Mississippi Edition

Officials say a federal program to increase Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements to rural hospitals could be a lifeline for their community.Then, aspiring Mississippi entrepreneurs seek to win a $15 thousand dollar prize for innovative tech ideas.Plus, we speak with a member of the Tougaloo 9, whose read-in protest in the 1960's helped lead the charge to desegregate libraries.

Two victims attacked, tortured and sexually assaulted by law enforcement in Rankin County reach a settlement in a civil lawsuit.Then, the governor says major investments in electrical grids could put Mississippi at an advantage in the race for AI development.Plus, protesters continue their calls for congress to reign in the numerous cuts and executive orders issued by the White House.Also, Celebrating the National Day of Prayer in Jackson at the Mississippi Coliseum.

The Mississippi Department of Education announces gains in pre-k education.Then, Mississippians are wearing denim to help erase the stigma that victims of sexual assault can face.Plus, a new law will soon start the process of eliminating the state income tax. It's garnered praise by some, and the ire of others.

Mississippi School leaders have mixed reactions to the U.S. Department of Education freezing COVID-related federal funding.  Then, a federal program supporting volunteer work in the state ends today.Plus, a new law regulates the herbal drug Kratom, which some say could be a major boon in the fight against opioid deaths.

A new report identifies a company with a chicken processing plant in Mississippi as one of the 12 most dangerous places to work in the country.Then, a new state law prohibits camping in public property not designated for that purpose. Critics say it unfairly targets Mississippians who are un-housed.Plus, what will federal cuts to AmeriCorps could mean for the state.

Sexual violence is not rare in Mississippi. A coalition of advocates are trying to help folks stay safe and access resources after an attack.Then, Mississippi's 2nd district congressman shares his thoughts about the ongoing budget cuts and tariff discussions happening in Washington.Plus, cuts are being proposed for Medicaid. It's a program many rely on to afford elder care, and providers say it's making their jobs more challenging.

Parents, childcare workers and advocates are calling on the state Department of Human Services to provide funding after abrupt cuts made in Washington.Then, 2nd District Congressman Bennie Thompson holds a town hall meeting to talk about policy changes by the Trump Administration.Plus, For the first time rap superstar Lil Wayne headlines the Jazz Fest beginning this weekend in New Orleans. Hear why this is a big deal for other rappers in the city.

The Mississippians who have donated their bodies to science are honored.Then, a new marker helps tell the story of Rosa Scott, a pioneer in education for African Americans who helped establish a school. We speak with the teacher who spearheaded the effort to erect a historic marker in her honor. Plus, A pause on collecting student loan debt has been lifted. One Mississippian shares her experience about her experience trying to pay back the loans.