Shoplifters, beware, the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office has two more heroic deputies. They weigh over one ton and pursue at over 25 miles per hour. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Legendary Louisiana Tech sports broadcaster Dave Nitz passed away at the age of 82 this morning. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office assisted in an unusual shoplifting arrest Saturday at the grand opening of a new Tractor Supply store in Ponchatoula. Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says 35-year-old Theresa Prine was confronted by the store owner for trying to leave without paying when hooved heroes Caddy and Yella took notice..

Cut 3 (11) “…detain her.”

The shoplifter was detained until the Ponchatoula Police Department arrived. The woman was issued a summons for Felony Theft after determining her cart contained over 12-hundred-dollars’ worth of merchandise. Rodrigue says the pursuit was over as soon as it began.

Cut 4 (08) “…large animals.”

Rodrigue says the Mounted Division was stationed at the opening to be a positive presence, as they are at many public events, but these officers are more than just a long, pretty face. She says they specialize in crowd control and pursuit.

Cut 5 (11) “…is effective.”

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The longtime voice of the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, Dave Nitz passed away at the age of 82 this morning. A master storyteller, Nitz called over 45-hundred Tech games over 50 years. LA Tech broadcaster Malcolm Butler says the Loyal Blue lost an icon.

Cut 6 (07) “…Tech nation.”

A native of West Virginia, Nitz arrived in Ruston in the spring of 1974 when he called his first Bulldog baseball game, an NCAA Regional matchup at old Arlington Stadium. Butler says Nitz was a professional in every sport, but baseball was his passion…

Cut 7 (07) “…their households.”

Nitz called his final Louisiana Tech game last year- a Bulldog baseball home game. He’d relinquished football and men’s basketball duties to Butler years before. Butler says Nitz and his signature call were a tough act to follow…

Cut 8 (13) “…Dave Nitz.”

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Governor Landry signs a series of bills aimed at unleashing Louisiana’s coastal energy production. Among the bills Landry signed during a ceremony at Moncla Well Services in Lafayette was one that addressed legacy lawsuits by encouraging parties to admit responsibility in damaging the state’s coastline and work towards remediation. 

Cut 9 (10)  “…address this issue.”

Another bill Landry signed is the Affordable, Reliable, Clean Energy Security Act.

Cut 10 (15) “…reliability and resiliency.”

Landry also signed a bill that reduced the severance tax on all new oil drilling projects in the state, continuing his work on reducing taxes throughout the state.

Cut 11 (06) “…a half percent.”

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Louisiana Congresswoman Julia Letlow has filed legislation that would help agricultural producers impacted by disruptions to the global trade market. Letlow says the bill would create a dedicated fund that would allow the Trump Administration to respond swiftly to trade-related losses

Cut 12 (13) “…of the tariffs.”

Letlow says its important farmers receive financial assistance if they lose revenue, because of a decrease in exports, higher input costs and retaliatory trade barriers imposed by foreign countries. She this measure would make sure farmers receive the support they need, while President Trump works to fix unfair trade practices…

Cut 13 (06)  “…farmers whole.”

The Republican who serves Louisiana’s 5^th Congressional District says her legislation already has the support of the House Agriculture Committee…

Cut 14 (06) “…for a vote.”

Letlow says an exact time on when the legislation could receive a vote on the House floor is not known.

Louisiana State and U-S Open Turkey Calling competition starts Friday in Hammond.  Sean Richardosn has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The U.S. Senate primary in Louisiana is not until next April, but the gloves are already off. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Turkey callers from across the nation have flocked to Hammond for the Louisiana State & U.S. Open Turkey Calling Championships at the Southern Boyz Outdoor Store. Contest Manager Hunter Lemoine says the competition is open to all ages, with preliminary events starting tomorrow, and 12 gobblers from each division will compete in the finals on Saturday.

Cut 3 (07) “…compete.”

Lemoine says the event invites both competitors and spectators to enjoy a weekend of entertainment, including a gun raffle, live music, banquets, and food.

Cut 4 (10) “…hunting and fishing trips.”

On Saturday, Southern Boyz will also host its first annual cookoff to benefit TARC, a nonprofit supporting children and adults with disabilities. Lemoine says that Whether you’re a seasoned turkey caller or just looking for a fun weekend activity, there’s something for everyone at this unique and lively outdoor event.

Cut 5 (12) “…it’s gonna be cool.”

First Place for both Friction and Open divisions wins eight-thousand-dollars

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State Senator Blake Miguez is pulling no punches in telling voters how he feels about Senator Bill Cassidy in his video announcing his candidacy for U.S. Senate. He’s reminding voters of a certain vote Cassidy took four years ago in the second impeachment trial of then-former President Donald Trump.

