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

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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

Cut 2 (29)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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

Cut 3 (12) “…funded mandate.”

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

Cut 4 (08)  “…of schools.” 

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

Cut 5 (08) “…learn better.”

The bill heads to the Senate.

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

Cut 6 (10)  “…did that.” 

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

Cut 7 (09)  “…their income.” 

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

Cut 8 (11)  “…the crime.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (12) “…should be”

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

Cut 10 (10) “…stay healthy.”

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

Cut 11 (12)  “…or exercise”

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

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

Cut 12 (11) “…health crisis.” 

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

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

Cut 13 (12) “…this law” 

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

Cut 14 (08)  “…is going.”

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

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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

Cut 3 (09) “…unfortunate.”

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

Cut 4 (11)  “…exactly none.” 

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

Cut 5 (11) “…conceal carry.”

The session ends three-weeks from today.

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

Cut 6 (12)  “…education met.” 

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

Cut 7 (10)  “…would be.” 

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

Cut 8 (06)  “…those issues.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (10) “…stand by”

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

Cut 10 (07) “…get off me.”  (4x)

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

Cut 11 (10)  “…was attacked”

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

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

Cut 12 (11) “…some debt.” 

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

Cut 13 (10) “…stalemate” 

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

Cut 14 (08)  “…last hour.”

The regular session must conclude on Thursday June 8th.

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

Cut 1 (30)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 4 (12)  “…like a beach.”

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

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

Cut 5 (11)   “…time of the year.”

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

Cut 6 (06)  “…the animal.”

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

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

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

Cut 7 (11) “…fits all.”

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

Cut 8 (11) “…such diets.”

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

Cut 9 (12)  “…you live.”

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

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

Cut 10 (09) “…25 and 20.” 

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

Cut 11 (08)  “…smaller districts.”

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

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

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

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

Cut 13 (11) “…people eligible.” 

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

Cut 14 (13)  “…is eligible.”

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

Cut 15 (12)  “…hurricane damage.”

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

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

Cut  16 (20)  “…the adjustment.” 

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

Cut 17 (18) “…benefit from.”

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

Cut 18 (19) “…very successful.”

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

Cut 19 (17) “….ball game.” 

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

Cut 20 (19)  “…what happens.”  

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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

Cut 3 (12) “…surgeries”

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

Cut 4 (06)  “…did you know that.” 

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

Cut 5 (07) “…experimental procedures.”

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

Cut 6 (12)  “…they are loved” 

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

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

Cut 7 (13)  “…same age.” 

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

Cut 8 (07)  “…officer safety.” 

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

Cut 9 (13) “…nine percent.”

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

Cut 10 (10) “…to carry.”

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

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

Cut 11 (11)  “…to a judge.”

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

Louisiana ranks among the top five states for domestic violence.

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

Cut 12 (08) “…overturned.” 

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

Cut 13 (09) “…this point.” 

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

The bill passed unopposed and heads to the House.

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

Cut 14 (12)  “…certain decision.”

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

Cut 15 (06) “…on the ballot”

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

Cut  16 (11)  “…should maintain.”

A House-approved bill that would allow a mother to recover 50% of the out-of-pocket expenses for pregnancy-related medical costs from the father was approved by Senate Committee. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Two bills aimed at softening the state’s all-out ban on abortions meet defeat in a House committee. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The Louisiana House approves a bill to hold third graders back if they are unable to read at grade level. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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House-approved legislation that would allow the pregnant mother of a child to recover half the out-of-pocket, pregnancy-related medical expenses from the biological father was approved by Senate Committee. Abita Springs Representative Larry Frieman says the bill was created to protect pregnant women.

Cut 4 (05)  “… the father.”

The prenatal, childbirth and post-partum medical costs are estimated at around $18,000 without insurance, and out-of-pocket for those enrolled in large group insurance plans is around $3,000 according to a Kaiser Family Foundation study in 2022. The bill supported by Turkey Creek Senator Heather Cloud believes single mothers who have to bear a child should not have to bear the cost alone.

Cut 5 (08)   “…real  issue.”

