| BY CHAD CALDER | Staff writer |
Three months and a pipeline? There have been several new developments concerning the saltwater encroachment up the Mississippi River. The White House has issued an emergency declaration for four threatened Louisiana parishes, while officials warned that barges of fresh drinking water won't likely be enough to provide for the east bank of New Orleans and Jefferson. That has prompted a scramble to see if a pipeline can be built. Also, it appears we'll be dealing with salt in our water for longer than originally expected. Mike Smith has the story. Meanwhile, the metro area's drinking water is going to eventually be too salty for human consumption, but there are populations that are particularly sensitive or at-risk. People with certain health conditions, pregnant women and those with infants who use tap water for formula will have to be extra vigilant about increasing salinity. Emily Woodruff has the details. Hurdle cleared: Earlier this year, the Federal Trade Commission sued to block LCMC Health's bid to buy three Tulane-branded hospitals. On Wednesday, a federal judge sided with the hospitals, ruling that LCMC sought the correct state approvals for the $150 million deal. Stephanie Riegel has the story. The wait continues: The federal judge who will decide whether New Orleans' short-term rental regulations are constitutional will take a bit more time with the decision. U.S. District Judge Ivan Lemelle said he wants more information on how short-term rentals impact affordable housing and rent prices before he rules on the fate of the latest rules regime. Ben Myers has this report. Thank you for starting your day with Morning Headlines. Check out all the latest news, sports and entertainment coverage from The Times-Picayune. Chad | 