An audit finds $112 million was spent on Medicaid recipients who live out-of-state from 2016 to February of this year. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Changes could be coming again to the structure of the high school football playoffs. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s report reveals more than $100 million was paid for Medicaid coverage for individuals who don’t even live in the Bayou State. Data Analytic Manager Chris Magee says the payments were made to the insurance companies that provide managed care for Medicaid recipients.

Cut 3 (12) “…out of state.”

The audit was on data from 2016 to February of this year.

Magee says the Louisiana Department of Health cites COVID as one reason for the oversite. During the pandemic the federal government would not allow states to end Medicaid coverage for recipients, however, living out-of-state was an allowable reason to end coverage.

Cut 4 (12) “…the pandemic.”

Another problem the audit uncovered is that the health department does not use driver’s license data to identify individuals who’ve moved out of state. As a result, Magee says their office is recommending the offices share such data and LDH has agreed to do so going forward.

As for recovering the millions spent on out-of-state recipients, because the program is federally driven Magee says the state was following eligibility rules. He says only if it’s proven an individual committed Medicaid fraud can those funds be recouped.

Cut 5 (07) “…the door.” (2x)

Magee says a previous audit revealed that providers were providing services for out-of-state recipients and that prompted this to see if out-of-state recipients were receiving coverage.

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Summer wildfires that started August 14 in Sabine Parish have been contained but crews are still keeping an eye on fire lines. Office of Emergency Preparedness Director Scott Gowen says fires have charred acres of land across the parish…

Cut 6 (12) “…big fire” 

One of the Sabine fires near Florien, consumed 14 structures and 19 vehicles, 10 or 11 families were displaced but there were no injuries or fatalities. Gowen says excessive heat continues to be a threat.

Cut 7 (05) “…out there.” 

Firefighters from Baton Rouge, St. George, and Scott are on hand to provide assistance to crews in Sabine. Gowen says the parish has also requested help from the governor’s office. While there are three fire departments in the parish, he says the wildfires have been hard to handle with only volunteer firefighters.

Cut 8 (08) “…you know.”

A state burn ban has been in place since August 7.

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The high school football season begins next week and it’s unclear what the playoff brackets will look like in November. A Baton Rouge judge has ruled the LHSAA can’t use the current definition that determines a “select” school. Plaintiffs’ attorney Brian Blackwell says the LHSAA will likely need to call a special meeting so high school principals can make that determination…

Cut 9 (07) “…select school”

Last year, the LHSAA Executive Committee changed the definition of a “select” school which resulted in dozens of traditional public schools switching from non-select to select and competing against private schools in the playoffs. Blackwell says high school principals never had a chance to vote on this major change to the LHSAA’s constitution…

Cut 10 (09) “…require”

Blackwell represents nine public schools from Rapides Parish and the Monroe area that filed the suit. The LHSAA executive committee redefined a select school as any school that has a magnet component, is a charter school, or is an open-enrollment parish.

Blackwell is not sure what this means for the high school football playoffs in November and December, but he believes a special meeting should be called, so high school principals can vote…

Cut 11 (07) “…of that membership”

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The State Department of Transportation says motorists can do their part in preventing grass or wildfires. Spokesperson Rodney Mallet says cigarette butts or chains being dragged off trailers can throw sparks into hot and dry grassy areas

Cut 12 (10) “…on the interstate.”

Looking ahead there appears to be no relief from the oppressive temperatures and the chance of any significant rain is practically nill. Wildfires have easily started due to the harsh conditions and Mallett fears another blaze is merely a spark away…

Cut 13 (07) “…more often.”

The statewide burn ban remains in place and Louisiana is under a State of Emergency due to the heat until September 9^th. Mallet says you should never be littering or throwing a cigarette out the window, to begin with…

Cut  14 (12)  “…very dangerous.”

Even though the cause of the blaze has yet to be determined, the Lafayette Fire Department has responded to eight grass fires within a 48-hour period.

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Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says former President Donald Trump should drop out of the 2024 Presidential race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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As the state struggle with little rain and excessive temperatures, a tropical depression headed towards Texas has developed in the Gulf of Mexico resulting in a red flag warning for most of the state. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (28)  “…Teiko Foxx”  

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Louisiana U-S Senator Bill Cassidy believes former President Donald Trump should drop out of the 2024 Presidential race. During an appearance on C-N-N’s State of the Union, Cassidy says current polling shows Trump can not beat President Joe Biden in a general election…

Cut 3 (09) “…high inflation”

Trump is also facing nearly 100 criminal charges from four different federal criminal indictments. Cassidy says he’s concerned Trump will be convicted of mishandling classified documents, which will make him unelectable.

Cut 4 (11) “…to happen.”

Cassidy says he’ll vote for a Republican candidate that plans to address the future of Social Security….

Cut 5 (05) “..do nothing”

Cassidy says if nothing is done, Social Security will start to run out of money in about a decade, resulting in a 24-percent benefit cut.

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There is a tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico moving south of Louisiana towards Texas and it’s resulted in a Red Flag Warning, which means wildfires and grass fires can spread quickly.  National Weather Service Lake Charles Meteorologist Stacey Denson.

