Business groups are calling on Governor John Bel Edwards to end the extra 300-dollars in unemployment benefits jobless individuals are receiving. The federal government is providing this financial aid. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says hotels and restaurants need workers and the additional benefit is keeping vacant jobs unfilled…
cut 6 (06) “…in a call back”
Waguespack says 17 other states have already taken action to opt out of the additional funding. But the governor says Louisiana has an economy that’s dependant on tourism and the visitors are not there yet to say the industry has bounced back. Edwards says he wants to study LABI’s request…
cut 7 (06) “….net cost”
The extra $300 a week benefit from the federal government is set to end in September.

A Senate bill setting up the rules and regulations for sports betting passes in the Senate. Brooke Thorington has more.
Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter says he received an unexpected call from President Joe Biden yesterday and he says it was a candid conversation about the struggles and needs of the area in the wake of unprecedented natural disasters. Hunter says the President understands the great need and will do all he could do to help, but it will take a group effort.

Business groups are calling on Governor Edwards to stop enhanced unemployment benefits so more people will reenter the workforce. Brooke Thorington has more…
Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

House Republicans are pushing to pass a tax swap plan that would lower income tax rates in exchange for eliminating a popular tax break. But a bill that would give voters a chance to approve the tax reform proposal failed by four votes yesterday. House Ways and Means Chairman Stuart Bishop plans to bring the legislation up for another vote today.

The Louisiana Senate has approved a bill that sets up the regulation for sports betting for the 55 parishes that approved the activity last fall. Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns…
cut 16 (12) “…legally”
Lawmakers hope sports betting can be available on your phone, at casinos and kiosks at restaurants and bars that serve liquor by the start of the football season.

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter says he had a very candid conversation yesterday with President Joe Biden about the struggles and needs of his city in the wake of unprecedented natural disasters. Louisiana’s Congressional delegation has been pushing for a federal disaster aid package and Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to get it done..
cut 10 (07) “….need an answer”

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry and other business groups are asking Governor Edwards to stop the 300-dollar weekly federally enhanced unemployment benefits. LABI President Stephen Waguespack says at one time this additional benefit was needed, but now it’s making it difficult for employers to fully staff their businesses…
cut 4 (04) “…to work”
LABI says 17 other states have already opted out of the additional funding, but Governor Edwards wants to make sure that this would be the right move for Louisiana.

State lawmakers have decided it’s not the right time to legalize recreational marijuana use, but a House committee has passed a resolution to set up a panel to study the issue. Louisiana Sheriff’s Association Executive Director Michael Ranatza supports this effort…
cut 12 (11) “….diligence”
17 states have legalized recreational marijuana.

On a 31-to-six vote, the Louisiana Senate approves legislation that establishes the regulations for sports betting to take place in Louisiana. The bill would allow sports betting at the state’s riverboat casinos, racetracks, and New Orleans Harrah’s Casino. Sports betting on your phone would also be possible in the 55 parishes that approved the activity last fall. Port Allen Senator Rick Ward says kiosks, where sports bets can be taken, can also be set up at restaurants and bars that serve liquor…
cut 15 (09) “….in place”
The measure heads to the House for more discussion.

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter says President Joe Biden called him to discuss the severe flooding this week and last year’s hurricanes. Also, HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary Arthur Jemison told Senator John Kennedy they are ready to support the residents of Louisiana struggling to recover from multiple hurricanes…
cut 9 (08) “….with every day”

Video obtained by the Associated Press shows State Police troopers punching, using a stun gun, and dragging a Black man during an arrest two years ago outside of Monroe. That 2019 arrest of Ronald Greene is the subject of a federal civil rights investigation as Greene died on his way to the hospital. During the video, Greene is heard saying I’m scared.

