Mornings with Brian Haldane

Congressman Troy Carter joined DC Current to discuss both the economic potential of Louisiana's film industry and the urgent necessity of expanding state mental health resources. He highlighted how past film incentives built a thriving "Hollywood South" economy that deserves renewed energy and strategic investment. Carter also detailed the 988 Crisis Workforce Response Act, a $10 million pilot program designed to train specialized crisis response personnel for 24/7 intervention. Ultimately, he emphasized that early mental health support reduces community stigma and provides vital aid to individuals across every demographic.

Louisiana’s film industry boasts a rich history spanning over a century, beginning with the first silent Tarzan film shot in Morgan City in 1914. Former Lieutenant Governor Jay Dardenne continues to highlight the state's cultural impact, emphasizing how its diverse landscapes host major productions across sports, historical, and dramatic genres. Legislative initiatives like the state film tax credit created permanent studio infrastructure and a skilled local workforce, transforming the region into a major filming hub. Despite occasional Hollywood stereotyping, Louisiana remains a favored destination for filmmakers due to its authentic scenery, strong community support, and lasting cultural influence.

Chris Spalatin is actively campaigning for the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board in District 7 to strengthen local public education. He highlights the direct connection between quality classroom instruction and the long-term economic growth of Baton Rouge. His campaign prioritizes third-grade literacy, competitive compensation for educators, and increased instructional time in classrooms. As Louisiana shows promising academic progress, Spallatin advocates for clear performance reporting and strong community investment across all district schools.

Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse clarified local violent crime data, demonstrating that juvenile homicide suspects and overall felony arrests have actually decreased compared to the previous year. He highlighted recruitment progress following recent officer pay increases, with basic and lateral training academies scheduled to launch early next year to fill operational vacancies. Chief Morse also addressed the ongoing strain autumn event schedules and high school athletics place on patrol officers across the city. Lastly, he voiced strong frustration over repeat offenders receiving low bonds, calling for mandatory sentencing legislation to break the cycle of re-offending.

Louisiana voters face a complex ballot featuring ten constitutional amendments that address local infrastructure, property rights, and tax policy reforms. Amendment 7 allows public funding to replace dangerous lead drinking water pipes on private property in New Orleans. Meanwhile, Amendment 8 restricts foreign adversary nations from using state expropriation laws to seize private real estate. Finally, Amendments 9 and 10 focus on expanding senior property tax freezes and incentivizing the redevelopment of blighted local properties.

According to a recent LSU survey, crime is no longer the primary concern for New Orleans residents, marking a major shift in public perception. Improved safety ratings and a new mayoral administration have fostered renewed optimism and regional cooperation across local government. While safety sentiment has improved, residents remain focused on critical infrastructure needs such as road repairs, drainage, and affordable housing. With safety concerns stabilizing, city leaders are positioned to shift their primary attention toward long-term economic development.

Surviving over 15 years of domestic abuse inspired BJ Pons to found Restored, Refreshed, Renewed Retreats to support women escaping isolation and control. These free three-day retreats offer safe spaces, spiritual encouragement, and essential resources for women at any stage of their journey. Through gift baskets, shared testimonies, and private guidance, attendees experience restoration while building supportive networks. The non-profit also provides ongoing online support and relies on community donations to ensure every survivor can access help.

Louisiana football fans are expressing frustration following recent program setbacks, but Moon Griffon cautions against rushing to judgment during a major coaching transition. Despite high financial investments in the NIL era, building winning team chemistry requires patience amidst constant roster and staff changes. Meanwhile, focus shifts to a demanding SEC schedule where mitigating player mistakes will determine potential postseason success. Outside of athletics, upcoming statewide elections face potential voter fatigue, with analysts warning that low turnout could impact key constitutional decisions.

Capital Region Planning Commission Executive Director Jamie Setze details "Move 2050," a 25-year multimodal vision designed to address the growing transportation needs of five Louisiana parishes. With Louisiana currently facing an infrastructure backlog exceeding $14 billion, the plan prioritizes system maintenance alongside critical expansions for I-10 and I-12. Rapid economic development from major industrial projects is driving an urgent need for upgraded corridors like LA 1, bypasses around Plaquemine, and accelerated project delivery timelines. State and local leaders are coordinating closely ahead of the upcoming legislative session to secure vital funding and align regional improvements with statewide priorities

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) recently demonstrated the "Be Pro Be Proud" mobile workforce unit to showcase technical trade careers to high school students. Outfitted with 14 virtual reality simulators, the customized 18-wheeler lets teenagers test-drive high-demand jobs like commercial trucking, crane operation, and electrical work. The initiative highlights lucrative career paths that pay high starting wages without requiring a traditional four-year college degree. LABI is currently exploring public-private partnerships to bring a permanent mobile career unit to school districts across Louisiana.