The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has named Rachel Zechenelly as its first female top game warden in the agency’s history. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Once again this year, a bill to ban using a hand-held cell phone while driving goes before state lawmakers today. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A bill to extend the state’s film tax credit for another 10 years from the current expiration of July 2025 goes before the full House today. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has appointed its first female as head of its Enforcement Division in the agency’s 79-year history. Rachel Zechenelly will oversee 257 game agents and support staff. Zechenelly says she’s ready to lead as the new Chief of Enforcement.

Cut 4 (09)  “…and women.”

Zechenelly has worked with the agency for over two decades and has received several awards including the LDWF Meritorious Award for Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Harvey, Irma, and Ida, the 2016 Flood, and BP Oil Spill. The Pearl River native says the agency’s main responsibility is protecting commercial fisheries, hunting, and fishing, however…

Cut 5 (11)   “…and rescue.”

Zechenelly graduated from LDWF Cadet Academy in 1999, where she served as a field agent in the southeast region before being promoted to Headquarter staff in 2005. She was also named the LDWF Agent of the Year for Headquarters Staff in 2008. She believes the leadership from her mentor, Col. Hebert has prepared her for the future.

Cut 6 (09)  “…that road.”

Zechenelly will succeed Col. Chad Hebert, who was promoted to Colonel in 2020 but has decided to retire.

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Once again this year, a bill to ban using a hand-held cellphone while driving is scheduled for review before the House Transportation Committee. The measure comes from St. Martin Parish representative Mike Huval. Louisiana AAA’s Don Redman says his organization supports Huval’s bill, as they have in the past…:

Cut 7 (11) “…behind the wheel.”

Similar bills have been filed for many years, by Huval and other lawmakers before him, but the bill has never made it to final passage. Redman says Huval’s bill would only restrict HOW you use your phone while driving…:

Cut 8 (08) “…phone in-system.”

Huval’s HB 580 would mandate one could only use a cell phone hands-free while behind the wheel. A first offense would mean a fine of $50 to $100, but subsequent offenses could mean fines up to $300 with community service and possible license revocation. Redman says AAA is behind the bill, and passing it could even mean a break on your auto insurance, because we have so many distracted driving crashes…:

Cut 9 (11)  “…to 6 and a half.”

Huval’s bill is scheduled today in House Transportation.

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House Bill 562 to extend tax credits for the film industry in Louisiana will be heard in the lower chamber today. The bill would extend the current tax credits set to expire in July 2025 to July 2035. Jason Waggenspack with Louisiana Film and Entertainment Association says passage is vital to stabilizing the industry long-term.

Cut 10 (10) “…year over year.” 

A Louisiana Economic Development study estimates a billion dollars spent by the industry in the state last year and of that $350 million was on the payroll of residents. Waggenspack says the industry also supports 10,000 jobs.

Cut 11 (08)  “…to the state.”

The state film tax incentive started in 2002 and Waggenspack says Louisiana is among the first states to have the initiative. He says other states have followed Louisiana’s lead and now more than 38 states have a film tax program, and more are in the works.  According to LED, there is a $6.00 Return on Investment for every dollar the state puts into the industry. Waggenspack says with more than a third of that billion is going directly to Louisiana payroll…

Cut 12 (06)    “…unfathomable.” 

Speaker of the House Clay Schexnayder’s legislation also calls for productions who receive incentives to have a Louisiana logo promoting the state in the end credits.

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Seven of the major candidates for governor who attended the Public Affairs Research Council’s annual meeting were asked about their top priorities for the state. PAR President Seven Procopio says they were also asked if they would continue Medicaid expansion in Louisiana.

Cut 13 (05) “…said maybe.” 

During rapid-fire questioning of the candidates, Procopio says they ran out of time to ask Attorney General Jeff Landry about Medicaid, but they caught up with him after the meeting.

Cut 14 (07)  “…undo it.”

Governor John Bel Edwards also attended the conference and Procopio says Edwards refers to Medicaid expansion as one of his biggest achievements.

Cut 15 (07)  “…their campaign.”

Procopio says the candidates all agree that crime, the economy, and education are topics that need attention in Louisiana.

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The Saints selected seven players in the three-day NFL draft, including a quarterback. Six-foot Jake Haener from Fresno State, was a three-year starter for the Bulldogs and last season threw for nearly 29-hundred yards, 20 touchdowns, and three interceptions. Coach Dennis Allen likes what he sees from Haener

Cut  16 (11)  “…timing and accuracy” 

The Saints used their last pick to pick wide receiver A-T Perry from Wake Forest. He’s six-foot-three, 195 pounds and had 28 touchdowns during his career with the Demon Deacons. Allen calls Perry an intriguing prospect…

Cut 17 (25) “…football players”

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The top ranked LSU baseball team swept its second straight SEC weekend as they took three from Alabama this past weekend. The Tigers scored 33 runs against Crimson Tide pitching and Coach Jay Johnson liked the approach he saw at the plate…

Cut 18 (10) “..was awesome”

LSU completed a sweep of Bama with a 13-11 win yesterday. Number nine hitter Alex Milazzo drove in the go-ahead run with an RBI single in the seventh. Milazzo learned after the game he had the trust of Johnson to get the job done…

Cut 19 (17) “      play the game“

LSU is now 35-8 overall, 15-5 in the SEC, half a game back of Vanderbilt for the best conference. Milazzo is enjoying his fourth season in Purple and Gold…

Cut 20 (13)  “… right now”  

Lizzo, Ed Sheeran, The Steve Miller, and Kane Brown are some of this year’s headliners at the 38^th Annual New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival that kicks off today April 28^th through May 7th. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Almost 40 years after a skull fragment was found in the Lake Pontchartrain area, testing shows it’s 3,500 years old. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A Senate bill aimed at keeping adult reading materials in public libraries away from impressionable young eyes passes its first legislative hurdle. More from Brooke Thorington…:

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival returns to the New Orleans Fairgrounds this weekend – April 28^th through May 7^th  – with a jam-packed two-weekend full of culture, crafts, and music. Festival Producer, Quint Davis says this is the second post-COVID event and people are excited.