Governor John Bel Edwards says he was staunchly against legalizing recreational marijuana, but his opinion is changing like many Louisianans. Matt Doyle has the story.
Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

Sports betting is another step closer to becoming a reality in Louisiana as the Louisiana Senate overwhelmingly approved Senate President Page Cortez’s bill that would allow for sports bets to be taken at riverboat casinos, racetracks and Harrah’s New Orleans. There would be mobile sports betting and sports wagering kiosks can be set up at bars and restaurants that serve alcohol. Port Allen Senator Rick Ward says as far as he’s concerned 65-percent of voters approved the bill last fall.
Cut 14 (08) “…want to do.”
In 55 of the state’s 64 parishes, voters voted for a proposition to allow sports betting in their parish.

During a Congressional hearing, Senator John Kennedy questioned an official with the US Housing and Urban Development on why the Biden administration has not formulated a disaster aid package to assist 2020 hurricane victims. Kennedy says it’s been nine months since Hurricane Laura nearly flattened southwest Louisiana…
Cut 8 (08) “…get an answer?” (2x)
When the President visited Lake Charles two weeks he talked about the need for federal hurricane relief dollars.

Business groups are calling on Governor Edwards to stop enhanced unemployment benefits so more people will reenter the workforce. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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Governor Edwards says he used to be staunchly against legalizing recreational marijuana, but like many Louisianans, his opinion is changing. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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A Senate bill setting up the rules and regulations for sports betting passes in the Senate. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Business organizations are asking Governor John Bel Edwards to stop federally enhanced unemployment benefits. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says the state is very dependent on a service-based economy like hospitality, tourism, restaurants, and retail.

Cut 4 (11)“…(x2) to work..”

While neighboring states like Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi are opting out of federally enhanced unemployment, Governor Edwards says he does not want to react too quickly.

Cut 5 (11)”…we are.”

Waguespack says the enhanced benefits are why people are not returning to the workforce and the evidence it there when you talk to employers on Main Street.

Cut 6 (10) “…call back.”

Governor Edwards says while the enhanced benefits are only temporary, the tourism industry has yet to rebound from pre-pandemic levels.

Cut 7 (09)  “…net costs.”

The current enhanced $300 unemployment benefits are scheduled to end on September 6^th.

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During a Congressional hearing, Senator John Kennedy questioned an official with the US Housing and Urban Development on why the Biden administration has not formulated a disaster aid package to assist 2020 hurricane victims. Kennedy says it’s been nine months since Hurricane Laura nearly flattened southwest Louisiana…

Cut 8 (08) “…get an answer?” (2x)

HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary Arthur Jemison says he sympathizes with Kennedy and HUD is ready to support the residents of Louisiana struggling to recover from the multiple hurricanes that hit the state.

Cut 9 (08) “…with every day” 

Kennedy concluded by asking if HUD would recommend providing disaster assistance and who would be the best person to speak within the white house to settle the matter.

Cut 10 (07) “…an answer”

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A House committee unanimously approves a resolution calling for the formation of a committee dedicated to studying the impacts of potentially legalizing marijuana in Louisiana.

Thibodaux Representative Bryan Fontenot was one of the leading voices against legalization this year, saying this kind of study must be conducted before lawmakers can make an informed decision…

Cut 11 (07) “….those people”

The committee will be made up of legislative leaders, DAs, Sheriffs, the state medical marijuana industry, LSU and Southern Ag, and criminal justice reform advocates. The committee must report its findings no less than 14 days prior to the start of the 2022 Regular Legislative Session.

Despite widespread public support the legislation could not overcome strong opposition by the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association, but Executive Director Mike Ranatza backs this resolution…

Cut 12 (11) “…diligence.”

17 states have legalized recreational marijuana so far.

Governor Edwards says like many Louisianans his opinion on legalization has changed over time. He says legalization is likely going to happen within the next few years, but…

Cut 13 (06) “…benefits.”

Governor Edwards made the comments on this monthly talk show Ask the Governor.

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Sports betting is another step closer to becoming a reality in Louisiana. Senate President Page Cortez’s bill passed in the Senate and now heads to the House. Port Allen Senator Rick Ward says as far as he’s concerned 65-percent of voters approved the bill last fall.

