Soon, you can legally cruise down Louisiana highways with darker-tinted front windows. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Legislators approved a new bidding process to help the Secretary of State’s Office replace Louisiana’s decades-old voting system. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Soon, you’ll be able to tint your front windows darker. A bill allowing for just that passed overwhelmingly in both houses of the legislature and now awaits a signature from Governor Landry. Its author is Marksville Republican Representative Daryl Deshotel (DESH-uh-tell).

Cut 3 (14) “…light coming through.”

Deshotel says this bill brings Louisiana in line with other states which suffer through brutal summer heat.

Cut 4 (08) “…and other states.”

One concern brought up during debate was whether the darker tint would hinder law enforcement’s ability to look through a window during a traffic stop for things like firearms and contraband. Deshotel says law enforcement organizations had no problem with the new standard.

Cut 5 (10) “…on the bill.”

Deshotel notes that drivers are required to have their windows rolled down by the time an officer approaches, and he offered to add an amendment to impose an extra fine for not doing so. Law enforcement organizations, however, felt that wasn’t necessary.

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The Louisiana legislature has approved a new bidding process to purchase a new voting system, replacing over ten-thousand nearly 35-year-old machines. Joel Watson of the Secretary of State’s office says the new “invitation to negotiate process” can help speed up procurement…

Cut 6 (07) “…can offer.”

Louisiana’s voting machines have needed an upgrade for decades, but bidding controversies and delays have marred progress. Watson says improvements are long overdue…

Cut 7 (14) “…get there.”

New machines will produce physical paper ballots voters can review, confirm and submit. Watson says the paper ballots will help ensure transparency and voter security…

Cut 8 (06) “…the election.”

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Pope Leo the 14^th has named Uganda-born priest, Father Simon Peter Engurait as Bishop-elect for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. The 53-year-old was ordained as priest for the diocese in 2013….

Cut 9 (14)  “…and to the church.”

Bishop Elect Engurait has served as the Diocesan Administrator in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux since January 2024, upon the sudden passing of Bishop Mario Dorsonville. He previously served as the Vicar General since 2017 and has also served as the pastor of St. Bridge Parish since that time as well.

Bishop Elect Engurait says he did not expect the Holy Father to choose him to be the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux…

Cut 10 (10) “…in saying yes.”

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in southeastern Louisiana has an estimated 90,000 Catholics, around 38% of the total population of the territory.  Bishop-elect Engurait was born in Uganda in 1971. He is seven of 14 children and he was raised Catholic.

Before becoming a priest, Bishop Elect Engurait worked in the government of Uganda and later pursued a graduate degree in business administration. In 2003, he met Bishop Sam Jacobs, then the bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, and it was Bishop Jacobs who ordained him in 2013. Bishop Elect Engurait says south Louisiana is home and he loves the people there…

Cut 11 (13) “…next Bishop.”

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The 2025 legislative session ends a week from today and this session will be remembered for auto insurance reform. The governor has signed several legal reform bills expected to produce lower payouts to car accident victims. Landry says it’s legislation the insurance industry has been seeking for several years…

Cut 12 (15) “…of that list.” 

Landry says the bills he’s signed will shield Louisianans from frivolous lawsuits driven by trial lawyers. One of the bills he signed disallows a driver without car insurance from collecting an award for bodily injury medical expenses for any amount below 100-thousand, up from 15-thousand dollars. The governor says they also eliminated a provision known as the Housley Presumption…

Cut 13 (11)  “…work harder.”

The governor has taken criticism from the insurance industry for signing a bill that gives the insurance commissioner greater authority to hold down rates. Landry says other states have a similar law and they have lower insurance rates than Louisiana…

Cut 14 (11) “…in Alabama.”

A man acting as a police officer in Webster Parish is arrested after shooting a dog. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU Designated Hitter Ethan Frey has had a breakout junior season, but not all fans are surprised. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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A man acting as a police officer in Webster Parish is arrested for shooting a dog over the weekend. Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker says 54-year-old Reginald Ferguson shot the dog as the dog’s owner was within very close proximity, and she’s lucky that she didn’t get hurt.

Cut 3 (12) “…at the lady.”

A video posted onto social media shows Ferguson wearing a Cullen Police Department uniform and badge. Sheriff Parker says Ferguson was not dispatched to the scene; he went on his own.

Cut 4 (14) “…answered the door.”

In fact, it appears that Ferguson is not even on the force. Parker says the Cullen City Council rejected Ferguson three times when presented by Police Chief Fannie Rankin. So it’s unclear how he obtained his uniform or why he was even allowed to drive a city-issued marked police unit.