Cut 6 (07) “…I won’t. (gunshot)”

The New Iberia Republican did take time to introduce himself to statewide voters in his nearly two-minute-long video.

Cut 7 (14) “…hard work did.”

While Miguez is painting Cassidy as someone who does not stand with President Trump, Cassidy says that simply is not true.

Cut 8 (12) “…gotten them approved.”

And Cassidy defended his record in his two terms in the U.S. Senate representing the people of Louisiana.

Cut 9 (08)  “…ever gotten before.”

Cassidy says he welcomes the primary challenges and the attack ad, saying it’s not the first one and likely won’t be the last one. Miguez joins State Treasurer John Fleming as notable candidates challenging Cassidy for the Republican Senate nomination.

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On Saturday, LSU first baseman Jared Jones went 0-for-5 with five strikeouts. Today he’s a hero. Jones hit a game tying home run in the eighth inning and then singled off the second baseman’s glove in the ninth inning for the game winning hit in a dramatic six to five win over Arkansas

Cut 10 (10) “…any other way.”

LSU trailed 5-to-3 heading into the bottom of the ninth inning but found a way to win. Coach Jay Johnson says his guys play with a togetherness that helps them win close ball games…

Cut 11 (10) “…about this.”

It was LSU’s third walk-off win of the year and the Tigers have rallied several times this year after trailing by multiple runs. Jones says this team never gives up….

Cut 12 (09) “…drive him in.”

Luis Hernandez hit a two-run double to tie the game before Jones won it with his single.

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President Donald Trump signed an executive order extending TikTok’s operation in the U.S. for 90 days, marking the third extension as his administration seeks to transfer the app to American ownership.  Tech Gumbo Host Haggai Davis says at some point these executive orders will wear thin.

Cut 13 (08)  “…somethings got to give.”

Originally banned by Congress and upheld by the Supreme Court, TikTok briefly went dark in January before Trump’s first order revived it. Negotiations for a U.S.-based spinoff stalled after China withdrew due to Trumps tariffs on China. Davis says its unlikely China would want to sell.

Cut 14 (09) “…beyond me.”

Concerns are with content algorithms and data protections used to collet information on its users.  Davis says with Trump benefiting politically from TikTok and if the app is banned from the U-S market many small business owners will suffer.

Cut 15 (12) “…TikTok doesn’t have to go away.”

Potential federal cuts in Medicaid could have devastating effects here in Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Federal and state authorities arrested 84 undocumented immigrants yesterday at Delta Downs Racetrack in Calcasieu Parish during a worksite enforcement operation. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The Louisiana Motor Transport Association says progress on legal reform was made in the legislative session, but more work needs to be done. Executive Director Renee Amar (AY-mar) says she hopes in future sessions lawmakers address outstanding issues, including transparency in medical billing.

Cut 3 (11) “…the insurance market.”

Amar says legislation is also needed to eliminate phantom damages, and pervasive fraud that distorts claims and inflates costs.

Amar says one bill that passed that she wishes that didn’t was the one that gives the insurance commissioner the authority to reject insurance rate increases regardless of market conditions. She says that could drive insurance companies out of the state altogether – and trucking companies could follow suit.

Cut 4 (12) “…rates in half.”

Amar says the LMTA will continue to push for a cap on damages in an effort to lower insurance rates.

Cut 5 (14) “…State of Louisiana.”

Among the bills Amar says she’s glad were passed were one that stipulates that a driver at least 51-percent at fault in a crash cannot collect any damages and one that limits damages that an uninsured driver can collect.

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A recent study shows that if you want Gulf Shrimp in Alexandria its about a 50/50 chance.  SeaD (“seed”) Consulting Co-Founder Erin Williams says 24 restaurants were tested that advertised Authentic Gulf Coast Shrimp and 13 of those were serving imported shrimp.

Cut 6 (11) “…Gulf Shrimp.”

Williams says SeaD Consulting partnered with Florida State University to develop the Rapid ID Genetic High-Accuracy Test that delivers species results from raw, cooked, or frozen shrimp in two hours.

Cut 7 (08) “…and reliable test.”

It’s illegal in Louisiana to mislabel the origin of seafood. Violators face significant financial penalties. Founder Dave Williams says even with Louisiana’s strict mislabeling laws there still needs to be more enforcement.

Cut 8 (08) “…what we do.”

