Mississippi / Public News Service

The orange bag inside the Safe Haven Baby Boxes includes information on trafficking and Safe Haven registry resources. The mothers also have the option to send back identity, ethnicity and medical information for the child if they wish. (Save Haven Baby Boxes)

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Expansion of Safe Haven Baby Boxes across Mississippi counties underway

Advocates said Mississippi is taking a big step toward infant safety with the expansion of Safe Haven Baby Boxes in the state. Nationwide, more than …

More than 80% of jurisdictions impose conditions related to employment or vocational training, with 27 requiring it without exceptions. Many on probation face high unemployment rates and struggle to balance job expectations with mandatory meetings and programs. (rh2010/Adobe)

Standard probation conditions set Mississippians up for failure

A new report offers a detailed look at "standard" conditions for probation in Mississippi and nationwide, affecting nearly 3 million people. The …

Conventional farming methods often involve the use of herbicides and fungicides to suppress weeds and fungi. Tilling the soil, a common practice, disrupts vital fungal networks, creating a cycle of dependence on chemical inputs. (Dusan Kostic/Adobe Stock)

Fungi help MS farmers unlock 'secrets' of healthy soil

By Grey Moran for Civil Eats.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Mississippi News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public…

AARP Mississippi helped pass The Caregiver Act, making it one of the first states to implement such legislation, in 2015. (Malambo/peopleimages/Adobe Stock)

Mississippi group provides support, resources to family caregivers

The holidays can be both joyful and bittersweet for family members caring for loved ones. AARP Mississippi said it is working to help meet the …

Anita Krecic, 65, has been in prison since 1987 for the killing of a Mississippi highway patrolman by her then-boyfriend. Despite her exemplary record, parole boards have repeatedly denied her release, most recently in 2022, with another review set for 2030. (Adobe Stock)

Five Mississippi women serving 175 Years, with 47 parole denials

By Christopher Blackwell and Loretta Pierre for The Appeal.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Mississippi News Connection reporting for The Appea…

Mississippi Food Network distributes over 1.5 million pounds of food each month, reaching more than 150,000 people monthly, or about 1.8 million individuals annually. (ivlianna/Adobe Stock)

USDA funding boosts MS Food Network’s fresh produce distribution

Supported by federal funding, a nonprofit network is working to ensure Mississippi families have access to the food they will need this winter…

Diabetes significantly raises medical expenses for Americans, costing about 2.6 times more for those affected. (Studio Romantic/Adobe Stock)

Mississippians encouraged to prevent diabetes with healthier habits

November is National Diabetes Month and experts say with healthier habits, more Mississippians can reverse prediabetes and prevent Type 2 diabetes …

A University of California Berkeley report revealed early educators working only with infants and toddlers are paid about $8,000 less per year than those working exclusively with children age 3-5, not yet in kindergarten. (Mangpor2004/Adobe Stock)

Mississippi child care workers struggle with poverty wages

A new report showed child care workers across the nation, including in Mississippi, are struggling with poverty-level wages. The report revealed the …

In Mississippi, mail-in absentee ballots must have a Nov. 5 postmark and reach county circuit clerk's offices by Nov. 13. (Andrey Popov/Adobe Stock)

What Mississippi voters can expect on Election Day

A majority of Mississippians and across the nation said they are anxious about this year's presidential election, according to a recent poll…

Teacher, educator and administrator vacancies saw notable increases with 182 more teacher openings, nine additional K-12 licensed educator positions and 25 more administrative roles across Mississippi. (Rawpixel/Adobe)

Grow Your Own recruiting Gen Z to alleviate teacher shortage in Mississippi

As teacher shortages grip Mississippi classrooms, a nonprofit is recruiting Generation Z educators to teach, tutor, and lead schools. A survey by …

Many people who rely on 'Part D' coverage for essential medications like those used to treat diabetes, heart failure and cancer will likely pay less out-of-pocket for these drugs, starting in 2025. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

Medicare open enrollment in MS requires some homework

Medicare open enrollment is underway and older adults in Mississippi are being encouraged to weigh their coverage options. More than 625,000 people …

