity”

LSU will play the winner of today’s game between Southern Miss and Tennessee, either Friday or Saturday in the opening round of the College World Series.

In the closing minutes of the legislative session, lawmakers expressed their frustration over last-minute changes to the budget. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

State lawmakers failed to issue permanent pay raises for school teachers and staff in the legislative session that ended last week, and the state’s biggest teachers’ union is NOT happy. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

A new Bankrate.com survey finds 66% of U.S. adults have a negative view about tipping and are forking over gratuities in smaller amounts. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

_______________________________________________

At the close of the regular legislative session, lawmakers say they had only 20 minutes to review and vote on the state budget. The final budget had a $100 million cut to the Department of Health and only one year appropriated for teacher pay raises. Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau says the budget was drastically different when it returned from the House.

Cut 4 (08)  “…either.’”

Luneau says the most frustrating cut was to LDH, without any testimony in committee if the money actually legitimately needed to be cut.

Cut 5 (06)   “…in Louisiana.”

The final budget dedicated funding for $2,000 teacher pay raises but only for the next fiscal year. Luneau says if the state can’t bring teacher pay up to the southern regional average at a time when the state is flush with cash…

Cut 6 (09)  “…southern average.”

Overall Luneau says the session went well and they were able to address several issues but it’s unfortunate how it ended with the budget.

________________________________________________

When the state legislature concluded its business last week, it avoided dealing out pay raises for teachers and school staff; opting instead to give one-time bonuses of $2000 per teacher, and $1000 for support workers. Louisiana Federation of Teachers Legislative Director Cynthia Posey says calling that “disappointing” is an understatement…:

Cut 7 (13) “…almost a crime.”

Back in 2007, Louisiana teacher salaries were raised to meet the Southern Regional Education Board average, but have trailed more and more behind those other states in the years since. The state also has a shortage of certified educators. Posey says Louisiana needs to prioritize education funding or face further losses. She says teachers feel disenfranchised…:

Cut 8 (12) “…in education period?’”

The House avoided a vote on a Senate resolution that would have funded the teacher pay raises; electing instead to give them another one-time stipend. Posey hopes lawmakers will see things differently next year…:

Cut 9 (06)  “…and children first.”

Posey says investing in teachers and schools is investing in kids and Louisiana’s future.

____________________________________________

Service employees are seeing smaller tips or no tips at all according to a new Bankrate.com survey that shows 66% of people have a negative view of tipping. Senior Analyst Ted Rossman points out that gratuities are declining while annoyance with the request of tips is on the rise.

Cut 10 (13) “…lot more.”

Tipped workers receive a federal minimum wage of $2.13 per hour according to the U-S Department of Labor. In 2022, 65% of adults who dine at a sit-down restaurant tip their server which is down compared to 75% in 2021. Rossman says frequency tipping between gender and age was significant.

Cut 11 (12)  “…tip better”

67% of Midwesterners are more likely to always tip at a sit-down restaurant compared to 48% of Southerners. The study shows nearly one in three adults are annoyed by tip suggestions on screens. Rossman believes people are stingier when confronted with invitations to tip on the screen.

Cut 12 (13)    “…for it.” 

Rossman suggests tipping 20 percent as a standard practice.

____________________________________________

LSU is heading back to Omaha as the Fighting Tigers topped Kentucky eight to three last night to win the Baton Rouge Super Regional Series which punched their ticket into the College World Series. Cade Beloso delivered a three-run homer in the third inning to snap a one-one tie…

Cut 13 (13) “…after that”  

Coach Jay Johnson is leading his third different team to the College World Series, but this one means a lot…

Cut 14 (14)  “pretty special.”

Johnson is leading LSU to the College World Series in just his second season in Tiger Town…

Cut 15 (09)  “…so bad.”

Center fielder Dylan Crews is one of the best players in college baseball and now he gets an opportunity to play in the College World Series. Crews hit a screaming two-run  double in the ninth inning in his final at-bat at Alex Box Stadium. The two-time SEC Player of the Year admits he was nervous…

Cut  16 (16) “…it was awesome.”

LSU will play the winner of today’s game between Tennessee and Southern Miss in the opening round of the College World Series. The game is expected to take place on Saturday.