Cut 4 (09)  “…that one.”

The Festival is one of the city’s biggest festivals celebrating its rich culture and heritage. It will also showcase diverse works of art and contemporary crafts. There will be 16 musical stages featuring over 580 bands covering everything from jazz blues and gospel to Cajun, zydeco, hip-hop, funk, and more from national and international acts.

Cut 5 (09)   “…for everybody.”

In 2019 and 2022, organizers reported more than 475,000 people attended the two-weekend event. There will also be a big transition to a cashless-only festival this year. All vendors will not accept cash payments but any type of money cards will be accepted. There will also be Cash Exchange booths where attendees can use cash to get a prepaid card for no fee and the cards can be used anywhere outside the festival.

Cut 6 (07)  “…whose playing.”

This year’s headliners include Lizzo, Ed Sheeran, The Steve Miller Band, HER, Dead & Company, Wu-Tang Clan, and Kane Brown, and many more. Visit nojazzfest.com for the full lineup.

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A skull fragment discovered almost 40 years ago near Lake Pontchartrain is found to be 35-hundred years old.  In 2009 because of its degraded condition DNA testing could only tell them it was female. In January, Cold Case Investigator Chris Knoblauch with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, says Carbon-14 testing was performed.

Cut 7 (09) “… it was.”

Knoblauch says it’s hard to fathom who this woman, was in back in 1634 to 1504 B.C. and how a fragment of her skull ended up in what’s now St Tammany Parish. She’s estimated to be between 25 to 35 years, and testing even revealed her diet.

Cut 8 (11) “…as well.”

Geographically, Knoblauch says back then the area was much different from what it is now. He says the Mississippi River is believed to be elsewhere and geographic landmarks that we know now didn’t necessarily exist then.

Cut 9 (10)  “…kind of right in.”

The LSU FACES lab has current possession of the fragment.

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At the Capitol, the Senate Education Committee advances a bill to keep adult reading material in public libraries out of the hands of children. Turkey Creek Republican Senator Heather Cloud says this is a matter of importance to a great many parents and grandparents across Louisiana…:

Cut 10 (11) “…sexually explicit material.” 

Cloud’s bill would set up a tiered library card system, wherein parents could select a lending level appropriate for their kid. Amendments added to the measure seek to clear up the definition of what constitutes “sexually explicit,” and establish a 60-day warning period for libraries to address complaints. Cloud says libraries would not have to go over every book, looking for objectionable content…:

Cut 11 (06)  “…by a patron.”

Cloud’s bill would set up a two-step process for reviewing library books that have received complaints. Under the bill, libraries in violation could face loss of funding.. Cloud says drafting the bill was a delicate process…:

Cut 12 (12)    “…for this content.” 

After an hour of discussion and before the opposition could speak, Senator Bodi White called the question for an immediate vote. With no opposition from members, it moves to the Senate floor.

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Legislation providing $8.5 million in funding for bulletproof vests for peace officers across Louisiana was passed by a full House with a 98-0 vote. Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds says it’s about safety and protection.

Cut 13 (13) “…covers them.” 

House Bill 442, authored by Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds, would establish funds to provide critical resources to those who protect and serve our communities. Edmonds says the idea came from the killing of three Baton Rouge officers in 2016.

Cut 14 (13)  “…of vest.”

Edmonds says the cost per vest is around $2,500 and guidelines would be monitored by the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement.

Cut 15 (08)  “…be proper.”

The law requires the state treasurer to deposit into the fund at the beginning of each year starting July 1.

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LSU begins a three-game series tonight against the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Tigers are 12 and 5 in the SEC and in first place, while is in third place with a 9-and-9 record. Coach Jay Johnson points out that Bama has won six of its last seven

Cut  16 (20)  “… a lot of fun.” 

Alabama enters the game with a 9-9 SEC record, 30-12 overall. The Tigers are 12-5 and in first place in the SEC West and they are 32-8 overall. LSU leads the SEC in hitting and they’ve scored a league-high 397 runs. Johnson on their approach on offense…

Cut 17 (20) “…hurting you.” 

Two of LSU’s best hitters, Tommy White and Tre Morgan, didn’t play in Tuesday’s loss to Nicholls because of nagging injuries. Johnson says the trainer has been getting them ready for this weekend….

Cut 18 (17) “..going to play.”

The death of a six-year-old girl found in a bucket has shocked the small town of Harahan. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lady Tigers basketball coach Kim Mulkey says it’s time for an improved basketball arena on LSU’s campus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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43-year-old Hannah Landon of Harahan has been arrested and charged in the death of her boyfriend’s six-year-old daughter. The father reported Bella Fontenelle missing Wednesday morning and she later was found inside a 10-gallon bucket on her mother’s lawn. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says Tuesday evening video footage from the neighborhood led them to arrest Landon.

Cut 3 (06) “….that wagon.”

Landon was located at the hospital Wednesday afternoon and is charged with first-degree murder and obstruction of justice.

