The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus unveiled its legislative agenda, focused on improving literacy and nutrition for children, expanding Medicaid, addressing infrastructure needs, reforming criminal justice, and increasing healthcare access.
The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus unveiled its legislative agenda during a press conference at the Capitol on Wednesday, emphasizing improvements in children's literacy and nutrition, enhanced healthcare access through Medicaid expansion, and addressing the state's economic and infrastructure needs. 'In Mississippi, we've been grappling with various challenges for years,' stated caucus Chairman Rep. Chris Bell, D-Jackson. 'But now we have a chance to unite and assist all our people ...
Medicaid expansion is essential. Early voting is essential. Investing in our roads and bridges, particularly in the Mississippi Delta, is essential.' Rep. Otis Anthony of Indianola echoed this sentiment, stating, 'The issues we are advocating for today are not partisan; they are people-centered.' The caucus agenda focuses on several key areas:\Firstly, promoting literacy and nutrition for children, including enhancing reading proficiency in kindergarten through eighth-grade. Secondly, reforming justice and ensuring judicial equity by overhauling the youth court system, addressing prison conditions, and safeguarding Black judicial districts during redistricting. Thirdly, increasing healthcare access through Medicaid expansion, improving maternal and infant health, and tackling the state's nursing shortage. Fourthly, opening workforce development pathways by funding more training programs and creating opportunities in underserved communities. Lastly, addressing inequities in state spending by ensuring equitable funding for public schools, universities, and hiring minority contractors.\Sen. Rod Hickman of Macon emphasized the importance of criminal justice rehabilitation instead of a 'pipeline to prison' this year. He stressed that focusing on the state's youth is crucial, stating, 'It is our priority to ensure that every child in Mississippi has the opportunity to succeed.'
Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus Medicaid Expansion Literacy Nutrition Criminal Justice Reform Infrastructure Healthcare Access
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