After the baby is born, the mother would have two years to recover these expenses. The bill also states the mother can only recuperate monies if the paternity of the child has been proven. An advocate for women of sexual trauma, Morgan Lamandre raised concern that the bill’s preemptive period was not enough.

Cut 6 (13)  “…year period.”

Utah also has a similar bill that was passed in 2021.

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Lawmakers defer two pro-choice bills aimed at making the state’s all-out ban on abortions less onerous. House Criminal Justice chose to shelve HB 598, which would have ruled that ending a non-viable ectopic pregnancy through surgical means would not be considered an abortion. New Orleans Representative Candace Newell (New-ELL) says her bill isn’t an exception to abortion, but a pathway to saving a mother’s life from a problem pregnancy…:

Cut 7 (15) “…to their patients.”

Louisiana Right to Life director Ben Clapper tells panel members HB 598 is un-needed…:

Cut 8 (11) “…pregnancies and more.”

Another bill set aside by the committee was HB 461, which sought to clarify what bill sponsor and Slidell Representative Mary Dubuisson calls “vague, non-medical” language in the abortion law that gets in the way of OB/GYNs treating their patients. Pro-choice attorney Gwyneth O’Neal says this should be for physicians to decide; not lawmakers…:

Cut 9 (15)  “…these complications.”

Several lawmakers rejected the idea that the abortion law’s language is vague or unclear. Bossier Parish Rep. Dodie Horton was among them…:

Cut 10 (07) “…and what’s needed.” 

The committee voted to defer both bills. Pro-choice advocates say they will be back next year.

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Code for America awards the Louisiana Department of Child and Family Services with its inaugural Government Changemaker Award – for its outstanding commitment to leveraging technology to better serve Louisiana households at a summit in Washington D.C., DCFS Secretary Terri Ricks says the LA’Message pilot made a difference in the enrollment and renewal process during difficult times.

Cut 11 (12)  “…be helpful.”

DCFS collaborated with Code for America with the LA’Message pilot in 2019 which allows one-way text messages that alert recipients of critical points involving the enrollment and renewal process. Ricks says these messages may have been lifesaving as they often included vital information for households.

Cut 12 (13)    “…the pandemic” 

DCFS and Code for America are working on three projects designed to improve recipients’ experiences: a document uploader, an expanded texting campaign, and a digital assistant. Louisiana was among one the first states chosen last year to participate in Cod for America’s Safety Net Innovation Lab.

Cut 13 (13) “…national news.” 

Code for America also credited text messages sent by DCFS with helping SNAP recipients claim tax credits in outreach promoted by The White House.

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A bill to hold third graders back if they fail to pass a literacy competency test advances from the full House. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson’s bill failed the final days of the session last year. He says this bill gives students three opportunities to pass the test…

Cut 14 (11)  “…requirements.”

Students who fail the test would receive intensive instruction and two additional opportunities to pass the test.

The legislation is modeled after a Mississippi law and New Orleans Representative Delisha Boyd questioned why Louisiana would model a program after a neighboring state’s considering its current ranking…

Cut 15 (06)  “…scoring 45th.”

Boyd argued that it isn’t the child who should be punished and held back, it’s the teachers who are failing the students.

Cut  16 (08)  “…another solution.” 

Boyd says the state needs to hire more certified teachers so students are able to read on grade level. The measure passed on an 88 to 15 vote and advances to a Senate committee.

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Former Rummel running back Logan Diggs has signed with LSU after spending the last two seasons at Notre Dame. Tigers running backs have struggled to stay on the field as John Emory, Armoni Goodwin, and Kaleb Jackson all missed time this Spring. The 22nd-ranked back in the 2021 class, The Advocate’s Wilson Alexander says Diggs will provide proven depth to a convoluted running back room…

Cut 17 (19) “…for this team.”

The Boutte, Louisiana native started eight games as a sophomore, rushing for 822 yards and four touchdowns for the Fighting Irish last season. After averaging 5 yards a carry as a feature back in the Notre Dame offense, Diggs will reunite with his former coach this summer as perhaps the most talented Tiger running back, but Alexander says he won’t take over the role…

Cut 18 (19) “…these guys.”