An override veto session is possible after the Republican controlled legislature approves three bills that target LGBTQ-plus community. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

______________________________________

An anticipated El Niño has shown up ahead of schedule which could help reduce hurricane activity. Teiko Foxx has more on what else it means for our weather…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx. ”  

______________________________________

The final minutes of the legislative session were filled with chaos and confusion as lawmakers voted on the state’s $45-billion budget. Among the points of contention was the failure to make teacher pay raises permanent and gutting $100 million from the Department of Health’s budget. Shreveport Representative Alan Seabaugh…

Cut 3 (10) “…a joke.”

Speaker of the House Clay Schexnayder defended his actions after the session saying the lawmakers had the ability to read over last-minute changes to the budget.

Cut 4 (09)  “…those bills.” 

When asked if LDH was notified of the sizable cut to the budget Schexnayder told reporters in House Appropriations LDH asked for one amount and in Senate Finance they asked for another amount.

Cut 5 (07)  “…each one.

Governor Edwards expressed his concerns about the sizable cut to LDH and explained that the $100 million cut could result in a $400 million dollar loss of matching federal funds and frustration that the teacher pay raises are not permanent.

__________________________________________________

The 2023 regular legislative session is over, but lawmakers could return for a veto override session. Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards says he expects he’ll veto three bills that target LGBTQ lifestyles. Edwards says the legislation is mean-spirited and wrong

Cut 6 (12)  “…for example.” 

A bill that would prohibit public school teachers from discussing gender and sexual identity in a classroom setting, legislation that would allow teachers to ignore students wishes to go by a pronoun other than what’s on their birth certificate are two measures that face a veto threat. Edwards says he also disapproves of a bill that bans gender affirming care for transgender minors…

Cut 7 (10)  “…have to do.” 

But Chairman of the Republican House Delegation, Erath Representative Blake Miguez, is passionate about protecting kids from life-altering procedures they may regret later in life

Cut 8 (04)  “… singular issue” 

If the governor vetoes these bills, a veto session is automatically called, unless a majority of the House or Senate votes not to have a veto session. It will take a two-thirds vote in the House and Senate to override a veto. These three pieces of legislation received enough votes in the House and Senate to override a veto.

_______________________________________________

El Nino arrived early and NOAA is predicting strong weather and record hot temperatures worldwide over the next few months. State Climatologist Barry Keim says this is good news for Louisiana’s 2023 hurricane season.

Cut 9 (13) “…tropical season.”

Meteorologists give it a 56% chance of developing into a strong El Niño, and a 25% chance of topping supersized levels. In the past, a strong El Nino has led to record global warmth, like in 2016 and 1998. Keim says this could place 2023 in the running for the warmest year on record…

Cut 10 (11) “…breaking temperatures.”

An El Nino suppresses hurricane activity. But Keim says this year an El Nino is interacting with warm sea surface temperatures which helps fuel tropical activity.

Cut 11 (12)  “…to average.”

NOAA is predicting a near-normal  hurricane season this year.

______________________________________

LSU and Kentucky meet for the second time this season, but this time the winner of the series advances to the College World Series. The Tigers took two of three from the Wildcats in April. Coach Jay Johnson says he got an updated scouting report on the Cats by dissecting their games last weekend in the Lexington Regional…

Cut 12 (14) “…to it” 

Typical south Louisiana thunderstorms were a factor in the Baton Rouge Regional as there were long weather delays on Saturday and Sunday. Johnson says they will not start a game unless they have a window to play the game…

Cut 13 (09) “…on the line” 

This is only the second time Kentucky has been to a Super Regional series. It will be LSU’s 16th super regional. 2019 was the last time and they lost to Florida State. Designated hitter Cade Beloso was on that team and doesn’t want to repeat that feeling again…

Cut 14 (12)  “…national championship”

The U.S. Supreme Court ruling Alabama’s congressional map unconstitutional, might pave the way for a second majority-black voting district in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington explains

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

The final hour of the legislative session was chaotic and filled with grumbling as lawmakers rushed to approve a budget. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (37)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

_______________________________________________

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser leaves tomorrow to visit the land down under for an international mission to promote Louisiana as a tourist destination. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (28)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.”

_______________________________________________

The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of Black voters in Alabama’s congressional districts map case has advocates in Louisiana hopeful the nation’s highest court will also rule that the Pelican State should have two Black-majority congressional districts. Urban League of Louisiana Vice President of Policy Tyrone Walker…

Cut 4 (12)  “…as well.’”

Thirty-three percent of Louisiana’s population is Black, advocacy groups argue that one majority-Black district out of six is not enough, there should be two.

As to when the high court will rule on Louisiana’s congressional maps, Walker says legal experts agree that the court’s decision in the Alabama case, gives a clear pathway for fair maps in Louisiana.