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Governor Jeff Landry signed a bill into law that authorizes state and local law enforcement to actively intercept and disable drones that pose credible threats to public safety. GOHSEP Executive Officer of Security and Interoperability Thomas Mule (MUE-lay) says this is a public safety and homeland security issue.

Cut 9 (12)  …nefarious drones.”

The law empowers specifically trained officers to deploy both kinetic and non-kinetic technology to neutralize drones operating unlawfully near high-risk areas such as schools, public events, and critical infrastructure.

The legislation comes amid rising national concern over unauthorized drone activity near sensitive locations. Mule says there are more than two-thousand critical infrastructure facilities in the state, including two nuclear power plants.

Cut 10 (07) “…those facilities.”

Governor Jeff Landry says recently law enforcement arrested several people for using drones to drop drugs and cell phones into a federal prison in Grant Parish.

Cut 11 (06) “…action against it.”

Penalties for violators include fines of up to five-thousand-dollars, up to one year in jail, and mandatory forfeiture of the drone used in the offense.

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A stark warning from Senate President Cameron Henry on federal Medicaid funding. During a webinar hosted by the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, the Republican from Metairie says due to changes the Senate is considering on President Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill,” Louisiana could be in for a huge loss.

Cut 12 (09) “…to the state.”

Speaker Henry says if that happens, it would be back to the drawing board for state lawmakers who just got done hashing out a budget for the 2026 fiscal year.

Cut 13 (07)  “…to do it.”

Henry says he has been in close contact with Senator Bill Cassidy and Congressman Steve Scalise, and he says he hopes cooler heads will ultimately prevail in Washington.

Cut 14 (08) “…our delegation for.”

About 35-percent of Louisiana residents rely on Medicaid for health insurance. Louisiana spends about 15-billion dollars a year on Medicaid, with federal money accounting for more than two-thirds of that amount.

An invasive fish species thought to be eradicated has been discovered in Port Sulphur. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Come August 1st, kratom will be illegal in Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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In an unanimous vote, Louisiana lawmakers passed a new law criminalizing grooming of minors to enable sexual abuse. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Tilapia, a hardy invasive fish, has reemerged in canals near Port Sulphur, two decades after escaping a pond during Hurricane Katrina. LDWF Deputy Assistant Secretary of Fisheries Chris Schieble says they thought Tilapia was eradicated in 2009 through a costly rotenone treatment, and recent findings of juvenile tilapia suggest some survived.

Cut 4 (12) “…many are there.”

Schieble says the fish pose a major ecological threat if they spread into nearby estuaries, where they could displace native species.

Cut 5 (10) “…habitat competition.”

The discovery has renewed concern over invasive species management and the potential long-term consequences of introducing non-native fish into the wild.  Schieble encourages anyone that catches tilapia to not release it back into the water.

Cut 6 (09) “…you got it.”

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Come August 1st, Kratom will be illegal in Louisiana. Last week, Governor Landry signed Senate Bill 154 into law, making the possession, sale and distribution of kratom illegal in the state. Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain was on hand when Landry signed the bill. He witnessed first-hand the impact of kratom in his community.

Cut 7 (10) “…and were hallucinating.”

Sheriff McCain testified before the Senate Judiciary “B” Committee about his experience facing the impacts of kratom in his community – and he came face-to-face with powerful lobbyists within the kratom industry.

Cut 8 (12) “…it in Louisiana.”

McCain says with kratom being readily available at places like smoke shops and gas stations, people were getting their hands on it – at times with tragic results

Cut 9 (13)  “…of our community.”

The bill passed in the House 89-to-5 and in the Senate 26-to-11. Landry signed it into law last Tuesday.

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Governor Jeff Landry has signed a bill criminalizing grooming, the act of building trust with minors to enable sexual abuse. Marrero Senator Patrick Connick says his legislation was inspired by his daughter, Sarah Gioe, and her husband, Tim Gioe, who was abused by a priest as a child.

Cut 10 (12) “…this bill passed.”

The new law allows authorities to intervene even if abuse hasn’t yet occurred, targeting manipulative behaviors by adults at least four years older than the child. Connick says authorities had to wait till molestation occurred before taking action.

Cut 11 (09) “…then and stopped.”

Connick says now its time for enforcement against sexual predators that attempt to groom children and to educate parents

Cut 12 (07) “…to be involved.”

The law takes effect August 1.

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The addition of State Senator Blake Miguez in the U.S. Senate race is bad news for Senator Bill Cassidy. That’s the opinion of LSU-Shreveport Assistant Political Science Professor Jeffrey Sadow, who says Republican primary voters now have another alternative to Cassidy and State Treasurer John Fleming.

Cut 13 (10)  “…have another choice.”