Cut 6 (10) “…out there” 

According to the governor’s office, there have been more than 260 wildfires during this hot and dry summer that have damaged and destroyed more than 3,500 acres. Denson says the breezy conditions driven by tropical depression heading towards Texas…

Cut 7 (08) “…southern Louisiana” 

Warm temperatures and dry wind are the perfect mixture for activity to develop over warm waters and there are three named storms Emily, Franklin, and Gert in the Atlantic Ocean. Denson says there’s low pressure moving across the Gulf but that’s given a 70% chance of development.

Cut 8 (08) “…in Louisiana”

The state burn ban remains in effect.

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An ATV ride in St. Tammany Parish near Bush turned fatal when two female juveniles were driving the vehicle and struck a tree. Police were called to the scene on Saturday night when they were rushed to the hospital. Sargent Suzanna Carboni gives an update on the pair’s condition after the accident.

Cut 9 (11) “…Sunday morning.”

The 12 year old that passed was confirmed to be Payton Strain, and this is not the first death in the area from this type of accident, so Carboni has a message to all ATV owners.

Cut 10 (08) “…as such.”

Cardboni also clarifies who should be driving these types of vehicles.

Cut 11 (08) “…very dangerous.”

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In the Louisiana governor’s race, State Treasurer John Schroder takes a shot at fellow Republicans Jeff Landry and Stephen Waguespack in his latest TV ad, calling them political insiders who will not address the issues affecting Louisiana…

Cut 12 (11) “…demand change”

But Waguespack, who is the former president of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry says, he’s the political outsider that’s ready to make life better for families and businesses…

Cut 13 (10) “…job done”

Schroder says if elected, he’ll put people over special interests.

Cut  14 (09)  “…first class schools.”

Landry recently picked up the endorsement of the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association.

Schools that are not happy with the LHSAA changing its playoff structure will have their day in court today. Pierson Luscy has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “….I’m Pierson Luscy.”

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Poverty Point in West Carroll Parish receives a one-point-eight million dollar federal grant. Jeff Palermo has details on how that money will be used…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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New data from the federal government shows 407-thousand workers in Louisiana left their job during the first six months of this year, the highest number ever for the first half of a year. Pierson Luscy has more…

Cut 3 (34)  “…I’m Pierson Luscy”

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The LHSAA is facing a lawsuit from nine schools, six from Rapides Parish and three from the Monroe area, and their court date is today at 9 a.m. The schools seek a preliminary injunction of the current playoff format for football, basketball, baseball and softball. Attorney Brian Blackwell represents the schools and he says they are upset over being moved from non-select to select…

Cut 4 (07) “…structure itself.”

Last year, the LHSAA executive committee moved dozens of schools from non-select to select, because they had students at their school that were from outside of the attendance zone. It resulted in several public schools playing against private schools in the postseason. Blackwell says high school principals never got a vote on the matter…

Cut 5 (12) “…playoff structure”

The idea behind changing the playoff structure was to level the playing field and bring more competitiveness to postseason play. The number of brackets were also reduced which led to some 5A schools competing against 4A schools in the playoffs. Blackwell says that’s not fair…

Cut 6 (12) “…1,000.”

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Poverty Point World Heritage Site in West Carroll Parish is receiving a one-point-eight million dollar federal grant that will be used to fund a master plan that will include an upgraded museum, visitor center, and other amenities. Commissioner of Administration spokesperson Jacques Berry says this funding will enhance the visitors’ experience

Cut 7 (09) “…Poverty Point.”

Poverty Point is an archaeological site that features huge mounds and enormous concentric half-circles built by  American Indians 34 hundred years ago. Berry says there’s technology available that can make the visitor center invisible for visitors that walk up the mounds and take a look at their surroundings…

Cut 8 (11) “…1500 B.C.”

Berry says it will take a while to execute this plan, so that’s what the grant is paying for….

Cut 9 (11)  “…itself”

Berry says once the master plan is executed it will take state dollars to build the high tech visitor center and museum. Poverty Point attracts 100-thousand visitors a year. It’s one of 26 World Heritage sites in the U-S.

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A report by the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children shows 60 percent of kids statewide do not meet the kindergarten school readiness benchmark. LPIC Director Libbie Sonnier says the state has made progress in expanding early care and education, but the need is still great

Cut 10 (09) “…increasing access.”

Under current law, students in Louisiana are required to enroll in school by age 5 but under prior law it was by age 7.

Sonnier says early childhood education is critical because 90% of a child’s brain development is between birth and 5 years old. She says pre-K education helps develop social, emotional, and problem-solving skills. 

Cut 11 (12) “…symbol relationship.”

Louisiana spends less than half of one percent of state dollars on early care and education. 

It will take $86 million dollars for the state to make sure every at-risk child can access an early care and education program according to the Early Childhood Care and Education Commission. Sonnier says it will take a unified effort to make sure children and parents have the tools they need to succeed.

Cut 12 (12) “…and education.”