Cut 5 (06)   “…in Louisiana.”

Walker says the Urban League of Louisiana is urging Governor John Bel Edwards to immediately call a special session so the maps can be redrawn.

Cut 6 (09)  “…what’s right.”

Slidell Republican, and gubernatorial candidate, Senator Sharon Hewitt, who helped craft the GOP-drawn maps told The Advocate ” While she respects the ruling, it’s not a final ruling regarding the congressional maps in Louisiana.”

________________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries encourages you to grab a fishing pole and get hooked during its annual free fishing weekend on Saturday and Sunday. Everyone is allowed to fish without a license. LDWF Spokesperson Rene Lebreton says the goal is to introduce new people to the great sport of fishing…

Cut 7 (09) “…historical levels.”

Lebreton says LDWF has also stacked adult-sized catfish and rainbow trout at 17 pounds across the state as a part of the Get Out and Fish Program.

Cut 8 (12) “…their freezer.”

Gambling-dot-com just ranked Louisiana as the top state for fishing. The Bayou State earned the top spot because of its license cost, water area with 91-hundred square miles and over one-point-nine billion dollars in fishing retail sales.

Lebreton says you do not need a boat to go fishing. He says there are plenty of places you can walk to and drop a line…

Cut 9 (10)  “…interactive map.”

Fishing regulations including size, season, catch limits, and gear restrictions will remain in effect this weekend. Anyone who decides to continue fishing for the remainder of the year is required to purchase a state fishing license.

____________________________________________

The 2023 legislative session ended with a wild finish as state lawmakers scrambled to approve a budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1st. Even Governor John Bel Edwards does not have a complete command of the specifics. But he knows the spending plan approved contains a 100-million dollar cut to the Louisiana Department of Health…

Cut 10 (09) “…down stairs”

The 100-million dollar cut to LDH could multiply if what’s cut is tied to federal matching dollars.

Edwards is also disappointed teachers received a two-thousand dollar pay raise, when he pushed for a three-thousand dollar raise. Also, the two-thousand dollar raise is just a one-time bump, not guaranteed for the following year. He says with a huge surplus of state dollars available, teachers deserve to be compensated well…

 Cut 11 (11)  “…in the south”

House and Senate leaders spent all day behind closed doors ironing out a final budget agreement before presenting it to the full House and Senate with less than a hour to go before a 6 PM deadline. Chairman of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee Fred Mills also surprised with the cut to LDH…

Cut 12 (08)    “…for that.” 

Senate President Page Cortez says during the budget negotiations the House wanted reduce LDH funding to pay down more debt. Cortez says lawmakers will make sure health care services will not suffer.

Denham Springs Senator and former Livingston Parish School Superintendent Rogers Pope pleaded with his colleagues to reject the budget proposal because the teacher pay raise is not permanent and not enough…

Cut 13 (08) “…we need to do”  

Despite Pope’s argument, the main budget bill passed the Senate 35 to 3 and 95 to 9 in the House.

____________________________________________

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser leaves tomorrow for a trip to Australia for an international mission to promote Louisiana as a tourist destination. Nungesser says he will not just market Louisiana as a destination for tourists.

Cut 14 (13)  “from Australia.”

He also plans to visit  New Zealand. Nungesser says he plans to visit other countries in the future He says Louisiana is one of three states to receive a grant for $300,000 for the next three years from the International Commerce Department to market international travel to the U-S.

Cut 15 (09)  “…more money.”

Nungesser says there are several reasons why Aussies would like to visit Louisiana.

Cut  16 (12) “…with us.”

____________________________________________________

LSU is two wins away from getting back to the College World Series in Omaha. Standing in the Tigers way is Kentucky, who battled back from the loser’s bracket to win the Lexington Regional. The Wildcats are not a home run hitting team, instead they like to put the ball in play and steal bases. LSU second baseman Gavin Dugas they’ll be ready….

Cut 17 (11) “…keep it simple.” 

LSU has not been to the College World Series since 2017. Dugas says they know how important playing in the C-W-S is for the fanbase…

Cut 18 (14) “…want to go”

LSU took two of three from Kentucky in a series in Baton Rouge in mid-April. Tigers designated hitter Cade Beloso drove in four runs that weekend…

 Cut 19 (15) “…this weekend” 

First pitch on Saturday is at 2 PM. There’s a 30-percent chance for an isolated thunderstorm.