Missouri News & Current Events | Public News Service

One in five people in the United States lives in an area classified as non-urban. (BJP7images/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Report: Potential Medicaid cuts would hit rural MO hardest

The Medicaid and CHIP programs are vital to rural Missouri, according to a report that says reliance on this safety-net health coverage is much …

stated food stamps alone kept more than 1.3 million children out of poverty last year. (paulaphoto/Adobe Stock)">

Report: Child poverty derails dream of MLK Jr.

In his 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. condemned the poverty hindering Black Americans' rights and decades later, a new …

Feral hogs breed year-round and can have up to 12 piglets per litter, making population control difficult. (byrdyak/Adobe Stock)

Wild hog eradication cut from Farm Bill but funding needed, MO expert says

The last Farm Bill allocated $75 million to reduce feral hog populations around the country but this year, funding has expired, which could be a …

Rural communities have been significantly impacted by opioid misuse, with higher rates of opioid-related overdose deaths compared with urban areas. (monticellllo/Adobe Stock)

Drug users in rural MO more likely to face homelessness

As urban homelessness and drug use grab the spotlight, rural areas such as Branson are left in the shadows, with critical needs going unmet. But …

In the winter, heart-related deaths increase by about 20% with cold weather. (Andrii IURLOV/Adobe Stock)

MO doctor shares tips on staying heart healthy in cold temps

January's cold temperatures in Missouri and across the nation can pose risks for those with heart conditions. The American Heart Association has …

With foreign conflicts, labor strikes and state-level minimum-wage hikes making headlines, economists predict the U.S. economy will remain a focal point in the new year. (janews094/Adobe Stock)

Professor forecasts 2025 economic trends amid presidential transition

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, economists are focusing on how his promised policies could shape 2025. In 2024, Missouri …

Olive, a poodle mix, has comforted more than 300 kids in Missouri's court system. (Photo courtesy of Therapy Paws)

Once homeless, MO dog is now a children's book star

A Missouri-based therapy dog has an inspiring journey that began as a homeless stray on the streets of Los Angeles. Olive, a ten-pound poodle mix…

Medical bills are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the United States, emphasizing the importance of having health insurance. (Shutter2U/Adobe Stock)

Missourians reminded of final weeks to secure health coverage

We're entering the last few weeks of open enrollment, and Missourians are being reminded to secure health coverage before it's too late. The …

A survey from the American Heart Association revealed 79% of respondents neglect their health during the holidays. Many say they find this time of year more stressful than income tax season.<br />(deagreez/Adobe Stock)

MO doctor shares holiday travel tips for a healthy heart

Holiday travel is in full swing and for many, so is the stress. The American Heart Association of Missouri has health tips for anyone with heart …

In 2024, first-class mail delivery in Missouri and Kansas dropped from about 90% in 2023 to around 85%. (Олександр Луценко/Adobe Stock)

MO postal union fears rural areas face biggest impact from proposed cuts

Tis the season for lots of mail, and Missouri's Postal Workers Union is warning that proposed USPS cuts could disrupt service and erode trust…

Corporate farms, including family-owned corporations, account for about 5% of U.S. farms and manage about 11% of the nation's farmland. (ana/Adobe Stock)

MO farmers work to stop 'Farm Act' from becoming law

A Missouri-based farm group is fighting to keep the proposed "FARM Act" from becoming law, warning it would benefit large corporate farms at the …

In 2022, 13% of children in foster care spent three or four years in the system, and 7% spent five or more years in foster care, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation. (Scott Griessel/Adobe Stock)

Hope for kids aging out of foster care in MO

Nonprofits are offering hope for foster care kids who age out of the system without permanent family connections. As of June, more than 11,000 …

A USDA analysis showed every dollar spent on SNAP benefits generates $1.50 to $1.80 in local economic activity during downturns. (Tatiana/Adobe Stock)

MO launches summer food aid for kids relying on school meals

Missouri has stepped up to fight childhood hunger by providing food aid over the summer for kids who rely on school meals for nutrition. The U.S…

Nine states do not allow citizen-initiated ballot measures: Alabama, Delaware, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Vermont. (Lost_in_the_Midwest/Adobe Stock)

MO nonprofit fights to protect ballot measures

A nonprofit leader from Missouri joined a national panel to tackle what they described as escalating threats to ballot measures and to develop strateg…

Deer-vehicle collisions tend to rise during the fall and winter months when deer are more active due to mating season and shorter days. (Lee/Adobe Stock)

Deer on the move: Holiday driving tips for MO

This Thanksgiving, AAA reported nearly 72 million people are expected to travel by car, setting a record. The Missouri Highway Patrol is warning …

Mental-health professionals recommend coping with depression in healthy ways, such as exercising. Plan family walks for fresh air and social connection. Avoid unhealthy foods and, if drinking alcohol, do so responsibly. (Tetiana/Adobe Stock)

Navigating grief and loss during holiday season in MO

'Tis the season for celebration and good cheer. However, for many Missourians, the absence of a loved one - whether through death, divorce or another …

Every major insurer increased its number of Dual Special Needs Plan offerings between 2018 and 2024. <br />(fotofabrika/Adobe Stock)