Cut 5 (11) “…in the town.”

The dog is still undergoing treatment, and Parker says it’s possible that the dog may need to be put down. As for Ferguson, he’s booked into the Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Facility on 25-thousand dollars bond.

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LSU D-H Ethan Frey is one of the best hitters in the country right now, according to his Head Coach Jay Johnson. Frey’s high school coach, Rosepine’s Jeff Smith, says his success doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone back home…

Cut 6 (15) “…was apparent.”

Frey was named Mr. Baseball in Louisiana in 2022 and led his school to back-to-back state championships. Frey was also quarterback for the Rosepine football team. Smith says folks in southwest Louisiana won’t forget him any time soon…

Cut 7 (14) “…his part.”

Frey sat behind the talented championship-winning roster at LSU in 2023 and played in 34 games for the Tigers last year before a shoulder injury that required offseason surgery. Smith says Frey returned home to recover…

Cut 8 (15) “…his determination.”

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The House Education Committee advances a bill that would pave the way for public schools to give mental health screenings to K-through-12 students. The committee, however, changed it to allow parents to opt out. The bill’s author, Baton Rouge Democratic Senator Larry Selders, says the screenings give schools a way to identify students who are struggling so that they can get them help.

Cut 9 (05)  “…get the resources.”

Some on the panel, however, expressed concerns that the students’ privacy could be jeopardized. Gray Republican Beryl Amedee says she’s concerned that schools would have too much authority over students’ sensitive health data.

Cut 10 (14) “…can’t unsee it.”

Amedee says while Selders’ bill would prohibit schools from making decisions based on the result of the mental health screenings, there could still be unintended consequences.

Cut 11 (06) “…and the school.”

The committee advanced the bill on a 10-to-one vote and now heads to the full House for consideration. Because of amendments passed, it would then have to go back to the Senate before it can land on Governor Landry’s desk.

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Three men from the Acadiana area have been arrested for their alleged involvement in a ten-million-dollar staged crash fraud scheme. State Police Trooper Peggy Bourque says a report from a trucking company led to the arrests of 45-year-old Justin Ledet of Rayne, 38-year-old Steven Thomas of Lafayette and 37-year-old Alfred Onezine. Bourque says the three men came up with a plan to stage a crash at an intersection in Lafayette…

Cut 12 (09) “…juvenile passnegers” 

Bourque says following the crash, Thomas and Onezine, along with the children in the vehicle filed suit against the trucking company that Ledet works for. After an investigation involving State Police and the state Department of Insurance, Ledet and Thomas were charged with automobile insurance fraud. Bourque says Onezine faces additional charges…

Cut 13 (13)  “…officer.”

Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple says at a time when Louisiana drivers already pay the highest auto rates in the nation, these men put three children in harm’s way to tray and make a quick buck.

With hurricane season now here, the state is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Louisiana House approves a bill that makes it a crime to knowingly give another person an incurable sexually transmitted infection. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A lawsuit was filed against Pelicans star Zion Williamson last week accusing him of rape and sexual assault. Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson addressed the suit for the first time yesterday. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Now that the calendar has flipped to June, hurricane season is now officially underway. And the state is prepared for anything Mother Nature may have in store. Some people may be concerned that the recent cuts to the National Weather Service may hinder its ability to provide essential updated information when a severe storm approaches. During a news conference at GOHSEP headquarters, Governor Landry says fortunately for Louisiana, the state has Jay Grymes.

Cut 4 (11) “…us accurate information.”

Grymes says if last year is any indication, it’s going to be a very busy hurricane season for him and the state.

Cut 5 (10) “…a response activity.”

Brigadier General Jason Mahfouz says don’t be dismissive of a storm if it doesn’t rise to the level of a Category One hurricane; even tropical storms can have devastating effects.

Cut 6 (11) “…high-intensity winds.”

And as always, GOHSEP reminds you to go to get-a-game-plan-dot-org or download the Get A Game Plan app for useful tools to help you prepare for severe storms.

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It’s now been more than two and a half weeks since ten inmates escaped from the Orleans Parish Jail; and two remain on the loose. Among them is 32-year-old Antoine Massey, who recently posted a video onto Instagram saying, among other things, that he’s innocent of the domestic abuse charges that landed him behind bars. State Police Superintendent Colonel Robert Hodges says those who helped Massey post the video will likely also be facing charges.

Cut 7 (07) “…online platform.”

As for Massey’s claim of innocence, Colonel Hodges says there’s a forum where he could state his case – the courtroom.

Cut 8 (07) “…you’re an escape.”

