New Orleans Courts: A Baton Rouge judge temporarily blocked Louisiana’s law eliminating three Orleans Parish Criminal District Court judgeships, setting up a fast-moving fight as AG Liz Murrill says the state will appeal and qualifying for the seats starts Aug. 5. Public Safety & Justice: A Louisiana man was charged with murder after allegedly killing a deputy U.S. marshal during a standoff while officers served an arrest warrant in Alexandria. State-Local Tension: In a sign of the ongoing strain between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Mayor Helena Moreno and Gov. Jeff Landry traded barbs over whether they’ll meet to address the city’s financial problems. Flood Oversight: After Saturday’s New Orleans flooding, Sewerage and Water Board members asked no questions following the executive director’s report, despite concerns about pump failures and human error. AI Policy: Louisiana’s AI bills largely stalled this year after federal push for a national framework, with lawmakers signaling they may revisit proposals in 2027. Consumer Protection: AG Liz Murrill announced Louisiana’s share of a multistate $45 million settlement with Block/Cash App over alleged fraud and misleading protections. Health & Crime Trends: An editorial points to improving violent-crime patterns in Louisiana’s largest cities, especially New Orleans, while noting work remains. Business & Labor: A Louisiana workforce training push includes a new Workforce Pell program aimed at expanding access to short-term training. Sports: LSU opens the season at home vs. Clemson, with betting markets favoring the Tigers.