A bill is moving through the House that would allow the state to release an inmate 120 days prior to his or her expected death, instead of the current 60-day window. Department of Corrections Secretary Gary Westcott supports the legislation. Westcott says inmates up for medical early release are either terminally ill, brain dead or incapacitated.

Cut 7 (06) “…of their life.”

Louisiana’s two-month window for medical early release is the shortest in the country.

Nicholls State chemistry students are discovering a way to make biodiesel using algae and oyster shells. Samia Elashry (SAHM-yah eh-LASH-ree) says this method can slash the cost of making the fuel in Louisiana by as much as 85-percent.

Cut 5 (04) “…to collect them.”

She says since algae grows abundantly in Louisiana, this could one day be a lucrative business in the state.

The Humane Society of Louisiana is urging parents to choose chocolate instead of a live animals this Easter. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

The Gulf South loves Gold Brick Eggs and Heavenly Hash but according to Investors Observer, Easter Candy prices have increased 67-percent since 2020. Ponchatoula-based Elmer Candy’s CEO Rob Nelson says it has still been good year for Elmer Chocolate.

Cut 14 (09) “…be very brisk.”

This Easter, the Humane Society of Louisiana has a message – choose chocolate over live animals. In an effort to create a holiday memory, some parents may include a live chick or bunny tucked into an Easter basket or buy a live animal as an Easter present. HSLA Executive Director Jeff Dorson says those holiday props may seem like a good idea, but it’s temporarily.

Cut 10 (11) “…what have you.”

Dorson adds, young poultry can carry Salmonella,

And speaking of chocolate candy, Ponchatoula-based Elmer Candy CEO Rob Nelson says despite higher cocoa prices which has increased the price to make chocolate candy this year, sales are brisk.

Cut 13 (08)  “…a couple years.”

A House committee passes legislation that allows the state to release a terminally ill inmate 120 days prior to his or her expected death. Andre Champagne has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

Chemistry students at Nicholls State are discovering a way to make biodiesel and save a substantial amount of money in the process – and it involves using crops available in their own backyard. The research team discovered a way to make biodiesel using algae and oyster shells. Samia Elashry (SAHM-yah eh-LASH-ree) says they turned the oyster shells into a powder, extracted the oil from the algae and mixed them together.

Cut 4 (09) “…the top layer.”

A House committee passes legislation that allows the state to release a terminally ill inmate 120 days prior to his or her expected death. Andre Champagne has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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The Humane Society of Louisiana is urging you this Easter to choose chocolate instead of a live animal. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Ponchatoula-based Elmer Chocolates is celebrating another successful Easter candy season. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Chemistry students at Nicholls State are discovering a way to make biodiesel and save a substantial amount of money in the process – and it involves using crops available in their own backyard. The research team discovered a way to make biodiesel using algae and oyster shells. Samia Elashry (SAHM-yah eh-LASH-ree) says they turned the oyster shells into a powder, extracted the oil from the algae and mixed them together.

Cut 4 (09) “…the top layer.”

Elashry says using this method can slash the cost of making biodiesel in Louisiana by as much as 85-percent.

Cut 5 (04) “…to collect them.”

Elashry notes that algae grows naturally and abundantly in Louisiana, so this could one day be a lucrative business in the state.

Cut 6 (05) “…can grow anywhere.”

And furthermore, Elashry says if the catalyst from the oyster shells can be recycled, that’s fewer oyster shells that’s needed to make the biodiesel.

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A bill is moving through the House that would allow the state to release an inmate 120 days prior to his or her expected death, instead of the current 60-day window. Department of Corrections Secretary Gary Westcott supports the legislation. Westcott says inmates up for medical early release are either terminally ill, brain dead or incapacitated.

Cut 7 (06) “…of their life.”

Louisiana’s two-month window for medical early release is the shortest in the country. Wescott says by giving the state an additional two months, it allows the department more time to adequately determine the appropriate care for an inmate very close to death.

The bill’s author is state representative Jerome Zeringue. The Houma Republican calls himself a tough on crime legislator, but compassion can be shown to an inmate’s family in this situation.

Cut 8 (14) “…members as well.”

Westcott says three inmates have received medical parole this year. Ten were released last year. The secretary says if an inmate is released under medical parole, the inmate can be returned to state custody if his or her health improves.

Cut 9 (08)  “…back to custody.”

The House Criminal Justice Committee unanimously approved the bill, and the measure heads to the House floor. If approved, the measure could save the state money; because once an inmate is released because they are terminally ill, Medicaid picks up the cost of their health care.

