Mississippi Edition

With prisons on lock down after a string of deaths, we take a closer look at the condition of Mississippi's corrections department.

Plus, ten years after a tragedy, new school bus safety equipment is being introduced in Mississippi.

And, after Byte Size Tech, a conversation with Senator Dean Kirby. 

Segment 1:

Prison systems remain on lock down after more than a week of violent behavior at two state prisons and one regional prison. The violence resulted in five inmate deaths and several injuries. All five victims were killed by other inmates. Lisa Graybill is the Deputy Legal Director for the Southern Poverty Law Center. She tells MPB's Ashley Norwood that this outbreak of violence is unique to Mississippi.

On Friday during her re-election filing event, Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith joined Senator Wicker in expressing support of the President's actions.

Segment 2:

Ten years ago Nathan Key was killed after being stuck by a passing car while getting off of his school bus. Now, Safe Fleet, a manufacturer of safety solutions for fleet vehicles is introducing technology designed to prevent those types of accidents. Chris Akiyama is the Vice President of School Bus Safety. He explains the predictive stop arm with our Michael Guidry.

Lori Key McJohnson is Nathan Key's mother. In 2011 she pushed the state legislature to pass Nathan's Law, which increased penalties for driving past a stopped school bus. She worked with Safe Fleet to bring the technology to Jones County. She tells us about her role and her continued efforts in advocating for school bus safety.  

Segment 3:

Byte Size Tech

Segment 4:

The 2020 Legislative session is slated to begin this week. When the Senate convenes, Republican Dean Kirby of Rankin County is expected to be voted in as the next Pro Tempore. He talks with our Desare Frazier about his anticipated role and what he is looking forward to this session.