In 15 states, 5% or more of the African American adult population is banned from voting because of a felony conviction. (Seventyfour/Adobe Stock)

Report: More than 68,000 Mississippians can’t vote due to felony convictions

In Mississippi, thousands of people will not be able to vote in the general elections due to a past felony conviction. Research by The Sentencing …

Experts said children from low-income households will likely face serious problems in achieving both in school and in life. (Adobe Stock)

Childhood poverty high in Mississippi, but experts know how to fix it

By Marianne Dhenin for Yes! Media.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Mississippi News Connection reporting for the Yes! Media-Public News …

About 21% of Mississippi residents are Medicare beneficiaries, or about 625,000 people. That's higher than the national average of 19%. ((JLco/Julia Amaral/Adobe Stock)

Report: MS seniors to benefit from Medicare drug price cap

Mississippians on Medicare could see big savings next year, as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. More than 19,000 Mississippi residents will …

As of Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, Mississippi's Statewide Election Management System reported more than 38,000 absentee ballots requested for the November General Election. (Adobe Stock)

Experts analyze key issues uniting Mississippi's rural and urban voters

During this contentious election season, people may think rural and urban Mississippi voters are hopelessly divided but experts said it is largely a …

A report from the Brennan Center for Justice urges policymakers to invest in alternatives to cash bail and provide support for pretrial services, such as supervision programs, as well as increased access to mental health and substance abuse treatment. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

Report makes case for eliminating cash bail system

A new report outlines how eliminating cash bail could affect people in Mississippi and beyond. The ACLU of Mississippi said 14 of 25 people in jail …

Health care professionals warn that untreated bouts of postpartum depression can lead to serious health consequences, both for the new parent and their child. (Adobe Stock)

Groups provide new treatment options for postpartum depression

More new babies are born in the fall than any other time of year, which also means some new mothers may be heading into winter with what is sometimes …

During the holiday seasons of Fiscal Years 2021 and 2022, the U.S. Postal Service handled record mail volumes with improved average delivery times, dropping from 2.7 to 2.5 days despite high volume. (Robert Latawiec/Adobe Stock)

MS part of National Day of Action to save the Postal Service

This is a National Day of Action for workers at the U.S. Postal Service. Mississippi postal workers are among those rallying to demand that Postal …

According to a survey by the National Federation of Independent Business, 59% of small business owners said they would face negative consequences if the 20% Qualified Business Income deduction expires. (DimaBerlin/Adobe Stock)

MS small businesses look to Congress to keep tax break alive

Just as inflation starts to ease, Mississippi small businesses face another looming threat: the potential expiration of the small business deduction…

In 2022, about 70 million people received financial assistance from Social Security programs.<br />(Jetcityimage/Adobe Stock)

Stay vigilant: Mississippians urged to protect Social Security numbers

In Mississippi, the demand for Social Security cards is soaring, with thousands of Mississippians requesting appointments for new cards. While a …

At least 25 state prison systems and federal prisons offer copay waivers for chronic conditions and 13 states provide copay exemptions for pregnancy-related care. (photogeek/Adobe Stock)

Medical copays reduce health care access in MS prisons

Researchers have found that higher copays for health care obstruct access to receiving care behind bars, even as prison populations in Mississippi …

Operation Good works to improve life in Mississippi and recently held a community block party, inviting single moms and their kids to help to curb violence in Jackson. (Photo courtesy of Operation Good)

'Operation Good' collaborates with single moms to fight crime

A new initiative for single mothers and their sons is helping to combat crime and empower vulnerable community members in Jackson. The nonprofit …

Many Latinos consider the Mississippi River a vital part of their cultural identity. More than half of Latinos live within 10 miles of the river and a significant portion frequently visit nearby parks and trails for recreational activities. (EWY Media/Adobe Stock)

MS Latinos call for cleaner environment along Mississippi River

The latest survey of Latino voters in Mississippi and nine other states reveals overwhelming support for environmental initiatives, with 87% favoring …

In Mississippi, on a typical day 56 out of 100,000 youth nationwide are held in juvenile facilities, pre- and post-adjudication, with rates varying widely among other states. (Adobe Stock)