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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 407,000 Louisiana workers quit their jobs in the first six months of this year. A record 760,000 Louisianans left their job last year so the Bayou State is on pace to break that record. Economist Loren Scott says many Louisiana workers are leaving their job for better pay…

Cut 13 (12) “…higher wage rates.”

And according to the Louisiana Workforce Commission, the state’s unemployment rate in July was 3.5 percent, the lowest ever for a July. Scott says with a relatively small group of people looking for work, businesses have to get creative….

Cut 14 (12) “…now do” 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics say an estimated 114-thousand workers were hired in June and 602-thousand have been hired for the year. Scott is putting together his latest economic forecast and he’s seeing wages going up….

Cut 15 (09) “…going on here.”

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It’s game week for Louisiana Tech as they play Florida International in Ruston on Saturday night in a week zero matchup. Last season’s leading rusher for the Bulldogs, Marquis Crosby, has been ruled for the game and Miami of Ohio transfer Tyre Shelton is questionable.  Second-year coach Sonny Cumbie knows he has more talent this season, but it’s other intangibles he’s not sure about.

Cut 16 (13) “…face that.”

After going 3-9 last season, Cumbie signed 19 players out of the transfer portal. He likes the experience he has with the starting group…

Cut 17 (15) “..tempering that”

_______________________________________________________________________

The Ragin Cajuns are less than two weeks away from their season opener against Northwestern State on September 2nd. Coach Michael Desormeaux likes the progress they’ve made…

Cut 18 (22) “…win games.”

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With most of the starters watching from the sidelines, the Saints improved to 2-0 in the preseason with a 22-17 win over the Los Angeles Chargers. Veteran quarterback Jameis Winston threw for 169 yards, rookie running back Kendre Miller had a seven-yard touchdown run, and defensive end Niko Lalos was the star on defense with three sacks. Coach Dennis Allen is pleased they got the win but didn’t like the 14 penalties

Cut 19 (20) “…cleaned up”

Former first-round pick Payton Turner had one of the biggest plays of the night as he sacked Chargers quarterback Easton Stick, who also coughed up the football. The turnover resulted in New Orleans only touchdown. Allen says the third-year player is finally showing off what he can do…

Cut 20 (19) “…plays today.”

Louisiana Pollster John Couvillon has done another survey on the race to get the Republican Presidential nomination and former president Donald Trump continues to do well. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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We’ll see high temperatures get above 105-degrees in some parts of the state this weekend. LRN meteorologist John Wetherbee reports the sun will continue to bake the Bayou State…

Cut 2 (28)  “…this weekend”  

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The Edwards administration is using $20 million left over from the Road Home program for the proposed New Orleans to Baton Rouge passenger rail line. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the federal government agreed to this move because the train could help evacuate residents out of New Orleans when a hurricane is approaching

Cut 3 (11) “…beneficial purpose.”

The $20 million will be used towards the state’s match for a federal grant that can help pay for the project. Dardenne says the funding picture for this ambitious project will become more clear in the fall…

Cut 4 (11) “…a reality.”

Dardenne says they planned to give the 20-million dollars back to the feds…

Cut 5 (07) “…a decision.”

Dardenne says they had until June 30th to decide how to spend the money left over from the Road Home Program, which was used to help people rebuild their homes after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

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Despite four separate federal indictments against Donald Trump, the former president continues to receive strong support from Republicans in his bid to return to the White House. Louisiana pollster John Couvillon…

Cut 6 (11) “…ganging up on him” 

Couvillon surveyed 11-hundred likely Republican voters nationwide and 52-percent said they would vote for Trump in the Presidential Primary.

While Trump’s support is holding steady, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has lost ground. He says DeSantis’ favorability rating fell from 65-percent in July to 61-percent in August as some voters are turned off by his lack of charisma…

Cut 7 (05) “…the polls” 

Couvillon says based on his poll results entrepreneur and investment manager Vivek Ramaswamy (vi-Vake RAH-muh-SWAH-mee) is seeing his support grow. In July only three percent of Republican voters said they supported the 38-year-old and now it’s up to five percent….

Cut 8 (08) “…more scrutiny”

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The heat will be turned up a notch this weekend as temperatures will push well above 100-degrees. State Climatologist Barry Keim says central and north Louisiana will be baking Saturday and Sunday…

Cut 9 (08)  “…heat index values”

And we will not see much of a cool down when we begin a new work week on Monday. Keim says next week south Louisiana could catch a little bit of a break from a tropical wave that has a chance of developing as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico.

Cut 10 (12)  “…triple digits.”

The National Hurricane Center is now giving an area of disturbed weather over the southeastern Bahamas a medium chance of developing into a tropical depression as it approaches Texas by the middle of next week. Keim says the system is getting support from the extremely warm Gulf waters, but it will also battle wind shear…

Cut 11 (07)  “…very much.” 

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The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry reports over 24-hundred acres have been damaged from over 100 wildfires since the middle of last week. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says hot and dry conditions and plenty of dead wood is providing the kindling

Cut 12 (11) “…quickly”

Strain says when the fire spreads to the top of trees then it becomes it a real concern, because then it begins to move faster.

