Category
News
Timely coverage of the people, policies, and events shaping New Orleans and Louisiana. This category delivers clear, factual reporting that keeps readers informed about local government, community issues, and stories that matter most to everyday residents.
As schools open, New Orleans district reports 116 COVID-19 cases and 638 people quarantining
One New Orleans campus had to close its middle school due to a COVID-related staffing shortage. St. Tammany Parish schools reports 54 student cases, 26 staff cases.
Louisiana prosecutors begin reporting data on witness arrests
After The Lens reported that prosecutors had failed to report how often they used controversial witness warrants, two years after a law requiring the reports took effect, most DA’s offices have submitted the information.
Anti-retaliation policy aims to protect school staff, parents and students
Advocates say the policy also aims to ensure access to school staff and students.
City Council passes ordinance effectively removing all penalties for simple marijuana possession under city law, pardons roughly 10,000 past cases
Police can still cite people under state marijuana laws, but DA Jason Williams has said he will refuse minor drug cases.
Most New Orleans public high schools to require vaccines for extracurricular activities
Students with ‘exceptional circumstances’ can opt out but will be required to undergo regular COVID-19 testing.
COVID cases on the rise in state prisons as local sheriffs begin transfers to Angola quarantine facility
Camp J, a former disciplinary facility at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, has been used to quarantine prisoners from across the state, a move that has generated criticism from civil rights groups.
Cantrell administration lays out plans for $70M in federal coronavirus aid
The Cantrell administration said it would ask the City Council in September to increase the 2021 budget by $70 million.
Future of Broadside venue in question as city delays action on outdoor music ban
Several venues have recently stopped operating after the city claimed they were out of compliance.
State prisoner enters third week of hunger strike over restrictive housing conditions
Prisoners have alleged that they have been kept in hot cells for 23 hours per day and abused by prison staff.
