LSU’s annual “Louisiana Survey” of public opinions shows residents’ Number One concern is CRIME. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (31)  “…Kevin Gallagher.”

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It’s the law to wear a seatbelt in Louisiana and Louisiana Highway Safety Commission is making sure all occupants are buckled up during their “Click it or Ticket” campaign through June 4^th. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The family of the 63-year-old Houston woman who died of hypothermia in a New Iberia Arby’s May 11^th is suing the owners of the chain. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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LSU’s annual “Louisiana Survey” public opinion poll shows crime is residents’ top concern. The survey is done by LSU’s Reilly Center for Media & Public Affairs to gauge public opinion of life, government and policies. Study lead Michael Henderson says the yearly telephone interview survey of over 500 random statewide residents got a surprising result this time around…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…folks named ‘crime’”

Henderson says 20 percent of respondents said their biggest worry was rising crime. He says that is the highest number on that particular question in memory…:

Cut 5 (06)   “…near 20 percent.”

Henderson says folks taking the Louisiana Survey reported they can see crime getting worse and spreading everywhere…:

Cut 6 (05)  “…last four years.”

Henderson hopes law enforcement and government leaders will take note and understand the public is looking for better, safer times.

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Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reminds drivers law enforcement will be out to issue tickets to anyone who doesn’t buckle up during the “Click It or Ticket” campaign through June 4. Spokesperson Gregory Fischer says wearing a seat belt increases your chances of surviving a vehicle crash.

Cut 7 (13) “…their seatbelts.”

State law mandates every person in a vehicle must wear a seat belt or be in a child safety seat. Fewer than 14 percent of drivers and passengers make up more than half of the motor vehicle fatalities in the state. Fischer says unsecured backseat drivers can be in more jeopardy during a crash.

Cut 8 (13) “…buckled up.”

The 2022 LHSC survey shows 91 percent of women wear seatbelts, while men are at 82-percent. New Orleans and Monroe have the highest seat belt usage at 88 percent. Fischer says the usage rate is lower in central Louisiana.

Cut 9 (12)  “…their seatbelts.”

A first-time ticket for not wearing a seatbelt costs $50, and subsequent offenses are $75.

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The most recent ALICE Report, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed from the United Way indicates more than half of Louisiana households are struggling to make ends meet. President of the Louisiana Association of United Ways, Sarah Berthelot says the Bayou State ranks second in the country, just behind Mississippi…

Cut 10 (05) “…survival budget. ” 

In 2021 the ALICE Household Survival Budget for a working family of four was $66,000, far above the Federal Poverty Level of $26,500. Berthelot says that would mean wage earners in a household of four would need $33 an hour to meet household expenses, yet 70 percent of the state’s most common jobs pay less than $20 an hour.

Berthelot says stagnant wages and inflation are to blame.

Cut 11 (11)  “…really tough.”

Berthelot says so many families are working extremely hard to pay their expenses but the 11-percent increase in inflation is making it extremely difficult and so many families were forced to dip into their savings during the pandemic.

Cut 12 (11)    “…concluding.” 

A link to view the ALICE report can be found on the LouisianaRadioNetwork.com

https://www.launitedway.org/ALICE-Reports-Louisiana

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Family members of the 63-year-old Houston woman who died of hypothermia at the New Iberia Arby’s on May 11^th are suing Turbo Restaurants, the Texas-based company that owns the franchise. Attorney Paul Skrabanek (scraw-bionic) says Nguyet Lee (New wet Lee) was the acting manager when she was found dead in the walk-in cooler.

Cut 13 (11) “…thing broken.”  

Turbo Restaurants had asked Le, who managed an Arby’s in Houston, to manage the New Iberia eatery temporarily for four to six weeks. Skrabanek says it was Le’s 41-year-old special needs son who worked with her that made the grisly discovery. He says the police told them Le tried to fight her way out.

Cut 14 (10)  “…the floor.”

Skrabanek says Le was alone at the restaurant and arrived around 9 o’clock that morning and was discovered about an hour and a half later. He says employees were using a screwdriver to go in and out of the cooler and propping the door open with a box, since Fall. He says they want to bring about awareness of the incident and are seeking monetary damages. He says he’s heard nothing from the owners.

Cut 15 (09)  “…to file it.”

Skrabanek says Le was a mother of four from a tight-knit hard-working Asian family.

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U-L Lafayette fans are getting ready for a late night so they can watch the Lady Cajun softball team batting Washington in game one of a super regional series. First pitch from Seattle is at 9 PM. The 22nd-ranked Cajuns have won 50 games this year, while the Huskies are 41-13 and ranked fifth in the country. U-L Coach Gerry Glasco says there will be a lot of talent on the field during this best-of-three series

Cut  16 (16)  “..hard-fought series.” 

Both teams enter the super regionals on an emotional high. The Cajuns beat their in-state rival LSU twice on Sunday, while Washington had to rally from six runs down in the seventh to beat McNeese and win its regional. Glasco says getting off to a good start will be key…

Cut 17 (15) “…mentally.” 

The Cajuns won the Baton Rouge regional despite committing five errors in the championship game against LSU. Glasco says they need to keep the errors to a minimum this weekend…

Cut 18 (19) “…all aspects”

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The national champion LSU women’s basketball team meets President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden today for a ceremony to celebrate the Lady Tigers and the national champion UCONN men’s basketball team. The voice of the Lady Tigers Patrick Wright says the champs are excited about the trip…

Cut 19 (19) “… all of us.” 