Report: MS youth incarceration snapshot reveals hope amid disparities

A new report shows the rate of juvenile crime continues to fall, but disparities remain in Mississippi and nationwide. The Sentencing Project report …

The Sentencing Project found Mississippi is one in four states where more than 10% of people serving life or virtual life sentences with a chance of parole were under 18 when they were convicted. (MemoryMan/Adobe)

Report: Mississippi has not made progress in youth sentencing reforms

Efforts to reform juvenile sentencing in the U.S. have made significant strides but a new report showed Mississippi is lagging behind. A study by …

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, low-income households participating in the Solar for All program can expect to save an average of around $400 a year on their electricity bills. (SpeedShutter/Adobe Stock)

Mississippi economy to benefit from $7 billion solar initiative

Mississippi is among 49 states to receive funding from the $7 billion Solar for All program. Part of the Inflation Reduction Act, the program aims …

The recipients of the USDA's Discrimination Financial Assistance Program include more than 23,000 individuals who have operated farms or ranches, receiving assistance up to $500,000. (JackF/Adobe Stock)<br />

Mississippi minority farmers to receive USDA discrimination payments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing direct payments to Mississippi minority farmers and ranchers who faced past discrimination and there …

A survey found half the residents at the Cherokee Forest Subdivision reported they consider themselves

MS Cherokee group: Industrial pollution threatens families

A rural Mississippi community is fighting to protect the health of some Cherokee residents threatened by industrial pollution. Barbara Weckesser…

By analyzing DNA from shark-bitten fish caught by charter boats, scientists determined that sandbar and bull sharks are the primary culprits behind these attacks. (Adobe)

MS anglers demand action as shark depredation challenges rise

Along the Gulf Coast, Mississippi anglers are concerned about sharks stealing their catch, or what's known as shark depredation. The resurgence of …

The Mississippi Black Women's Roundtable recently wrapped up its fourth

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Aiming to boost Black women's voter engagement in MS

As the November general election approaches, Mississippi groups are ramping up efforts to boost Black voter participation. The Magnolia State has a …

Pastor Wesley Bridges, CEO of Clergy for Prison Reform, with participants at a

MS conference to focus on redemption, 'second chances'

Formerly incarcerated Mississippians will share their stories about rebuilding their lives at the "Redemption Over Retribution" fall conference next m…

Approximately 16 of every 1,000 Mississippians were prescribed Ozempic last year, according to insurance data analyzed by health analytics firm PurpleLab. (Fernanda/AdobeStock)

Counterfeit weight loss medication spreads across Mississippi, nation

Counterfeit medicine sales are on the rise in Mississippi and nationwide. Online scammers are counterfeiting the weight-loss drug Ozempic, including …

Mississippi releases more than 127,000 men and more than 29,000 women from its prisons and jails annually. (NanSan/Adobe Stock)

MS 'Rethinking Reentry' conference to focus on criminal justice, resources

In Mississippi, people face many barriers to restarting their lives after prison and this week, the "Rethinking Reentry" conference will focus on …

If finalized, proposed federal rules would prohibit the use of medical devices as loan collateral and prevent the repossession of essential items, like wheelchairs and prosthetic limbs, due to unpaid debts. (zimmytws/Adobe Stock)

MS could benefit from eliminating medical debt from credit reports

Many Mississippians could see higher credit scores if a rule proposed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau goes into effect. The proposal …

The AARP Community Challenge grant program funds projects through three different grant opportunities: flagship grants, capacity-building microgrants and demonstration grants. (pressmaster/Adobe Stock)

AARP awards grants to help four MS communities boost 'livability'

Civic organizations with ideas for improving their communities have a new opportunity to turn their ideas into reality, thanks to recently awarded …

A staggering 421 Mississippians lost their lives to suicide in 2021, while an alarming 107,000 adults considered suicide. (AntonioDiaz/Adobe)

MS response rate to 988 crisis hotline reaches 98%

A health report by the non-profit group called "Inseparable" shows Mississippi's 988 crisis line has a 98% response rate. The report shows the role …