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 The tenth-seeded LSU softball team will host the Baton Rouge Regional this weekend featuring the Sun-Belt Champion UL-Lafayette Cajuns, Summit League Champs Omaha, and SWAC Champion Prairie View A&M. The Tigers could possibly play the 46-13 Cajuns multiple times after splitting the two-game regular season season series. Cajuns senior Karly Heath says her team felt slighted by the seeding…

Cut 19 (19) “….easier draw.” 

The Cajuns boast the 11th-best RPI in the country just two spots behind LSU and one of the toughest non-conference schedules in the nation but were not granted a home regional. With only an hour separating the two schools, Cajuns Coach Gerry Glasco is excited to face their in-state rival to the east…

Cut 20 (14)  “…of fanbases.” 

The state believes there are thousands of homeowners who suffered damage during the 2020 and 21 hurricanes but have not applied for assistance to repair or rebuild their homes through the Restore Louisiana Program. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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A truck theft in Slidell Monday involved a flipped truck going up in flames, a massive manhunt, and a hornet’s nest. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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The state is trying to reach out to an estimated 45 thousand households who sustained damage from hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 because they could be eligible for financial assistance to rebuild or repair their homes. Executive Director for the LA Office of Community Development, Pat Forbes says there could be reasons why these individuals are not applying for assistance at restore.la.gov.

Cut 3 (12) “…some assistance.”

In October 2021, HUD allocated $600 million for all recovery efforts related to Hurricanes Laura and Delta. On March 22, 2022, a second allocation provided an additional $450 million for Hurricanes Laura and Delta recovery, bringing the total allocation for these storms to more than $1 billion. Forbes says completing the survey is the first step.

Cut 4 (11)  “…reimburse you.” 

Residents who owned their home and occupied it as a primary residence at the time of the disaster and have maintained ownership of the home since the disaster; and received a FEMA determination for repairs greater than $5,000 should complete the survey. Forbes says the program is for anyone who sustained damage and once your survey is submitted, you will be guided through the next step.

Cut 5 (13) “…for help.”

For assistance, call 866-735-2001 or visit restore.la.gov.

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A bill to remove approval from the Insurance Commissioner for rate changes passes in the full House. Breaux Bridge Representative Mike Huval says some people think allowing the commissioner to control rates is a good thing.

Cut 6 (10)  “…goes up.” 

Huval believes a free and competitive insurance market will regulate prices better than government bureaucracy and regulation.

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon, who’s not seeking reelection, opposes the bill and New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry is skeptical of the legislation.

Cut 7 (12)  “…more irate.” 

Huval says 30 days after a rate goes into effect it can be reviewed and about two months later if deemed unlawful can be repealed.

Cut 8 (07)  “…Louisiana law.” 

House Bill 489 passed on a 56 to 23 vote and heads to a Senate committee.

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The Louisiana House has rejected two bills that attempted to curtail carbon capture projects planned for Lake Maurepas in southeast Louisiana. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says the legislation threatens 21-billion dollars in industrial projects…

Cut 9 (12) “…somewhere else.”

Residents who live near Lake Maurepas are concerned about plans to build carbon capture wells on the lake. Hammond Representative Nicholas Muscarello says there are many unknowns about carbon capture technology

Cut 10 (10) “…one of them” 

Carbon capturing captures carbon dioxide emissions released by a plant and stores the emissions in large wells built underneath the ground. Governor John Bel Edwards supports the technology as a way for the state to reach net zero emissions status by 2050. Bacala says new industrial development relies on carbon capture.

Cut 11 (11)  “…carbon capturing”

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A truck theft in Slidell Monday involved a massive manhunt, a crash, flames, a disturbed hornets’ nest, two officers and K-9 stung multiple times and the suspect got away. Slidell PD Public Information Officer Daniel Seuzeneau says it started when a 2005 Ford F-250 was stolen from a gym parking lot.

Cut 12 (10) “…the woods.” 

The truck burst into flames and the suspect got out and ran across the interstate and into the swamp. The suspect is still at large, and the officers and K-9 that were stung are expected to recover.

Seuzeneau says multiple law enforcement agencies responded and they searched for hours for the suspect.

Cut 13 (10) “…more leads.” 

When two of the officers and a K-9 were searching the marsh for the suspect they found a hornet’s nest instead.