Harahan Police Chief Ed LePre says the small town is shocked and saddened by the news.

Cut 4 (10)  “…for the family.” 

Lopinto says the child’s father and mother are not considered suspects in the case and they believe the child was killed Tuesday night at the father’s home and then taken to the mother’s home within walking distance by Landon. Jefferson Parish Coroner Dr. Jerry Cvitanovich says the manner of death is homicide.

Cut 5 (07) “…fluid investigation.”

Lopinto says the suspect lives with the victim’s father and the child’s mother lives in the same neighborhood one street over.

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Women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey brought a national championship to LSU, now she wants a new or remodeled basketball arena.  Mulkey made her demand during a speech in front of the Baton Rouge Rotary Club…

Cut 6 (12)  “…dangerous in there” 

The Pete Maravich Assembly Center is actually 51 years old and 2009 was the last time major work was done to the facility. The PMAC lacks revenue generating suites and Mulkey says going up and down the stairs is dangerous.

After winning the school’s first national championship in basketball, Mulkey told WBRZ-TV in Baton Rouge its time to start talking about a new arena

Cut 7 (12)  “…it’s time” 

Mulkey says she doesn’t have a preference on whether a new arena is needed or should the school complety renovate the PMAC. The 60-year-old coach told WBRZ-TV she’ll leave that decision up to her administration…

Cut 8 (10)  “…paint on it.” 

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Louisiana Entergy customers will receive refunds in the coming months. It’s part of a 36-million dollar settlement the Public Service Commission finalized with Entergy. Commissioner Davante Lewis says the PSC sued Entergy for overcharging rate payers to cover the expenses of operating the Grand Gulf nuclear plant in Port Gibson, Mississippi.

Cut 9 (08) “….not working.”

Commissioner Mike Francis says the settlement is proof that the PSC has the best interest of utility customers…

Cut 10 (07) “…accountable.” 

Francis says it still has to be determined how much money customers will get back.

Cut 11 (09)  “…electricity rates.”

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Legislation requiring air monitoring systems in certain permitted facilities advanced from the Senate Environmental Committee. Author of the bill – Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields says companies would have to maintain monitoring data records.

Cut 12 (12) “…be warned.” 

Senate Bill 35 would also require all facilities in Louisiana that produce toxic chemicals to alert communities nearby when air quality reaches dangerous levels. The measure was passed in a 4-1 vote. Gonzales Senator Eddie Lambert was the only lawmaker to oppose the bill.

A proponent of the bill, Retired Army Lieutenant General Russell Honore says a recent chlorine leak near Iberville Parish sent residents to the hospital.

Cut 13 (11) “…the people.” 

Many industrial plants have similar systems in place but don’t alert communities nearby when a leak occurs.

Cut 14 (11)  “…with fentanyl.”

The cost related to installing and maintaining is $18,000 and each plant would incur the expense. Fields bill failed four times previously.

A bill to keep auto insurance rates from using gender as a factor when determining premiums narrowly passes in committee and is heading to the Senate. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The top ranked LSU baseball went down in defeat last night as the Nicholls Colonels pulled off a dramatic upset victory over the Tigers. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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More than 150 new jobs are coming to Shreveport as Prolec GE will invest 28-million dollars to expand its Caddo Parish facility to manufacture electrical transformers used in wind farms, solar parks and renewable energy applications. Prolec GE Business Unit Director Sergio Fernandez says the additional jobs will add to the 282 they currently have

Cut 3 (06) “….very excited”

The company plans to hire machine operators, maintenance personnel, supervisors and engineers. Fernandez says the additional production capacity will help ease transformer supply chain concerns…

Cut 4 (03)  “…is booming” 

Fernandez says construction on the new line will begin in June and is expected to reach full production capacity in June 2024.

Cut 5 (13) “…June 2024.”

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An ATV crash near Slidell last night killed a 14-year-old girl and injured another 14-year-old girl. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office spokesperson Suzanne Carboni says this is any parent’s worst nightmare…

Cut 6 (10)  “…a tree” 

Both girls were ejected from the ATV. Carboni says neither girl was wearing a helmet, which is essential for minors…

Cut 7 (05)  “…very dangerous” 

Both females were transported to separate area hospitals. Unfortunately, 14-year-old Samia Rogers of Slidell succumbed to her injuries. Preliminary autopsy findings were consistent with blunt force trauma.

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Rapides Parish Sheriff Deputies have arrested two men in the death of an Alexandria man found in a ditch on LA Highway 1 North last week. 42-year-old Rochaune Prenell of Alexandria was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds by a mowing crew. Spokesperson Tommy Carnline says authorities were able to close in on two individuals.

Cut 8 (09)  “…was identified.” 

Authorities arrested 32-year-old Donald Ray Sias, Jr. and O-tha Lee Tatum, Sr. both of Alexandria. Sias was in jail for unrelated charges and rearrested for carjacking, second-degree murder, criminal conspiracy, and obstruction of justice. Tatum was also arrested for obstruction of justice and criminal conspiracy.

Cut 9 (05) “….degree murder.”

The investigation is still ongoing.

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Legislation to prohibit insurance carriers from using gender as a factor when setting auto insurance rates advances from Senate Insurance. Bill author Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau says women are often charged a higher premium than men even if they have an identical driving record.

Cut 10 (12) “…charged more.” 

The only female on the committee Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson says it’s a very simple gender shouldn’t be used to determine whether or not she’s an at-risk driver, especially when insurance companies have access to one’s driving record.