Each year, extreme heat claims about 1,220 lives in the U.S., though the fatalities are avoidable. The CDC says proper precautions could prevent heat-related deaths and illnesses. (Africa Studio/Adobe Stock)

Expert: Tips for MS children to stay safe during the summer

As summer heats up in Mississippi, paying close attention to children is essential to keep them safe, cool and healthy while they enjoy the outdoors…

Mississippi allocates about $40 million annually to college student financial assistance. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

Expert offers tips for smart student-loan repayment

Mississippians who have just graduated from college this summer may be celebrating now but they also just joined the millions of Americans facing stud…

Black people in Mississippi are incarcerated at a rate 2.5 times higher than white people. (Framestock/AdobeStock)

Prison reform proposal seeks federal funding to reduce state prison populations

A new proposal could reduce the number of people behind bars in Mississippi. Currently, approximately 27,000 people are jailed, mainly in state …

A price change for mail service will take effect July 14. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a first class Forever stamp from 68 to 73 cents. (AdobeStock)

Mississippi observes National Postal Worker Day

Today is National Postal Workers Day, celebrated annually to show appreciation for postal workers in Mississippi and across the country. The U.S…

Nearly one out of 10 adults in Mississippi is disenfranchised, constituting 9.36% of the population. (Tada Images/Adobe Stock)

Eligible incarcerated people may request absentee ballots Monday in MS

A new bill that takes effect next Monday will allow incarcerated Mississippians to request an absentee ballot in time for the presidential election on…

To participate in Mississippi's work-release program, individuals must be within two years of their release date and have not had disciplinary action within the last 12 months. (Tjshot/Adobe Stock)

MS expands work-release program, job training to reduce recidivism

Mississippi's pilot work-release program for incarcerated individuals has been extended to three years. The program allows qualified participants to …

Individuals convicted of a nonviolent felony offense in Mississippi will be eligible for parole consideration only after serving either 25% of their total sentence or a minimum of 10 years in prison, whichever is less time. (wolfhound911/Adobe Stock)

MS parole law renewal aims to reduce recidivism, boost economy

Advocates said continuing parole is vital for Mississippi's families, businesses and communities. Senate Bill 2448 keeps the current parole law in …

Both public and private organizations across Mississippi reported using Mississippi Kids Count data for grant applications over the past three years resulted in a collective $48 million to programs and services in the state. (gpointstudio/Adobe Stock)

Report: Some progress, but low rankings, for MS kids' well-being

Mississippi ranks near the bottom among states for children's well-being, at 49th overall in the new Kids Count Data Book from the Annie E. Casey …

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law significantly impacts the cleanup of orphaned oil and gas wells. Since its passage, states have plugged more than 7,000 wells, eliminating an estimated 11,530 metric tons of potential methane emissions. (MarekPhotoDesign.com/AdobeStock)

Mississippi receives $6.8 million in federal funds to clean up orphaned wells

New federal funding will help bolster Mississippi's efforts to track down, clean up and tackle pollution from orphaned oil and gas wells. The …

Prison-to-College Pipeline Program Director Patrick Alexander, far right, and PTCPP teaching assistant, Juyoun Jang, far left, celebrate with PTCPP students who completed the Summer 2022 course titled,

Prison-to-College Pipeline Program empowers men at Parchman

A program in Mississippi is increasing access to educational opportunities for those behind bars. The University of Mississippi's Prison-to-College …

The 2024 hurricane season spans from June 1 to Nov. 30. Experts anticipate it will be among the most active seasons ever recorded. (Davivd/Adobe Stock)

Coastal MS child care centers get help preparing for hurricane season

The nonprofit Save the Children is working with child care centers along the Mississippi coast, with plans and tools to help them reopen or resume …

The Mississippi Access to Care Network assists seniors, people with disabilities and their loved ones in finding the care and support they need to live independently for as long as possible. (wavebreak3/Adobe Stock)

Working to create connections, age-friendly communities in MS

May is Older Americans Month, a time to recognize Mississippians over 50 and their contributions, and reaffirm commitments to serving older adults in …

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