coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Gov. Edwards extends Phase 3 mitigation measures, including the statewide mask mandate

Louisiana will stay in Phase 3 and keep its current COVID-19 mitigation measures in place for another 28 days, Gov. John Bel Edwards announced Thursday. The Governor’s Phase 3 order was set to expire Friday, and he has extended it until Dec. 4.

Gov. Edwards moves to keep Louisiana in Phase 3, while legislators mull overturning his order

Gov. John Bel Edwards on Thursday said Louisiana would remain in Phase 3 of the White House-approved restrictions meant to control the spread of COVID-19 until Nov. 6.

Legislators seek role in virus rules

Louisiana legislators should have a “seat at the table” when a governor considers extending an emergency declaration, legislative leaders said Monday just before convening a 30-day special session.

Covid-era economy in La. ranked worst

With a June jobless rate of 9.7% and a five-year annualized employment growth rate of negative 2.3%, the Louisiana economy finished worst in a new ranking by the website 24/7 Wall St. The state’s annualized gross domestic product growth through the first quarter of this year stood at 0.

Dashboard developed at UL

University of Louisiana at Lafayette researchers have developed technology that’s assisting city officials in New Orleans understand risks associated with economic recovery, and are expanding the project statewide thanks to a National Science Foundation grant.

State’s downturn worst since the 1980s

Louisiana will suffer a 5.3% job loss in the first half of this year — 104,400 jobs — due to the impact of COVID-19, according the 2021-22 Louisiana Economic Outlook.

St. Landry Parish students to return to schools

The St. Landry Parish School Board voted to send students in pre-kindergarten to fourth-grade back to school full-time and fifth through 12th grades in a hybrid schedule. Students are also allowed the option of continuing to learn virtually.

Free COVID-19 testing offered at LSUE thru Sept. 23

LSU Eunice, in partnership with the Louisiana National Guard, will host free COVID-19 testing on select days through Sept. 23 at the Acadian Center. Those interested are asked to pre-register at DoINeedACovid19Test.com, however, on-site registration is available.

St. Landry Parish students, teacher headed back to classes

The St. Landry Parish School Board voted to send students in pre-kindergarten to fourth-grade back to school and fifth through 12th grades back to school in a hybrid schedule. Students are also allowed the option of continuing to learn virtually.

Edwards moving state to Phase 3

Gov. John Bel Edwards said Thursday the state will move to Phase 3 for the reopening of its economy amid an improving picture in the fight against the deadly virus. Edwards said he would provide details about Phase 3 Friday afternoon.