Missouri lawmakers could soon make intoxicating hemp products illegal.

The Corn Belt Windbreak Project is studying decades-old windbreak trees and shrubs to measure their economic and environmental value. Experts say farmers have been removing them to gain acreage, but that costs them money. Researchers at the University of Illinois will work with farmers to evaluate windbreak impacts on yields, soil, and water quality, and develop strategies to help farmers use them profitably now and in the future

Despite an overall decline in homelessness in Illinois, the number of infants and toddlers who are unhoused is rising, with experts noting the figures likely undercount families living in “hidden homelessness” situations. Their advocates say rural barriers, stigma, and limited shelter access compound the issue. They stress that expanded early childhood education and comprehensive wraparound services are critical to addressing both housing instability and its lasting impacts on young children.

A Kansas anti-transgender bill could sharply impact Missouri residents as well. The bill requires people to use bathrooms corresponding to the gender they were assigned at birth. But as advocates point out, the bill isn’t something voters want.

On this episode of 'Going Public', we speak with Elizabeth Shelton, the Executive Director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri. She talks about the many challenges facing community programs in the region, after a year of funding uncertainties, economic challenges, and natural disasters.

On this episode of 'Going Public', we speak with Elizabeth Shelton, the Executive Director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri. She talks about the many challenges facing community programs in the region, after a year of funding uncertainties, economic challenges, and natural disasters.

Missouri child-care providers are beginning to receive delayed federal subsidy payments after the state met new documentation requirements tied to federal funding. Children's advocates say the disruption highlights Missouri’s heavy reliance on federal dollars – renewing calls for more state funding for child care.

The Work College Consortium is a rare group of just nine colleges nationwide where every full-time student works as part of earning a degree. At Missouri’s College of the Ozarks, that model is helping students graduate debt-free while gaining real-world experience, strong work habits and career-ready skills.

As Missouri weighs large-scale solar, a debate is on between clean energy advocates and those warning that retiring fossil fuel plants too quickly could strain the power grid and raise blackout risks.

Missouri’s minimum wage increase is now in effect as 2026 begins, a voter-approved change supporters say reflects rising living costs and workers' needs statewide. Workforce leaders say the change reflects rising living costs and could help retain workers, reduce reliance on public assistance, and strengthen the state’s labor force.