Cut 14 (08) “…want to do.”

The bill creates 20 licenses for sportsbook operators with the current land-based and riverboat casinos in the state along with racetracks. Ward says the operators can also have windows and kiosks to place bets along with a website and mobile app.

Cut 15 (09)“…in place.”

If the existing casinos and racetracks do not seek all 20 licenses by January 1^st then fantasy sports betting operators and video poker establishments in the 55 approved parishes where sports betting is legal can apply for a license.

Sports wagering would be overseen by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board and they would provide the rules and regulations.

Lake Charles Senator Ronnie Johns says it’s time to catch up with other states and approve the measure.

Cut 16 (12) “…legally.”

It passed on a 31-6 vote and now heads to the House.  A separate bill to levy taxes and fees on sports betting will be heard in House Ways and Means and a bill to allowing the Louisiana Lottery to conduct sports wagering awaits final passage in the Senate.

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The LSU baseball team begins an important series tonight in College Station against the Texas A-and-M Aggies. The Tigers need one win in order to qualify for the SEC Tournament and the Bayou Bengals need a series victory over the Aggies to keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive. Coach Paul Mainieri says Texas A-and-M’s best weapon on offense is Will Frizell…

Cut 17 (17) “..hard throwing guys.”

Landon Marceaux will start on the mound for the Tigers. Marceaux says if they win, they will get into the NCAA Tournament…

Cut  18 (12)”…to be.”

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For the Ragin Cajuns to get in the NCAA Tournament they need to win next week’s Sun Belt Tournament. But this weekend the Cajuns have a chance at winning the Sun Belt West if they have a good weekend against Troy and U-T-A falters at Georgia Southern. Louisiana Coach Matt Deggs

Cut 19 (18) “…of the league.” 

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14th ranked Louisiana Tech will conclude its regular season by hosting Conference USA rival Old Dominion tonight and tomorrow at the Love Shack. The two games will not count toward the league standings. The Monarchs are 36-14 overall, 22-and-10 in league play. Bulldogs Coach Lane Burroughs says they are a good hitting team…

Cut 20 (20) “…this weekend.” 

The House approves legislation increasing the cost of hunting and fishing licenses. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is going broke and the average sportsmen’s license will not go up by more than 10-dollars. On the commercial side…

Cut 5  (09)  “…state resource”

If the Senate approves Bacala’s bill, half of the rate increases would start on June 1, 2022.

Black lawmakers in a House committee raised objections to legislation that would do away with the need to get a permit to carry a concealed handgun for those over 21 who aren’t felons. Representative Frederick Jones says passing this bill would put law enforcement on edge and result in more police shootings of Black people.

Cut 9 (09) “…a gun”

The final vote was 6-4 in favor. The bill heads to the House floor for final passage.

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry is pushing for Governor Edwards to stop federally enhanced unemployment benefits to force residents on unemployment back to work as the economy reopens. LABI President Stephen Waguespack says the state economy is very dependent on these service industry personnel. He says business owners are hurting…

21

But While neighboring states like Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi are opting out of federally enhanced unemployment, Governor Edwards says he does not want to react too quickly, and he’s concerned about the slow rebound of the tourism industry.

22

The current enhanced $300 unemployment benefits are scheduled to end on September 6^th.

Legislation allowing anyone 21 and older without a felony record to concealed carry a handgun without a permit is headed to the House for final passage. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle.”  

Video footage of the 2019 arrest of Ronald Greene shows state police dragging the black man face down while his hands are cuffed, and legs shackled. Initially, state police told his family Greene died in a crash however a medical examiner later questioned why two stun-gun prongs were found in his back. The case is under a federal civil rights investigation.

The Louisiana House approves legislation to increase certain hunting and fishing license fees to assist the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says if they do not raise fees, then LDWF would have to take money from the general fund.

Cut 4 (04) “..be given” 

The vote was 79-20 in favor, the measure still needs Senate approval.

