SuperTalk FM
Column: We need out-of-the-box thinking to address Mississippi’s healthcare woes
SUMMARY: In 2008, the author became concerned about the potential effects of presidential candidate Barack Obama’s health care reform proposal on their business. Obama’s plan, which later became the Affordable Care Act (ACA), introduced employer “shared responsibility,” mandating large employers to cover a significant portion of employee health insurance premiums. The author, who didn’t usually engage with politics, was worried about the increasing costs and the complexity of compliance, prompting discussions with a company lawyer. Although advised the concerns might be premature, the implications of the plan factored into the author’s business decision-making due to uncertainty about the future regulations.
The ACA was eventually passed, including most of Obama’s proposals, except the public option, aimed at achieving universal coverage. Many ACA taxes have since been repealed. The author criticizes the law’s failure to lower premiums as promised. Discussions on Medicaid, its expansion, and its impact are presented, with Mississippi’s stance on Medicaid expansion highlighted. Several alternative policy solutions to address health care issues are suggested, emphasizing free-market approaches and the utilization of ACA marketplaces with enhanced subsidies through the American Rescue Plan Act. The author concludes by advocating for a task force to address Mississippi’s health care challenges.
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SuperTalk FM
Nonprofit files lawsuit challenging legislation allowing private leasing of public oyster reefs
SUMMARY: A lawsuit has been filed against legislation allowing the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) to lease public oyster reefs to private entities. Mississippi Commercial Fisheries United argues that Senate Bill 2648, which permits up to 80% of the state’s natural reefs to be leased, is unconstitutional and threatens local fishermen’s livelihoods. The group claims the law undermines public access to the reefs, turning traditional oystermen into dependent workers for private leaseholders. They demand an immediate halt to leasing, transparent impact assessments, and more community involvement in decisions regarding public waters and resources. No comment has been made by MDMR.
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SuperTalk FM
Mississippi lawmakers working behind the scenes on budget agreement ahead of special session
SUMMARY: The Mississippi legislature faces a June 30 deadline to pass the state operating budget, but negotiations remain stalled. The 2025 regular session ended April 3 without a budget, leading to closed-door discussions aimed at reaching a “general framework.” Senate Appropriations Chair Briggs Hopson emphasized the need for a timely agreement to help state agencies and organizations plan for Fiscal Year 2026. Despite 70% budget agreement, key contentious items remain. Governor Reeves, frustrated with delays, set a previous April 30 deadline and suggested withholding lawmakers’ pay during special sessions to save taxpayer money. A special session start date is pending.
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SuperTalk FM
May 4-10 declared Hurricane Preparedness Week in Mississippi
SUMMARY: Governor Tate Reeves declared May 4-10 as Hurricane Preparedness Week in Mississippi, ahead of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. The 2024 season was busy, with 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes, including Category 2 Francine impacting Mississippi. Early forecasts predict another severe season in 2025. Reeves emphasized preparedness, marking the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina as a reminder of the state’s vulnerability. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) will educate residents on disaster readiness, urging stocked supply kits, insurance checks, and flood insurance for vulnerable homes. MEMA will cover daily preparedness topics on social media during the week. The season runs June 1 to November 30.
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