Cut 13 (10) “…to fight it”

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The State Fire Marshal is investigating a fatal house and brush fire that resulted in the discovery of a body in Franklinton on Thursday. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says investigators believe the blaze may have started outside of the home

Cut  14 (12)  “…were discovered.”

The brush fire around the home located off of H.C. Rushing Road prevented firefighters from accessing the house fire for several hours.

The victim is believed to be the 72-year-old homeowner who had mobility challenges. Official identification is pending.  Rodrigue says the investigation into the death of the individual and what may have caused the fire continues.

Cut 15 (08) “…this instance.”

A statewide burn ban remains in effect.

Nextstar Media which owns several TV stations in Louisiana has paid for a poll on the governor’s race that shows Attorney General Jeff Landry with a commanding lead in the governor’s race. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Forecasters are monitoring possible tropical development in the Gulf of Mexico early next week. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Discount supermarket chain Aldi is set to purchase nearly 400 Winn-Dixie and Harvey Supermarkets from Southeastern Grocers in a cash deal expected to close in the first half of 2024. LSU Economist Jim Richardson says the deal is part of Aldi’s long-term plan to expand.

Cut 3 (11) “…the package.”

Aldi opened a $100 million regional headquarter in Alabama at the start of the year which has fueled its rapid expansion across the Gulf Coast. Richardson believes for now they will probably keep the familiar red-and-white Winn-Dixie branding.

Cut 4 (10) “…of time.”

Richardson says Aldi has eleven locations in Louisiana. He says the acquisition will give Aldi hundreds of more stores in the southeast

Cut 5 (11) “…as well.”

Aldi will open a store in Central on August 31 and three stores in Baton Rouge and Marrero are under construction.

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A poll paid for by Nexstar Media shows Attorney General Jeff Landry with a big lead over his opponents in the governor’s race. Emerson College Polling surveyed likely voters earlier this week and 40-percent of the respondents support Landry.   Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says this poll shows Landry receiving 50-percent of the vote on October 14th is possible

Cut 6 (11) “…cake walk” 

If Landry receives at least 50-percent of the vote in the primary, he can win the race without the need of a run-off.

The closest to Landry is Democrat Shawn Wilson at 22-percent. The rest of the candidates are in the single digits. Pinsonat says Landry’s opponents need to do something to shake up the race…

Cut 7 (12) “…the governor” 

The poll also asked voters who they like in the Secretary of State and Attorney General races. The percentage of unlikely voters for the next Secretary of State is 66-percent and even higher in the A-G race at 80-percent. Pinsonat says voters are not familiar with the candidates in these races, despite their efforts to run a grass roots campaign…

Cut 8 (12) “…nobody knows you”

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The race for Insurance Commissioner was decided yesterday after one of the two candidates dropped out of the race. Republican Tim Temple is now commissioner-elect.  Governor John Bel Edwards who says he personally knows Temple, congratulated him on his monthly call-in radio show

Cut 9 (06)  “…good job.”

Temple ran for commissioner in 2019 against incumbent Jim Donelon. Temple was already planning to run again this year before Donelon announced he would not seek re-election. Edwards says with the state facing an insurance crisis he’s pleased Temple is willing to take on the job.

Cut 10 (06)  “…stepping up.”

After qualifying just last week, Democrat Rich Weaver of Prairieville withdrew from the race.

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The National Hurricane Center says there’s the possibility of some tropical activity in the Gulf of Mexico next week. Louisiana Radio Network meteorologist John Wetherbee says the low pressure area has yet to develop, but a tropical wave coming out of the Bahamas could show signs of developing by the beginning of next week…

Cut 11 (12)  “…getting underway.” 

Hurricane forecasters say the broad area of low pressure could form in either the central or western Gulf of Mexico and then move towards the Texas coastline. Wetherbee says this is certainly worth monitoring…

Cut 12 (10) “…upper air support.”

On his monthly call-in radio show Governor Edwards briefly discussed the Pardon Board’s scheduling hearings to review clemency applications from 20 different death row inmates. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Three in four Louisiana parishes have seen more deaths than births between 2020 and 2022. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Even with a break from the extreme heat, the lack of rainfall is presenting problems in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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On his monthly radio call-in show, Governor Edwards discussed the clemency applications from death row inmates that will be reviewed by the Louisiana Pardon Board. The board originally rejected to hear the 56 cases on the grounds, they weren’t filed within a year of their final appeal being denied, but Edwards directed the panel to do so anyway. So far 20 of the cases have been scheduled for review.

Cut 4 (08)  “…to comment.”

Once the board reviews the individual cases, Edwards says they will send a recommendation on whether to grant clemency or not. He says it usually takes a week or two after it goes before the board, before he receives them.

Cut 5 (06)   “…a decision.”

In the last year of his second term, Edwards publicly stated he opposed the death penalty, and that was soon followed by 56 applications for clemency.

Edwards acknowledges the Pardon Board has difficult decisions to make. He says many factors are considered in clemency applications…

Cut 6 (10)  “…public safety.”

The death row inmate clemency applications are requesting life in prison without parole in lieu of the death penalty.

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Recent research from LSU Demographer Tim Slack found that three in four Louisiana parishes saw more deaths than births from 2020 to 2022. Slack says overall the state’s population declined by 67,000 during that time period…

Cut 7 (10) “…than births.”