Missourians may qualify for health plans with extra benefits

As we roll into the final weeks of Medicare's open enrollment, some Missourians may not realize they qualify for a specific type of health insurance …

MO residents believe family-focused economy is key to well being

The latest "Speak Up MO" report reveals the economic struggles facing Missourians, adding to earlier findings about community concerns and the …

While Amendment 3 protects the right to abortion in Missouri, it does not mandate state funding for abortion procedures, so Medicaid and state funds are not used for most abortions. (Bits and Splits/Adobe Stock)

Both sides react as Missouri reverses near-total abortion ban

Strong reactions are pouring in from both sides as Missouri voters made history by adding abortion rights to the state constitution. The decision to …

Between 2022 and 2023, Missouri experienced a 12% increase in overall homelessness and a 24% rise in unsheltered homelessness. (FollowTheFlow/Adobe Stock)

MO mayor, once homeless, now leads fight for homeless

Once homeless and suffering from addictions himself, Joplin's mayor now leads a crusade to help others overcome the same hardships. About 53,000 …

Missouri exempts small businesses with under $500,000 in annual revenue from the state minimum wage rate, allowing them to set their own pay within federal guidelines. (JJ Gouin/Adobe Stock)

500+ MO businesses back Prop A, $15 minimum wage

More than 500 Missouri businesses are rallying for Proposition A, pushing for a $15 per hour minimum wage and paid sick leave by 2026. Backed by the …

Thus far in 2024, 75% of down-ballot elections were uncontested nationwide, meaning a candidate ran for office without opposition. (Matt/Adobe Stock)

Rural votes in MO count beyond top of ticket this election

By Julia Tilton for The Daily Yonder.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Missouri News Service for the Public News Service/Daily Yonder Collaborat…

A 2021 study found that social isolation and loneliness may increase cardiovascular disease risk by 29% in post-menopausal women. (Rido/Adobe Stock)

MO doctor discusses link between menopause, heart health

Research shows menopause can impact heart health, and the American Heart Association in Missouri is urging women to stay informed and take preventive …

Metropolitan Congregations United aims to engage the entire state of Missouri on air quality issues and unite scientists and church leaders for change. (Carlos Santa Maria/Adobe Stock)

Researchers turn to MO churches to study air quality

By Rebecca Randall for Sojourners.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Missouri News Service for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public News Servi…

A study by the Missouri Budget Project found the majority of Missourians who would be affected by boosting the minimum wage are adults over age 20, and more workers age 55 and older would be affected than teens. (Adobe Stock)

New study calls out Missouri minimum wage hike opposition as 'myths'

A new study by the Missouri Budget Project calls out some opposing views to the ballot measure known as Proposition A and included data to debunk them…

Concentrated animal feeding operations make up about 6% of farming operations in Missouri, but are the source of a great deal of air and water pollution due to the concentration of farm animals.(Adobe Stock)

Bill would help MO farmers transition to climate-friendly production

A bill pending in Congress would use federal funds to help farmers in Missouri and elsewhere transition from concentrated animal feeding operations…

Half of Missouri adults report having current medical debt or having had medical debt in the past five years and 39% report they currently have medical debt. (Valeri Luzina/Adobe Stock)

MO health-care crisis threatens economic stability

The Missouri Foundation for Health has released two reports that reveal significant obstacles Missourians face in accessing affordable health care…

Mental-health professionals warn that people who have experienced fertility challenges can be at increased risk for postpartum depression, as well as those who have an unwanted pregnancy or a difficult birth. (Home-stock/Adobe Stock)

MO doctor shares causes, solutions for postpartum 'baby blues'

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and a St. Louis doctor says there is hope for people experiencing postpartum depression. One in five women …

The American Heart Association said caregivers often experience personal and spiritual growth, discovering their own resilience, competence and capacity for sacrifice as they help a friend or loved one. (Justlight/Adobe Stock)

MO Heart Association urges caregivers to prioritize self-care

September is Self-Care Awareness Month and the American Heart Association in Missouri is urging caregivers to take some much-needed time for themselve…

The 9/11 attacks were the worst attacks on American soil since Japan attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941. (angel_nt/Adobe Stock)

MO veterans remember 9/11 with acts of service

On the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, veterans throughout Missouri and beyond are dedicating themselves to community service as a tribute to …

The number of states allowing syringe service programs has nearly doubled since 2014, especially in Southern, rural and Midwestern states, influenced by outbreaks of HIV and hepatitis C. (Mars0hod/Adobe Stock)

Syringe services ease drug abuse impact in MO

Between 2016 and 2023, more than 14,000 Missourians died from drug overdoses, making it the leading cause of death for adults aged 18-44 in the state…

Every five years, the Farm Bill expires and is renewed through a lengthy process of proposal, debate, and approval by Congress, followed by the President's signature to become law. (JackF/Adobe Stock)

MO livestock producers seek fairness in consolidated meat industry

Missouri livestock producers are pushing Congress to restore country-of-origin labeling for beef in the next farm bill, believing it'll boost their …