The Lady Tigers hoops squad is the fourth LSU sport to visit the White House in celebration of a national championship. The last time an LSU team went to the White House was the 2019 national champion football team and they produced a viral video while dancing to “Get the Gat.” Wright wouldn’t be surprised if this team produces a sequel…

Cut 20 (07)  “…cameo”  

A bill to end capital punishment in Louisiana got a death sentence in the House Criminal Justice Committee Wednesday. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…Kevin Gallagher.”

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Do you plan to travel this Memorial Day holiday? If so, AAA projects a 7 percent increase of travelers compared to last year. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The Senate Health and Welfare Committee votes down on a House-approved bill that sought to ban gender-affirming care for minors. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Delta Biofuel will break ground in late June on a $100 million renewable facility in Jeanerette that will produce 340,000 metric tons of biomass fuel pellets annually. CEO Phil Keating says this will solve a serious problem for the sugar cane industry…

Cut 4 (11)  “…in utilities”

The facility will be the first of its kind in North America for its use of bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane production, to manufacture biomass fuel pellets on a commercial scale. Louisiana is one of the nation’s top producers of sugarcane, producing more than 2 million tons of raw sugar in 2022. Keating says it will create alternative fuel from unneeded bagasse.

Cut 5 (13)   “…industrial scale.”

Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in a total of 275 new jobs in the Acadiana region. Keating says the average salary will be around 63 thousand dollars.

Cut 6 (12)  “…for everybody.”

Delta Biofuel plans to source from nearby sugar mills in Iberia, St. Mary, and St. Martin parishes. The company also has long-term contracts primarily with power utility companies across Europe for the sale of more than 1.8 million tons of pellets over the next several years.

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A bill that would end capital punishment in Louisiana has failed to pass out of the House Criminal Justice Committee. HB 228 was from Marrero Democrat Representative Kyle Green, who tells committee members the death penalty needs to go forever…:

Cut 7 (09) “…innocent people.”

Louisiana is one of 27 states that still allow capital punishment, but no one has been put to death here since 2010. Among those speaking FOR Green’s bill was defense attorney Ralph Capitelli, who says the process – from conviction to actual execution – simply takes too long to play out, and it should be eliminated…:

Cut 8 (11) “…criminal justice system.”

Opposing the bill was West Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney Tony Clayton, who tells members the death penalty still has a place in Louisiana justice…punishment for the worst of the worst…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…the death penalty.”

Also against the bill, Chief Deputy Attorney General John Sinquefield, who says virtually all Gulf South states still have the death penalty, and he worries what message ending capital punishment might send…:

Cut 10 (12) “…no death penalty. ” 

The measure failed by a vote of 4 “yeas” to 11 “nays”, which is a death sentence for Green’s bill.

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AAA says 42 million people will travel out this Memorial Day holiday weekend, a 7 percent increase from last year. Analyst Don Redman says despite inflation, more people are planning trips and booking them early.

Cut 11 (12)  “…in 2000.”

Despite high ticket prices, demand for flights is soaring. Air travel will surpass pre-pandemic levels, with 3 million people boarding planes for the weekend, that’s an 11 percent increase over last year. Redman says that’s about 170,000 more passengers than 2019.

Cut 12 (13)    “…people fly.” 

Road trips are up by 6 percent, with 37 million people expected to drive to their destination, an increase of more than 2 million from last year. The good news, gas prices are lower this year compared to last year when the national average was more than $4 a gallon. Redman says it’s also important to check your vehicle before hitting the road.

Cut 13 (13) “…for help.”  

More travelers are taking other modes of transportation, like buses and trains totaling nearly 2 million, an increase of 20.6 over last year.

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The Senate Health and Welfare Committee kills a bill that would prohibit gender affirming care for minors. The vote was five to four to defer the legislation for the regular session. Republican Chairman and St. Martin Parish Senator Fred Mills casted the tie-breaking vote…

Cut 14 (07)  “…vote yes.”

Pollock Representative Gabe Firment’s bill would prohibit doctors from giving minors puberty blockers or performing any gender-transitioning procedures. Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau says there are no cases of a parent allowing their child to have a sex change before they are 18….

Cut 15 (13)  “…has occurred”

Firment says he’s trying to protect children from what he calls experimental treatments. He believes gender dysphoria should be treated as a mental health issue that includes counseling. But Luneau says gender-affirming care has the support of several major medical organizations

Cut  16 (12)  “..needed therapy” 

Opponents of the legislation pointed to studies that show transgender youth are less at risk for depression and suicidal thoughts if they are able to access gender-affirming care.

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Louisiana Tech hit five home runs yesterday to beat Charlotte 13 to eight in the Conference USA Tournament. Dalton Davis hit two dingers and Phillip Matulia mashed his 19th home run of the season. Bulldogs Coach Lane Burroughs had a feeling some runs would be scored in Houston

Cut 17 (12) “..proud of our guys” 

Sixth seeded Louisiana Tech will face seventh seeded Middle Tennessee at 12:30 today. The Blue Raiders upset second-seeded UTSA five to one yesterday. Tech is trying to repeat as Conference USA Tournament champs and receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. Burroughs says the key is to stay focused on the present…

Cut 18 (12) “…right now”

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The fifth-ranked LSU baseball team opened the SEC Tournament with a solid 10-3 win over South Carolina. The Tigers got a good start on the mound from Thatcher Hurd and left-hander Nate Ackenhausen was brilliant in relief as he pitched 3.2 innings for his second save of the season. Coach Jay Johnson went to Ackenhausen in the sixth inning when the Gamecocks were mounting a comeback…

Cut 19 (21) “….playoff baseball” 

For LSU to win its seventh national championship in program history, pitching will be the key. Johnson says the win over South Carolina was a good sign for a staff that does not have to be dominant…

Cut 20 (21)  “…at bats”  

State Treasurer John Schroder announce more than 25 thousand unclaimed property checks totaling $4.4 million dollars will be mailed out to Louisiana residents today. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Louisiana Congressman Garrett Graves is in the middle of the debt ceiling talks. Jeff Palermo reports the Republican from Baton Rouge gives an update on how talks are going…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The Department of Treasury is shipping out nearly 26,000 unclaimed property checks today, totaling $4.4 million. State Treasurer John Schroder says the checks are real, so take it to the bank.

