AGP Executive Report

Meta Settlement for Louisiana Kids: Louisiana will receive about $180 million over nine years from Meta’s landmark child-safety settlement, with required changes to Facebook and Instagram including daily time limits, nighttime blocks, and stronger age verification. Local Governance: Metro Council approved a consultant and set Visit Baton Rouge to temporarily manage the River Center as the city moves toward redevelopment and a new downtown hotel plan. Space & Jobs: SpaceX says it will invest $100 billion in a coastal Louisiana Starbase in Vermilion Parish, targeting thousands of launches and 11,100+ jobs, while environmental and community concerns are already surfacing. College Sports Legal Chaos: The SEC revised eligibility rules to bar athletes who turned pro and then try to return, as Louisiana court rulings continue to reshape who can play. Public Safety: A fatal two-vehicle crash in Cameron Parish killed two 19-year-olds and left multiple others injured as investigators review toxicology and cause. Crime & Accountability: New Orleans police are reviewing priorities after a Fox 8 investigation highlighted alleged warrant failures tied to a deadly shooting.

Meta Child-Safety Settlement: Meta agreed to pay states up to $17.1B over claims its Facebook and Instagram platforms harmed children, with Louisiana set to receive at least $180M and new safety requirements aimed at teen accounts. SpaceX Starbase Louisiana: SpaceX says it will build a massive $100B Starbase spaceport on Louisiana’s Gulf Coast, with construction starting in 2027 and major operations targeted for around 2030, drawing both excitement and environmental scrutiny. Local Courts & Corruption: Baton Rouge Councilman Cleve Dunn Jr. asked a judge to quash his corruption indictment, arguing the Attorney General’s office overstepped. Education: Louisiana’s Board of Regents named 14 educators to a new Teachers Advisory Council term, and the state also strengthened anti-hazing rules statewide in memory of Caleb Wilson. Public Safety & Environment: LDWF graduated 23 new game wardens statewide, and Louisiana educators and riders are also getting reminders on e-bike rules and road safety. Sports & College Athletics: The SEC is weighing penalties if schools roster former pros, while LSU continues jersey-number traditions and college sports debates keep heating up.

SpaceX Starbase Louisiana: Gov. Jeff Landry says Elon Musk’s SpaceX will invest $100 billion to build a massive rocket launch complex in Vermilion Parish near Pecan Island, on 125,000 acres of former Exxon land, with construction starting in 2027 and the first Starship launch targeted for 2029; officials tout thousands of jobs and major coastal access, while Wildlife & local concerns: residents near Pecan Island say they were left in the dark and wildlife groups question environmental waivers as the site sits in protected marsh habitat. College sports eligibility shakeup: The Big Ten and SEC both move to bar players who declared for the NFL and signed pro contracts from returning to conference competition, a direct hit to LSU’s Lane Kiffin after court-ordered returns by former NFL players. Public health supply strain: Shreveport warns it may run out of fluoride for drinking water because Middle East supply disruptions are delaying replenishment. Local spotlight—Skip Bertman: LSU baseball legend Skip Bertman is honored at a Celebration of Life in the PMAC, with former players and coaches sharing stories of his “Hold the rope” legacy. Opinion letters: Baton Rouge-area readers debate whether parks should be governed by private entities and argue animal control funding can’t be replaced by philanthropy.

SpaceX & Louisiana Economy: Gov. Jeff Landry and SpaceX leaders announced “Starbase Louisiana,” a $100 billion Starship launch facility in Vermilion Parish near Pecan Island, aiming for construction starting in 2027 and first launches by 2029, with plans for propellant production, deep-water access, and enough capacity for “thousands” of launches a year. Tariffs & Iran War: Louisiana-area farmers say Trump’s tariffs and the Iran conflict are squeezing profits by driving up fertilizer, fuel, and equipment costs while crop prices stay weak. College Sports Eligibility Fight: LSU coach Lane Kiffin defended adding former NFL tight end Dae’Quan Wright after a Louisiana court ruling granted him a path back to college, as Big Ten and others consider new limits on NFL-to-college returns. Local Safety: Louisiana State Police said 15 children were taken to a hospital for medical evaluation after a crash involving a school bus on the Westbank Expressway. Arts & Culture: Dolly Parton’s Louisiana ties were highlighted again after her death at 80, including “Steel Magnolias” filming in Natchitoches and her Mardi Gras appearance with the Krewe of Endymion.