Poll results from The Missouri Foundation for Health show 71% of respondents view the rising cost of living as a major issue, 67% highlight health care costs and 61% are concerned about drug and alcohol use in the state.<br /><br /><br />(Pormezz/Adobe Stock)

Poll: Missourians positive on state, concerned about cost of living, health care

A recent public opinion poll finds it's the best of times and the worst of times for Missourians. The "Speak up MO" poll from The Missouri Foundation …

Opponents of Ranked Choice Voting support the person receiving the greatest number of votes at the general election to be declared the winner. (Gary/Adobe Stock)

MO judge rules voters to decide fate of ranked-choice voting

A Cole County judge ruled Tuesday Missouri voters will decide whether to ban ranked choice voting voting statewide, which could reshape the state's …

Black American farmers lost more than $300 billion worth of land in the 20th century, in part due to the USDA's discriminatory practices. (Lou W/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Ag advocates push for more transparency on USDA discrimination payments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is making direct payments to minority ag producers that the government had previously discriminated against…

While Missouri has traditionally ranked in the middle among states in the Annie E. Casey Foundation's annual rankings, it has been declining and now stands at 32nd place. (Jacob Lund/Adobe Stock)

From rankings to real insights: Missouri’s Kids Count data

Many folks are familiar with the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Kids Count Data Book, a look at child well-being in every state. In Missouri, the …

A Health Forward Foundation report estimates that Missouri's foreign-born workforce contributes approximately $19.0 billion to the annual gross product and supports 160,000 jobs, including about $2.0 billion in gross product and over 17,100 jobs in rural areas. (lawcain/Adobe Stock)<br />

Immigration ads stir debate ahead of Missouri primaries

With less than a week until Missouri's primary and early voting already underway, candidates are ramping up their ad campaigns. Immigration has …

Gov. Mike Parson chose not to sign or veto Senate Bill 751, allowing it to become law automatically. (M. Suhail/Adobe Stock)

New Missouri law ensures medication access

Gov. Mike Parson recently announced Senate Bill 751 would become law, allowing Missourians to access essential medications within their communities …

Radioactive contaminants can create harmful effects on public health, particularly for pregnant people, as well as for the environment. (Alexeiy/Adobe Stock)

Groups renew calls to address radioactive contamination in food, water

Some organizations are renewing calls to address radioactive contamination in U.S. food and drinking water. The issue has gained prevalence in the …

Water parks are a good way to keep cool in the summer but the public health experts reminded parents to always supervise children playing in or near the water. (Adobe Stock)

Experts: Take precautions to enjoy safe time in summer sun

Summer is usually a fun time to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends, but experts said Missourians should be taking precautions to keep a day …

Stanford University researchers say immigrants are 60% less likely to be incarcerated than American-born people. (DragonImages/Adobe Stock)

Missouri committee to crack down on illegal immigrant crimes

The Missouri House of Representatives has formed a special committee to look into what the House Speaker refers to as crimes committed by immigrants l…

A report from the nonprofit Inseparable calls for a 988 system that ensures individuals in a mental health emergency have someone to call, someone to respond to and a safe place to go for help. (Adobe Stock)

988 crisis lifeline marks 2nd anniversary of service

The country's 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline system turns two years old this month and a new report outlined Missouri's implementation, calling for …

At the state level, Renew Missouri represents renewable and energy efficiency interests before the Public Service Commission. (Adobe Stock)

MO nonprofits join forces to help with power bills for those in need

Some Missouri nonprofit groups have teamed up to help those in need in the rural southeastern part of the state. Many households in these …

The current American Legion Auxiliary Missouri Girls State is being held this week, through June 29, at Lindenwood University in St. Charles. High schoolers interested in attending Girls State in the future should check missourigirlsstate.org. (Jacob Lund/Adobe Stock)

MO advocates demand fairness in beef labeling, support for small farms

Family farm advocates are pushing for major changes in the new Farm Bill, including reduced subsidies for large factory farms, mandatory beef country-…

From July 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023, Direct Subsidized Loans had a 4.99% interest rate with a maximum of $5,500, while Direct Unsubsidized Loans for undergraduates had the same interest rate and can go up to $20,500, minus any subsidized amounts received. (Small Smiles_dimple/Adobe Stock)

Rising interest rates prompt higher loan costs for MO students

Federal student loan interest rates have surged to their highest levels in over a decade, posing yet another challenge for Missouri students and …

An analysis by the National Bureau of Economic Research found the drop in math scores between 2019 and<br />2022 will reduce lifetime earnings by 1.6% for 48 million pandemic-era students, a total of $900 billion in lost income. (Denis Mamin/Adobe Stock)

Data helps map a brighter future for Missouri's children

Missouri children are making strides in overall health but educational challenges remain, according to the 2024 Kids Count Data Book released by the …

According to a MarketWatch report, during the pandemic, unused credit lines posed a major risk to banks. To manage this risk, many banks reduced people's credit limits if they thought a cardholder's ability to repay might be at risk. (eliosdnepr/Adobe Stock)

Some MO credit-card users see shifts in credit limits

Missouri's two major metro areas are part of a WalletHub analysis of credit-limit decreases among 100 U.S. cities. The WalletHub research looks at …

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