Cut 14 (10)  “…of hornets.”

The officers and K-9 received medical treatment and are expected to recover.

The pandemic caused many women to miss their annual mammograms and surgeons are seeing the fallout. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A proposal to raise the salary of state lawmakers, starting with next term, was soundly defeated in the House Appropriations Committee. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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When the pandemic disrupted life as we know it, many women fell behind or missed their annual mammograms. LSU Health New Orleans Surgical Oncologist Dr. Shawn McKinney says she, like other surgeons, is seeing the repercussions with more patients who have advanced or later stages of breast cancer.

Cut 3 (10) “…advanced disease.”

McKinney says Louisiana has always been above the national average for diagnosis of breast cancer, especially among the younger African American population presenting with more aggressive breast cancer.  Last week U.S. Preventive Services Task Force changed course and advises to begin screenings at 40 years of age instead of 50.

Cut 4 (06)  “…to help.” 

During the pandemic, a gap in health insurance complicated matters for many and annual mammograms fell by the wayside. McKinney says there are several programs to help women pay for mammograms and she urges patients to never let finances be an obstacle and to always tell their healthcare provider about their family history.

Cut 5 (09) “…evaluated.”

McKinney says at any age if you notice something different or find a lump in your breast to call your physician and be evaluated as soon as possible.

For a listing of where you find free mammograms and pap smears visit the Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program website at lbchp.org.

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The House Appropriations Committee has stopped an effort to increase the annual salaries of state lawmakers from $16,800 to around 39-thousand dollars. The panel rejected the proposal on a 16-5 vote. New Orleans Representative Jason Hughes voted against the bill…

Cut 6 (09)  “…goes on.” 

Hughes believes an independent commission should be established to determine the salary of legislators.

Gretna Representative Joe Marino led the effort to raise the pay of lawmakers. He says being a legislator is time consuming and a higher salary would result in a larger pool of candidates in wanting the job…

Cut 7 (12)  “…16-8″ 

The salary for state legislators has not changed since 1980. But Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says he ran for the job knowing the salary and it will not give lawmakers give themselves a pay raise

Cut 8 (11)  “…some pain” 

The raise would have started next year when a new Louisiana Legislature is sworn in.

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LDWF is investigating the illegal killing of one of the state legacies – the Louisiana Black Bear – found in Lincoln Parish last week. Sgt. John Hattaway says agents and biologists responded to the call of a bear shot on Millie Road.

Cut 9 (09) “…the road.”

Black bears remain protected by state laws, which currently do not allow them to be hunted. The Louisiana black bear was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1992. Hattaway says the black bear was delisted in 2016 and their numbers are being restored.

Cut 10 (12) “…attracts them” 

Biologists determined the bear weighed more than 200 pounds. Hattaway says taking a bear during a closed season brings a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail.

Cut 11 (12)  “…thousand dollars”

Anyone found guilty of shooting this black bear may also face civil restitution for the replacement value of the illegally taken black bear totaling $10,000.

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Legislation to establish a partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Louisiana advances from House Appropriations. Bogalusa Representative Melinda White’s bill creates the Louisiana Imagination Library Program with dedicated funding for children up to age five to receive free books by mail.

Cut 12 (07) “…kindergarten.” 

Louisiana ranks 47^th in Literacy in the country and when children are read to earlier in life White says it can increase their reading skills and it also helps their parents…

Cut 13 (12) “…of funding.” 

New Orleans Representative Jason Hughes applauds White’s legislation and supports efforts to encourage children and even adults to read more.

Cut 14 (09)  “…for kindergarten.”

The bill advances to the House floor.

Today is the state income tax filing deadline. Kevin Gallagher reports on changes and new options for filers…:

Cut 1 (32)  “I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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If and how teachers will receive pay raises in Louisiana in the state’s budget remains to be seen after changes made by House Republicans. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Does altitude play a role in weight loss? Researchers at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center are looking to answer these questions through their latest research. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Ochsner Health’s announcement that it’s laying off 770 employees across its 42 hospitals and 200 urgent care and health centers in Louisiana and Mississippi sent a signal the healthcare industry is struggling. Louisiana Hospital Association President and CEO Paul Salles says hospitals nationwide are facing a tough operating environment largely driven by inflation

Cut 4 (08)  “…of expenses.”

