Strib Voices publishes a mix of commentary online and in print each day. To contribute, click here. ••• One of the most difficult moments in my dad’s long and losing battle with Parkinson’s disease is how suddenly his care needs escalated.

House Republicans in Congress approved President Donald Trump's multitrillion-dollar tax breaks and spending cuts bill in a narrow vote Thursday, overcoming setbacks to pass Trump's signature second-term policy package before a Fourth of July deadline.

Of the $16.4 billion annual Medicaid costs for Louisiana, state taxpayers kick in about $3 billion, according to the Legislature. The new law would halt some of the tools Louisiana uses to pay that $3 billion, requiring the state to pour in extra money or let some people go without health insurance.