In the immediate aftermath of the jailbreak, Attorney General Liz Murrill warned anyone who helps the escapees while on the run that they will be charged with crimes. Hodges says she wasn’t messing around.

Cut 9 (05)  “…those escapees.”

In the video, Massey pleads for help from President Trump and rappers Lil Wayne and Meek Mill.

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Cotton planting season is wrapping up, and the LSU AgCenter says this year’s crop could be the smallest one on record. LSU AgCenter Cotton and Corn Specialist Shelly Pate Kerns says acreage is way down from last year.

Cut 10 (10) “…all-time low.”

Pate Kerns says farmers are not planting as much cotton because of low demand and low prices.

Cut 11 (09) “..other crops.”

While cotton acreage is shrinking, corn acreage is increasing, experts are predicting around 600-thousand acres of corn, nearly a 17-percent increase over last year.

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The Louisiana House approves legislation that would result in a long prison sentence for anyone convicted of intentionally infecting another person with an incurable sexually transmitted disease. Monroe Democrat Pat Moore’s measure calls for a person to serve at least ten years in prison if convicted of this crime and serve at least 25 years of hard labor if the victim is a juvenile or a senior citizen…

Cut 12 (10) “…incurable disease.”

Incurable sexually transmitted infections include Hepatitis B, herpes and HIV. The bill passed the House on a 68-18 vote, but it received pushback from New Orleans Democrat Jason Hughes.  He called the ball flawed. Hughes says unless there’s a written contract, how can a prosecutor prove someone did not verbally disclose they have an incurable sexually transmitted disease?

Cut 13 (11)  “…safe place?”

Hughes says sexually active adults will look at this new law and say, “I am not going to get tested, therefore I can’t be convicted of knowingly giving another person an incurable S-T-D.”

Cut 14 (09) “…bad list.”

Moore says she has no sympathy for people who knowingly give a sexually transmitted infection to another person or a person who is sexually active and refused to get tested.

Cut 15 (10) “…this disease.”

Moore’s bill still needs Senate approval, and the legislative session must end Thursday, June 12th.

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The LSU Baseball team advanced to the super regionals after fending off underdog Little Rock Monday night, 10-6. The Tigers found themselves down by four runs early in the game. The Tigers walked batters, committed a rare infield error and runners left stranded gave fans flashbacks to the Trojans upset win to force the deciding game the night before, but LSU head coach Jay Johnson didn’t doubt his team for a second.

Cut 16 (18) “…lose tonight.”

Johnson rolled out big changes to the lineup following Sunday’s disappointing loss. Slugging first baseman Jared Jones was moved from second in the order to sixth due to a hitting slump. D-H Ethan Frey moved up to replace him and shortstop Steven Milam followed third after batting fifth and sixth Sunday. Johnson says it was now or never.

Cut 17 (15)  “…take a risk”

Frey shined for the Tigers, going 4-for-4 with 4 RBI. Frey started off the scoring in the top of the first with a solo shot to left field and had a game changing double with bases loaded in the fourth to drive in three runs and cut the lead to one. Johnson says he knew his DH was on a hot streak when he moved him up the order.

Cut 18 (15)  “…batter’s box.”

The Louisiana Senate has approved a bill that would make it illegal to touch your cell phone while driving. Jeff Palermo reports the measure is one more vote from reaching the governor’s desk..

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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We’re getting some raw numbers on the Super Bowl’s economic impact to Greater New Orleans and the State of Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein is at the Capitol, where the announcement was made.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A Sulphur high school teacher and coach is facing charges for his alleged role in the stabbing of a six-year-old child. Major Mark Leblanc with the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office says their deputies went to a home in the Leonville area to investigate a domestic disturbance and walked into a chaotic scene

Cut 3 (08) “…stab wounds.”

Leblanc says 37-year-old Patrick Greene was combative with deputies, but was eventually arrested and charged with domestic abuse battery with child endangerment, two counts of aggravated assault and resisting an officer. Leblanc says the child is at a Baton Rouge hospital with life-threatening injuries….

Cut 4 (09) “…critical condition.”

KLFY-TV is reporting that the child previously had a brain tumor and was a patient at St. Jude. Leblanc says there were a total of seven children inside the home when the violence broke out…

Cut 5 (08) “…conjure up.”

Leblanc says some of the children belonged to Greene, the others belonged to Greene’s wife. The Calcasieu Parish School Board say Greene is now on administrative leave.

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It may soon be illegal to handle your cellphone while behind the wheel as a handheld cellphone bill is nearing final legislative approval. Covington Republican Patrick McMath explained it is illegal in the state to text and drive, but that law is unenforceable…

Cut 6 (06) “…against the law.”