Sadow says Miguez’s entry in the U.S. Senate race greatly increases Cassidy’s vulnerability.

Cut 14 (08) “…chances of re-election.”

Sadow says while Miguez is certainly the most conservative among the three most prominent candidates who are seeking the Republican nomination, he does start out at a disadvantage.

Cut 15 (14) “…in national government.”

Miguez will have several months to garner some name recognition for himself. The primary election is next April.

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LSU is in the semifinal round of the College World Series after beating UCLA, nine-to-five. Freshman right-hander Casan Evans was the winning pitcher. He took the mound in the fourth inning after the game was halted on Monday night because of severe weather. Evans pitched four and one-third innings and held the Bruins to two runs on four hits, no walks and five strikeouts. Coach Jay Johnson knew he would get a great performance from Evans.

Cut 16 (15) “…has it.”

LSU needs one more victory to advance to the best-of-three championship series of the College World Series. The Tigers were one win away from winning the Baton Rouge Regional Championship and lost to Little Rock. Johnson says his team learned from that experience.

Cut 17 (13)  “…that team.”

It was disappointing LSU could not finish the game on Monday after lightning stopped the game after the third inning. But Johnson did not allow it to bother him.

Cut 18 (11)  “…make it a thing”

The legislature passed a series of bills aimed at strengthening elections in Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Pineville-based utility company CLECO has notified the Public Service Commission that its for sale. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Wanna bet that Jeff Landry will be re-elected governor in 2027? That’s not such a good idea, because it will now be against the law. Outlawing wagering on election outcomes is just one of several election-related bills passed by the legislature this past session. Joel Watson with the Secretary of State’s Office says another one assesses attorney’s fees and court costs for knowingly providing false information on a notice of candidacy.

Cut 3 (14) “…qualify for office.”

Watson says another bill on the governor’s desk calls for a procedural election audit by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor every four years.

Cut 4 (14) “…in the state.”

Watson says another bill closes a loophole that currently allows foreign funding of election contests and ballot measures.

Cut 5 (14) “…here in Louisiana.”

Another bill that the legislature passed requires legislative approval of election-related consent decrees, so that groups cannot force changes to election procedures through lawsuits.

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Cleco has begun the process of finding a new owner, notifying the Louisiana Public Service Commission as required. This move was expected, as Cleco’s 2016 private equity buyout included plans for a future sale. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson says the announcement didn’t come as a surprise.

Cut 6 (09) “…was an investment.”

Johnson emphasized that the process is in its early stages, and a sale is unlikely before December 2026. Any buyer must keep Cleco’s headquarters in Pineville and not increase its rates.

Cut 7 (12) “…across Louisiana.”

Johnson reaffirmed support for local jobs and services, urging the PSC to require job protections, and says it’s critical to the local economy.

Cut 8 (09) “…for our folks.”

Cleco serves 300-thousand customers across 24 parishes and remains under regulatory oversight.

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Louisiana lawmakers approved a 53-billion dollar budget and only one lawmaker voted against it. Oil City Representative Danny McCormick voted no. The Republican from Caddo Parish explained his decision during an interview on KEEL Radio in Shreveport…

Cut 9 (13)  …concern of mine.”

McCormick says state spending only increased by one-percent which is less than inflation and that’s good. But he says using an additional one-point-six billion dollars in federal money to pay for Medicaid is not a good idea, when you consider the federal government is trillions of dollars in debt…

Cut 10 (06) “…federal money.”

McCormick says he’s also disappointed the Legislature did not fund the LA Gator Program, the state’s new voucher program, to the amount Governor Jeff Landry was seeking. McCormick says politics got involved…

Cut 11 (09) “…harms families.”

The Louisiana Legislature appropriated 43-million dollars to the LA Gator Scholarship program, Governor Landry was seeking 93-million dollars. The program provides taxpayer dollars to families to help pay for private school tuition and other school expenses.

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You can add another name to the list of Republican primary challengers for Bill Cassidy’s U.S. Senate seat. New Iberia State Senator Blake Miguez has announced that he is entering the race. The 43-year-old has been in the legislature since 2015, first as a state representative and, since last year, as a state senator. Miguez joins State Treasurer John Fleming in challenging Cassidy for his seat. Pearson Cross, who teaches political science at ULM, says that could create some headwinds for Cassidy’s re-election bid next year.

Cut 12 (12) “…race against him.”

Cross says while Fleming is more conservative than Cassidy, that’s nothing compared to Miguez – and that could come into play in the newly-closed U.S. Senate primary.

Cut 13 (14)  “…very interesting primary.”