Cut 3 (11) “…of Treasury.”

Each year businesses turn over millions of dollars in unclaimed cash, stocks, bonds, securities, and insurance proceeds to the Treasurer’s Office. Schroder says the Department of Revenue shares its database of current addresses so that recipients have a better chance of receiving checks.

Cut 4 (12)  “…the people.” 

These funds include payroll checks, old bank accounts, utility deposits, and life insurance proceeds. Schroder says one in six individuals in Louisiana has “unclaimed property”, with claims averaging $900.

Cut 5 (11) “…cash it.”

To find out if you have unclaimed property, search LaCashClaim.org or call 888-925-4127.

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is one of the top Republican mediators in the debt ceiling talks. President Biden is urging Congress to raise the nation’s debt limit, now at 31 trillion dollars. Graves says the G-O-P is willing to raise the debt ceiling but they want to cut spending…

Cut 6 (12)  “…unsustainable.” 

But the White House believes deficits can be reduced if tax breaks end for wealthy households and some corporations.

Negotiators are facing a June 1st deadline and if a deal is not reached, financial markets could be thrown into upheaval as the federal government would default on its debts. Graves says they are making some progress in negotiations…

Cut 7 (12)  “…what’s reasonable” 

Graves says taking tax breaks away is not a way to raise revenue, instead it’s time the federal government spends less money than it did this year…

Cut 8 (10)  “…to Japan” 

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A bill that would limit certain foreign entities from leasing or buying property in Louisiana has won approval in the state House of Representatives. HB 537 comes from Livingston Parish Republican Rep. Valarie Hodges, who call the bill a “Louisiana sovereignty bill”…:

Cut 9 (08) “…major assets.”

The bill would ban agents of China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Venezuela or Russia from buying and titling property in the state. In committee, many Asian Americans voiced worries the bill would limit their ability to buy land or businesses here. Hodges says the bill isn’t concerned with persons or small businesses…:

Cut 10 (06) “…our farmland.”

The help clarify the language, Houma Republican Rep. and Speaker Pro Tem Tanner McGee offered an amendment…:

Cut 11 (08)  “…foreign adversary.”

By a 78-to-22 vote (pretty much down party lines) HB 537 moves now to the Senate.

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The top ranked LSU baseball team moved into the winner’s bracket of the SEC Tournament today with a ten to three win over South Carolina. Left fielder Brayden Jobert homered for the Tigers and Thatcher Hurd and Nate Ackenhausen were outstanding on the mound. It was win number 400 for Coach Jay Johnson…

Cut 12 (11) “…well today” 

Ackenhausen earned his second save of the season while Hurd picked up the win. The right-hander was using Paul Skenes is glove and he allowed four hits and three runs in the outing…

Cut 13 (12) “…with it” 

LSU’s next game in the SEC Tournament is Thursday afternoon at 4:30 PM.

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Shielding your kids from smut? Or un-needed censorship? A Senate-approved bill restricting what kids can view at the public library clears the House Education Committee Tuesday…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…Kevin Gallagher.”

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If you’ve been binging “Stranger Things” thanks to a friend of a friend’s Netflix password, the day of reckoning has arrived. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A House-backed measure that would allow law-abiding people 18 and older to conceal carry a weapon without needing a permit or training passed in a 70-29 vote. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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One of the “social hot button” bills before the legislature this year – a bill to restrict what minors can see and read at public libraries – moves closer to passage after clearing a House committee Tuesday. Senate Bill 7, from Turkey Creek Republican Senator Heather Cloud, drew opposition in the House Education Committee from St. Tammany resident Joan Simon, who accuses Republicans of using the issue to score points with voters…:

Cut 4 (12)  “…it’s grandstanding!”

Speaking for Senator Cloud’s bill was Attorney General (and candidate for Governor) Jeff Landry, who says his investigators were able to find abundant evidence of adult material available for children to view  in Louisiana libraries…:

Cut 5 (12)   “…perform said acts.”

But Louisiana Association of School Librarians President Amanda Jones says child safeguards are already in place at virtually ALL libraries, and she says people are using libraries and librarians as political pawns…:

Cut 6 (08)  “…and He weeps.”

The bill has also been accused of seeking to ban books; a claim refuted by A.G. Jeff Landry as not true…:

Cut 7 (13) “…appropriate shelves.”

By an 8-to-3 vote, the committee approves the bill. The measure has already passed in the Senate. It moves now to House floor debate, and possible final passage.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office announces say a Deville woman has been arrested on child rape and human trafficking charges. R-P-S-O Spokesperson Tommy Carnline says they began their investigation into 29-year-old Danielle Sober Trapp in early April after receiving a complaint in reference to criminal sexual conduct….

Cut 8 (10) “…was investigating.”

The investigation included interviews with the victims through the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center. Trapp was arrested on four counts of obscenity and two counts of sexual battery. Carnline says detectives also identified several additional victims.

Cut 9 (12)  “…following day.”

Detectives were able to uncover more alleged crimes and warrants. Carnline says Trapp was re-arrested a second time on outstanding warrants on April 28.

Cut 10 (13) “…a juvenile.” 

The investigation is ongoing.