Salles says he would not be surprised to see other hospital systems also reduce their workforce.

Salles says regionally labor expenses have increased by over 25-percent and the cost of drugs and other supplies have increased about 20-percent. He says hospitals do not have the ability to raise prices like other industries…

Cut 5 (11)   “…that quickly.”

Salles says acute care hospitals are in line with about a three-percent increase in federal dollars, so government funding is not keeping up with the actual costs of running a hospital.

He says the Louisiana Legislature is trying to help as Turkey Creek Senator Heather Cloud has a bill to create a healthcare workforce fund with surplus dollars…

Cut 6 (13)  “…big difference”

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Today is the deadline to file your 2022 state income taxes. Deputy Secretary of Revenue Luke Morris says if you have not filed and feel you need an extension, you no longer have to file with the state to get one…:

Cut 7 (09) “…to file that form.”

Morris says there have been some changes in state income tax that will affect your tax debt or refund. In 2022, the state’s income tax brackets were lowered, but  you can no longer deduct your federal income taxes paid on your state income tax return. And federal itemized deductions is now limited to medical expenses only…:

Cut 8 (07) “…a balance due.”

Morris says extensions to a November due date are now automatic without filing for an extension but– if you’re not expecting a refund – you must send the Department of Revenue at least part of what you think you owe today…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…to take place.”

You can file your state return electronically or by mail, but it must be postmarked “May 15.” You can pay online at “revenue.louisiana.gov/LaTAP”

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The state budget which had monies earmarked for teacher salary increases of $2,000, has been altered by House Republicans to pay off teacher’s retirement debt instead.  Representative Jack McFarland says this solves two problems, decreasing the debt and it frees up monies for local school systems to use for raises.

Cut 10 (08) “…two for one.” 

Governor John Bel Edwards says it’s unfortunate that House lawmakers removed not only teacher pay raises but funding for early childhood and higher education. But he’s hopeful they will be restored in the higher chamber.

Cut 11 (09)  “…to happen.”

The governor also has plans to increase the teacher pay raises to $3,000 if the Revenue Estimating Conference recognizes additional funds.

By moving funds for pay raises to pay off retirement debts, some worry that school systems won’t give teachers pay raises on the local level. McFarland says the issue can be resolved if needed on the ballot.

Cut 12 (12)    “…for them.” 

Edwards says he, along with the majority of those in the state, believes investments in education overall should be made while the funding is available.

Cut 13 (12) “…these investments.” 

Edwards says he will continue to work with the House on the budget acknowledging that if the Senate makes changes, then it will also have to be approved in the House.

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LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center is embarking on a $2.3 million study to determine if altitude plays a role in weight loss. Lead Researcher Claire Berryman says to determine whether low oxygen levels in the air can help obese individuals lose weight , they will have participants sleep in a tent with oxygen levels equivalent to 85-hundred feet…

Cut 14 (10)  “…Aspen Colorado.”

Participants of the ‘Low Oxygen and Weight Status” study will sleep 8 hours a night in oxygen tents, also called altitude tents, for a period of four months. Berryman says the controlled effects of oxygen may benefit people struggling with obesity.

Cut 15 (13)  “…weight status.”

Participants will also follow a controlled diet for 2 weeks and meals will be provided. Berryman says the underlying goal of this study is to determine whether sleeping in low oxygen tent leads to increases in energy expenditure, decreases in appetite, and greater body weight loss

Cut  16 (12)  “…more calories.” 

The 2.3 million grant was funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, a division of the National Institutes of Health.

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Saints Coach Dennis Allen confirmed reports that newly signed tight end Foster Moreau could participate in the team’s offseason training activities in two weeks. Moreau has been undergoing treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma since he was diagnosed with the team after taking a physical with the Saints in March. Allen says they are leaning on the doctors to make that decision…

Cut 17 (17) “…his recovery”

After signing Moreau, the Saints are at 86 players and could still add four more. Allen says they’ll keep looking at ways to improve the roster…

Cut 18 (16) “…looking at that”

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The second ranked LSU baseball team dropped its second consecutive SEC Series as the pitching staff is coming unglued after Paul Skenes pitches on Friday night. On Saturday, LSU gave up six runs in the eighth inning in a 9-4 loss and on Sunday, the bullpen blew a nine-run lead as Mississippi State rallied for a 14-13 win in ten innings. Coach Jay Johnson used nine different pitchers yesterday….