In Miguez’s campaign announcement video, he hammered Cassidy for his vote to convict then-former President Donald Trump for his alleged role in the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, 2021. Cross says that will be a theme that will play out over and over again in the run-up to the primary.

Cut 14 (13) “…the Republican party.”

Cross says with two prominent Republican challengers, he believes the likely outcome will be a runoff between Cassidy and either Fleming or Miguez – or possibly some other prominent Republican who subsequently enters the race. The primary is next April.

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LSU is 2-and-0 in the College World Series and one win away from the C-W-S championship series after beating UCLA nine to five today. Before the game was suspended last night because of severe weather, LSU fell behind 3 to nothing in the first inning. The Tigers responded with four runs in the bottom of the first inning, capped off by a three-run home run by Jared Jones…

Cut 15 (07) “…on the board.”

Anthony Eyanson pitched the first three innings of the game. When the game resumed this morning at 10 AM in the fourth inning, Casan Evans pitched into the eighth inning allowing just two runs and striking out five…

Cut 16 (08) “…team win.”

LSU will play again tomorrow against the winner of tonight’s game between UCLA and Arkansas.

House Democrats are reflecting on the just-completed legislative session. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Lawmakers have approved a plan that would create a one stop shop for Louisiana residents to access most of state’s benefit programs. Sean Richardson has more the Louisiana Workforce Commission will oversee those programs.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Louisiana’s House Democratic caucus is reflecting on the just-completed legislative session. Chairman Matthew Willard says despite being greatly outnumbered, Democrats had some significant wins this session – among them is a bill they helped defeat that targeted diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in state government and at public colleges and universities.

Cut 3 (16) “…and what’s right.”

Willard says another bill Democrats helped defeat was one that targeted teacher unions.

Cut 4 (11) “…the teacher unions.”

However, Willard acknowledges that Democrats didn’t get everything that they wanted. One of the battles that they lost was one that stipulates that a driver at least 51-percent at-fault in a crash collects no damages.

Cut 5 (10) “…with that policy.”

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Evangelist Jimmy Swaggart is fighting for his life after suffering a heart attack at his home yesterday. The 90-year-old from Ferriday is in intensive care at a Baton Rouge hospital. Swaggart is one of the most well-known televangelists and is the founder of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries in Baton Rouge. Spokeswoman Megan Kelly says Sunday was a difficult day.

Cut 6 (11) “…right now.”

Reverend Swaggart’s son, Pastor Donnie Swaggart, said in a statement that without a miracle, his time will be short. Megan Kelly says Reverend Swaggart is in God’s hands.

Cut 7 (09) “…for healing.”

Reverend Swaggart turned 90 in March. He’s been a huge figure in Christian ministry for nearly seven decades. Reverend Swaggart has been able to reach millions of Christians through television, radio, gospel music and Bible distribution efforts. Kelly says Reverend Swaggart has his family by his side.

Cut 8 (08) “…praying right now.”

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State lawmakers have approved legislation to support a “One Door” approach, one place where Louisianians can can access the most of the assistance they need. Mandeville Representative Kim Carver says one of the biggest changes is that Department of Children and Family Services will no longer administer the state’s food stamp program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funds.

Cut 9 (09)  …child welfare system.”

Carver says the Louisiana Workforce Commission, which will be renamed Louisiana Works would become the main public-facing agency for benefit access.

Cut 10 (11) “…of work.”

Carver says the Department of Health would manage SNAP processing, and DCFS would shift to focus on child welfare. He says the overhaul will improve service delivery, reduce duplication, and help more residents re-enter the workforce.

Cut 11 (12) “…benefits that they need.”

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Before the legislative session ended, lawmakers approved a 46-billion dollar state operating budget for the next fiscal year that begins July first. Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, president Steven Procopio, calls it a prudent budget.

Cut 12 (10) “…standstill budget.”

The biggest budget battle was over funding for L-A GATOR, the state’s new voucher program.  Procopio says lawmakers left out 50-million dollars that Governor Landry requested for L-A GATOR.

Cut 13 (09)  “…private schools”

Governor Landry says the legislative session resulted in the largest tort reform effort in the state’s history, holding both trial lawyers and insurance companies accountable. Procopio says the verdict is still out on whether changes will reduce insurance rates.

Cut 14 (09) “…to that.”