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If you share your Netflix account with a friend or five, you’re going to see a price increase on your monthly bill if you plan to continue sharing your password outside of your home. Haggai Davis with General Informatics says primary account holders should be on the lookout for an email about the password crackdown.

Cut 11 (11)  “…friends with.”

Netflix has already begun the new restrictions in Canada and Spain and now the account-sharing protocols are now rolling out in the US.  If you’re among the individuals who use your friend’s account Davis says you’ll have the option to create your own account and keep your profile.

Cut 12 (08)    “…with you.” 

Davis says if you’re a Netflix consumer you either need to get ready to spend more each month or whittle down who you share your account with.

Cut 13 (11) “…your account.”  

Standard accounts can add one extra member while Premium accounts can add two extra members.

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The House approves legislation that would allow non-felons 18 years of age and older to conceal carry a firearm without a permit or training in a 70 to 29 vote. Oil City Republican Representative Danny McCormick says the Second Amendment gives law-abiding citizens the right to do so.

Cut 14 (06)  “…our citizens.”

Referred to as the “Constitutional Carry” bill, many believe under the 2^nd Amendment it gives law-abiding citizens the right to bear arms and should not require a concealed carry permit. Alexandria Representative Ed Larvadain voted against the bill. He believes under this legislation it makes it easier for people to act and to endanger our communities.

Cut 15 (13)  “…each other.”

Oakdale Representative Dewith Carrier favored the bill. He said the issue is not people carrying guns.

Cut  16 (13)  “..to happen” 

Twenty-seven other states already have similar laws in effect.

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The LSU Baseball team will begin its SEC tournament run at 9:30 this morning. The fifth-ranked Tigers will face South Carolina after their 9-0 win over Georgia yesterday. The Tigers and Gamecocks split the season series in Columbia since game 3 of the series was canceled due to weather. Coach Jay Johnson says the early start won’t affect how he and his team approach the game…

Cut 17 (17) “..nine-thirty” 

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UL-Lafayette will look to defend its Sun-Belt title starting against 5th-seeded Texas St. tonight. The 36-20 Cajuns swept the Bobcats in the season series and will have to beat them a fourth time in one season if they want a shot at a  postseason berth, but coach Matt Deggs says he’s approaching this rematch like any other game…

Cut 18 (17) “…the bat”

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The Saints began offseason training activities (OTA’s) yesterday as they usher in a new era in New Orleans football under Derek Carr. For Carr though, he says he hasn’t had to change much for the franchise with the strong culture already in place in the building. He says he’s enjoyed his time in New Orleans so far and is here to win a championship…

Cut 19 (20) “….for me” 

New tight end Foster Moreau saw the field for the first time this offseason just two months after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. A full participant in practice, the former Raider was able to connect with his old quarterback several occasions in a strong first day for both he and fellow tight end Juwan Johnson. Carr says they’ve got a talented tight end group…

Cut 20 (19)  “…with ’em.”  

A bill to create accountability for rape kits in Louisiana advances in the legislature. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Adoptions can be financially challenging but a bill that would provide families with a $5,000 tax credit for adopting children under the age of three was approved by a full House. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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After numerous stories of rape kits getting lost and the backlog of processing Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell decided to make the system more accountable with legislation to create a tracking system for the kits. Senate Bill 169 establishes a database system so victims can follow where their kits are in the process.

Cut 3 (09) “…rape kit.”

In addition to creating accountability for the vital piece of evidence, Mizell says the tracking process will place Louisiana in the ranking of 40 other states who have similar mechanisms.

Cut 4 (08)  “…for that point.” 

Ponchatoula Representative Bill Wheat thanked Mizell for bringing attention to the matter and sponsoring legislation to create a tracking system.

Cut 5 (08) “…evidence.”

The bill has passed in the Senate and heads to the full House for final passage.

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Legislation that would provide families adopting a child under the age of three with a $5 thousand tax credit was approved by a full House in a 97 to 0 vote. Bill author, Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds says he hopes this will alleviate some of the financial burden for adoptive families.

Cut 6 (12)  “…bill does.” 

Under the legislation, if the $5,000 credit exceeds the adoptive family’s tax liability, the state would give the family the balance of that money the year the adoption takes place. Edmonds says it’s about helping families help children.

Cut 7 (08)  “…lives forever.” 

The bill also prohibits the tax credit from applying to the adoption of a child from foster care and prohibits a taxpayer from claiming the credit and claiming the deduction.

Cut 8 (07)  “…the other.” 

The bill heads to the Senate.

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The state House has unanimously approved a bill that would symbolically abolish slavery in Louisiana. Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan’s legislation would add language to the state’s constitution that would abolish slavery and involuntary servitude forever…

Cut 9 (07) “…we are good.”

Jordan’s measure heads to the Senate for its approval. Since it’s a constitutional amendment, it will also need voter approval.

Louisiana voters rejected a similar proposal last year, but Jordan asked voters to reject it because the amendment’s language was confusing. He says the language is more clear this year

Cut 10 (04) “…needs to be.”

Slavery was abolished in the United States in 1865. But more than 150 years later, states are banning involuntary servitude and slavery in their state constitutions. Jordan says this legislation will not prevent convicts from performing hard labor while in prison…

Cut 11 (15)  “…to slavery.”

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There’s an effort by a state lawmaker to provide free lunches and breakfast for public school students who currently receive school meals at a reduced price. Families who have children that qualify for reduced-price meals have to pay 70-cents a day. Marrero Representative Kyle Green’s legislation calls on the state to pick up that cost, which is about 14-dollars a month…

Cut 12 (09) “…weren’t able to pay” 

Green’s bill will cost the state 860-thousand dollars and it will be needed to be included in the state’s budget. The budget proposal that’s in the Senate currently does not include this allocation.