LSU, NCAA eligibility fight: A Louisiana judge cleared former NBA two-way player RJ Luis Jr. to practice and potentially play for LSU after a preliminary injunction against the NCAA, setting up a fresh legal showdown over who counts as a “pro” athlete. LSU roster churn: Ukrainian center Kate Koval is leaving LSU for personal reasons less than two weeks after LSU signed a Russian player, leaving the Tigers scrambling at the frontcourt. College football ripple effects: LSU coach Lane Kiffin defended recruiting NFL rookies seeking a fifth year, saying injunctions are forcing programs to respond. Migrant detention controversy: Democratic lawmakers, including Louisiana Rep. Troy Carter, demanded answers over plans to house up to 3,000 unaccompanied migrant children at a contaminated Louisiana military site. Public safety tech in Orleans: The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office is moving to use AI to monitor jail calls and social media as part of efforts to disrupt contraband networks. Health crisis in Caddo: Maternal health advocates asked Caddo Parish commissioners for $65,000 to expand doula-linked support amid high infant mortality concerns. Energy and business: Shell’s U.S. chemical assets, including Louisiana plants, drew reported suitors like Exxon and LyondellBasell in a potential deal worth up to $8 billion.

College Sports & Courts: Former Ole Miss tight end Dae’Quan Wright could be heading to LSU after a court order tied to fifth-year eligibility; he was waived by the Cleveland Browns and, if he clears waivers, is expected to join Lane Kiffin’s Tigers. NFL Moves: The Saints and 49ers keep trading depth pieces, with New Orleans adding RB Zamir White in exchange for veteran LB Deion Jones, while Browns QB competition news continues to ripple nationally. Public Safety: Louisiana State Police reported a fatal single-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 109 in Calcasieu Parish; the driver was unrestrained and impairment is still under investigation. Surveillance Debate: Livingston Parish is weighing a proposal aimed at banning privately owned Flock cameras on parish roads, a sign the national surveillance fight is landing locally. Health Alert: Ruston-area officials say an 8-year-old died after contracting the rare brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri, believed linked to swimming in Lake Claiborne. Local Culture: The Baton Rouge Underground Film Festival returns this weekend at the Manship Theatre with more screenings, workshops, and panels.

NFL Trade Impact (New Orleans): The Saints swung a quick depth trade, sending veteran LB Deion Jones to the 49ers for RB Zamir White, a move tied to a growing running-back injury crunch as Alvin Kamara is expected to miss at least a month with an MCL sprain. College Football Eligibility (LSU): Separately, Cleveland waived TE Dae’Quan Wright, and if he clears waivers he’s set for a historic return to NCAA football at LSU after signing pro contracts—an outcome shaped by recent court fights over eligibility. Public Health Alert (Ruston/Lake Claiborne): An 8-year-old Ruston girl, Lillian Smart, died after contracting a rare brain-eating amoeba believed to have been picked up while swimming in Lake Claiborne. Local Consumer Tech: Walmart and Sam’s Club are rolling out “tap to pay” options at Louisiana stores to speed checkout. Coastal Louisiana Watch (SpaceX): Gov. Jeff Landry is set to announce plans Tuesday for a multibillion-dollar SpaceX spaceport near Pecan Island, with residents raising concerns about secrecy and impacts on marsh and wildlife.

LIV Golf Uncertainty: LIV Golf’s 2026 season is ending with players expected to leave, funding reportedly cut off after this year, and lawsuits over unpaid bills—raising fears the Saudi-backed league could shrink into “LIV 2.0” or go dark. MMR Vaccine Clash: Dr. Mehmet Oz pushed back on Trump’s claim that the MMR vaccine is “lethal,” saying it’s not, as Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy and health experts scrutinize the administration ahead of November. Kushner Politics: House Speaker Mike Johnson downplayed Jared Kushner’s role after a reported private meeting with Hakeem Jeffries, saying Kushner “hedges bets” but Republicans should not be underestimated. Public Health Alert: Louisiana families are reeling after an 8-year-old in Ruston died from a brain-eating amoeba likely linked to Lake Claiborne, while New Orleans shoppers are turning to farmers markets amid food recall and Cyclospora worries. SNAP Drop in Louisiana: SNAP enrollment nationwide fell more than 13% in a year as Trump-era reforms take hold, with advocates pointing to paperwork and missed requirements. College Football Legal Fallout: A Baton Rouge court order is helping NFL-roster players pursue a fifth year, including JMU linebacker Trent Hendrick transferring to UCLA. Local Sports Buzz: Saints fans keep watching the QB carousel as Joe Milton draws praise after joint practice with the Cowboys.