The legislation means that your cell phone cannot be in your hand while driving. McMath told the Senate that handling a cell phone while driving would be a secondary offense and explained to the Senate what that means…

Cut 7 (12) “…this law.”

The Senate approved the House Bill 33 to 5. Similar bills have failed in previous years, but supporters like McMath says this legislation can help lower auto insurance rates…

Cut 8 (10) “…so yes.”

The measure heads back to the House for approval of Senate amendments and then it will head to the governor’s desk and Jeff Landry is expected to sign it.

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Two cyclists were killed Sunday night in overnight crashes in Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes. 75-year-old Jerry Francis of Houma was rear ended while traveling south on LA Hwy 57. State Trooper Peggy Bourque says Francis’ bike had no lights or reflective material…

Cut 9 (07)  “…stay visible.”

28-year-old Jonathon Bourg of Golden Meadow suffered a fatal crash while riding a motorized bicycle in Larose. Bourque says Bourg was struck at the intersection of LA Hwy 308 and LA Hwy 657 after running a red light…

Cut 10 (09) “…as drivers.”

Bourque says the other two drivers involved in the crashes were properly restrained and uninjured. Neither were suspected of being impaired, and standard toxicology samples from Francis and Bourg are pending analysis as investigations are ongoing. Bourque reminds drivers to stay vigilant…

Cut 11 (10) “…saving lives.”

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It goes without saying that Super Bowl 59 was an economic boom for Louisiana. And now, we have some of the numbers. A new study from LSU’s Business school finds that Super Bowl 59 generated 1.25-billion dollars in economic output — that’s the second most among the last ten Super Bowls. Saints Owner Gayle Benson also noted that visitors and vendors spent more than 650-million dollars while in Louisiana

Cut 12 (08) “…the game” 

The state also rolled out the welcome mat for business leaders, investors and innovators through its Louisiana Now pavilion; and Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois said more than four-thousand of them stopped by.

Cut 13 (12)  “…saw our potential”

New Orleans has hosted 11 Super Bowls, tied with Miami for the most in history. And Benson says work is already underway for New Orleans to secure its 12th.

Cut 14 (14) “…than New Orleans.”

The soonest the Super Bowl can return to New Orleans is 2030.

A bill is making its way through the legislature that would require insurance companies to allow homeowners to insure their homes for their stated market values. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A new poll finds the sheriff of Orleans Parish has abysmal approval numbers, and Helena Moreno is the clear favorite to become the new mayor of New Orleans. Sean Richardson has more on the survey paid for by a PAC that is not affiliated with any candidate.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A Senate approved bill that would provide low-income homeowners with a tax credit of up to two-thousand dollars to help defray the cost of high insurance premiums has cleared its first hurdle in the House. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A bill is making its way through the legislature that would require insurance companies to allow homeowners to purchase “stated value” policies. The bill was written by Belle Chasse Republican Representative Jacob Braud (“bro”), who says it would essentially allow homeowners to purchase coverage that matches the value of their homes.

Cut 4 (09) “…dollars of insurance.”

Braud says his bill would apply to those who have mortgages on their homes; those with homes that are paid off can insure them for any amount.

Cut 5 (13) “…fair market value.”

Braud acknowledges that there is risk involved in buying too little insurance under his bill. That’s why he included an educational component to it.

Cut 6 (11) “…risk of this.”

The bill passed in the House last week on a vote of 79-to-20. It now heads to a Senate committee before it’s heard on the Senate floor, should the committee approve it.

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JMC Analytics and Polling surveyed Orleans Parish voters to find out how elected officials are viewed by the public ahead of this fall’s election. Pollster John Couvillon says it’s not a surprise to see Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson with a 63-percent disapproval rating following last month’s jail break where ten inmates escaped…

Cut 7 (13) “…political viability.”

The poll also surveyed the upcoming Orleans Sheriff’s race, Hutson is receiving 12 percent of the vote, while former New Orleans police chief Michelle Woodfork is polling at 35-percent.

New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter has a 66-percent favorable rating. Couvillon says Carter has not ruffled many feathers during his time as a state legislator and now as a U.S. Representative.

Cut 8 (10) “…most people like him.”

For the New Orleans mayoral race, Couvillon says city councilwoman Helena Moreno is the clear favorite with 52-percent of the respondents in the survey supporting her, but can she keep up the momentum until election day in October…

Cut 9 (10)  “…four and a half months to go”

The polls surveyed 500 likely voters in Orleans Parish on May 27th and 28th. A political action committee not affiliated with any candidate paid for the poll.