Cut 11 (10)  “…down to.”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says insurance carriers are not discriminating against females. He says companies refer to it as predictive modeling that differentiates between young women and men, and older women and men.

Cut 12 (12) “…of Louisiana.” 

Chair of the Insurance Committee, Senator Kirk Talbot opposes the legislation for fear that it would cause insurance rates for male drivers to increase.

Cut 13 (06) “…young women.” 

The legislation passed narrowly on a five to four vote and moves to the Senate floor.

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Lawmakers are hoping to address the ever-growing problem of drug overdose deaths. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt’s bill goes after the source. Senate Bill 49 in essence doubles the current penalties for those who manufacture fentanyl in clandestine labs.

Cut 14 (11)  “…with fentanyl.”

A first offense would carry a 10-to-40-year prison sentence, ten years without parole, and up to a $50,000 fine.

The Republican Senator says the bill has the support of sheriffs, district attorneys, and coroners in Louisiana.

Cut 15 (05) “…neighborhoods.”

The bill passed in the Senate 33 to 2 and will be heard next in a House committee.

Georges Media Group – the parent company of The Advocate & The Times-Picayune – announces it is expanding to Shreveport-Bossier City with a new digital news service. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A Danish development company proposes building a $4-billion eco-friendly ammonia plant in St. Charles Parish. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A bill to legalize the practice of having the cremated remains of pets buried with their owners’ advances from House Commerce. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The parent company of  The Advocate and The Times-Picayune will expand its reporting duties to Shreveport-Bossier City with a new digital news outlet – The Shreveport-Bossier Advocate. The Georges Media Group publishes print and digital news products in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette. Publisher of The Advocate and Times-Picayune Newspaper Group Judi Terzotis says their goal is to cover every area of the state.

Cut 4 (10)  “…about July.”

From 2000 to 2020, newspaper circulation fell from 55.8 million households to below 25.6 million and since 2004 more than 1,800 local newspapers across the nation. Terzotis says expanding to Shreveport is about filling a gap in local news.

Cut 5 (11)   “…that market.”

Terzotis says the digital news outlet will cover general topics like city government, education, health care, sports, culture, and entertainment, and spotlighting local restaurants.

Cut 6 (13)  “…to tell.”

A new bureau of a dozen journalists and local sales staff will begin producing content in July.

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A Danish-based energy investments group proposes building a $4-billion reduced-carbon ammonia plant in St. Charles Parish. The company, called St. Charles Clean Fuels, is exploring the ammonia production and export facility near St. Rose. Company project director Ramesh Raman (rah-MESH ROM-un) tells LRN they plan to create over 200 new direct jobs manufacturing so-called “blue ammonia”…:

Cut 7 (06) “…states as well.”

Blue ammonia is reduced-carbon ammonia; a product that will be in increasing demand as more and more industries seek to lower carbon emissions. Raman says their process captures greenhouse gasses while producing their product…:

Cut 8 (13) “…sequestration site.”

Louisiana Economic Development confirms the St. Charles Clean Fuels facility would mean 216 new direct jobs, at salaries over $90-thousand. But it will also mean over 900 new indirect jobs for St. Charles Parish and the surrounding area. Raman says tax incentives from the state was one reason to choose Louisiana, but they also were drawn to the existing ports and infrastructure St. Charles Parish offers…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…for the incentives.”

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Legislation to make it legal to have cremated pet remains buried with their owner advances from House Commerce. Minden Representative Wayne McMahen filed the legislation last year but pulled the bill after pushback from the Cemetery Association.

Cut 10 (11) “…or not to.” 

The bill makes it legal to have cremated animals’ remains declared as personal property and it’s still up to each individual cemetery to allow the practice or not. Boyd Mothe of Mothe Funeral Homes opposes the legislation on the grounds that cemeteries are dedicated properties for human remains only and are considered sacred.

Cut 11 (10)  “…property.”

Despite opposition from Mothe, McMahen reminded committee members that each cemetery could opt to either allow pet remains or not, the bill only makes it no longer illegal to do so.

Cut 12 (07)    “…want to.” 

The bill passed without opposition and moves to the House floor.

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The average price of a gallon of regular gasoline in Sportsman’s Paradise is $3.25. Usually, at this time of the year, the price at the pump is rising, but it’s actually fallen a nickel in the last week. AAA fuel analyst Don Redman says lower crude oil prices are driving prices down.

Cut 13 (12) “…last week.” 

In terms of the economy and demand and supply, the country’s inventory of crude is up by 51 million barrels compared to this time last year. Redman says the decline at the pump is due to a combination of weather, ease in demand, and crude oil costs.

Cut 14 (12)  “…short term.”

Redman says crude oil is selling for about $79 a barrel, at this time last year it was selling for $102 a barrel, so gas prices are significantly cheaper…

Cut 15 (12)  “..right now”

Redman says prices are stabilizing but forecasts a continuous drop in prices to as low as $3.15 a gallon. Oil refineries are expected to wrap up the transition of winter-grade gasoline to summer-grade by May 1^st.