AI & Schools: Eunice High School warns students that creating, possessing, or sharing AI-generated intimate images can trigger discipline and even criminal charges under Louisiana’s new “Ivy Daniels Act,” effective Aug. 1. Local Politics: A New Orleans opinion piece argues Gov. Jeff Landry and Mayor Helena Moreno are stuck in a distracting fight while the city’s court system needs “right-sizing” after Katrina-era population loss. Sports (Louisiana): The Rams shut out the Saints 34-0 in preseason at SoFi Stadium, with New Orleans committing multiple drive-killing penalties and Zach Wilson’s early interception setting the tone. Public Safety: A volunteer firefighter in Vermilion Parish, Robert Hughes, died in a single-vehicle crash while responding to an emergency call; impairment wasn’t believed to be a factor. Immigration Advocacy: A Monroe vigil organized by Indivisible North Louisiana memorialized people who have died in ICE custody since 2025, calling for due process reforms. Health & Benefits: SNAP enrollment nationwide fell more than 13% over 12 months, with advocates pointing to paperwork burdens and tightened federal rules.

Local Courts & Elections: A Louisiana appeals court ruled Orleans Parish Magistrate Judge Juana Marine Lombard can stay on the ballot for re-election, overturning a lower-court disqualification tied to qualifying paperwork. Local Governance: In Baton Rouge, the District Attorney says BREC violated the Louisiana Open Meetings Law during discussions with a community group tied to trademark issues. Education Policy: Lafourche Parish parents are getting a heads-up: BESE approved revised K-12 physical education standards that will put more movement into PE starting in the 2027-28 school year. Public Safety & Health: Louisiana is also dealing with a statewide health concern as officials report a rise in Vibrio cases, including deaths linked to the flesh-eating bacteria. Energy & Cost of Living: GasBuddy price reports show the lowest regular gas in East Baton Rouge Parish hit $3.06 for the week ending Aug. 15, while other parishes posted their own low points for midgrade and diesel. Sports & Community: Southern University’s Human Jukebox landed in a major Gap denim campaign, bringing the Baton Rouge band’s signature sound to a national audience.

Local Education & Safety: Louisiana’s “Ivy Daniels Act” took effect Aug. 1, warning schools that creating or sharing AI-generated intimate images can trigger discipline and possible criminal cases. Public Health: Shreveport has run out of fluoride amid a nationwide shortage, though officials say the water remains safe while the city waits on supplies. Weather & Health Risks: Extreme heat is forcing Lafayette’s Cathedral Carmel School to adjust recess and PE, with heat index readings around 108–114 and tighter hydration rules. Courts & College Sports: The 10th Circuit granted an NCAA stay on 2022 eligibility, putting many fifth-year athletes back under age-based limits while state injunctions may still allow some players. Local Government & Housing: Lawmakers are pushing a bipartisan $100M-a-year fortified-roof funding bill to reduce storm damage and lower future FEMA costs. Community & Culture: New Orleans civil rights icon Jerome “Big Duck” Smith died at 87, remembered for Freedom Rides work and youth programs through Tambourine & Fan. Business & Tech: Meta’s new “America’s Workforce Academy” is pitched as a debt-free, paid training model aimed at filling skilled-trades jobs tied to AI infrastructure.

Lawsuit Over School Bullying: Baton Rouge-area parents filed a federal lawsuit against BASIS Baton Rouge Materra, alleging the school failed to address race-based bullying and harassment and didn’t investigate complaints through its Title VI coordinator. NCAA Eligibility Fight: The NCAA scored a legal win as the 10th Circuit paused a ruling that would have let some 2022 graduates play a fifth season, potentially affecting athletes tied to the Colorado case while other state-court wins may still stand. Public Safety—Shooting: New Orleans police are investigating a shooting on Chef Menteur Highway that sent two victims to the hospital. Health Alert—Egg Recall: The FDA upgraded a large salmonella egg recall to its highest-risk level; Louisiana is among the states where affected eggs were distributed. Community & Health: Webb’s Barbershop in Baton Rouge hosts a free cancer screening event this weekend with prostate and colorectal checks. Local Sports: LSU New Orleans volleyball will play Dillard in its final scrimmage before the regular season. Weather: The Storm Prediction Center raised parts of southeast Louisiana to a Level 2 severe weather risk, with storms expected later Friday.