Between 2020 and 2022, Louisiana had the fourth largest population loss in the country. Slack says the state had the fifth-highest overall death rate during that time period, with only 414 more births than deaths.

Cut 8 (11) “…overdose epidemic.”

Slack says urban areas and suburban parishes in south Louisiana are exceptions, as they are seeing more births than deaths. The same goes for the Fort Polk area, Bossier Parish and Lincoln Parish.

He says some of the parishes where deaths outnumber births by more than ten-percent, Webster, Morehouse, Winn, Franklin, LaSalle, Iberville and Pointe Coupee parishes. Slack says it’s a significant problem…

Cut 9 (11)  “…so forth.”

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One more day of slightly lower temperatures and humidity and then it’s back to the excessive heat. Rain chances will stay low through the weekend, worsening the drought problem. State Climatologist Barry Keim says to give you a better idea of just how dire things are, for the last 30 days in northwest Louisiana, they’ve only had about a half inch of rain. That’s 15-percent of normal rainfall…

Cut 10 (10) “…normal rainfall.”

Keim says the lack of rain coupled with the extreme heat makes for a dangerous situation. And while residents are having to water their lawns due to the drought…

Cut 11 (11) “…go out there.”

Keim says the situation is not as bad in southeastern Louisiana, but over the last 30 days, they’ve seen just 50-percent of what’s normal rainfall.

Cut 12 (06) “…rain bad.”

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72-year-old Hamid Ghassemi, a used car dealer in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, faces life in prison after a jury found him guilty of  first-degree murder after he hired three men to kill his ex-wife in 2015 so he would not have to pay her a $1 million judgment. The first-degree murder verdict was unanimous. East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore says a proper verdict was rendered

Cut 13 (09) “…his life.”

Ghassemi paid Daniel Richter, Tyler Ashpaugh, and Skyler Williams $10,000 to kill his ex-wife, 54-year-old Taherah Ghassemi, and their son Hamed after the couple divorced. She was killed in April 2015. Moore says it has been a painful eight years for the son and the rest of the family…

Cut 14 (11)  “…relationship with.” 

Moore says this was a win for the community and a win for justice. He says his team and all of the law enforcement agencies worked diligently on this case.

Cut 15 (10)  “…outstanding job.”

Sentencing is scheduled for September 19th. Prosecutors are not seeking the death penalty.

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Former 5-star recruit and Texas A-and-M transfer cornerback Denver Harris has been missing from LSU’s practice this week. Coach Brian Kelly provided this update…

Cut 16 (12) “… this weekend”

Kelly also gave an update on defensive tackle Maason Smith, who has been watching from the sidelines and says that his injury from Saturday is not serious.

Cut 17 (10) “…any joints.”

Kelly likes what he’s seeing from his offense during the first two weeks of preseason camp. And he likes what he’s seeing from receiver Malik Nabors after leading the SEC with 72 receptions. He’s practicing with more focus this year…

Cut 18   (19) “…special things”

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The Saints and Chargers will hold a joint practice today and tomorrow before the two teams play in Los Angeles on Sunday night. Coach Dennis Allen on going up against the Bolts.

Cut 19 (10) “…those guys.”

Linebacker Jaylon Smith spoke to the media or the first time since signing with the Saints last Friday. Even though he just joined he does not think it will take a while to learn the defense.

Cut 20 (11) “…take long.”

Finding unclaimed cash in your name has been made simpler with a new search feature on the LA Wallet app. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A recent survey of one thousand adults in Louisiana gives an in-depth look at the prevalence of violence in the Bayou State. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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 If you haven’t walked outside yet you’re in for a treat weather-wise, Brooke Thorington.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The State Treasurer’s Office is making it easier for residents to check for unclaimed money through a new easy-to-use search on the LA Wallet app. Director of Unclaimed Property Kathleen Lobell says it simplifies the process for citizens to reclaim their lost funds.

Cut 4 (12)  “…to search.”

Unclaimed cash comes from uncollected funds from payroll checks, old bank accounts, utility deposits, insurance claim payments, interest payments, stock certificates, or life insurance proceeds. Lobell says one in six individuals in Louisiana has unclaimed property.

Cut 5 (11)   “…our search.”

Lobell says the app-based solution securely harnesses the power of technology and the new feature assists in returning money to their rightful owners…

Cut 6 (10)  “…for you.”

To find out if you have unclaimed property, go to the LA Wallet app, search LaCashClaim.org, or call 888-925-4127.

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A new survey by Tulane University gives more insight into the prevalence of violence in Louisiana. Newcomb Institute Executive Director Anita Raj led the survey and says the findings were alarming. Of the 1,000 adults surveyed, more than half have been physically or sexually assaulted.

Cut 7 (08) “…in childhood.”

One in 14 Louisiana adults has experienced physical violence in the past year.

Raj says the nature of the violence differs among genders.

Cut 8 (09) “…an intimate partner.”

The survey found that 42% of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a partner, with about one in 10 of these women reporting that their partner threatened or harmed them with a gun.

