Gov. John Bel Edwards kicked off Louisiana's legislative session by asking lawmakers to share accurate details about the coronavirus with constituents.
Key Democrats poured cold water on President Donald Trump’s proposal to include a payroll tax cut as part of his plan to respond to the coronavirus. Senior Republicans also held back from endorsing the suggestion ahead of a key lunch meeting on Tuesday.
The president will seek a payroll tax cut and “very substantial relief” for industries that have been hit by the virus, reversing course on the need for economic stimulus hours after markets posted their worst losses in more than a decade.
In budget talks, House Speaker José Oliva says lawmakers will discuss how to prepare for a recession that may result from the economic impacts of COVID-19.
State officials say fiscal 2020 revenues are on target and lay out fiscal 2021 prospects.
The state's projected budget surplus was raised to $1.5 billion, but officials are cautious over risks of economic slowdown and the impact of COVID-19.