Gas Prices: AAA says crude oil strength is pushing Arizona and the national average higher, with the national regular-gas average now at $4.10. Energy Costs & Data Centers: A new explainer argues data-center demand is driving “capacity charges” that can raise bills even when overall electricity demand is down. Public Health: Louisiana health officials warn of bacteria and algae risks in waterways during extreme heat, urging residents to follow posted advisories. Local Infrastructure: Neighbors in New Orleans say a Sewerage and Water Board hole on Amelia Street has sat open for months and poses a danger to kids. Deportations: The U.S. resumed deportations to Haiti after the Supreme Court cleared the end of humanitarian protections, with the first group arriving in Cap-Haïtien. Sports—NFL: The Cowboys and Saints were each fined $500,000 after brawls during a joint practice. Education/Sports Law: A federal judge in Louisiana ordered the NCAA to reopen the transfer portal for 16 rookie NFL players seeking a fifth year. Community & Safety: Baton Rouge and New Orleans coverage also highlights burn-ban grilling questions and e-bicycle safety concerns.

Mall of Louisiana Shooting: Markel Lee, 18, was indicted on second-degree murder and attempted murder charges after the April attack that killed a Youngsville teen and injured five others. Housing & Courts: New Orleans reversed cuts to its “right to counsel” eviction-prevention program, restoring $750,000 so tenants keep free legal help through the end of the year. Public Health: Louisiana confirmed a rare brain-eating amoeba case tied to Lake Claiborne, warning residents to watch for symptoms during peak swim season. Environment: LDH urged people to avoid Henderson Lake areas after a confirmed blue-green algae bloom, since toxins can’t be judged by sight alone. Education & Policy: Louisiana schools adopted new physical education standards, while a Louisiana court order gives some NFL-signed players a shot at returning to college sports. Local Business: Baton Rouge opened a new neon “claw arcade” on Siegen Lane, adding to the city’s growing arcade scene. Sports: Saints’ Kendre Miller roster spot is under scrutiny as injuries and depth shape New Orleans’ final cuts.

College Sports Legal Fight: A Louisiana state-court TRO lets former Ole Miss starters Dae’Quan Wright, Zxavian Harris and Wydett Williams (plus others) return to college for a fifth season while they sue the NCAA—after some players signed with NFL teams and want out of those contracts. Healthcare Tech & Privacy: Louisiana’s Act 649 now requires clinicians to verbally disclose AI-assisted recording before any part of an appointment is transcribed by AI, pushing providers to tighten workflows and documentation. Baton Rouge Nightlife Safety: A downtown nightclub owner proposes a 90-day safety plan after viral fight videos, including more police presence, incident tracking, and new post-close procedures. Local Education & Workforce: Lafayette Parish and SoLAcc celebrated five welding graduates from a sheriff’s re-entry program, aiming to connect returning citizens to construction jobs. Amazon Delivery Expansion: Amazon plans to expand drone delivery to nearly 500 U.S. cities by year’s end, with some packages arriving in about 30 minutes. Election Integrity Watch: DOJ election monitors are active even in red states, as concerns persist about noncitizens appearing on voter rolls.

FDA Leadership: President Trump selected Dr. Heidi Overton, a White House health-policy aide, to lead the Food and Drug Administration, setting up a Senate confirmation fight over how the agency will handle drug pricing, innovation, and shifting priorities. Public Safety/Local Rules: Drones are banned over LSU’s Tiger Stadium during home games, with enforcement from an hour before kickoff to an hour after, and penalties for violators. Health Watch: Louisiana kindergarten measles vaccination rates fell to 90.3%, with exemptions rising, as U.S. measles cases climb to their highest level in decades. Education Courts: A Baker school board candidate was disqualified over residency rules, while a Zachary candidate survived a tax-filing challenge. Baton Rouge Schools/Justice: A Scotlandville High School student was arrested on a warrant, according to district officials. Tech & Delivery: Amazon’s Prime Air drone delivery is expanding to nearly 500 U.S. cities, including Baton Rouge, as the company pushes faster, small-package delivery. Energy/Coast: A federal judge dismissed Exxon’s coastal damages case after settlement, a move that could clear the way for a Louisiana spaceport plan. Sports (Local Interest): The Rams and Saints hold another joint practice in advance of preseason, with fights and QB reps still a key storyline.