Green says Louisiana is a poor state and low income families shouldn’t have to worry about their kids not eating while at school

Cut 13 (12) “…is impossible” 

The bill heads to the House floor for more discussion.

US Senator John Kennedy urges Louisiana lawmakers to pass House Bill 12. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “Brooke Thorington.”

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There’s been a lot of bills filed in the Legislature this year aimed at having better and cheaper auto and home insurance. How are they coming along? Kevin Gallagher takes a look…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The House and Senate have three weeks to reach an agreement on funding teacher pay raises. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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US Senator John Kennedy took to the floor in DC urging state senators in Baton Rouge to pass legislation to hold back third graders who are unable to read on grade level.

Cut 4 (11)  “…that attention.”

Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson’s bill will give students intensive reading instruction and three opportunities to pass the literacy exam before advancing to third grade.

Kennedy says the legislation is modeled after one Mississippi and a similar program in Florida has shown promising results.

Cut 5 (11)   “…it will.”

The legislation passed in the House last year and failed to garner enough votes in the Senate. So far this session it has advanced from the House and Kennedy pleaded with state senators to help the bill cross the finish line this year.

Cut 6 (08)  “…pass this bill.”

If enacted the program would begin implementation in the 2024-2025 school year.

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With just three weeks remaining in the legislative session, how are bills aimed at improving Louisiana’s property insurance environment for consumers coming along? Benjamin Riggs is Executive Director of Real Reform Louisiana; an insurance consumer advocacy group. He says RRL supports House Bill 252, sponsored by Tangipahoa Parish Rep. Robby Carter, which recently cleared committee review…:

Cut 7 (09) “…Louisiana policyholders.”

Riggs says insurance companies make billions and they do not need to pass advertising costs on to their customers. Another bill favored by RRL is Senate Bill 11, from Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau, which Riggs says provides relief on car insurance costs…:

Cut 8 (09) “…insurance rates.”

Riggs says his group is worried that some bills will have a detrimental effect on consumers if they pass. He cites SB 96, from Jefferson Parish Senator Kirk Talbot as one that seems intended to help the state-run insurer of last resort, but could easily hurt the insured…:

Cut 9 (12)  “…insurance corporation.”

Riggs is concerned there may not be enough time remaining to get real beneficial insurance reforms to final passage, before the session ends June 8^th.

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State lawmakers have three weeks left to decide how they want to spend two-point-two billion dollars in surplus money. Republican House leaders would like to use 950 million dollars to pay down pension debt. House Speaker Clay Schexnayder

Cut 10 (15) “…next legislature” 

House leaders say by paying down debt in the teacher retirement system it would free up cash for local school systems to give teachers a meaningful pay raise.

But Governor Edwards says there are 296-million dollars available to give teachers a three-thousand dollar pay raise. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the state also has the opportunity also has to make a significant investment toward other priorities…

Cut 11 (07)  “…needed.”

In order to fund teacher pay raises and spend hundreds of millions of dollars on infrastructure projects. The Legislature would have to raise the spending cap. It will take a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate. Senate President Page Cortez says raising the spending cap, the state can put significant dollars toward some major projects…

Cut 12 (09)    “..pay a toll.” 

Right now the House is reluctant to raise the spending cap. Schexnayder says there’s still plenty of time to negotiate with the Senate…

Cut 13 (12) “Always done”  

The legislative session must conclude on June 8th at 6 PM.

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A federal judge in New Orleans has ordered former LSU football coach Les Miles will need to give a deposition in Sharon Lewis’ lawsuit against the LSU Board of Supervisors. Lewis is a former associate athletic director and claims LSU created a hostile work environment and retaliated against her after she tried to report Miles sexually harassed a student. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says the judge also ordered LSU to provide a bunch of documents that were previously withheld…

Cut 14 (06)  “…more information”

Miles has been out of the public eye since 2021 when it became public knowledge that Miles was investigated for sexual harassment in 2013 while he was still the coach at LSU. Horne says LSU has to be uneasy about Miles answering questions under oath from Lewis’ defense team…

Cut 15 (05)  “..court setting”

Eight current and former LSU Board of Supervisor members have also been ordered to give depositions. Horne says the U-S District Judge Susie Morgan also pushed the trial date back from May to December…

Cut  16 (13)  “..three weeks.” 

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The Ragin Cajuns softball team is heading to the Super Regionals for the first time since 2016 as they rallied back to beat LSU 9-8 in the championship game of the Baton Rouge Regional. UL-Lafayette scored two runs in the seventh inning to win the game. Karly Heath homered in the fifth inning to make it a one-run game and scored the winning run in the seventh…

Cut 17 (17) “…college softball”

UL-Lafayette beat LSU twice on Sunday to advance to the super regionals. In the first game, three different players hit home runs and Sam Landry pitched five shutout innings of relief in a seven-to-four win. In game two, Jourdyn Campbell had 5 RBIs and Chloe Riassetto had three shutout innings of relief to get the win. Coach Gerry Glasco says everyone chipped in…

Cut 18 (17) “…team is”

It’s a disappointing finish for the 11th ranked LSU softball team who went 42-17, but for the second consecutive season lost in the regionals. Coach Beth Torinia could not hide the tears…

Cut 19 (18) “….all they had” 

Legislation to set minimum bail amounts for crimes of violence and or the use of a firearm advances from House Criminal Justice. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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After a catastrophic computer systems failure, the state Office of Motor Vehicles remains closed statewide today. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (29)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Legislation that would require public schools statewide to schedule at least 15 minutes of supervised, unstructured free play time of recess for grades kindergarten through fifth was approved by the House in a 66 to 28 vote. Houma Representative Beryl Amedee says under this legislation no special accommodations are required.