Cut 19 (16) “…..right side” 

Gavin Guidry, Christian Little, Nate Ackenhausen and Bryce Collins got touched up the most in the comeback loss. The defeat drops the Tigers to 39-12, 17-9 in the SEC with four more regular season games left. Johnson says there’s great character with this group and is confident they’ll bounce back….

Cut 20 (16)  “… we have to do”  

Ochsner Health is in the process of laying off 770 employees across its system. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Crawfish prices are heating up just in time for you to say ‘I love you Mom’ with a crawfish boil the weekend. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Bills targeting the LGBTQ community are advancing in the Louisiana Legislature. Governor John Bel Edwards was asked about the legislation, and he says it worries him because of the increased likelihood of the trans population committing suicide.

Cut 3 (07) “…to be worse.”

Among the bills is one prohibiting public-school teachers from discussing sexuality and gender identity, another forbidding gender-affirming health care for transgender minors, and restricting the use of certain pronouns in public schools.

Similar legislation is also being considered or has been enacted in other conservative states. Edwards was asked if he plans to veto any of the bills. Because the bills could still be amended, he says he’ll address it when and if they cross his desk.

Cut 4 (06)  “…damaging.” 

When he travels the state and talks to individuals, Edwards says it’s not about LGBTQ issues. Edwards says it’s not a problem and he’s frustrated lawmakers are not focusing on topics to grow the state’s economy and improve education instead.

Cut 5 (06) “…focused on.”

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If you’re a working mom, Louisiana ranked the worst state to live in, according to WalletHub’s 2023 Best & Worst States for Working Mom report.  WalletHub Analyst Jill Gonzales says Louisiana failed in a number of categories.

Cut 6 (12)  “…on yet.” 

The report looked at 17 metrics to generate rankings across three categories: childcare, professional opportunities, and work-life balance. 50% of single-mom families in the state live in poverty. Women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, and 73 percent of moms with children under age 18 were working in 2022. Gonzales says in order for the metrics to teeter in the state’s favor… major changes would have to take place

Cut 7 (09)  “…bottom up.” 

The state ranked 22^nd in female unemployment rate and 35^th in median women’s salary. Gonzales says there is major employment and work balance gap between working moms and men.

Cut 8 (13)  “…dads are.” 

West Virginia, Mississippi, Alabama, and South Carolina were also ranked “the worst” in many categories. Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Wisconsin, and Minnesota were among the top ten.

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An employee at an Arby’s in New Iberia was found dead in the fast food restaurant’s freezer. New Iberia Police Department spokesperson Sergeant Daneisha Hughes says officers were called to the scene shortly before 6:30 last night…..

Cut 9 (05) “…freezer.”

Hughes says the deceased individual is a female and a preliminary autopsy found no obvious signs of trauma…

Cut 10 (04) “…of foul play” 

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A Denham Springs Police Officer is fighting for his life after he was shot multiple times during a shootout yesterday afternoon in the parking lot of a shopping center. Denham Springs Police Chief  Rodney Walker says his officers responded to a call of a man and woman arguing….

Cut 11 (09)  “…officers down”

Corporal Shawn Kelly is in critical condition. The man who allegedly shot Kelly, 30-year-old Justin Roberts, was fatally shot by Livingston Sheriff Deputies.

Corporal Kelly has been a certified police officer since 1997 and he was hired by Denham Springs police in 2019.  Kelly has received multiple commendations for his generous ways and positive attitude. Chief Walker says Kelly can use your prayers…

Cut 12 (11) “…to us” 

Officers and the public have participated in a blood drive today. Another one is scheduled for Monday. Tomorrow there will be a prayer vigil in the parking lot where Kelly was shot.

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Mother’s Day is one of the busiest weekends of the crawfish season and retailers are dropping prices in an effort to get your business. That’s according to Crawfish App Co-Founder Laney King who says this may be the last big weekend of the crawfish season

Cut 13 (13) “…you can.” 

