mississippi

Mississippi remains no closer to establishing a state health exchange, with officials citing lack of support and federal funding challenges. Experts say investments and federal policies influence success.

A federal jury in Mississippi has cleared James Michael Fisher of charges related to a 2017 plane crash that killed 16 service members. The trial focused on allegations of false statements and obstruction of justice.

Mississippi voters will choose Democratic and Republican nominees for Congress on Tuesday. All incumbents are seeking re-election ahead of the November general election.

Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson’s office implemented a controversial method using Experian credit data to update voter rolls, leading to thousands of inactive designations and voter rights concerns.

Legislative efforts to pass a teacher pay increase and key measures have faltered amid political infighting. Negotiations continue as lawmakers face a tight legislative schedule.

The Lumberton Main Street Association has formed a grant committee and will distribute a $10,000 Mississippi Power Foundation award as a facade grant to downtown businesses. Applications close April 9 and awards of up to $2,000 per business will be distributed in early April, the association said.

Charles Smith, a Food for Life instructor in Jackson, wrote in Mississippi Today Ideas that switching to a whole-food, plant-based diet can cut grocery bills, help weight loss and curb chronic disease. He offered tips on buying staples in bulk and shared budget-friendly recipes.

Lawmakers advanced measures to intercept casino and sports-betting payouts from parents behind on child support, a move supporters say could help recover roughly $1.7 billion owed to about 153,964 children, Sen. David Blount said.