Winn Parish District Attorney Chris Nevils has dropped the manslaughter charge against Andrew Camp who is accused of fatally shooting his father  Chad Camp in 2023.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A bill that supporters said would lower prescription drug prices caused quite a stir during the final couple days of the legislative session. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A state judge has dismissed a manslaughter charge against Andrew Camp who was accused of fatally shooting his 51-year-old father Chad Camp at their home in 2023. Andrew Camp was 17-years-old at the time of the shooting. Legal Analyst Franz Borghardt says Winn Parish District Attorney Chris Nevils cited the ethical obligation not to prosecute cases lacking evidence beyond a reasonable doubt.…

Cut 3 (12) “…not pursue that prosecution.”

Borghardt says charges remain against Jessica Shea, arrested for obstruction of justice and contributing to juvenile delinquency. Shea allegedly gave Andrew alcohol that night, with toxicology reports showing he was nearly unconscious from intoxication.

Cut 4 (05) “…for the victim.”

Borghardt says it’s a very complicated case involving child endangerment by Shea, but charges against Andrew have been dropped.

Cut 5 (07) “…accused individuals.”

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Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill issued a cease-and-desist letter to CVS over text messages the drug-store chain company sent to customers about House Bill 358, which would ban pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning pharmacies in the state.  Murrill says people didn’t sign up for this…

Cut 6 (11) “…Louisiana legislature.”

CVS Health, a major PBM, warned in the texts that the bill could force over 100 CVS locations in Louisiana to close, potentially increasing medication costs and causing job losses. Murrill accused CVS of sending unsolicited, politically motivated messages using sensitive personal data, calling the texts deceptive and inaccurate.

Cut 7 (10) “…including my own.”

Murrill argued the company violated Louisiana law by misusing customer information for lobbying. The House passed HB 358 on Wednesday, sparking controversy.

Cut 8 (07) “…reforms in this area.”

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LSU fans are gearing up for Saturday night’s big matchup between LSU and Arkansas in the opening round of the College World Series. The winner will have an excellent shot at making the championship series. Tiger Rag Executive Editor Todd Horne says LSU beating Arkansas and getting to the championship series…

Cut 9 (14)  “…LSU Tigers.”

ESPN college baseball analyst Kyle Peterson says LSU is one of the favorites because they have two of the best starting pitches in the C-W-S and they have quality relievers coming out of the bullpen…

Cut 10 (10) “…that point.”

LSU has scored 61 runs in six NCAA Tournament games. Shortstop Stevan Milam has driven in 11 runs over the last four games and Horne says Milam needs to keep swinging a hot bat…

Cut 11 (09) “…to .290.”

LSU-Arkansas game starts at 6 PM.

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The 2025 legislative session ended with drama over a pharmacy benefits managers bill and Governor Landry threatening a special session. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says PBMs are the middlemen who manage pharmacy benefits…

Cut 12 (15) “…pharmaceutical process.”

The bill prohibits companies from owning both pharmacy benefits managers and pharmacies. It died in the Senate after it was approved by the House on Wednesday. Landry says the legislation will lower prescription drugs and plans to call a special session so the bill can be approved this year. Pinsonat doesn’t see a special session happening…

Cut 13 (12)  “…with that”

Despite a social media push from Governor Landry and President Trump, Senate President Cameron Henry says the Senate didn’t feel the need to act on the pharmacy benefits manager bill, because it would not take effect until 2027. Landry is talking about a special session this year, but Pinsonat says lawmakers are ready for a break from the state capitol…

Cut 14 (12) “…doubtful of.”

Governor Landry signed into law a bill that offers critical legal protections for survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking by requiring car manufacturers to disable remote access technology

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The St. Tammany Parish coroner is dusting off an old PSA after an infant dies in a bed instead of a crib. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault and stalking now have added protections, thanks to a new law signed by Governor Landry. The new law requires car manufacturers to disable remote access technology, such as tracking and control features, within two days of receiving a certified protective or restraining order. Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Detective Kelly Downey was instrumental in getting House Bill 74 passed.

Cut 3 (11) “…track or monitor.”

Downey collaborated closely with lawmakers and survivors, providing expert testimony and highlighting the risks posed by abuser-controlled vehicle systems saying 80-percent of all domestic homicide victims were stalked.

Cut 4 (12) “…helps both sides”

Downey expressed pride in helping craft legislation that empowers victims to reclaim safety and independence as they begin to heal from trauma.

Cut 5 (09) “…do the same.”

Survivors must either own the vehicle or have exclusive use granted by the court.

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A Medicare advocacy group is urging Congress to protect the Medicare Advantage program. When the One Big Beautiful Bill made it out of the House, the program was left intact. However, Darren Grubb with Medicare Advantage Majority says the Senate has the program in its crosshairs.

Cut 6 (08) “…essentially cut funding.”