According to crawfish pricing data compiled from over 1,650 vendors on The Crawfish App, crawfish prices are the same this Mother’s Day weekend in 2023 compared to Mother’s Day weekend last year. A sack of live medium crawfish will run between $2.00-$2.23 per pound. Laney says live crawfish are reasonably priced.

Cut 14 (12)  “…or so.”

 King says fishermen are not dropping prices but retailers across the state are dropping prices for Mother’s Day gatherings.

Cut 15 (07) “…a pound”

The Crawfish App compares prices from more than 16 hundred vendors in Louisiana. 

It’s termite season and Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain reminds Louisianans to remain vigilant of the swarming pest. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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Starting in 2025, there would be less time for unemployed workers to find a job before their benefits run out, as a result of a bill approved by the House. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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With Louisiana’s warm and wet climate this time of the year, Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain urges property owners to stay vigilant for termites beginning late spring through summer months. Strain says proactive measures are useful when it comes to protecting your property.

Cut 3 (11) “….find moisture.”

Louisiana homes and buildings sustain more Formosan termite damage each year than homes and buildings in any other state. Those pesky insects cause over $5 billion in property damage across the U.S. annually, according to Orkin, and property owners spend over $2 billion to treat them. Strain says it’s important to clean your gutters and rid your property of wood lying around.

Cut 4 (12)  “…got termites.” 

Termites can get especially active as they constantly seek out new food sources. Strain says hiring a licensed company is the best prevention plus new findings may be beneficial.

Cut 5 (12) “…highly effective.”

Property owners should also trim limbs that may be growing on the home. To find certified and licensed companies to perform termite services, visit ldaf.la.gov.

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If you’re in north Louisiana, you’ll want to be weather area today, there’s a tornado watch in effect until 8 PM and some parishes could see up to five inches of rain. Shreveport National Weather Service Meteorologist Armani Cassel says an area of low pressure is responsible for the heavy rainfall totals.

Cut 6 (07)  “…the evening.” 

And in southeast Louisiana, there’s a tornado watch in effect until 8 PM  for parishes along the Mississippi border.

A flash flood watch has also been issued until 7 PM in North Louisiana, so be mindful of flood-prone areas near rivers and streams and urban areas with poor draining.  Cassel says the threat of severe weather should lessen into the evening hours.

Cut 7 (08)  “…the atmosphere.” 

Cassel says to expect the rain to continue, especially during the heat of the day in the afternoon hours for the weekend as well. He says to make sure you have multiple ways to receive weather notifications.

Cut 8 (06)  “…any warnings.” 

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Mother’s Day is Sunday and the most popular day of the year for restaurants. Louisiana Restaurant Association spokesperson Wendy Waren says about 80 million people will take their mom’s out to eat for their special day in the US this year. And if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, she has some suggestions…

Cut 9 (09) “…a Sunday.”

And while the restaurant industry was among the hardest hit during the pandemic, Waren says they’ve been able to make revisions and most are well prepared to make Mom’s Day special this year.

Cut 10 (08) “…our industry.” 

Waren says fine dining tends to be the most popular choice to celebrate Mom and if you haven’t made reservations, you’ll want to do so ASAP.

Cut 11 (12)  “…weekend.”

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The Louisiana House approves legislation that would reduce the number of weeks a person can receive unemployment in a 12-month period.  Jennings Representative Troy Romero proposes to reduce the maximum number of weeks from 26 to 20, which drew opposition from New Orleans Democrat Wilford Carter

Cut 12 (12) “…to work.” 

Romero’s measure says if the unemployment rate is below five-percent than the maximum duration of benefits would be limited to 12 weeks.

Carter argues Romero’s legislation not only impacts a person struggling to find a job, but also reduces their buying power which hurts the state…

Cut 13 (05) “…receiving benefits.” 

Romero says by reducing the maximum number of weeks a person can claim unemployment in a year will hopefully spur them on to get a job….

Cut 14 (12)  “…more money.”

The legislation heads to the Senate for further debate. It would take effect in January 2025 if the governor signs the bill.