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Louisiana Senators have shelved a proposal to lower income and sales taxes. The House-approved bills stalled after a report revealed that the tax cuts would result in a 142-million-dollar shortfall in fiscal year 2027 and a 590-million-dollar shortfall in 2028. Invest in Louisiana Executive Director Jan (“yahn”) Moller says the Senate Revenue & Fiscal Affairs Committee was wise to put the brakes on these tax cuts, since the state income tax was just lowered earlier this year…

Cut 10 (08) “…schools and hospitals.”

The bills looked to cut the state sales tax from six percent to 5.75 percent and the individual income tax from three percent to 2.75 percent. The tax cut plan also sought to double the standard deduction for senior citizens. Moller says legislators always want to cut taxes, but they also have to pass a balanced budget every year.

Cut 11 (13) “..families and communities .”

On another note, the budget lawmakers are getting ready to approve is not a perfect spending plan, according to Moeller, but lawmakers are spending the available dollars they have wisely.

Cut 12 (09) “…Senate did that.”

The Louisiana Senate is expected to approve its version of the budget later this week.

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On a narrow eight-to-seven vote, the House Ways and Means Committee approves a Senate bill that would allow low-income homeowners to receive up to a two-thousand-dollar income tax credit to help them pay homeowner property insurance costs. New Orleans Democratic Senator Royce Duplessis is the author of the legislation.

Cut 13 (08)  “…insurance premiums.”

Under Duplessis’ bill, the state would not issue more than 10-million dollars in tax credits each year and the credits would be handed out on a first-come, first-serve basis. Homeowners who make less than 200-percent of the poverty level would be eligible. There was no way Chalmette Republican Michael Bayham would vote against this bill.

Cut 14 (11) “…about it.”

The bill has already received Senate approval, and SB 235 is expected to go before House Appropriations before floor debate.

But Republicans on the panel opposed the measure, because only households with less than 200-percent of the poverty level would be eligible. Sulphur Republican Les Farnum questioned Duplessis about the income limit…

Cut 15 (12) “…it the most.”

According to the Greater New Orleans Housing Alliance, 193-thousand households would be eligible for the tax credit. The group says the tax credit would help those homeowners who make about 12 dollars an hour or retirees, who receive a little over two-thousand dollars in social security and retirement benefits a month.

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The LSU baseball team is headed to the Super Regionals but it was not easy as the Tigers had to rally back from a four run deficit against a hot hitting Little Rock team. But LSU got the bats going and freshman right-hander Casan Evans delivered a special performance in a 10-6 win. Evans struck out 12 over six innings, including nine in a row at one point…

Cut 16 (16) “…get themselves out.”

Little Rock could not get Ethan Frey out. The designated hitter from Rosepine went four-for-four with four runs driven in. His three-run double got LSU back in the game and it got the crowd at Alex Box Stadium believing again…

Cut 17 (17)  “…unbelieveable”

It was Jay Johnson’s 500th career as he leads the Tigers to the Super Regionals for the second time in three years. He gives a lot of credit to Little Rock for battling, but also he’s proud of the performances by Evans, Frey and Luis Hernandez who hit two home runs…

Cut 18 (16)  “…of characther.”

LSU will host West Virginia in a best out of three Super Regional series. Dates and times will be announced at 9 AM.

It was another great year for turkey hunters in Louisiana.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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LSU Shreveport celebrated a perfect 59-and-0 season and a NAIA World Series championship in downtown Shreveport today. Kace Kieschnick has the story…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Kace Kiechnick.”

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Louisiana turkey hunters had another successful season in 2025, harvesting 3,576 birds, the second-highest total since harvest reporting began in 2009, just behind 2024’s 3,695. LDWF Small Game and Wild Turkey Program Manager Cody Cedotal says the past four years have seen the highest reported harvests.

Cut 3 (12) “…jumped up pretty good.”

Cedotal says the 2018 decision to delay the season’s start appears to be supporting turkey population growth. Adult male harvest in 2025 exceeded 2024 by 204.

Cut 4 (07) “…areas of the state.”

Survey data and hunter feedback will help assess the season, and Cedotal says will help prepare for next year’s sprin season.

Cut 5 (10) “…to the hunt.”

Next year wild turkey season will open on Good Friday, April 3 and run through May 3, 2026

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Applications for the M.J. Foster Promise Program opened yesterday with a newly lowered age requirement of 19. Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) Scholarship and Grant Director Deborah (Deb-OH-ruh) Paul says the program allows adult students…

Cut 6 (12) “…workforce priorities.”