Grubb says if that happens, that would have a devastating effect on Louisiana’s 540-thousand seniors.

Cut 7 (10) “…services they need.”

Grubb says polls among seniors show an overwhelming majority want Congress to preserve the Medicare Advantage program.

Cut 8 (15) “…their family members.”

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After an infant in St. Tammany Parish died last weekend while sharing a bed with his mother and a sibling, Coroner Dr. Christopher Tape has re-released a PSA warning people of the dangers of babies sleeping in the same bed with others. Coroner’s spokesman James Hartman says it’s a very important message.

Cut 9 (14)  “…out there again.”

Hartman says when putting infants to bed, always use the ABC rule – Alone, on their Back and in a Crib.

Cut 10 (07) “…with a child.”

Hartman says the 30-second spot is very moving.

Cut 11 (14) “…was under her.”

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The Louisiana Legislature has approved a 46-billion-dollar budget for next fiscal year. The spending plan does not contain the 93-million dollars Governor Landry wanted for the LA Gator program, which provides parents with state money to pay for private school tuition.  House Appropriations Chairman Jack McFarland says most of the families that applied for LA Gator funds, already have children attending a private school…

Cut 12 (08) “…private schools.”

The LA Gator program is receiving 43-million dollars, 50-million dollars less than what the governor wanted. LA Gator is replacing the state’s current voucher program, and McFarland says a majority of lawmaker believe funding for private school vouchers should remain relatively the same…

Cut 13 (12)  “…for better opportunity”

Thirty of the 50-million dollars Governor Landry wanted to go to the LA Gator scholarship program went to high dosage tutoring in K-through-12 education and another 18-million went to sheriffs to help cover the costs of housing state prisoners in their local jails. McFarland says this is the first year of the LA Gator Scholarship program, so it’s best to take a conservative approach when funding it…

Cut 14 (10) “…of this.”

Louisiana ranks 49^th in the country for overall child well-being according to the 2025 Kids Count Data Book. Jeanne Burns on why Louisiana ranks so low.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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Speed cameras are the governor’s signature away from being outlawed in the state — well, most of it, at least. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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AARP Louisiana is urging Governor Landry to veto a bill that would cap malpractice liability for nursing homes. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana ranks 49^th in the country for overall child well-being according to the Kids Count Data Book that’s put together by the Annie E Casey Foundation. Director of Data and Research at Agenda for Children, Tereasa Falgoust, says one of the main reasons for the poor ranking is that 20-percent of Louisiana children live in a high-poverty neighborhood ranking, compared to just eight percent nationwide…

Cut 4 (11) “…health care.”

Falgoust says a lot more work needs to be done to make communities safer. She says Louisiana’s child and teen death rate was ranked 49^th out of 50 states as 30-percent of deaths to children and teens were due to homicide, double the national rate…

Cut 5 (14) “…the solution.”

Louisiana ranked 48^th last year in this child well-being report. Falgoust says the state has dropped a spot in the rankings despite gains in education. She says Louisiana ranks 35^th in education as reading scores have improved thanks to high-dosage tutoring…

Cut 6 (09) “…transformative.”

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A bill to largely ban speed cameras across the state – well, most of it, at least – is on Governor Landry’s desk. Monroe Republican Senator Stewart Cathey says he’s happy that he got his bill across the finish line. 

Cut 7 (11) “…State of Louisiana.”

There have been efforts in the past to ban speed cameras in the state. This version of the legislation, however, allows speed cameras to operate in school zones. Cathey says that’s a reasonable compromise.

Cut 8 (12) “…school zone’s operational.”

However, Cathey’s bill was thrown a curveball as the House passed – by one vote – an amendment that exempts Opelousas from this ban. The city says it does not have the resources within its police department for officers to run radar. Cathey says it’s a dangerous slippery slope.

Cut 9 (12)  “…across our state.”

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AARP Louisiana is urging Governor Landry to veto Senate Bill 134, which would cap malpractice damages against nursing homes at 500-thousand dollars. The organization says it would effectively eliminate people’s ability to hold nursing homes accountable for malpractice. Director of Advocacy Andrew Muhl (“mull”) says nursing homes in Louisiana rank among the nation’s worst. 

Cut 10 (12) “…them even worse.”

Muhl says oversight of the nursing home industry has been decreasing over the years.

Cut 11 (11) “…is held to.”

The bill’s author, Shreveport Republican Senator Thomas Pressly, says his bill clarifies the Medical Malpractice Act, which was always intended to include nursing homes.

Cut 12 (14) “…or on site.”