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It’s a question mark on whether LSU running back John Emery will play this season as he needs to handle his academics first. Josh Williams and Armoni Goodwin did not participate in spring practice, because of injuries. So the only experience back in the spring was Noah Cain, who rushed for 409 yards and ten touchdowns last season. Coach Brian Kelly says don’t sleep on Cain…

Cut  16 (25)  “…your  team” 

Damian Ramos was 10-of-14 as the team’s primary field goal kicker last season. Sophomore Nathan Dibert completed with Ramos last fall and this spring and Kelly says that competition continues…

Cut 17 (23) “..them competing” 

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The top-ranked LSU baseball team hosts Nicholls tonight. Third baseman Tommy White, who is tied for third in the nation in RBIs with 66, is questionable after leaving Sunday’s win with soreness in his upper leg. Coach Jay Johnson says White is day-to-day…

Cut 18 (18) “…type of things”

Little-used third-string catcher Hayden Travinski was the hero in Sunday’s come-from-behind win over Ole Miss. Travinski hit a three-run homer in the ninth to stun the Ole Miss fans and give the Tigers a win. Johnson says Travinksi has been the ultimate team player, even though he’s seen limited action…

Cut 19 (18) “…great job”

A Lafourche grand jury convicts 47-year-old Travis Orso of Golden Meadow in the 2020 drowning death of his girlfriend, Dione Cheramie. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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Legislation to extend the state’s film tax incentive program from its’ current sunset date of 2025 to 2035 is heading to the House floor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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A Caddo Parish man died after being trapped between his semi-truck and his barn at his home Saturday. Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Rod White says this was an unusual and unfortunate accident.

Cut 3 (12) “…a barn.”

The couple was moving the truck with a tractor into the barn. White says the wife – who was driving the tractor – did not realize her husband had gotten out of the truck while she was pushing it with the tractor. He got pinned between the tractor and the wall of the barn.

Cut 4 (12)  “…the truck” 

The man was transported to Oshner LSU Health and later died from his injuries. The name and age of the man has not been released.

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A Lafourche Parish man was found guilty of 2nd-degree murder in the 2020 drowning death of his girlfriend after a four-day trial. 47-year-old Travis Orso was arrested in 2020 after he murdered Dione Cheramie by drowning in Bayou Lafourche near Cut Off. Lafourche Parish Assistant District Attorney Jason Chatagnier says an argument occurred before the couple left a family members

Cut 5 (10) “…the bayou.”

During the investigation, Orso claimed that he and the victim were arguing in his truck when the victim decided to jump into the water and he jumped in to save her. Chatagnier says neighbors refuted that claim.

Cut 6 (13)  “…was unresponsive” 

Witnesses said the defendant was cursing and calling the victim obscene names and drinking beer of one of an individual who rushed to help. Evidence also revealed the victim had blunt force trauma, bruises, and gashes over her body. Chatagnier says after canvassing the area, video surveillance helped to convict the suspect.

Cut 7 (12)  “…her alive” 

Orso faces a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. His sentencing date is July 14.

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Eleven Louisiana deer tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease during the 2022-23 hunting season, which brings the total to 12. All of the CWD cases have been in Tensas Parish. LDWF State Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Jim LaCour says when the first one in January 2022 was detected, they implemented a control plan.

Cut 8 (11)  “…the future.” 

Approximately 2,300 hunter-harvested deer were tested for CWD.  And, while CWD has not been shown to be contagious to humans, it’s recommended not to consume deer that have tested positive.  When the first case was detected a CWD control plan, which included Tensas Parish, and parts of Franklin and Madison Parishes, was implemented. The plan included feeding and baiting bans to prevent the spread of the disease, free testing for hunters, and banning the export of deer central nervous tissue from the area.

Cut 9 (05) “….the area.”

And while you might assume wildlife officials would deter hunting in the area LaCour says just the opposite. LWDF will continue to test for CWD, and they are making it as easy as possible for hunters.

Cut 10 (12) “…to consume.” 

Bow hunting season begins October 1^st.

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The House Ways and Means approves legislation that would trim the state’s sales tax by two-tenths of a percent starting in July. Louisiana’s sales tax is currently 4.45 percent, but .45 percent will expire in July of 2025. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala believes it would be a good idea to start phasing it out this year…

Cut 11 (09)  “…future”

Bacala had a similar bill last year. It died in a Senate committee after it was approved by the House. The full House will get a chance to debate the legislation again this year.

Bacala’s bill would reduce state tax revenues by 210-million dollars, but he argues this money is going away in 2025, so the state should begin to live without it

Cut 12 (05) “…already are” 

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The House Ways and Means Committee approves legislation that would extend the state’s film tax credit program to 2035. The program which costs the state 180-million dollars every year is set to expire in 2025. House Speaker Clay Schexnayder says the credits creates jobs

Cut 13 (09) “…community stronger” 

Schexnayder’s legislation not only extends the credit for ten years, a graphic must be shown during the credits that lets viewers know the movie was made in Louisiana…

Cut 14 (12)  “…tourists in.”

Independent studies have shown that despite the jobs gained, the state loses money with this program. But president of the Louisiana Film and Entertainment Association, Trey Burvant, disputes those studies…

Cut 15 (13) “…film industry.”

The measure heads to the House floor for more discussion.

A bill to make it legal to have your pet buried with you will be heard in House Commerce today.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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New federal Bureau of Labor data shows Louisiana with record-high employment. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The Guinness record for the world’s largest afro belongs to Aevin Dugas – a Louisiana native. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A bill to make it legal for your cremated pet to be buried with you will be heard in House Commerce today. Former veterinarian and Minden Representative Wayne McMahen admits he didn’t know it was illegal to have nonhuman remains interred with humans in Louisiana.

Cut 4 (11)  “…in a burial.”

McMahen says the bill doesn’t mandate that cemeteries allow pets to be buried with their owners; it only makes it legal to do so. Each cemetery would have its own policy and decide if the practice was permitted or not.

Cut 5 (11)   “…of pets.”

It’s permissible to have personal property buried with humans, things like photos, jewelry, letters, or even Bibles. McMahen says for pet lovers having the option is extremely meaningful.

