Driving literacy: State Rep. Mike Bayham, R-Chalmette, plans to introduce legislation for a special Dolly Parton license plate in Louisiana, with a $25 fee supporting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which provides free monthly books to children up to age 5. The program, which expanded statewid e under former Gov. John Bel Edwards in 2023, aims to reach children in every Louisiana ZIP code. The plates could become available as early as next year if Bayham’s legislation passes during the legislative session beginning in April. Louisiana Illuminator has the full story. Topping 7%: Mortgage rates climbed to 7.03% this week, up from 6.3% a year ago and the highest level since January 2025, adding pressure to housing affordability amid elevated energy costs and economic uncertainty. Higher oil prices, persistent inflation and a 10-year Treasury yield above 5% have pushed borrowing costs higher, while existing-home sales fell 2% in August to their lowest level since June 2025. The higher rates are weighing on home sales, refinancing and new construction as homeowners remain reluctant to give up low-rate mortgages, though analysts expect the market could gradually thaw as life events force more homeowners to move. The New York Times has the full story. Products falsely labeled: Star Meat Delivery is recalling about 167,639 pounds of raw pork, beef and goat products after the USDA found they were falsely labeled as federally inspected. The products, distributed to retailers and restaurants nationwide, may carry a false USDA inspection mark and include sliced rib eye, beef short ribs, pork chorizo and goat products. The USDA classified the recall as Class I, its highest risk level, and advised consumers to discard the products or return them, although no illnesses or injuries have been confirmed. The Washington Post has the full story. Nuclear campus Would you support a nuclear energy campus being developed in Louisiana? Yes, it could attract major investment Yes, if safety concerns are addressed No Not sure Vote Δ ...read more read less