A bill mandating trauma training for all public-school employees passed unanimously in House Education. Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson’s bill requires the one-hour class, to recognize students experiencing trauma, will be taught during in-service days for instructors so it will not be an unfunded mandate. Baton Rouge Representative Barbara Freiberg questioned if one hour is long enough. Jackson says she hopes class will be extended in the future when they have dedicated funding. Freiberg praised Jackson’s efforts.

Cut 11 (03) “…good”

It now heads to the House for final passage.

In video footage of the 2019 arrest of Ronald Greene, he’s heard saying I’m scared while officers repeatedly use a stun gun on the unarmed black man as he’s wrestled to the ground. Greene is also dragged face down while handcuffed and legs are shackled. State Police originally told the family Greene died in a crash, but a medical examiner questioned that after finding stun-gun prongs in Greene’s back.

The Louisiana House has voted for a bill that would increase hunting and fishing licenses starting next year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

A House committee advances Senate-approved legislation that would do away with the need to get a permit to carry a concealed handgun. The bill is opposed by the Louisiana Chiefs of Police Association, but West Monroe Senator Jay Morris says not all law enforcement are against his bill, including his chief of police…

Cut 6 (08) “…criminals”

Seacor Power salvage crews have managed to remove all of the vessel’s diesel fuel stores, averting potential environmental contamination. Coast Guard Petty Officer Cory Mendenhall says they’re now moving from the environmental response to a salvage phase that will involve raising the vessel and getting it back to port.

Cut 14 (11) “…crews” 

Seven crew members remain missing from the April 13^th capsizing.

For the second time in this legislative session, the House Criminal Justice Committee approves a bill allowing a person 21 and older, who is not a convicted felon, to carry a concealed weapon without a permit or undergo the training it takes to get a permit. West Monroe Senator Jay Morris says his Constitutional Carry legislation is about protecting a person’s second amendment rights and liberties…
cut 8 (09) “…permission”
But Monroe Representative Frederick Jones says this bill would put law enforcement on edge and it could result in more police shootings of Black people…
cut 9 (09) “..a gun”
Despite Jones’ objections, the Constitutional Carry bill that’s already passed the Senate advanced to the House floor on a six to four vote.

A Senate bill mandating trauma training for all public school teachers, counselors, and administrators is close to final legislative passage after receiving unanimous approval from House Education. New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman, says this legislation is necessary…
cut 12 (10) “…abusive household”
The training would take place during an in-service day for instructors.

The U-S Coast Guard says salvage crews are done siphoning 20-thousand gallons of fuel from the capsized Seacor Power lift boat. The next step is to get the vessel out of the Gulf of Mexico. Seven crew members remain missing and Coast Guard Petty Officer Cory Mendenhall says the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating those crewmembers’ whereabouts…
cut 15 (06) “…continue”
Nineteen crew members were on board at the time the Seacor Power encountered rough weather and capsized April 13th. Six crewmen were rescued.

Legislation allowing anyone 21 and older without a felony record to concealed carry a handgun without a permit is headed to the House for final passage. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) …I’m Matt Doyle.”  

The Associated Press has obtained footage of the arrest of Ronald Greene, who was apprehended just outside of Monroe in 2019. The arrest is under a federal civil rights investigation. Earlier requests for the body camera footage into the death of the 49-year old black man had been denied. Initially, State Police told the family Greene died on impact following a chase but later recanted and said he died on the way to the hospital after a struggle with troopers.

Seacor Power salvage crews have managed to remove all of the vessel’s diesel fuel stores, averting potential environmental contamination. Coast Guard Petty Officer Cory Mendenhall says crews managed to remove over 20,300 gallons of diesel from the fuel storage tanks, but about 4,500 gallons of hydraulic fluid remain…

Cut 13 (09)“…vessel”

The Louisiana House approves legislation to increase certain hunting and fishing license fees, raising millions of dollars for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says the average sportsmen’s license will not go up by more than 10-dollars and some activities will be combined. He says the commercial fishermen’s rates have been in place since 1986.

Cut 5  (09)  “…state resource”