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This Easter, the Humane Society of Louisiana has a simple message – choose chocolate over live animals. In an effort to create a holiday memory, parents may include a live chick tucked into an Easter basket or buy a live animal as an Easter present. HSLA Executive Director Jeff Dorson says those holiday props may seem like a good idea, but only temporarily.

Cut 10 (11) “…what have you.”

Dorson says live animals require a commitment that many are not prepared to make.

Cut 11 (12) “…of a bunny.”

Dorson says there’s always an uptick in surrenders to shelters around Easter every year, and LDWF also sees an increase in calls as well.

Cut 12 (12) “…sick or injured.”

Furthermore, young poultry can carry Salmonella, which can pose a very serious health risk to the children they’re given to. Dorson says if you’re looking for a more health-conscious alternative than chocolate, a plush toy will work just fine.

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Despite higher cocoa prices, which has increased the price to make chocolate candy this year, Ponchatoula-based Elmer Candy has seen brisk sales for their Easter candy. That’s according to Elmer Candy CEO Rob Nelson.

Cut 13 (08)  “…a couple years.”

According to InvestorsObserver, Easter Candy prices have increased 67-percent since 2020. But Nelson says it still has been good year for Elmer Chocolate.

Cut 14 (09) “…be very brisk.”

Nelson says their Gold Brick Egg and Heavenly Hash continue to be among the most popular Easter candies in the Gulf South.

Cut 15 (06) “…in the country.”

Nelson says next year they plan to introduce new flavors for Gold Brick Egg and Heavenly Hash next year. If you go to Elmer’s social media channels, you can choose what you would like to see next year or give a suggestion.

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The LSU baseball team will look to carry its three-game winning streak into Knoxville this weekend as the Tigers face Tennessee. The Vols may not have Tony Vitello as their head coach anymore, but LSU coach Jay Johnson says they’re still the same dangerous team they’re used to playing.

Cut 16 (13) “…they’re plenty capable.”

Johnson provided an update on junior pitcher Cooper Moore’s status heading into the weekend, as he continues to deal with triceps soreness. Johnson says Moore is progressing well.

Cut 17 (17)  “…be a stretch.”

Johnson says a more realistic return for Moore would be during the Texas A&M series.

Johnson was asked about his interest in coaching at the major league level and did not completely rule out the possibility in the future.

Cut 18 (14)  “…the country, forever.”

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UL-Lafayette football is now two weeks into spring practice. The Cajuns have their future starting quarterback in Lunch Winfield, but they’re working to build depth behind him. Coach Michael Desormeaux (DEZ-er-moe) says former Catholic High standout Daniel Beale, who saw significant action last season, is emerging as Q-B two.

Cut 19 (10) “…offense very well.”

Last season, the Cajuns lost several offensive linemen to season-ending injuries. As they work to develop younger players, Desormeaux says sophomore Jakoby Isom (EYE-sum) showed promising flashes when called upon and is now emerging as a contender for a starting role.

Cut 20 (16) “…his best position.”

The House Natural Resources Committee kills a bill that would have prohibited the use of eminent domain for carbon capture storage and pipeline projects. Lawmakers approved legislation in 2020 that gave the government the power to use eminent domain for carbon capture, and Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association president Tommy Faucheux says you can’t turn back now.

Cut 12 (12) “…to invest.”

The vote in the committee was 12-to-7. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson spoke passionately about his bill that he says would have put the power back with the property owner.

Cut 13 (09) “…in the ground.”

The Environmental Integrity Project says Louisiana leads the nation with 65 planned carbon capture projects.

A proposed constitutional amendment to limit governors to two total terms takes the next step in the legislature. Chalmette Representative Mike Bayham’s bill passed in the House Governmental Affairs Committee on a vote of 11-to-2. Under current law, governors who serve two terms can run for re-election after sitting out for four years. Bayham says former governors start with an unfair advantage.

Cut 6 (06) “…in the race.”

A state senator’s quest to prevent additional school districts from adopting four-day school weeks advances to the House. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says four-day school weeks create logistical problems, including in her own district.

Cut 10 (10) “…nothing to eat.”

Districts with a performance score of “A” will be allowed to pursue a four-day week if they choose to, and those already on four-day weeks can continue with that arrangement.

Last night, the LSU baseball team extended its win streak to three games after defeating Southern 16-6 in seven innings. The Tigers launched four home runs in the victory, including two solo shots from Steven Milam, a grand slam by Derek Curiel, and a two-run homer from John Pearson. LSU will be on the road this weekend at Tennessee.

ULM dominated Louisiana Tech 14-3 yesterday, which makes it seven straight losses for the Bulldogs. Tech head coach Lane Burrough says the team’s current struggles are raising concerns.