Recipients are awarded $3,200 per year or up to $6,400 over a three-year period. Full-time students pursuing an associate’s degree typically receive $1,600 per semester, and Paul says funding is differs depending on the program…

Cut 7 (13) “…one disbursement.”

Credentials in industry sectors such as construction, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing and training and logistics could be eligible. Paul says the program has a budget of up to $10.5 million each year…

Cut 8 (10) “…enrolling in.”

Students interested in applying should complete the 2025-2026 free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®).

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The Senate Finance Committee has restored 30-million dollars in high-dose tutoring for K-12 students in the proposed budget for next fiscal year. Senate President Cameron Henry says Senate Finance was able to add the money, because the Revenue Estimating Conference has recognized an additional 60-million dollars in state general funds that can be spent next fiscal year. Henry says the high-dose tutoring program is showing results…

Cut 9 (08)  “…utilization rate.”

The budget heading to the Senate floor also includes the 199-million dollars for teacher stipends, which means teachers will not receive a drop in pay.

But the Senate Finance Chairman has reduced the amount of funding for the state’s new voucher program, L-A Gator. Governor Jeff Landry had sought 93.5 million for L-A Gator, but Senate Finance decided to dedicate only 43-million dollars. Henry says most of the students who are applying for L-A Gator already attend a private or parochial school…

Cut 10 (10) “…support this.”

L-A Gator in its initial stages is supposed to help those students at a struggling public school attend a private school.

Senate Finance Chairman Greg Womack went over the amendments during a committee hearing yesterday and they include money to transfer UNO from the U-L System to the LSU System and an increase in dollars for sheriffs to house state inmates

Cut 11 (11) “…offered up.”

The legislative session must conclude June 12th.

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The LSU Shreveport baseball team capped off their perfect season with a celebration in downtown Shreveport today. The Pilots went 59-and-0 on their way to an NAIA World Series title, a first in the history of college baseball. Head Coach Brad Neffendorf says this team is in a league of their own…

Cut 12 (13) “…college baseball” 

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson interrupted the Pilots’ celebration to invite the champions to visit President Trump at the White House. Neffendorf says this is the most impressive thing he’ll ever be apart of and its much bigger than just his team…

Cut 13 (11)  “…(applause).”

Neffendorf credited the alumni of LSU Shreveport’s baseball program over the last 35 years for paving the way and continuing to support LSU-S baseball…

Cut 14 (17) “…are today.”

This is the Louisiana Radio Network legislative report I’m Jeanne Burns.

There are ten days left in the legislative session and lawmakers still have a lot work to do. They need to approve a budget, but one of the biggest non-fiscal bills left is a measure that would reorganize the state Department of Transportation. Senate President Cameron Henry says it’s needed to help DOTD allocate its money more efficiently to improve the state’s roads…

Cut 11 (08) “..work anymore.”

Most of the heavy lifting is done when it comes to insurance reform legislation as the governor has already signed six bills.

A Senate bill to make the insurance commissioner an appointed position rather than elected did not pass. Henry says it’s an idea the legislature may have to revisit…

Cut 12 (06) “…different direction.”

The bill that gives the insurance commissioner more authority to reject rate increases is the most controversial bill to be approved.  Executive Director of the Insurance Council of Louisiana Rodney Braxton says the new law makes insurance companies uneasy about what the future looks like.

Cut 6 (09) “…in the future.”

It’s been a year since the legislature passed a series of tort reform laws aimed at driving down the cost of property insurance. Are premiums starting to go down???

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

It’s been a year since the legislature passed a series of tort reform laws aimed at driving down the cost of property insurance. Are premiums starting to go down? Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has officially begun, and forecasts are predicting another above-average season.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Ten days left in the legislative session and lawmakers still have a lot of work to do. Jeanne Burns has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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It’s been a year since the legislature passed a sweeping series of laws that took on the rising cost of property insurance. Are homeowners feeling the effects of it yet? Ben Albright, the president of Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of Louisiana, says it might be a little longer before property insurance premiums turn the corner and start going down.

Cut 4 (08) “…gone into effect.”

Albright says while premiums have not started coming down quite yet, the increases are slowing down.

Cut 5 (13) “…very marginal increase.”

Albright says the new laws have led to more companies coming into Louisiana, and that added competition will lead to premiums going down – and that will have a residual effect.

Cut 6 (08) “…cut their rates.”

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The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has officially and will last through November 30th. Forecasters, including NOAA, predict an above-average season with more storms and hurricanes than usual. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says warmer sea surface temperature is one factor indicating an above average season.

Cut 7 (12) “…form a hurricane.”