Cut 3 (12) “…funded mandate.”

A recent study finds 89 percent of schools in Louisiana currently have recess and 56 percent offer more than 15 minutes of recess for students according to The Status of Health and Physical Education in Louisiana Public. Amedee says the numbers are encouraging, however…

Cut 4 (08)  “…of schools.” 

The bill would allow recess not to be counted toward the minimum of 360 instructional minutes required each school day. Amedee says recess time would be beneficial for their social and emotional well-being.

Cut 5 (08) “…learn better.”

The bill heads to the Senate.

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Legislation to set minimum bail amounts for crimes of violence and or the use of a firearm advances from House Criminal Justice. Crowley Representative John Stefanski’s bill would set a minimum bail of $50,000 for a violent crime and $100,000 for one that involves the use of a firearm.

Cut 6 (10)  “…did that.” 

Michael Calhoun with the Promise of Justice Initiative spoke in opposition to the bill. He says it’s often family members of the accused who have to pay the bond or place their homes or assets at risk so the accused can prepare for trial.

Cut 7 (09)  “…their income.” 

Stefanski says the majority of the time Judges set bonds accordingly, but this is his attempt to make Louisiana safer.

Cut 8 (11)  “…the crime.” 

The bill passed favorably in committee heads to the House floor.

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Louisiana ranks the fourth unhealthiest state for adults 65 and older for the second year according to the United Health Foundation’s 11^th America’s Health Rankings Senior Report. Chief Medical Officer for the Medicare and Retirement Division Dr. Phillip Painter says there are a number of challenges that weigh against seniors living in the Bayou State.

Cut 9 (12) “…should be”

The report covers 52 measures providing insights into many of the strengths and areas of improvement in the health of seniors nationally and state-wide. Poverty among seniors statewide rose by 14 percent from 12 percent to 14 percent between 2018 – 2021. Painter says additional funding from the local government could help raise the state ranking.

Cut 10 (10) “…stay healthy.”

Access to healthcare, physical environment, social and economic factors, and healthy behaviors play a vital role in the ranking. Painter says there’s still hope for improvement for Louisiana seniors.

Cut 11 (12)  “…or exercise”

Louisiana falls below Mississippi which is the unhealthiest state in the nation.

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A bill to ban social media platforms from allowing minors to have their own account without parental consent passed in the Senate but it would only go into effect if funds are allocated for enforcement.  Bill author, Covington Senator Patrick McMath…

Cut 12 (11) “…health crisis.” 

Minors in the bill are defined as ages 15 and younger.

If enacted, McMath says the Attorney General’s Office would be tasked with investigating and enforcing Senate Bill 162, and…

Cut 13 (12) “…this law” 

McMath says Utah and Arkansas have passed similar legislation and so far it appears that some of the larger social media outlets are agreeable to such changes.

Cut 14 (08)  “…is going.”

The Senate passed the bill on a 37-0 vote and it advances to the lower chamber.

On his monthly radio program, Governor Edwards wouldn’t say if he plans to veto any legislation this year similar to what he vetoed two years ago. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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Congressman Clay Higgins is seen on video physically removing an activist away from a press conference. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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On his monthly radio show Ask the Governor, Governor John Bel Edwards was questioned about anti-LGBTQ legislation making its way through the legislature and if he plans to veto any of them. The governor wouldn’t say if he plans to or not, only…

Cut 3 (09) “…unfortunate.”

Haughton Representative Dodie Horton’s bill that passed in the House on a 67 to 28 vote prohibits discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the classroom. Governor Edwards brought up the example of when the Supreme Court legalized gay marriage in 2015.

Cut 4 (11)  “…exactly none.” 

Two years ago, the governor vetoed anti-transgender legislation and a bill to allow for concealed carry. Lawmakers failed to reach a two-thirds majority to override the vetoes. Oil City Representative Danny McCormick often refers to his bill as “Constitutional Carry.”  Edwards says he still believes in training and background checks for guns.

Cut 5 (11) “…conceal carry.”

The session ends three-weeks from today.

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Legislation that would provide access to free menstrual products to female students in public schools was passed by the House in a 79 to 17 vote. State Policy for Alliance for Period Supplies Manager Lacey Gero says this is a positive step towards removing embarrassment for female students across the state.

Cut 6 (12)  “…education met.” 

New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman reintroduced her bill after it stalled last year on the Senate floor. One in four students – particularly from lower-income or rural areas – will suffer from period poverty according to a survey by PERIOD and Thinx. Gero says under the legislation the products would be in an easily accessible location at no cost to students.

Cut 7 (10)  “…would be.” 

The cost of the menstrual products will vary by school depending on the number of dispensers. Funding would come from the state’s general fund. Gero hopes lawmakers will keep female students in mind when casting their votes.

Cut 8 (06)  “…those issues.” 

Eleven states already have bills requiring schools to provide menstrual products, and at least 20 states have eliminated the tax on menstrual products.

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Southwest Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins is seen on video physically moving an activist away from a news conference on Capitol Hill. The activist asked Colorado Congresswoman Lauren Boebert about her divorce from her husband and that’s when Higgins ushered him away

Cut 9 (10) “…stand by”

The activist, identified as a Jake Burdett, says Higgins assaulted him as he physically removed him from the press conference. Higgins, a former sheriff’s deputy, says the activist was mentally disturbed and threatening and he was escorted out and turned over to Capitol Police…

Cut 10 (07) “…get off me.”  (4x)

Burdett complained on his Twitter account that he was detained by the cops, while Higgins was not…

Cut 11 (10)  “…was attacked”

Video shows Burdett asking Congresswoman Boebert if her divorce was the result of customers complaining about food poisoning at her now closed restaurant Shooters Grill. Boebert says the restaurant closed because the landlord decided not to renew their lease and the decision was not political.

