Mississippi Edition

Now that the special session is over, Republican leaders of the state House and Senate say education tops their agenda in 2026Then, the grassroots national “State of the People Power Tour” stops in the Jackson metro area. Plus, Harm Reduction, what it means and why it's so controversial, especially in the Gulf South. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lawmakers wrap up a special session to pass a roughly $7 billion state budget.Then, advocates for low-income Mississippians say cuts to federal food assistance will hurt the state.Plus, the University of Mississippi Medical Center opens a new burn unit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Democrats in the State House slowed progress on the first day of the special session, claiming a lack of transparency and calls to rubber stamp bills. Then, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals hears arguments over accusations of police brutality and racial profiling to increase city revenues. Plus, the challenges of obtaining emergency care in rural parts of the state draw the attention of Mississippi Senator Roger Wicker as medical professionals look for ways to provide needed care in a crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

State legislators return to the Mississippi Capitol this morning for a special session to pass a budget. Then, federal funding has helped states like Alabama and Mississippi make great strides in fighting HIV. Now, funding is in jeopardy--raising concerns among healthcare advocates.Plus, many kids in the state live with untreated tooth decay due to little to no access to dental care. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Republican Governor Tate Reeves is expected to call Mississippi lawmakers back to the state capitol this week for a special session to adopt a budget for Fiscal Year 2026.Then, Mississippians are continuing to rally at the state capitol in Jackson, protesting the policies of the Trump administration. Plus, a Seven States Safety Campaign is underway targeting police departments found to have engaged in police brutality and racial targeting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A newly released "Year in Hate" report identifies seven hate groups in Mississippi.Then, members of the US House of Representatives passed a major spending bill yesterday. Policy analysts in Mississippi say most changes won't apply to the state.Plus, did you know Columbus, Mississippi is the home of Memorial Day? We speak with a local expert about the origins of the national holiday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We speak with Congressman Mike Ezell about, President Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill," and what he knows about the governor's request for a major disaster declaration.Then, May is Stroke Awareness Month. Mississippi is tied with Alabama for the highest mortality rates in the country.Plus, lawmakers are considering what future budgets could look like for the state. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