Cut 6 (07)  “…can see.”

The legislation prohibits a pet owner from euthanizing a pet without a medical need for the purpose of having the pet buried at the owner’s death.

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New federal labor data shows Louisiana again setting a new record high. The numbers are confirmed by Louisiana Workforce Commission economist Emily DePalma, who says the seasonally-adjusted number of persons employed is a record for that data series…:

Cut 7 (08) “…553 people.”

DePalma says the state saw an increase of over 8700 jobs between February and March of this year; setting a record-high 2-million, 30-thousand, 553 people working.

She says the largest gains came in construction, mining, logging, private education, and health services…:

Cut 8 (08) “…New Orleans area.”

Baton Rouge added 2700 new jobs, New Orleans 1000…followed by Hammond (400), Alexandria (100), and Houma (100). DePalma says the state’s jobless rate continues to trend downward as well…:

Cut 9 (11)  “… 3.6-percent.”

You can view all the data at “laworks.net”

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A Louisiana woman holds the Guinness record for the largest afro for the third time in 13 years. 47-year-old Aevin Dugas – of Reserve – says it all started thanks to her sister.

Cut 10 (09) “…largest afro.” 

Dugas earned her first title in 2010 when her afro measured four feet, four inches in circumference. 13 years later, her hair has grown to a 9.84 inches tall, 10.4 inches wide, and 5.41 inches in circumference. Dugas says she began growing her afro by going natural.

Cut 11 (10)  “…came about.”

And while she has set three records styling her beautiful afro, she doesn’t wear it out often. Dugas says it takes a lot of adjustments to wear the afro so she changes hairstyles

Cut 12 (11)    “…daily basis” 

Dugas says she hopes to inspire young girls that look like her to love everything about themselves. She has been growing her afro for nearly 25 years.

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Legislation to add exceptions for rape and incest to the state’s abortion ban has also prompted other legislation in this regular session. Lift Louisiana Executive Director Michelle Erenberg says House Bill 461 by Slidell Representative Mary DuBuisson would make it easier to get an abortion to treat miscarriages, mainly getting one doctor to sign off on the abortion instead of two….

Cut 13 (08) “…appropriate healthcare.” 

House Bill 522 would change penalties that could be imposed on medical providers, instead of prison time it would be a fine. Erenberg says many physicians are fearful of what could happen if their medical judgment to end a pregnancy is questioned.

Cut 14 (09)  “…in prison.”

Erenberg says there’s overwhelming public support to make changes to the state’s abortion ban and she’s hopeful legislators will listen this election year to their constituents.

Cut 15 (12)  “…complications”

Both House Bill 461 and House Bill 522 have been referred to House Criminal Justice.

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Both quarterbacks threw a pair of touchdowns in Saturday’s Spring game on the LSU campus. Jayden Daniels was 10-11 passing for 168 yards and Garrett Nussmeier was 5-of-8 passing for 139 yards. Coach Brian Kelly says he was pleased with his quarterbacks…

Cut  16 (19)  “…some instances.” 

Senior Kyren Lacy led the receivers with four catches for 92 yards and a touchdown. That TD came on the first play of the game.

LSU goes into next season as a favorite to win the SEC West, but Kelly is concerned about the overall depth of his team…

Cut 17 (17) “..point yet” 

On defense, Kelly says linebackers Harold Perkins and Omar Speights were outstanding and the coach also believes Texas transfer and defensive end Ovie Oghoufu’s two sacks show he’s a really good addition…

Cut 18 (20) “…mature players”

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Louisiana Tech concluded spring practice with a spring game on Saturday. It was offense versus defense and a modified scoring system was used and the offense outscored the defense 54-27. Head coach Sonny Cumbie says is encouraged by the growth of his team over 15 spring ball practices…

Cut 19 (11) “…in November”

Cumbie is entering his second season as the Bulldogs head coach. Last year La Tech went just 3-and-9 and will open the 2023 campaign by hosting FIU on August 26 in a Conference USA matchup. Boise State transfer Hank Bachmeier is expected to be the starting quarterback. Cumbie says during the offseason he’s asking Bachmeier and the rest of the Bulldog players to immerse themselves in the playbook…

Cut 20 (21)  “…speed”  

A House Committee advances a bill to crack down on home burglars, by classifying that as a crime of violence. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (33)  “I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A bill to make general criminal song lyrics inadmissible in court advances from House Criminal Justice. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s “Buckle Up In Your Truck” campaign aims at bringing awareness and saving the lives of not only pick-up truck drivers in Louisiana but everyone. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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At the Capitol, a House bill to make simple burglary a violent crime in Louisiana clears its first legislative hurdle. The bill comes from Republican Kenner Representative Debbie Villio, who tells the House Criminal Justice Committee that burglary victims feel violated, even if they were not home when the crime occurred. She says it affects one’s trust and feeling of safety..:

Cut 4 (07)  “…anger and frustration.”

Her bill would add simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling to the list of violent crimes and punishable as such. She says she wants to make this crime a crime of violence partly because it would remove probation as an option and it would change the good behavior calculations. Testifying in opposition to Villio’s bill was Meghan Garvey, with the Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, says if no one is threatened or hurt, how can it be a “violent crime”…?

Cut 5 (09)   “…this is not.”

Villio says she herself is a burglary victim twice over. In one of the burglaries, the perpetrator left a kitchen knife on her bed after finding and stealing her handgun. She says these are the things that make burglars deserving of stronger punishment…:

Cut 6 (10)  “…a property crime.”

