| BY CHAD CALDER | Staff writer |
Universities speak out against efforts to monitor diversity programs: Louisiana universities are decrying an effort to force schools to report to state officials and lawmakers about how their diversity, equity and inclusion programs work. Republicans say it's an issue of accountability. But one of those university officials told a legislative panel Wednesday that the proposed bill is "a racist instrument." James Finn has the story. Will he run? District Attorney Jason Williams, a Democrat, says he's considering running for governor in light of attacks by the Republican frontrunner, state Attorney General Jeff Landry. Williams says others have encouraged him to run, and he called Landry's digs at him and New Orleans racist. Meanwhile, Gov. John Bel Edwards has weighed in on the possibility of a Williams candidacy. Tyler Bridges has the story. A look back, and a warning: Chip Kline, the state's point man on coastal restoration and hurricane risk reduction, is stepping down. Mark Schleifstein sat down with him to talk about efforts to address land loss during his five-year tenure, and Kline warned that abandoning progress on coastal restoration would mean dire consequences for the state. Thank you for starting your day with Morning Headlines. Catch up on the latest news on NOLA.com. Chad | 