Mississippi Edition

Mississippi lawmakers are being urged to consider paid maternity leave for the thousands of state employees. Then, there's a push to end forced labor in prisons in the South. Lawyers for prisoners say they're made to do work that is low-paid and often dangerous Also, earthquake drills are happening across the nation today as part of the "Great Shakeout" preparedness campaign.

Nearly 5 years after the largest embezzlement scandal in Mississippi history, Democrats in the state legislature are calling for reform of the federal program meant to help the state's poorest residents.Then, The University of Mississippi Medical Center is receiving a nearly $1.8 million grant to improve lung cancer screenings in the state.  Plus, a survey asks Mississippians how they feel about the availability of mental health services in the state.

Nearly two years after the federal takeover of the City of Jackson's water system, residents are expressing satisfaction and concern with the city's water system at two public hearings. Then, Evacuating for a storm isn't just a question of safety. It's also one of cost. A look at the expensive choice of leaving a storm's path. Plus, The University of Southern Mississippi has renewed a partnership with NOAA that will help train the next generation of ocean explorers.

As the war between Israel and Hamas continues into its second year, Palestinians in Mississippi are grappling with how the conflict has evolved.Then, millions of federal dollars are being directed to small businesses in Mississippi.Plus, a new book shares the complex history of Mississippi's political system, and leaders pushing to make the state better.

Should medical cannabis companies be allowed to advertise in the state? That's the issue before a panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.  Then, it's fire prevention week in Mississippi. Officials are reminding folks to check their smoke detectors and have fire extinguishers on hand.Plus, Over 100 hundred thousand kids in the Gulf South now have access to an AI-powered tutor helping them learn to read.

A Mississippi rabbi reflects on the mix of emotions felt over the Israel-Hamas War. This week marks the one year anniversary of the conflict.Then...October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Mississippi has one of the highest rates of the disease and healthcare providers are urging early detection.Plus, you'll hear from a Mississippi National Guardsman in South Carolina helping with recovery efforts from the massive and destructive Hurricane Helene.

Education officials are unveiling a new plan to engage students and prepare them for the workforce. They say it starts as early as Pre-k.Then, cyber-security experts will teach JSU students to identify risks and protect power grids through a $2 million dollar grant from Entergy.Plus, MPB's Michael McEwen provides an update on the controversial Bonne Carre Spillway openings.

Today is the last day Mississippians can register to vote and still cast a ballot in the November general election.Then, teachers are getting special training about the pros and cons of generative A-I in classrooms.Plus, federal lawmakers are considering more accountability for welfare block grants and how they can be spent. 

Lawmakers are working on policy recommendations they say will hopefully improve the lives of women and children.Then, the Army Corps of Engineers is sharing data about the opening of the Bonnie Carrie Spillway.Plus, the 165th Annual Mississippi State Fair is underway. It's a major economic driver for the City of Jackson, and a cornerstone of state agriculture.