However, Garvey argued that burglary suspects who have committed no violent acts would be deprived of benefits available to non-violent offenders, like time off for good behavior. She acknowledges the pain of homeowners, but says the current law is sufficient…:

Cut 7 (11) “…a serious crime.”

By a 9-2 vote, the committee advanced Villio’s HB 65 to the House floor.

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Legislation to keep nonspecific murder ballad lyrics from being submitted as evidence in a criminal trial advances from House Criminal Justice. Houma Representative and attorney, Tanner Magee wants to preserve artistic expression but at the same time recognize that one might describe an actual murder in a song.

Cut 8 (08) “…come in.”

Magee referred to a list of 25 Louisiana court cases where song lyrics were admitted as evidence, and more than half of the convictions were appealed based on the admittance of questionable evidence. These particular cases were linked to rap music.

The Republican lawmaker says basically if a song has criminal lyrics in general, they aren’t admissible as evidence.

Cut 9 (07)  “… as evidence.”

Rap lyrics aren’t the only songs with criminal lyrics. Magee says the first murder ballad written and recorded dates back to 1727.

Cut 10 (09) “…rap lyrics.” 

House Bill 475 is supported by the Louisiana Association of District Attorneys and was approved in House Criminal Justice on a 7-3 vote.

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Two bills to make college more affordable for military veterans advance without any opposition in the Louisiana House. Vacherie Representative Ken Brass is the author of House Bill 785, also known as the National Guard Patriot Scholarship Program.

Cut 11 (10)  “…the tuition.”

Louisiana National Guard members are already exempted from paying tuition at colleges and universities in Louisiana. Brass says fees at Louisiana colleges have increased more than 150% in the last decade.

Maj General Lee Hopkins, Assistant Adjutant General for LANG says the Patriot Scholarship would provide a significant incentive for an individual to join and serve in the Guard.

Cut 12 (05)    “…exemption program.” 

And House Bill 167, authored by Natchitoches Representative Kenny Cox, provides tuition waves for disabled veterans.

Cut 13 (07) “…deserve this.” 

There are approximately 300,000 veterans in Louisiana and around 20% receive disability compensation.

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission initiative – “Buckle Up in Your Truck” aimed at saving the lives of pick-up truck drivers kicks off Saturday, April 22 through 29. LHSC Spokesperson Officer Greg Fischer says the seat belt law will be enforced across the state.

Cut 14 (10)  “…their seatbelts.”

In 2021, 144 pickup truck drivers in Louisiana died in crashes, and 95 of those drivers, or about 66% were not wearing seat belts according to the latest verified data from the Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety at LSU. Fischer says more Louisiana drivers choose pick-up trucks.

Cut 15 (09)  “…driving cars.”

Seat belt usage among pickup truck front-seat occupants was 80.7% compared to 86.1% for occupants in all vehicles. Fischer says wearing seat belts remains the most effective action you can take to avoid being seriously injured or killed in a crash.

Cut  16 (13)  “…lower rates.” 

A first-offense ticket is $50 and subsequent tickets are $75.

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The top-ranked LSU Tigers face the defending champs in college baseball last season as the Bayou Bengals begin a three-game series tonight against Ole Miss.  The Rebels are 3-12 in the SEC, but Coach Jay Johnson says they have plenty of talent…

Cut 17 (18) “..t9 win” 

Swayze Field is known to be a hostile environment for opponents. Tonight’s starting pitcher for LSU Paul Skenes is looking forward to it…

Cut 18 (17) “…really cool.”

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Spring football comes to an end on Saturday for the LSU Tigers as the team will scrimmage in front of fans inside Tiger Stadium. Coach Brian Kelly says they got through it without any major injuries and the newcomers learned how to prepare the right way for a season in the SEC…

Cut 19 (19) “…were outstanding.”

Jayden Daniels exits the spring as the starting quarterback heading into the 2023 season. Kelly says Daniels is bigger and stronger and his comfort level with the offense is at another level…

Cut 20 (23)  “..the football”  

Legislation to require surgical facilities to mitigate smoke plumes advances from Senate Health and Welfare. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A bill that would screen and detect students statewide who are suffering from dyslexia has been approved by the House Education Committee. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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A bill to make operating rooms safer advances from Senate Health and Welfare. Bill author, Lafayette Senator Gerald Boudreaux says heat-producing equipment used in surgeries can create a smoke plume that could obscure a physician’s view.

Cut 3 (10) “…other things.”

The legislation requires healthcare facilities to adopt policies and implement surgical smoke plume evacuation systems to mitigate health hazards.

Nineteen other states either have similar laws or legislation in process in relation to surgical smoke plumes. Boudreaux says he’s met with physicians and nurses about the legislation and says the bill is not about penalizing healthcare facilities and providers.

Cut 4 (09)  “…bring awareness.” 

The Louisiana Department of Health would verify compliance with the smoke plume evacuation and mitigating systems. Boudreaux says he’s fostered a good working relationship with medical associations about the legislation.

Cut 5 (08) “…address those.”

Senate Bill 29 passed favorably in committee.

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UL Lafayette’s CAPE team of student researchers will design and build a small solar-powered satellite that will be used by NASA to help keep astronauts and the public safe from radiation. Electrical and Computer Engineering Instructor, Dr. Jared Tessier (Tess-see-yay) says the students are excited to have been selected…

Cut 6 (12)  “…since 2007.” 

The satellite will orbit the earth at least twice a day and will gauge radiation in space through measurements taken with a neutron radiation detector. Tessier says the experimentation is rooted in technology.