AARP says the bill would have essentially gotten Bob Dean off the hook for his role in a situation, in which eight of his nursing home residents died when they were moved to a warehouse during Hurricane Ida. Pressly says Dean’s liability would not have been capped under his bill.

Cut 13 (10)  “…Medical Malpractice Act.”

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The LSU baseball team is headed to the College World Series for a 20th time. The Tigers swept the Super Regional series versus West Virginia, winning last night 12 to 5 over the Mountaineers for their 48th win on the season. Coach Jay Johnson says the players put in the work to punch their ticket to Omaha…

Cut 14 (09) “…with them.”

Johnson says this team was built around 12 returning players from last year’s team, plus an outstanding freshman class and key pick-ups out the transfer portal. He says it all came together to form a championship worthy team…

Cut 15 (13) “…tonight.”

Shortstop Stevan Milam was the offensive star of the super regional series. He hit a grand slam in game one and drove in four more runs on Sunday night. Milam struggled with the bat in SEC play, but he’s been a Monster at the plate in the NCAA Tournament….

Cut 16 (09) “…to LSU.”

LSU first baseman Jared Jones is one of two players who was on the 2023 national championship team. Jones understands what it will take to bring home an eighth national championship for the program…

Cut 17 (10)  “…get ready for Game 1.”

Game one will be Saturday against Arkansas, who swept its Super Regional series versus Tennessee.

Senator Bill Cassidy and other Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee met with President Trump this week to discuss the “Big, Beautiful Bill.” Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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With warmer temperatures here, now is the time to take steps to protect yourself from West Nile Virus. Kace Kieschnick reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee met with President Trump this week to find common ground on his “Big, Beautiful Bill.” Among them was Bill Cassidy, who says the two-hour meeting was very productive. Like other senators, Cassidy says the bill as passed by the House will not pass in the Senate without some changes.

Cut 3 (17) “…people do better.”

Cassidy says Trump laid out his main objectives that he wants to achieve with his “Big, Beautiful Bill.”

Cut 4 (17) “…the American people.”

Not everyone is happy with the “Big, Beautiful Bill” – among them, Elon Musk. He calls the bill, in his words, “an abomination” that’s full of pork spending. That’s led to a war of words between Musk and Trump that’s blown up in public. While some say the relationship between Trump and Musk is damaged beyond repair, Cassidy says it’s more like a lover’s tiff.

Cut 5 (12) “…wish you hadn’t.”

Cassidy says he’s confident that cooler heads will ultimately prevail and Trump and Musk will once again work together.

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Mosquito season is upon us, so now is the time to take steps to protect yourself from West Nile Virus. State Epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says when you go outside, apply EPA-approved mosquito repellent containing DEET, and take other steps as well.

Cut 6 (09) “…hours or so.”

Sokol says wearing insect repellent is only one step in protecting yourself against West Nile.

Cut 7 (12) “…windows and doors.”

Sokol says it’s also important to eliminate any standing water on your property, since standing water is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitos.

Cut 8 (13) “…could collect water.”

Sokol says every year, people get infected with West Nile in every part of the state, so everyone is at risk for West Nile.

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The 75th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival is tomorrow in Ruston. Tori Davis with Experience Ruston says the event has grown into a music and arts festival.

Cut 9 (15)  “…huge arts market.”

Throughout the week, restaurants throughout Ruston have been participating in the Peach Culinary Crawl, offering special peach-inspired dishes. Davis says there’s plenty of entertainment tomorrow for visitors of all ages.

Cut 10 (11) “…until 10:30 p.m..”

Davis says peaches are a huge crop in northwest Louisiana – so much so that Ruston is known as the peach capital of Louisiana.

Cut 11 (14) “…you’ll ever eat.”

The festivities begin at nine tomorrow morning, and admission is free.

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LSU is set to host West Virginia in the Super Regional round of the NCAA tournament this weekend. The Mountaineers have gone to back-to-back Super Regionals and were undefeated in Clemson last weekend. Tigers coach Jay Johnson says the Mountaineers will be ready…

Cut 12 (13) “…right now.” 

LSU will hope pitching duo Anthony Eyanson and Kade Anderson can win the series before Monday’s game three. Anderson and Eyanson rank second and third in the nation in strikeouts and have a combined 19-and-3 record. Tigers’ shortstop Steven Milam says it’ll be up to the offense to hold up their end…

Cut 13 (16)  “…how to play.”

The winner of the best-of-three series will head to Omaha for an appearance in the College World Series. Junior second baseman Daniel Dickinson says he played in Omaha on a summer travel team in high school…

Cut 14 (17) “…that picture.”

The series kicks off tomorrow at 1 p.m.