Regulatory Watch: Mississippi is taking public comments through June 22 on temporary barbering and cosmetology rules that could affect health, safety, and business standards statewide. Public Health & Access: A new KIDS COUNT report finds child wellbeing fell after COVID, with reading and math proficiency dropping in 47 states; Mississippi’s score is far below the national average, and the report also flags uninsured children as a growing concern in the region. Insurance & Home Safety: Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney says Gulf Coast homeowners may see stable rates in 2027 and is pushing a roof mitigation program offering up to $10,000 for qualifying repairs. Medicaid Spending (Local): In Morton, Medicaid payments for Temporary National Codes rose to $252,102 in 2024, while Pascagoula saw a 75.6% jump in anesthesia-related Medicaid spending. Long-Term Care: CMS data shows Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg received a 5-star overall rating in Q1 2026, with no fines or penalties reported. Food Safety: A CDC-linked salmonella outbreak tied to backyard chicken flocks has spread across many states, including Mississippi, with young children hit hardest. Community Health Events: Women gather in Jackson to support heart health and maternal care, highlighting ongoing focus on cardiovascular and pregnancy-related needs. Safety Incident: Jackson police are investigating a Sharp Street double shooting that sent a man and woman to UMMC for treatment.