Keim says NOAA’s forecast calls for 13 to 19 named storms and 6-10 hurricanes and 3-5 major hurricanes.

Cut 8 (11) “…kind of a season.”

Keim says with conditions ripe for significant storm activity, early and thorough preparation is essential for safety throughout the 2025 hurricane season.

Cut 9 (08)  “…just be prepared.”

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Ten days left in the legislative session so what is left to do? The Louisiana Legislature still has to approve a budget. Senate President Cameron Henry says they are making good progress and it helps the Revenue Estimating Conference recognized additional dollars to spend. Henry says some of that additional revenue will go to roads and bridges…

Cut 10 (08) “…up there.”

A bill to reorganize the state Department of Transportation still needs final legislative approval before the session ends on June 12^th. It’s a bill Governor Jeff Landry supports. Henry says it’s needed because DOTD is having a hard time spending money efficiently to improve the state’s roads…

Cut 11 (08) “..work anymore.”

Most of the heavy lifting is done when it comes to insurance reform legislation as the governor has already signed six bills. Landry still wants an enhanced medical transparency bill approved. It would give judges and juries more clarity on the dollar figure for medical bills from a car crash.

A Senate bill to make the insurance commissioner an appointed position rather than elected did not pass. Henry says it’s an idea the legislature may have to revisit…

Cut 12 (06) “…different direction.”

The legislative session must conclude June 12th.

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LSU has been forced into a winner-take-all contest with Little Rock. Two days after shutting out the Trojans in the opening game of the Baton Rouge regional, they came back in a big way, beating the Tigers, 10-4. The same two teams play at eight tonight, with the winner advancing to the Super Regional. Tigers Coach Jay Johnson says credit Little Rock, who beat Dallas Baptist, 8-6, earlier in the day.

Cut 13 (13)  “…performance by them.”

Johnson says LSU gave the 27-and-33 Little Rock Trojans several opportunities, and they took full advantage of them as the Tiger pitchers walked eleven and LSU hitters left ten men on base…

Cut 14 (17) “…a tough spot.”

Jaden Noot got the start for LSU and couldn’t get out of the second inning, giving up three hits and two runs in an inning and a third. Johnson says Noot may need to be ready today for the rubber match.

Cut 15 (13) “…to do that.”

Johnson says despite his team’s backs now against the wall, he’s confident that they will bounce back and beat Little Rock to advance to the super regional, which would be played at Alex Box Stadium should LSU win.

Cut 16 (09) “…can do tomorrow.”

The championship game of the Baton Rouge Regional will start at 8 PM tonight.

Keep an eye on your “pick-a-nick baskets.” Black bears have been spotted in Baton Rouge and St. Tammany Parish. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Get ready for another hurricane season – it starts Sunday. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Black bears have been spotted roaming neighborhoods in Baton Rouge, and the Covington and Abita Springs areas of St. Tammany Parish. LDWF Large Carnivore Program Manager John Hanks says while not common, bear sightings in the parish aren’t unusual.

Cut 3 (12) “…place to live.”

Hanks confirmed that bears live in the area but are rarely seen and says the biggest bear in Louisiana was 698 pounds.

Cut 4 (09) “…400 pounds.”

Hanks says if you encounter a bear, don’t run and back away slowly. Don’t yell at the bear, but be loud and calm.

Cut 5 (07) “…not something to eat.”

Louisiana black bears, once considered threatened, were removed from the Endangered Species List in 2016, and bear hunting quotas have since increased.

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The Insurance Council of Louisiana is sounding the alarm on House Bill 148. That’s the bill that Governor Landry signed into law that gives the insurance commissioner the ability to reject rate increases regardless of market conditions. Executive Director Rodney Braxton says the new law makes insurance companies uneasy about what the future looks like.

Cut 6 (09) “…in the future.”

Braxton says this new law will cause insurance companies not to expand in Louisiana and will impact their desire to deploy new capital in the state.

Cut 7 (06) “…be less competition.”

Braxton says this law is reminiscent of when Louisiana had the now-abolished insurance rating commission, which injected politics into the process.

Cut 8 (10) “…on actuarial science.”

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Hurricane season starts Sunday, and the National Weather Service and NOAA are both prepared to keep people informed at all times with the latest life-saving information. Acting NOAA Administrator Laura Grimm says personnel will be going to great lengths in this endeavor.

Cut 9 (16)  “…of storm processes.”

Grimm says NOAA is also improving its process in predicting how storms intensify.

Cut 10 (13) “…and underwater gliders.”

High winds are not the only deadly hazard when it comes to hurricanes and tropical storms; storm surge is also blamed for countless deaths in each storm. Grimm says NOAA is also enhancing how it issues storm surge watches and warnings.

