Missouri researchers have made a scientific breakthrough they say could change the future of farming. The discovery offers new possibilities for reducing agricultural costs and addressing some of the challenges facing food production.

With the increase in costs squeezing agricultural operations, some farmers and ranchers are getting creative to survive. A Missouri rancher turned her property into a thriving short-term rental for horseback riding lessons, helping her hold onto the place she’s called home for more than 40 years. Now, a new grant program aims to help others do the same.

Missouri families trying to stretch their grocery dollars do not necessarily have to sacrifice nutrition. A leading health organization says lower-cost proteins, whole grains, and frozen or canned produce can form the foundation of affordable, heart-healthy meals.

A nationwide campaign is urging Illinois consumers and institutions to invest in Latino-owned businesses during Hispanic Heritage Month. Organizers say they hope to promote economic resilience as aggressive immigration enforcement affects local communities and businesses.

Missouri's largest electric utility is responding to skeptics about its proposed 2,100-megawatt natural-gas plant in St. Charles County. Critics question the potential costs to customers and reliance on fossil fuels, while the company says the project is needed to meet growing demand and maintain reliability.

A proposed constitutional amendment on Missouri's August ballot would give lawmakers the authority to replace the state's income tax with broader sales taxes. Critics worry the change could eventually affect healthcare costs.

Illinois rural school districts urge lawmakers to address shortages in healthcare and mental health resources as they prepare for new universal student mental health screening requirements. The balancing act coincides with work to support students amid limited access to providers.

A national campaign is gaining support from Missouri small-business leaders seeking to permanently eliminate the Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting requirement, or B-O-I. The mandate requires companies to report personal information about their owners and controllers to help authorities identify shell companies used in financial crimes.

Missouri supporters of the YouthBuild program say federal funding cuts could make it harder for young adults to earn a diploma, gain job skills, and build a path to long-term employment.

Rural health advocates encourage men to prioritize regular checkups and screenings to improve long-term health. They say men in rural areas often experience worse health outcomes due to chronic disease, limited healthcare access, and cultural attitudes that discourage preventive care.