SUMMARY: Governor Jeff Landry has announced a significant investment of nearly $1.4 billion to enhance Broadband connectivity across Louisiana. This funding is part of the Broadband Equity Access Deployment Program and aims to expand fiber optic infrastructure to approximately 140,000 locations, benefiting 100,000 households, 35,000 small businesses, and 4,000 community institutions like schools and hospitals. Two local companies, Swift Fiber and Rev, will receive $450 million to support this initiative, which includes building predominantly underground lines for increased resilience against hurricanes and storms. The project is expected to create 8,000 to 10,000 new jobs in the state.

Governor Landry awards nearly $1.4 billion for broadband

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SUMMARY: Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has urged a federal judge to terminate the 12-year consent decree governing the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), asserting it has become counterproductive to public safety. Murrill noted that the city has fulfilled its obligations under the decree, which was established in 2012 to reform NOPD practices. She claimed the decree has incurred $150 million in costs, hindering the department amid dwindling officer numbers and recruitment. Critics argue that the decree deters recruitment and worsens staffing shortages. Murrill called for restoring local control and initiating the process to conclude the decree.

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SUMMARY: Data from the Louisiana Department of Education shows an increase in the statewide school performance score for the third consecutive year, reaching 80.2, up from 78.5. State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley credited this success to educators and leaders’ commitments. Louisiana is also witnessing significant improvements in national rankings, moving from 46th to 40th in the U.S. News & World Report. Fourth graders lead the nation in reading growth, particularly among disadvantaged students. The state excels in early literacy policies, contributing to a 10% rise in reading scores for K-3 students. Early childhood performance also improved, with over 95% of sites rated proficient.

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