Cut 11 (14) “…caused by storms.”

In addition, the National Hurricane Center will provide a rip current risk map. Also, NOAA’s global tropical hazards outlook is also being extended from two weeks to three weeks, to provide additional time for preparation and response.

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LSU-Shreveport made history last night and they can make more history tonight. The Pilots won their 58^th straight game in the semifinals of the NAIA World Series. The 14-4 victory over Hope International gives LSU-S the longest winning streak in college baseball at any level. Right fielder Ryan Davenport credits team chemistry…

Cut 12 (10) “…we are” 

Davenport says at the beginning of the season, they knew they were a good team…

Cut 13 (11)  “…that happen.”

Tonight in Lewiston, Idaho, LSU-Shreveport can win the school’s first NAIA World Series and complete a perfect 59-0 season. Davenport says it’s time to finish season off right…

Cut 14 (10) “…just proud.”

First pitch against Southeastern of Florida is at 8:30. LSU-S beat Southeastern 10-0 earlier in the week.

In the battle to restrict speed cameras throughout the state, a major monkey wrench. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The House Health and Welfare committee rejected a bill that would ban fluoride in drinking water in a 10-5 vote.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans is boosting its reward for information leading to the capture of the two remaining escapees from the Orleans Justice Center to 20-thousand dollars. That brings the overall reward per fugitive to 50-thousand dollars. President Darlene Cusanza says Crimestoppers has gotten so many tips that it had to increase staffing to handle the calls. And she says they have been very beneficial.

Cut 3 (11) “…within 30 minutes.”

Cusanza says each of those tipsters will be paid their reward money. Louisiana State Police Superintendent Colonel Robert Hodges stresses that anyone who helps either of the two remaining escapees will be held criminally responsible.

Cut 4 (11) “…potentially high bond.”

Colonel Hodges says he’s very confident that Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves will soon be back in custody.

Cut 5 (12) “…them in custody.”

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A major monkey wrench in the fight to restrict speed cameras throughout the state. As the legislature continues considering Monroe Republican Senator Stewart Cathey’s bill to do away with the speed cameras, the House passed an amendment by a single vote to exempt Opelousas from any such rule. Cathey is clearly unhappy.

Cut 6 (14) “…of this amendment.”

It was proposed by Democrat Dustin Miller, who says Opelousas is short-staffed and doesn’t have enough manpower to conduct speed enforcement the traditional way. Cathey says the people of Opelousas should fight back.

Cut 7 (10) “…these speed cameras.”

Cathey says the Opelousas carveout creates a slippery slope – if Opelousas is exempt from these bills, Cathey fears other communities could seek the same exemptions. The overall bill passed in the House 72-to-23 and now goes back to the Senate to consider the House changes. Cathey says he’s completely unsure how to proceed, especially since he says he got 99-percent of what he wanted.

Cut 8 (08) “…one little fight.”

Cathey already agreed to exempt school zones – two hours in the morning and two hours during after school hours. He says without the school zone exemption, his bill likely would not have passed.

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On a 10-5 vote, the House Health and Welfare committee rejected a bill by Houma Sen. Mike Fesi that sought to ban fluoride in public drinking water systems.  Dentist testified against the bill saying it would increase tooth decay, Fesi fought back against that argument.

Cut 9 (11)  “…saving our teeth.”

Fesi says natural fluoride is different from the fluoride being put in the drinking water.

Cut 10 (11) “…poison in our water.”

Opponents, including 9-year-old  Toby Ramen from Monroe, defended fluoride as safe, effective, and essential for public health as well as helping fight chronic diseases.

Cut 11 (13) “…than asthma.”  

Ramen ended his testimony saying if fluoride is taken out of drinking water then every child should be able to see a dentist at no cost

Cut 12 (12) “…thank you (applause)”

The bill, which received Senate approval, would have allowed parishes to reintroduce fluoride only through a petition and special election.

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LSU-Shreveport won a record-tying 57^th straight game last night, leaving them two more victories away from winning an NAIA national championship. The Pilots defeated Southeastern from Florida ten to nothing. LSU-S pitcher Isaac Rohde struck out ten and he benefited from his teammates scoring five runs in the first inning…

Cut 13 (07)  “…it was awesome”

The 57 straight wins ties the all time college baseball record for longest winning streak. Howard College in Texas won 57 in a row in 2009.  Senior shortstop Jose Sallorin drove in three runs last night and says they are not thinking about the winning streak…

Cut 14 (06) “…0-and-0.”

LSU plays defending national champion Hope International out of California tonight.