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Louisiana’s budget surplus grew larger today as the Revenue Estimating Conference increased the amount of available dollars to spend by 323-million for this fiscal year and 483-million for next fiscal year. But Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the House is taking a conservative approach but the Senate is ready to spend this money on infrastructure projects…

Cut 12 (11) “…some debt.” 

In order to spend all this cash, the House and Senate have to agree by a two-thirds vote to break the spending cap…

Cut 13 (10) “…stalemate” 

With the new revenue projections, the Edwards administration is asking the Legislature to provide a three-thousand dollar raise for teachers, increase early childhood education funding and put more dollars towards new bridges in Lake Charles and Baton Rouge. Pinsonat says the House is fearful of a decline in state revenues in a couple of years, so there’s a stalemate

Cut 14 (08)  “…last hour.”

The regular session must conclude on Thursday June 8th.

After all the recent sightings, Brooke Thorington talks to a wildlife expert to find out if an alligator might crash your next beach trip.

Cut 1 (30)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A bill to lower the number of voter signatures needed to recall a public official wins passage in the House. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has expanded the criteria for the Restore Louisiana Program where thousands of additional households could be eligible for disaster assistance. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Recent sightings of alligators sunning on the coast in nearby states or taking a dip in the pool have many wondering if they’ll be sharing their vacation with a reptile. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Alligator Program Manager Jeb Linscombe says gators are just like every other species of wild animals…

Cut 4 (12)  “…like a beach.”

But he says they do eventually return to their usual habitat. Alligators nest in freshwater.

This is the time of year when you see lots of movement among alligators. Linscombe says because the air temperature is higher than the water is one reason you’ll see them on land, to warm up because they are cold-blooded animals.

Cut 5 (11)   “…time of the year.”

So, before you put your beach chairs out you might want to look around to check that an alligator isn’t sunning nearby. And if you come across one, Linscombe says to make sure you, children, the elderly, and pets are taken out of harm’s way.

Cut 6 (06)  “…the animal.”

And never feed an alligator, because Linscombe says they’ll continue to approach humans expecting a snack.

If it’s an urban area where you encounter a gator, Linscombe says contact wildlife agents so they can remove the reptile.

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LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center has been selected as a research site by the National Institute of Health for the largest research effort to eliminate the one size fits all diet. Associate Executive Director for Clinical Science Dr. Eric Razussin says the goal is to personalize diets that address health disparities.

Cut 7 (11) “…fits all.”

The study will engage 1,500 participants from diverse backgrounds to predict responses to dietary patterns in three components. Participants from all three components will participate in meal challenge tests that measure biological changes after they consume a meal or drink. Razussin says they will look at a range of factors that affect diets including genes, and lifestyle.

Cut 8 (11) “…such diets.”

Participants will be given diets selected by researchers and some will reside at home, while others will reside in the center. Razussin says the results may help to offer personalized guidance to improve overall health.

Cut 9 (12)  “…you live.”

LSU Health Sciences New Orleans will also participate in the Nutrition for Precision Health study. The study will last approximately 2 weeks and participants will be compensated $300. Learn more about enrolling at www.joinallofus.org.

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The Louisiana House has passed a bill that would lower the threshold of signatures required in order to trigger a recall election. Bill sponsor and Covington Representative Paul Hollis took questions from Baton Rouge Rep. Denise Marcelle about the numbers of registered voters that would be required to sign a recall petition, based on city, parish, or district population

Cut 10 (09) “…25 and 20.” 

Hollis’s bill heading to the Senate would require signatures from 50 percent of the number of people who voted in the election for that office. He says, under current law, just about ANY recall of a public figure is virtually impossible because of the huge number of verified signatures required….:

Cut 11 (08)  “…smaller districts.”

A recent effort to recall New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell fell far short of the required signatures needed to get a ballot. Hollis says other states have passed similar legislation so that citizens can feel they have more control when they grow dissatisfied with elected leaders…:

Cut 12 (06)    “…on board this year.” 

By a vote of 71-to-29, the bill clears the House and will move to the Senate for committee review.

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Governor John Bel Edwards announced the Restore Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Program is expanding the criteria for homeowners that sustained damage from hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 to qualify for assistance. The FEMA-determined damage threshold has been lowered from $5,000 to $3,000. Executive Director for the LA Office of Community Development Pat Forbes says this opens up the program to serve more homeowners in need of assistance.

Cut 13 (11) “…people eligible.” 

Restore LA is also raising the allowable maximum of insurance received from $25 thousand to $50 thousand. The program offers various types of assistance, including licensed contractors to manage repairs and reconstruction, homeowner-managed construction, reimbursement for repairs already completed, and manufactured home unit repair and/or replacement. Forbes says HUD has allocated funding and monies are available.

Cut 14 (13)  “…is eligible.”

Forbes says homeowners can also be compensated if they have rebuilt their homes or completed repairs on their homes.

Cut 15 (12)  “…hurricane damage.”

To complete a brief survey visit restore.la.gov or call 866-735-2001.

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The LSU Baseball team will begin its final regular season series against Georgia tonight. The Tigers dropped to 5th in the nation after last weekend’s collapse against Mississippi State as questions surround the Tiger bullpen. The Tigers hired MLB pitching coach Wes Johnson and utilize a state-of-the-art pitching lab, but former LSU pitcher Rick Greene says you can’t overcomplicate the game…

Cut  16 (20)  “…the adjustment.” 

