Chuck Smith Red River Radio News

— A batch of new Louisiana laws go in effect on August 1st that range from prohibiting warrantless searches for marijuana, legalizing concealed carry for military veterans, and job and housing discrimination based on hairstyles.— A proposal to legalize recreational marijuana in Arkansas is moving closer to appearing on the state's ballot in the fall.— Texas gubernatorial candidate Democrat Beto O’Rourke has been on the road appearing in town halls across east Texas.

Fill the Bus aims to get much needed school supplies to kids in NW Louisiana

— The federal government has pledged more than $400 million in grants and loans to expand broadband access to the remote regions in 11 states.— The United Way of Northwest Louisiana has launched a two-week program to help families-in-need get school supplies through its “Fill the Bus School Supply Drive”.— Hot weather in triple digits has worsened drought conditions but is relief on the way for the Red River Radio listening area?

— A divided federal appeals court panel is backing Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's executive order that forbids school districts from imposing mask mandates on schools to prevent the spread of COVID-19.— The Louisiana Public Utilities Commission met in Shreveport yesterday and one commissioner took a moment to criticize power companies for not developing renewable energy sources in the state.— Louisiana has enhanced its nation-leading carbon capture and sequestration legislation with provisions that provide additional carbon dioxide reservoir storage security for projects in Caldwell Parish.

Tax Relief For Arkansans On The Upcoming Special Session Agenda

— Five days after a state judge blocked enforcement of Louisiana’s abortion ban, the same judge has denied a motion by state officials to suspend the ruling while they pursue an appeal.— Governor Asa Hutchinson has called for the special session as he wants lawmakers to provide tax relief for Arkansas taxpayers who are currently dealing with higher inflation.— Louisiana Democrats on social media were critical of their party for giving the GOP a free ride by conceding two district races to incumbent Republicans.— This evening there will be the first of two public meetings about the re-districting process to be held by the Caddo Parish Commission in Shreveport’s Government Plaza downtown.

Governor John Bel Edwards announced GUMBO program

— There were some tense moments Monday as travelers at Dallas Love Field Airport were sent seeking cover as a person began shooting inside the airport.— Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards made a special announcement regarding a $130 million dollar investment from the American Rescue Plan to bring more affordable and accessible broadband internet service to underserved rural parishes.— The Texas Commissioner of Agriculture is urging the state to expand medical marijuana use.— Daytime high temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees with heat indices as high as 109. A heat advisory will be in effect until 8pm.

June Job Numbers Up and Gas Prices Down

— Jury selection is scheduled to begin today in Austin, Texas for the defamation trial of conspiracy theorist Alex Jones of Infowars.— June employment numbers are out for Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas revealing positive jobs reports.— The average price of regular-grade gas has plunged the past two weeks.— 10 people have filed to run for Shreveport mayor.