Raj says most researchers can only analyze crime statistics and data, but yet the survey is able to dive deeper, because many crimes, like sexual assault, aren’t always reported. The number is as high as 90% of people who experienced violence never formally reported the assaults.

Findings from the study will be shared at the Louisiana Women’s Policy and Research Commission meeting today in Baton Rouge.  Raj hopes policymakers will review the findings and work towards creating initiatives to prevent violent crime.

Cut 9 (06)  “…societal issue.”

The study also found that those who are victims of violence reported negative consequences, which include anxiety and depression, thoughts of suicide, and absenteeism.

Another common theme among the findings was gun violence. Raj says about one in five Louisianans have been threatened or harmed with a gun in their lifetime. To read the full report https://newcomb.tulane.edu/LaVEX

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We’ll get a slight reprieve from the heat today and tomorrow. A cold front moved through Louisiana and State Climatologist Barry Keim says humidity levels are lower…

Cut 10 (10) “…out there.”

Lows this morning in the northern parishes were in the 60s, and in the mid to upper 70s in the southern parishes. Highs today will be in the low to mid-90s which Keim says is typical for this time of year.

Cut 11 (10) “…less than triple digits.”

Keim says the break from the humidity and oppressing heat indices will be short-lived so take advantage of it…

Cut 12 (09) “…roof again.”

Despite two days of lower humidity and dewpoints, Louisiana remains under a State of Emergency due to the extreme heat until September 9^th, unless terminated beforehand. The statewide burn ban remains in effect.

__________________________________________

Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Davante Lewis plans to ask the state’s utility companies to delay customer disconnections for non-payment while the governor’s declared state of emergency because of the heat is active. Lewis says prolonged heatwave is deadly and no one should go without power in these conditions.

Cut 13 (10) “…and life.”

Lewis says there’s currently a heat advisory disconnection policy in place that if it’s over a certain temperature customers cannot be disconnected. The Democrat represents 10 parishes, that include Baton Rouge and New Orleans. He’ll make the request at today’s PSC meeting.

Cut 14 (12)  “…has issued.” 

While it is common for electric utilities to pause disconnects following natural disasters and other emergencies, Lewis believes utilities should understand now is not the time to turn off the power because of non-payment…

Cut 15 (11)  “…for them.”

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LSU football had another media availability and quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was one of the players that took questions. There was heavy speculation that he was going to transfer because he was going to be the backup, but he set the record straight.

Cut 16 (09) “…that I’m in.”

Quarterback Jayden Daniels is expected to be the starter for the team this season, and Nussmeier says he’ll be ready whenever his name is called.

Cut 17 (12) “…that works.”

He also says the team has gotten better with second-year head coach Brian Kelly.

Cut 18   (10) “…come in.”

Cornerback Duce Chestnut also spoke to the media. Before Chestnut played for LSU, he was with Syracuse, but always had his eyes on the Tigers.

Cut 19 (11) “…on tv.”

Chestnut says he prefers playing in the Southeastern Conference.

Cut 20 (11) “…to be drafted.”

The state Office of Public Health in  Acadiana is holding a back-to-school hygiene drive for the next month. Teiko Foxx reports it’s a first-of-a-kind event where the goal is to reduce anxiety and improve self-esteem for middle schoolers struggling with personal hygiene…

Cut 1 (29)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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While the national average for a gallon of regular gas is the highest it’s been in 10 months at $3.85, in Louisiana, prices have remained steady. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The governor has declared a state of emergency due to the extreme heat. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health is hosting its first back-to-school hygiene drive for students beginning today through September 15 in Acadiana.  Regional Medical Director Dr. Tina Stefanski says the goal is to reduce anxiety and improve self-esteem…

Cut 4 (11)  “…school year.”

Stefanski says statistics show when students have their needs met, they actually perform better in the classroom. She says the supplies collected are not just for young girls in middle schools…

Cut 5 (08)   “…as well.”

Stefanski says items including menstrual products, soap, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, body wipes, lotion, deodorant, and hair combs will be collected and delivered to schools throughout Acadiana. She hopes the community joins the efforts of supplying essential hygiene products…

Cut 6 (11)  “…all schools.”

Stefanski says only new and unused items will be accepted. Items can be dropped off at libraries and health units in Iberia and Vermillion Parishes between now and September 15th.

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The national average for a gallon of regular gas is $3.85, the highest it has been in about 10 months. But Triple-A Fuel Analyst Don Redman says at least in Louisiana, the price has remained steady about the past week, but it’s still about 30 cents higher than it was a month ago.

Cut 7 (11) “…a barrel.”

Redman says typically at the beginning of the school year demand tends to wind down and in September demand will decrease even more. He says they are advising motorists to budget $3.50 to $3.75 a gallon.

Cut 8 (12) “…produce oil.”

Redman says the price at the pump has increased since OPEC-plus countries decided to cut production a million barrels a day. He says concerns of an economic slowdown, especially in Asia, prompted the cutback.

Cut 9 (08)  “…the economies.”

He says higher gas prices erode your personal finances, but a dramatic drop in gas prices would be an indicator that the economy is suffering.

