A report from the Missouri Rural Health Association finds rural veterans face major barriers to health care driven by isolation, provider shortages, and long travel distances. Advocates say this calls for targeted investments in rural health infrastructure and better coordination between the Department of Veterans' Affairs health system and community providers.

While Secretary of State Denny Hoskins says a map from 2025 is in effect, a court case could require congressional candidates to run within lines lawmakers drew in 2022.

Missouri lawmakers could soon make intoxicating hemp products illegal.

During American Heart Month, the American Heart Association in St. Louis is urging Missourians to learn CPR and keep up with regular heart checkups as part of its 'Nation of Lifesavers' campaign. The association says most cardiac arrests happen at home, making bystander CPR critical.

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

Mixing walking trails and business proposals can be one way small towns and rural counties can spur local fitness, offer residents some transportation alternatives, and attract tourists.

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.

The full-time position would be created through a House bill introduced Thursday. However, with a state budget crisis, it's unclear if there's money for such a job.

Walking trails are accessible and inexpensive ways for people to exercise and socialize. One group is also considering other ways these sites can benefit Illinois communities.