Earlier reports in the media that New Orleans businesses can get passes to return were issued by mistake. That process does not exist yet. He’s waiting on a report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before he will make a decision on people returning, and he expects that report in the next two days.

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St. Bernard Parish had a public meeting today at the Capitol in Baton Rouge. Thousands of people showed up to listen to their leaders and express their concerns. The Parish received severe damage from the storm. Estimates are that 30,000 homes were lost. Most of the water has receded, but officials estimate it would take 4 more months to clean up the Parish. Soil samples were taken to determine toxic levels and should be ready tomorrow. Once that is evaluated a timetable will be established for residents to return and check on their property. Arabi and Upper Chalmette will likely be among the first neighborhoods to be allowed back, with other areas being allowed back based upon safe environmental levels. There will be more details on this in the coming weeks.