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A Livingston Parish judge will soon be tasked with hearing the state’s first child custody battle between a divorced same-sex couple. A Denham Springs woman is suing for custody, despite the fact she’s not a biological parent of the child. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says a 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision ruled that laws applying to heterosexual marriages must also apply to legal same-sex unions…:

Cut 10 (13) “…this has to happen.”

In many states, a biological mother’s ex-wife has the same custody rights as an ex-husband, but in Louisiana, they do not. Plaintiff’s attorneys argue that the child was born while the couple were married, so parental custody rights should apply. Ciolino says, in his opinion, Louisiana needs to comply with the High Court’s ruling…:

Cut 11 (12) “…different-sex marriages.”

The defendant claims she is the sole biological parent and her ex-wife has no custodial rights. Ciolino says this should be a fairly easy decision for the judge in the case. He calls it “cut and dry”…:

Cut 12 (09) “…Louisiana statute.”

Livingston Parish Judge Erika Green is scheduled to hear the case in early September.

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Governor Edwards declares a State of Emergency due to the extreme heat. Spokesperson for the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, Mike Steele, says the prolonged excessive heat is putting significant stress on resources in some areas of the state and the declaration is procedural for funding.

Cut 13 (09) “…to take place.”

Steele says the high temperatures and humidity are impacting agriculture and other industries. And low water levels along the Mississippi River are causing problems for water systems in south Louisiana.

Cut 14 (06)  “…these conditions.” 

Steele says unfortunately the heat has been responsible for some deaths and visits to emergency rooms for heat-related illnesses have already exceeded the yearly average.

Cut 15 (10)  “…as the heat.”

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LSU football’s star safety Greg Brooks Jr. has been dealing with a bout of vertigo but should be okay to return to practice today. The fifth-year senior from Harvey is a leader for the Tigers on defense. He says he’s seen great things from his young teammates.

Cut 16 (12) “…about that.”

Defensive coordinator Matt House spoke to the media on Saturday and said the team needs to get off the field on third downs more and to get more turnovers. Brooks on how they can do that.

Cut 17 (13) “…building ahead.”

LSU’s defense is more experienced than last year and Brooks says that fall practice has been more about improving rather than getting situated.

Cut 18   (11) “…going to be good.”

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The Ragin Cajuns had their first scrimmage of preseason camp yesterday and second-year coach Michael Desormeaux is pleased to see how Ben Wooldridge is performing as the team’s starting quarterback. Desormeaux says Wooldridge is moving around well as he’s set to return from a torn ACL. Wooldridge sees areas of his game that need improvement

Cut 19 (12) “…to do it.”

Wooldridge also says what the biggest change is in this year’s team compared to last year’s.

Cut 20 (11) “…with everybody.”

A one-point-one-billion dollar solar panel manufacturing facility is coming to Iberia Parish. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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On the final day of qualifying, former L-A-B-I president Stephen Waguespack and Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson added their names to the ballot for governor. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (36)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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Jefferson Parish officials held a meeting this week to address residents’ concerns about the recent increase in coyote sightings in neighborhoods and backyards. LDWF State Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Jim LaCour says the escalated sightings are due to an increase in urban development and the availability of food…

Cut 3 (11) “… urban sprawl.”

According to Wildlife and Fisheries, coyotes are becoming more common in urban and suburban areas across the state including Jefferson and Orleans Parishes. Although coyotes are predators, LaCour says coyotes are nocturnal creatures but they are also opportunistic feeders.

Cut 4 (12) “dens are”

Coyotes in Louisiana are observed as outdoor quadruped and can be killed year-round by anyone possessing a state hunting license. While the chances of getting bitten by a coyote are relatively low, LaCour says there are several things people can do to prevent problems with coyotes.

Cut 5 (11) “ controlled operator.”

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The largest solar energy manufacturer in the Western Hemisphere, First Solar, announces plans to build a one-point-one billion dollar solar panel manufacturing facility in Iberia Parish. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says the facility will employ 700 workers. He says it’s a huge win for the state and the country…

Cut 6 (07) “…big way” 

First Solar CEO Mark Widmar says Louisiana’s ability to deliver the talent stood out as they looked for a location to build this manufacturing facility. Pierson says they are also impressed with University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s solar energy lab..

Cut 7 (06) “…as well” 

Pierson says the Acadiana facility will be built on an LED Certified Site, meaning it has gone through extensive due diligence and studies to be declared development ready….

Cut 8 (12) “…shovel ready”

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Today is the final day to qualify for governor and two more Republicans joined the race, bringing the total number of main candidates to seven. Former Louisiana Association of Business and Industry president Stephen Waguespack is considered a long-shot, because the Republican Party is backing Jeff Landry. But Waguespack says party leaders will not elect our next governor…

Cut 9 (10)  “…resonate with.”

Waguespack is hoping the candidates run a clean race and he already takes issue with a mailer from a political action committee that attacks him…

Cut 10 (13)  “…that man”

Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson is the youngest candidate in the race at 37.  The Republican says among his top priorities are to change the state’s tax structure, recruiting and retaining qualified teachers. Nelson says he’d call a special session immediately to find solutions for the insurance crisis.