State Health Officer Dr. Dan Edney is leading the creation of a new system of care to help lower the state's high infant and maternal mortality rates.Then, supporters of the federal food assistance program "SNAP" say budget cuts could hurt low-income families in Mississippi.Plus, we sit down with Mississippi Republican Party Chair Mike Hurst to talk about municipal elections in June along with national politics and what some potential policies mean for the state. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fishermen in the Gulf are speaking out against legislation that would privatize wild oyster reefs in the area.Then, early childhood educators are celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Head Start program in the state.Plus, residents of Tylertown await word of federal aid nearly 2 months after the governor requested a major disaster declaration from the Trump Administration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Women in Mississippi are at a higher risk for heart disease, one of the leading causes of death in the state.Then, doctors are sounding the alarm about the link between smoking and strokes.Plus, oyster farmers in the Mississippi Sound say their livelihoods could be put at risk by opening a major spillway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mississippi Department of Education shares plans for how the state could continue receiving grants that would help improve schools.Then, a leader with the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning responds to concerns about selecting the next president of Jackson State University.Plus, it's National Prevention Week, a time to highlight resources that can help treat mental disorders and substance abuse in the state. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How could tariffs affect Mississippians in the coming months? A business leader says some industries could be hit hard.Then, on this day in 1970, two young men were killed by police gunfire at Jackson State University during the height of racial tensions and non-violent protests.Plus, most commercial ships are built in China. The Trump Administration wants to change impose a new fee making trading with the U.S. much more expensive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are discussions in Washington about cutting billions of dollars in Medicaid funding, an action supporters of the program say would hurt thousands of vulnerable Mississippians.Then, it's National Hospital Week, we talk about the hard work of healthcare professionals and the struggle with addressing healthcare gaps in the state. Plus, one of the first couples in the state to conceive children using IVF share their story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi's Commissioner of Agriculture is defending the President's choice to impose tariffs on foreign nations-- saying it could lead to better deals for Mississippi farmers.Then, hurricane season begins June 1st. The state's leading emergency manager is asking folks to be prepared for an active season.Plus, a new book explores the secret history of lethal injections and how executions are carried out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The head of the Rankin County NAACP speaks out against comments by a county supervisor disparaging two victims of the Goon Squad.Then, Early learning advocates express relief the Trump Administration put the brakes on its plan to slash Head Start funding.Plus, locals share their thoughts on the newly chosen American Pope Leo the 14th. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Federal courts approve a new redistring map for DeSoto County. Special elections are in November.Then, how can Mississippi bridge the gap between faith and mental health services? That's the central question at a summit in Brandon.Plus, The Angola Prison Rodeo is the only one in the country where incarcerated men compete in bull riding, buck breaking, and other controversial, dangerous events. You'll hear more about the rodeo ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The President of Jackson State University resigns. Board members of the Institutions of Higher Learning appoint an interim leader.Then, a minister from a Catholic church in Jackson weighs in on the selection process for a new pope and who he wants to see in that role next.Plus, we continue our conversation with immigration leaders and hear from an undocumented immigrant living in the state. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Student loan payments resume for those in default, affecting millions of people, including Mississippians. Then, immigrant rights leaders in the state share what it's like trying to help immigrants living in fear during the second trump administration.Plus, we speak with the student and photographer who helped document the Tougaloo 9 historic 1960s read-in protest in Jackson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Finding healthcare in rural areas of Mississippi can be difficult, and experts say the issue gets worse with age.Then, congresswoman Jasmine Crockett of Texas delivers the commencement address at Tougaloo College over the weekend. Plus, we speak with a member of the Tougaloo 9, a group of students whose read-in led to de-segregating libraries in Jackson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An air quality report shows major signs of pollution in some parts of Mississippi.Then, a deadline nears for air travelers to have a Real ID driver's license or identification card to fly.Plus, trade wars helped build the South's massive auto industry. But historians say don't expect the same results from today's tariffs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippians celebrate the legacy of Pope John Francis. He died yesterday at the age of 88.Then, Conservationists urge the Army Corps of Engineers to use measured steps in opening the Bonne Carre Spillway. Engineers want to prevent flooding from the Mississippi River. Plus, we speak with the state Insurance Commissioner about catastrophe savings accounts and how they can be helpful after a disaster. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fifteen years ago today, the BP oil spill, the largest in history oil flowed into the Gulf of Mexico for nearly 3 months. Environmentalists say the disaster is still being cleaned up.Then, protesters gather at the state Capitol in Jackson to protest Trump Administration policies and call forCongress to rein in the executive branch.Plus, the Mississippi Department of Health ends free sexually transmitted infections testing due to federal funding cuts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mississippi River has been listed as one of the most endangered rivers in the nation. Local officials say cutbacks in disaster relief is at the core of the problem.Then, federal cuts to early childhood funding could hinder many Mississippi families from accessing pre-k education.Plus what resources are helping Mississippians access elder care? It's a process that's often difficult and costly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Federal judges order the State Election Commission to redraw voting lines in the DeSoto County area again.Then, the City of Jackson breaks ground on affordable housing in the historic Farish Street community, once a bustling black neighborhood.Plus, Residents in the Treme neighborhood in New Orleans are trying to address serious flooding that's plagued the area for years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Parents and childcare providers are worried that the loss of an early education subsidy could jeopardize access to affordable care and put centers out of business.Then, Mississippi's State Auditor shares a new report claiming there's more than $400 million in wasteful state spending by state agencies.Plus, hear what it takes to curate a museum and share Mississippi culture with the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Health advocates are sounding the alarm that Black women in Mississippi are at a much higher risk of dying during pregnancy than their white counterparts.Then, federal grants to museums are being shut off. A curator shares what that could mean for Mississippi and the preservation of state history.Plus, Mississippi's State Health Officer hopes a new law will help more hospitals open in rural Mississippi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippians who oppose cuts being made by the Trump administration are trying to meet with the state's two Senators.Then, a coalition of religious groups are meeting with Jackson's top mayoral candidates to discuss their plans for the city.Plus, we speak with the Mississippi Department of Education's Parent of the Year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mississippi Medical Association unveils a marker about the history of hospitals that served Black people during the Jim Crow Era.Then, for the first time in Mississippi, treatments are being offered for people at high risk of developing psychosis.Plus, a celebration of Blues in Clarksdale this weekend at the 22nd annual Juke Joint Festival. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi agencies announce new guidelines on how reports of child abuse cases will be handled in all 82 counties.Then, Mississippi's State Health Officer says he's hopeful investments by the legislature can sustain public health initiatives in the wake of federal cuts.Plus, we speak with a financial expert about how Mississippians can make plans when there is high market volatility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Courts are reviewing a new set of redistricting maps for Mississippi. Then, mayors of towns along the Mississippi River are seeking federal aid for flooding as the water level continues to rise.Plus, state regulators deny a company two permits to produce more air pollution in rural Mississippi. Residents are praising the decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're speaking with Dr. Thomas Dobbs, Mississippi's former State Health Officer, reflecting on the five years that have passed since the start of the Coronavirus Pandemic.For an extended version of the show, visit MPB's YouTube page. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Millions of federal dollars being used by the Mississippi Department of Education is being rescinded.Then, ag economists share what the Trump administration's sweeping round of new tarrifs could mean for agriculture in the state.Plus, A climate change conference brings student together to examine the role communities of color can play in tackling environmental justice issues. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lawmakers have ended the 2025 legislative session without passing a budget. Governor Tate Reeves says not to worry.Then, the state Department of Health learns that over $230 million dollars in federal funding is being revoked. Plus, federal grants already awarded to the Mississippi Humanities Council are cut. Hear that could mean for historians and preserving culture in the state. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

House lawmakers have officially ended their 2025 legislative session, although the Senate is still meeting today. More than 100 budget bills haven't been passed.Then, Major cuts to healthcare have stripped funding from several Mississippi organizations helping folks with HIV and AIDS.Plus, a tour of the state capitol is helping students better understand how laws are passed, and get them involved in the democratic process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.