Mississippi outlaws cell-cultured dairy, farmers say pressures remain

Morgan Gill and Bibhas Pantha • April 6, 2026

For some farmers, the larger concern is not just a new product entering the market. They said small farms have been under strain for years because of regulation, rising costs and limited ways to get products to customers. 

Kids Markets eyes southeast Mississippi expansion

Kristen Kaylor and Gerome Webster • April 2, 2026

Organizers say giving children the chance to run their own booths helps them practice real-world skills and build confidence as young entrepreneurs. 

Mississippi schools set new goals for attendance, student support

Ashlyn Joyner and Gerome Webster • March 31, 2026

In Hattiesburg, district leaders said their own updated strategic plan reflects many of those same priorities.

Mississippi child care aid uncertainty hits summer camp enrollment

Kristen Kaylor and Nischit Sharma • March 31, 2026

The uncertainty comes as lawmakers continue working on the Mississippi Department of Human Services appropriations bill which includes $15 million for the Child Care Payment Program.

Mississippi diabetes rates, costs drive community aid

Morgan Gill, Bibhas Pantha and Nischit Sharma • March 30, 2026

What grew from that effort was a small support network, with neighbors helping neighbors find the tools needed to manage diabetes.

Health officials warn of rising cancer cases among younger Mississippians

Morgan Gill, Bibhas Pantha and Nischit Sharma • March 13, 2026

The American Cancer Society estimates about 18,000 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in Mississippi this year. The most common types include prostate, lung and bronchus, and breast cancers. 

Mississippi bill could allow black bear hunting for the first time in nearly a century

Kristen Kaylor • March 9, 2026

If approved, black bear hunting would return to Mississippi for the first time since 1932.

Bill to restrict Public Records Act access dies in committee

Justin Glowacki and Alexa Hatten • March 6, 2026

House Bill 1660 failed to advance out of a Senate ommittee before the March 3 deadline, ending the measure for the 2026 legislative session.

Mississippi Senate considers easing seafood origin labeling rules

Ashlyn Joyner, Nischit Sharma and Gerome Webster • March 2, 2026

House Bill 1466 would allow restaurants to use menu symbols paired with a clearly visible legend instead of labeling each seafood item individually.

Mississippi instructors see benefits after practical cosmetology exam eliminated

Kristen Kaylor • March 2, 2026

Educators say the change allows them to focus more closely on individual learning needs rather than preparing students for a second state test.

Lawmakers move to keep roadway safety records off public record

Justin Glowacki, Jakira Hunt and McKenna Klamm • February 27, 2026

Mississippi lawmakers are considering a bill that would exempt certain roadway safety records from the state’s Public Records Act, including inspection reports used to evaluate potentially hazardous bridges and road conditions. 

Community discussion grows around 24-hour child care in Hattiesburg

Morgan Gill, Bibhas Pantha and Nischit Sharma • February 26, 2026

A proposal to create a 24-hour child care facility in Hattiesburg is gaining attention as families face long waitlists, limited hours and fewer state child care subsidies.