Cut 11 (08)  “…moot.” 

Nelson is a big proponent of tax reform, including eliminating the state income tax and making up for the revenue loss with higher property taxes and the elimination of certain sales tax deductions.

Cut 12 (09) “…trying to find.” 

Nelson says too many businesses and residents are moving to neighboring states and the next governor needs to make significant changes to keep that from happening.

The GOP front-runner in the governor’s race is officially in as Jeff Landry qualifies to have his name on the October 14th ballot. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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A major coastal restoration project breaks ground today along the Mississippi River in Belle Chasse. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has directed the Louisiana Pardon Board to consider clemency applications of 56 death row inmates. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (34)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The frontrunner in the governor’s race, Republican Jeff Landry, has qualified for the governor’s race. After filling out the necessary paperwork, Landry touted his experience as a former law enforcement officer, a business owner, and a former economic development director in St. Martin Parish…

Cut 4 (12)  “… in the country”

Landry took only two questions from the media covering qualifying at the Secretary of State’s Office. He was asked about increasing teacher pay. Landry’s mother was a school teacher and says the focus should be on what’s best for the children…

Cut 5 (13)   “..children first.”

Landry has a big lead in the polls and the endorsement of the state Republican Party. Several Republicans have criticized. But Landry says he’s receiving this support because of his work as the Attorney General the last eight years…

Cut 6 (16)  “…we are lagging”

Five main candidates for governor have qualified and two more are expected to join the field today, Republicans Stephen Waguespack and Richard Nelson.

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Federal, state and local officials break ground today in Belle Chasse on the long awaited Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion. Executive assistant to the governor for coastal activities, Bren Haase, says this project uses the power of the Mississippi River to build and sustain thousands acres of wetlands in the Barataria Basin…

Cut 7 (10) “…coastal wetlands.”

Haase says this is the cornerstone project of Louisiana’s Coastal Master Plan. He says a gated control structure will be built into the levees near Myrtle Grove and that will allow sediment to flow into the wetlands, which will help build land in an area that ‘s experiencing some of the highest rates of land loss in the world…

Cut 8 (10) “…as well.”

Haase says they’ve been discussing this project for decades…

Cut 9 (11)  “…100 years.”

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The Governor’s office is involved in a new initiative to connect foster children with faith-based families, communities, and organizations. First Lady Donna Edwards says every connection makes a difference by identifying potential foster parents, resolving challenges, and providing solutions…

Cut 10 (12) “…our children.”

Edwards says there are over 4,000 children in the state’s foster care system and over four thousand churches in Louisiana. She says if one church could recruit at least one family that helps every child.

Edwards says it requires foster training that provides a great payout for potential foster parents and children…

Cut 11 (11) “…from there.”

Edwards says there are over 4,000 children in the state’s foster care system and over four thousand churches in Louisiana. She says it requires foster training that provides a great payout for potential foster parents and children…

Cut 12 (08) “…looks like.”

Anyone interested in becoming a foster parent, should visit LouisianaFirstFoundation.com

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Governor John Bel Edwards has directed the Louisiana Pardon Board to review the clemency applications from 56 death row inmates. Last month, the panel decided not to take them up, on the grounds they were not filed within a year after the inmates’ final appeal was denied.

But Executive Director of the Capital Appeals Project, Cecelia Kappel says the board has heard cases outside of the one year window before…

Cut 13 (09) “…the constitution.”

Last month, the state pardon board returned the clemency applications with no action, after Attorney General Jeff Landry issued a legal opinion saying the board’s own rules prohibit them from hearing them. But Edwards says the Pardon Board rules do allow for consideration.

King Alexander with Louisiana Conservatives Concerned About the Death Penalty believes the board should honor Edwards’ request.

Cut 14 (05)  “…requesting it” 

Edwards opposes the death penalty and his term ends on January 8th. When asked if the board will have enough time to review all 56 requests before that date, Kappel says the board had already set aside a schedule to hear the cases.

Cut 15 (08)  “…that time.”

Attorney General Jeff Landry criticized the governor yesterday, claiming he’s trying to circumvent the state’s pardon and parole system.

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The Saints canceled today’s open portion of practice due to the extreme heat. The practice will still occur, but it will be in the indoor facility closed to fans. Coach Dennis Allen says this about the heat and future practices.

Cut 16 (17) “…it is right now.”

The team used their first two 2023 draft picks on a defensive lineman and a defensive tackle, and Allen says how the team’s biggest need in the offseason has progressed so far.

Cut 17  (10) “…the passer inside” 

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LSU football returns to practice today with their large depth of running backs to choose from. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says LSU has eight scholarship running backs, but the three guys who could see the most carries are Josh Williams, Logan Diggs and John Emery….

Cut 18 (16) “…of depth.”

Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock will talk to the media after today’s practice. Coach Brian Kelly there’s great comfort with Denbrock as offensive coordinator.

Cut 19 (15) “…what’s expected.”

Kelly also says Quarterback Jayden Daniels is becoming more of a vocal leader and that comes with his roll on the team.

Cut 20 (14) “…roll right now”