Starting Pitcher Paul Skenes has been dominant all season going 10-1 with a 1.69 ERA, but the Tigers have struggled to find consistency outside of their Friday night starter. With as talented a bullpen as LSU has, Greene credited much of the pitching struggles to a mental issue, and he believes that the Tiger outfield could be key to solving some of their struggles on the mound…

Cut 17 (18) “…benefit from.”

The Tigers lead the SEC in batting average and are 38-1 when they hold opponents to 7 runs or fewer, but Greene says it’ll take more than just the bats to reach Omaha. He says if the bullpen can make some changes, the sky’s the limit for this LSU team…

Cut 18 (19) “…very successful.”

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The UL-Lafayette baseball team will face Sun Belt-leading Southern Miss in the final series of the season starting tonight in Hattiesburg. The 35-15 Golden Eagles feature a veteran lineup returning from last year’s team who sent the Tigers home in the Hattiesburg regional. Cajuns Coach Matt Deggs says the preseason conference favorites have only gotten better as the season’s gone on…

Cut 19 (17) “….ball game.” 

The 35-18 Cajuns sit just three games behind the league leader after last weekend’s sweep of Texas State. They’ll face a hostile environment visiting Southern Miss as they hope to close out the regular season strong, but Deggs says his team isn’t phased playing on the road…

Cut 20 (19)  “…what happens.”  

The Louisiana House approves legislation to ban gender affirming medical care for minors. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The House Criminal Justice Committee sends a bill to the House floor that would allow adults over 18 without a criminal background to conceal carry a firearm without a permit or training. Teiko Foxx has more….

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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The Republican controlled House approved a bill that would prohibit doctors from performing gender transition procedures on minors. Pollock Representative Gabe Firment says several surrounding states have passed similar bans and several European countries also restrict gender-affirming care…

Cut 3 (12) “…surgeries”

But the American Academy of Pediatrics supports gender-affirming healthcare. New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry made the point that this point of care can be life saving for an individuals with gender dysphoria…

Cut 4 (06)  “…did you know that.” 

Gender transition procedures include hormone treatments, gender reassignment surgery or puberty blockers. Firment says these type of treatments can lead to sterilization and loss of sexual function…

Cut 5 (07) “…experimental procedures.”

But Gretna Representative Joe Marino says this legislation actually harms transgender youth…

Cut 6 (12)  “…they are loved” 

Firment’s “Stop Harming Our Kids Act” was approved on 71-24 vote mainly along party lines. It’s one of four major anti-LGBTQ bills moving through the Legislature.

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The House Criminal Justice Committee approves a bill by an 8-1 vote that would expand gun right, so non-felons 18 and older can conceal carry a gun without a permit or the training currently required to get a permit. Oil City Republican Representative Danny McCormick says the Second Amendment gives law-abiding citizens the right to do so.

Cut 7 (13)  “…same age.” 

The “constitutional carry” bill is based on the position that the U.S. Constitution allows a firearm to be carried without a permit. The legislation would also bypass background check requirements to carry a concealed weapon in Louisiana. Louisiana Association of Chiefs of Police Fabian Blache believes this will escalate the already existing problem of illegal gun violence.

Cut 8 (07)  “…officer safety.” 

Louisiana is an “open carry” state which means adults 18 and older can carry a firearm if it is visible to the public with no permit or training. LA Municipal Association Karen White raised concern that the aftermath of such a bill if approved is already proven.

Cut 9 (13) “…nine percent.”

25 states have enacted similar concealed carry expansion laws, including Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi. McCormick says he doesn’t object to training but the type of training.

Cut 10 (10) “…to carry.”

Lawmakers passed a concealed carry bill in 2021 that was nearly identical to McCormick’s legislation, but Gov. John Bel Edwards vetoed the measure.

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A bill aimed at giving women who are imprisoned for murdering their alleged abuser a chance to be released was heavily amended in the Senate. Baton Rouge Senator Regina Barrow says the bill provides a justification defense for victims who end up killing their abuser, either through domestic violence, sexual abuse, or trafficking.

Cut 11 (11)  “…to a judge.”

The amended bill removes the possibility of retroactive relief for those who are serving a prison sentence.

Louisiana ranks among the top five states for domestic violence.

Baton Rouge Senator Franklin Foil authored an amendment to the bill after opposition from the Louisiana District Attorneys Association. The amendment removed the possibility of retroactive relief for those who are serving a prison sentence. Foil says the legislation for example would allow for a prisoner to say they were abused as a child…

Cut 12 (08) “…overturned.” 

Barrow opposed the amendment and she reiterated to lawmakers that the bill would not suddenly allow abuse survivors to suddenly walk free.

Cut 13 (09) “…this point.” 

Proponents were hoping to create a law that would allow prison sentences of abuse victims to be re-evaluated.

The bill passed unopposed and heads to the House.

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The House Governmental Affairs Committee rejected a proposal that would set up process for citizens to put an issue on the ballot for a statewide vote. Baton rouge Representative Barry Ivey voted against it over concerns of putting an issue before voters that is not vetted by state lawmakers…

Cut 14 (12)  “…certain decision.”

New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry authored the legislation. Landry believes her ballot imitative process would give voters an opportunity to put important issues up for a referendum vote…

Cut 15 (06) “…on the ballot”

Landry says with the Legislature controlled by Republicans, it’s difficult for some issues, like raising the minimum wage, to get through the legislative process. She believes there should be another option, but Ivey is concerned about making laws without elected officials input…

Cut  16 (11)  “…should maintain.”