LRN PM Newscall March 16

State Representative Robert Johnson’s bill bolstering the rights of victims of sexual harassment passed committee. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Well wishers continue to remember Saints owner Tom Benson one day after his death. Jim Shannon has more.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jim Shannon.”

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Some Louisiana lottery players could get rich if they hit it big this weekend. The jackpots for the multi-state games are some of the largest seen in recent weeks. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Dustin Annison says there will hopefully be some big winners…

Cut 3 (08) “Powerball jackpot.”

He says even if you are buried deep in NCAA “March Madness”, these jackpots could make you a lot richer than your office pool bracket challenges…

Cut 4  (06) “Monday morning.”

Louisiana Lottery asks that you play responsibility, it only takes one ticket to win. Mega Millions jackpot for tonight is 345-million dollars, Powerball is 455-million.

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Well wishers for Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson continue the day after 90-year-old New Orleans native passed. Benson bought the Saints in 1985 and was instrumental in getting local quarterback Bobby Hebert to play in his home state…

Cut 5  (13) ” New Orleans saints”.

The Saints all-time leading rusher Deuce McAllister says Mr. Benson took a chance on him when the team was already flush with running backs.

Cut 6 (13)  ” in itself”

McAllister remembers Benson as a guy that would talk to anyone at anytime.

Cut 7 (09)  “as a person”

Visitation will take lace Wednesday from 10 AM to 7 PM and Thursday 8 AM through 1 Pm at Notre Dame Seminary. A private funeral will take place Friday March 23rd, from noon until 1 PM at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans.

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After 17 years, DeSoto Parish Sheriff Rodney Arbuckle retires today. He is in his fifth term, elected back in 2000. Arbuckle says there are several personal issues he’s having to attend to and this is a good time to step aside…

Cut 8 (12) “go home.”

Arbuckle will be replaced by Chief Deputy Jayson Richardson, who has served the citizens of DeSoto Parish for the last 14 years. Arbuckle says he’s accomplished much in his tenure as sheriff. He started with only 75 employees and about a half million dollar surplus…

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Arbuckle is looking forward to spending his free time with his granddaughters and get caught up on the outdoor recreation…

Cut 10 (12) “turkey hunt.”

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A bill that would prevent businesses from requiring employees to sign agreements blocking them from going to court over sexual harassment claims passed the House Labor Committee. The proposal by Representative Robert Johnson is part of a nationwide effort, backed by Attorney Generals, to protect victims of workplace misconduct. Johnson says businesses shouldn’t have the ability to dictate how victims respond to abuse.

Cut 11 (09) “be safe.”

The legislation would allow accusers to choose whether they would like settle claims in arbitration, an independent alternative to the court, or take their claim before a civil court. Criminal cases of sexual harassment would be heard in criminal court.

Due the nature of sexual harassment, Johnson says victims must be guaranteed a chance to bring their case to a civil court judge.

Cut 12 (11) “be brought”

Johnson says victims stand a better chance to reach a favorable conclusion if they seek litigation for sexual harassment claims instead of potentially more company friendly options. He says when human dignity is on the line, a judge needs to be called.

Cut 13 (05) “not appropriate”