Cut 21 (04): “where we are right now.”

The Warhawks will host Georgia State this weekend, while Tech travels to FIU.

Southeastern secured its second win over a top-10 team yesterday after defeating eighth-ranked Southern Miss 5-1.

UL-Lafayette has now dropped three of its last four games after falling 10-7 to McNeese yesterday. The Cajuns are at James Madison this weekend.

Dr. Bryan Maggard, who serves as UL-Lafayette’s Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, has been appointed to the College Football Playoff Selection Committee. He will serve on the 13-person selection committee for the next three football seasons. Maggard, who’s one of three representatives from the Group of Six schools, says he hopes to be a voice for the G6, but only if they prove worthy of being in the conversation.

Cut 17 (09)  “…for the consideration.”

2026 LSU women’s basketball signee Lola Lampley made a statement in last night’s McDonald’s All-American Game. The 6-foot-2, five-star guard from Indianapolis scored 10 points, grabbed five rebounds, and added an assist and a steal. Lampley is ranked as the No. 17 player in the nation by 247Sports.

LSU senior guard Flau’jae Johnson was named to the John R. Wooden All-America Team, which honors the top 10 women’s college basketball players in the country. Johnson averaged 14.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in her final season with the Tigers.

The House Natural Resources Committee defeats a bill that would have prohibited the use of eminent domain for carbon capture storage and pipeline projects. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson argued that eminent domain should not be used to benefit private industry and claimed it’s against the state constitution.

Cut 15 (10) “…our constitution.”

Other lawmakers, however, say eminent domain is a legal necessity.

A state senator’s quest to prevent additional school districts from adopting four-day school weeks advances to the House. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says she filed a bill last year mandating a five-day school week; at that time, there were six districts with four-day weeks.

Cut 9 (12)  “…four-day school weeks.”

Cut 24 (03) (fade and use as bed)

It’s a big day for NASA’s Michoud Assembly facility in New Orleans as the rocket factory played a significant role in the construction of Artemis Two, which is headed to the moon. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

A baseball player from Alexandria Senior High is killed in a hit-and-run late last night. Police say 16-year-old Collin Lacaze and a 16-year-old girl were standing along the side of a road when a vehicle hit them, and the driver took off. Lacaze was rushed to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. At this time, the driver is still on the loose.

Franklinton senator Beth Mizell does not like seeing more and more school systems moving to a four-day school week…

Cut 11 (14) “…of their day”

The Senate has approved Mizzell’s bill that prevents a school system from moving to a four-day school week, unless they are an “A” graded system. There are 17 school districts in Louisiana with four-day school weeks.

A bill to prohibit the use of eminent domain when it comes to carbon capture projects was defeated in the House Natural Resources Committee. The oil and gas industry opposes the measure and New Orleans litigation attorney Lauren Mastio also spoke in opposition…

Cut 14 (12) “…legal necessity”

Rural residents and environmentalists are concerned about capturing carbon dioxide in the air and then storing it underground, which is why the bill was filed.

A proposed constitutional amendment limiting governors to two total terms takes its next step on its journey towards the ballot….

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

Artemis II is heading to the moon today. Its propellant tanks were built at Michoud Assembly Plant in New Orleans. NASA spokesperson Craig Betbeze…

Cut 3 (12) “….into orbit”

A bill that would prohibit the use of eminent domain for carbon capture storage and pipeline projects was rejected by the House Natural Resources Committee on a vote of 12 to 7. Lawmakers approved legislation in 2020 that gave the government the power to use eminent domain for carbon capture and Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association president Tommy Faucheux says you can’t turn back now…

Cut 12 (12) “…to invest.”

Pineville Representative Mike Johnson spoke passionately in front of the House Natural Resources Committee about his bill that would put the power back with the property owner

Cut 13 (09) “…in the ground.”

The technology captures carbon dioxide produced by industrial factories and then it’s stored underground into large storage tanks.

A state senator’s quest to prevent additional school districts from adopting four-day school weeks advances to the House. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell’s bill passed the State Senate with Senator Eddie Lambert of Gonzales casting the lone “no” vote. Mizell says she filed a bill last year mandating a five-day school week; at that time, there were six districts with four-day weeks. She says four-day school weeks create logistical problems.

Cut 10 (10) “…nothing to eat.”

A proposed constitutional amendment to limit governors to two terms passed out of the House Governmental Affairs Committee. Under current law, governors who serve two terms can run for re-election after sitting out for four years. Chalmette Representative Mike Bayham says former governors start with an unfair advantage and that was one of the reasons it took a future governor, Kathleen Blanco, longer to be elected governor.

Cut 7 (07) “…ending her campaign.”