Here is the context:
As the Louisiana Legislature headed toward its adjournment this week, they were dealing with serious issues -- like cuts to health care and higher education.
On Wednesday, on the eve of their adjournment, the House of Representatives took a little time out for some rapping -- and they're getting ridiculed for it over the internet.
The House paused for a few minutes Wednesday afternoon to recognize singer Hurricane Chris of Shreveport.
He was introduced by state Rep. Barbara Norton of Shreveport, his godmother. After being commended by the Legislature for his musical accomplishments, Hurricane Chris spoke briefly to some of the state's leaders before the House cranked up the music and he sang from his song, "Hally Berry (She's Fine)" -- albeit a version free of the explicit lyrics and racial slurs in the main version.
The caption of the video on YouTube www.youtube.com calls it "loony looziana legislature reaches a new low."
Norton disagrees with the criticism, saying it's important to recognize the positive things done in Louisiana.
"We were stopping for just a minute saying, 'We love Louisiana; this is our home.' It wasn't like we took 30-40 minutes."
Such ceremonies happen a lot in the Legislature, but after Wednesday's episode some lawmakers say they are going to exercise a little more control.
Earlier in the week, three leaders of the House told their colleagues that their disputes have become too divisive and too personal.
Rep. Jane Smith of Bossier City, the head of the House's Republican caucus, suggested that House Speaker Jim Tucker, a fellow Republican, needs to improve his leadership style.
Smith stood with the leaders of the black caucus and the Democratic caucus -- Reps. Regina Barrow and Karen St. Germain -- on the House floor, saying they wanted to see communication improved in the House and fewer personal spats affecting legislation.
After the speech, Smith said she didn't think Tucker's leadership job was threatened but said he needs to reach out to lawmakers in the next few months and take better control of the chamber.
Tucker said the legislative session has been a tough one but he isn't worried about losing his position as Speaker.
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