Cut 7 (09)  “…in space.” 

UL Lafayette became the first university in Louisiana whose students designed, built, and launched a working satellite that orbited Earth in 2007. They also launched a satellite in 2013 and 2021. Tessier says this has been an incredible foundation for students interested in STEM fields.

Cut 8 (12)  “…this satellite.” 

NASA’s latest CAPE satellite is projected to blast off sometime between 2024 and 2027.

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Legislation that would mandate every Louisiana kindergartener to be screened for dyslexia is making its way to the House floor. The bill authored by Gretna Representative Joe Marino says it’s time to change the educational narrative for students in Louisiana.

Cut 9 (08) “….the school.”

Marino says screening tests are only $1.50 per and parents can request testing for their child. HB 69,  approved by the House Education Committee, would test students in the second semester of kindergarten.

Cut 10 (07) “…at risk.” 

Marino says nearly 20 percent of the U.S. population has dyslexia but this is a step in the right direction for the academic careers of many students.

Cut 11 (12)  “…to succeed”

Marino believes catching students early can equip them with the resources necessary to succeed.

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Authorities seized a little over 108 pounds of powder cocaine during a traffic stop on LA Highway 28 East of Pineville. Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tommy Carnline says deputies assigned to the RADE Unit Highway Interdiction Team conducted a traffic stop on a semi-tractor trailer truck for improper lane usage.

Cut 12 (07) “…criminal activity” 

Deputies deployed their police canine ‘Izzy’ to do an air sniff of the tractor-trailer driven by 56-year-old Jose Calderon of Edinburg, Texas. During the investigation, they observed a positive alert of possible narcotics. Deputies located over 108 pounds of powder cocaine in the commercial rig hauling 45,000 pounds of mangoes.

Cut 13 (05) “…..part of” 

Calderon was arrested and remains in the Rapides Parish Detention Center on a $500,000 bond. Carnline says the RADE agents along with agents from the local field office of the FB and the Drug Enforcement Administration were helpful in the investigation.

Cut 14 (07)  “..of cocaine”

Calderon is charged with improper lane usage, obstruction of drivers view windshield, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Agents estimate the street value of the recovered cocaine is between $1-$3 million dollars.

Attorney General Jeff Landry promises to crack down on crime in his first campaign ad for Governor of Louisiana. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (28)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The Senate Education Committee approves a bill requiring every school in Louisiana to have an automated external defibrillator on campus in case a person goes into cardiac arrest. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Legislation to require fathers to pay for half of the out-of-pocket pregnancy-related medical expenses advances to the House floor. Bill author, Abita Springs Representative Larry Frieman (Freeman) says it’s crucial to have such a law with the state’s abortion ban in place.

Cut 3 (11) “…right direction.”

The Republican’s bill requires proof of paternity. Frieman says the bill was crafted out of was drafted out of fundamental fairness because it’s not right that the mother has to bear the expenses and the father gets off scot-free before the child is even born.

Cut 4 (10)  “…more rights.” 

Frieman says post-birth expenses fall under child-support laws. Examples of reimbursable expenses under this bill would be insurance co-pays and over-the-counter prenatal vitamins.

Cut 5 (06) “…that back.”

The bill had no opposition in House Civil Law and will be heard on the House floor.

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Camp Beauregard will be officially renamed as the Louisiana National Guard Training Center in Pineville later this year. Lt. Col Noel Collins says through the guidance of the National Defense Authorization Act the training installation was given a new moniker.

Cut 6 (09)  “…family members.” 

Camp Beauregard was originally named after PGT Beauregard who served as a general in the Confederate army and because the installation is owned by the state it was not subject to redesignation like Fort Polk which will be named Fort Johnson later this year.

Collins says they accepted more than 200 original name submissions from the public last year and the redesignation committee then narrowed down the list of choices.

Cut 7 (08)  “…redesignation.” 

In addition to having a new name that reflects the values of service members and civilian employees, Collins says the name choice also indicates the installation’s location in Rapides Parish.

Cut 8 (10)  “…that together.” 

A ceremony for the designation of the installation will be held in the Fall.

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Attorney General Jeff Landry launched the first 30-second television ad of his gubernatorial campaign today addressing one of the state’s top issues – crime. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says Landry’s message is spot on for voters.

Cut 9 (12) “….will do it.”

Cross says Louisiana is home to three of the top ten most dangerous cities in America and leads the nation with 564 violent crimes per hundred thousand. And although one would think the governor could do little to fight crime, the governor is very powerful.

Cut 10 (09) “…a bit.” 

This will be a multi-market ad that will begin in Baton Rouge but expects to spread across the state. Cross says statewide advertisement during an election year is a hefty expense.

Cut 11 (09)  “…from them”

John Schroder, State Treasurer, was the first candidate to run a political campaign ad for governor this election year. The gubernatorial primary is October 14.

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The Senate Education Committee approves legislation requiring schools to have an automated external defibrillator at every educational institution and at all athletic events. Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields says his legislation also requires every school to have a plan in case a student collapses as a result of a heart issue…

Cut 12 (11) “…response plan” 

Cindy Bishop with the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association says A-E-Ds save lives

Cut 13 (12) “…..save his life” 

Fields legislation calls for every school to have an AED within a year of the bill becoming law. Dannie Garrett with the Louisiana School Board Association is urging legislators to allocate surplus dollars so every school in the state can purchase one…

Cut 14 (13)  “..looking at”

Fields’ legislation is called the Jump Start Your Heart Act and it may require a hearing in Senate Finance.