Mississippi Edition

Almost 3 dozen people convicted of felony crimes in Mississippi could soon have their voting rights restored.  Then, Law enforcement officials in Jackson say a federal program meant to address gangs and other violent crimes in the capital city -is set to begin soon.  Plus, fluctuating crop prices have caused major shifts in what's being planted this year.

A newly released report shows racial and ethnic health disparities are persistent across the U.S., especially in the deep south.  Mississippi Tree farmers who lost forest land during last year's extreme drought are now eligible to receive federal assistance for their losses. Plus, tomorrow is National Record Store Day.  Audiophiles and vinyl collectors will be in search of that one-of-a-kind item. 

Civil rights advocates are seeking a way to restore voting rights to people who have served their time for convictions on certain felonies. Then, for the second day in a row, a coalition of activists rally at the state Capitol for full Medicaid expansion in Mississippi. Plus, a Native American author is honored for her contributions in children's literature. 

A coalition of religious and nonprofit groups is rallying for full Medicaid expansion in Mississippi, calling it a moral imperative. Then from the Gulf States Newsroom: a former New Orleans police chief is pushing for changes to federal marijuana rules.Plus, civil rights activists are gathering signatures to oust the Sheriff of Rankin County for his lack of oversight over the 'Goon Squad.'

Attorneys claim a 15 year old student from Canton was physically assaulted by her school's resource officer.Then, healthcare experts say getting pregnancy health screenings can greatly increase the survivability of very premature births.Plus, a new book shares the experience of an NPR journalist who left the evangelical church.

Some Mississippi lawmakers want to replace the federal health insurance exchange with a state-based one.From the Gulf States Newsroom, crawfish prices skyrocketed this season. Farmers and fishermen are struggling as they try to sell the little crawfish they’ve been able to catch.Plus, the deadline to file taxes is midnight on Monday, April 15th.

The Mississippi House is reviving their education funding bill, despite Senate efforts to block it.From the Gulf States Newsroom: Jackson has struggled to keep drinking water safe and affordable. Now, the city's taking a new approach through one of the nation's oldest safety nets.Plus, billions of taxpayer dollars are being used to fund plastics manufacturers that pollute. That's according to a new report from the Environmental Integrity Project.

State courts are handing down sentencing for six former Rankin County law enforcement officers for their attack and torture of two black men.From the Gulf States Newsroom: Medicaid expansion could provide health coverage to many in Alabama. Advocates say folks without it are struggling, and providers are feeling the strain.Plus, organizers are kicking off day 1 of the 21st annual Juke Joint Festival in Clarksdale. 

Severe thunderstorms are sweeping through Mississippi today. We're speaking to the National Weather Service.Then, the Mississippi Department of Transportation says they need more funding to keep the state's roads and bridges safe.Plus, the debate continues on if Mississippi lawmakers should intervene in the state employees' retirement system.