Read the latest reporting from Beacon reporters and Documenters covering topics that matter to you like education, health, housing, work and local and state government.
Missouri one of six states planning to use AI to manage Medicaid work requirements
As Missouri prepares for Medicaid work requirements under H.R. 1, officials say artificial intelligence could help answer questions, process documents and automate parts of the program.
Undocumented Kansas high school graduates find themselves increasingly targeted
Kansas could be the next state sued for its in-state tuition program for undocumented students.
Jackson County legislators mull data center moratorium
The 120-day pause would allow the county to establish regulations governing approval and construction of these facilities.
Kansas City hospitals are ready for the World Cup, but world may not be ready for U.S. healthcare
After months of planning, Kansas City health leaders said the city’s hospitals are prepared, and bracing for international patients who won’t be able to pay.
Against headwinds, minority-owned businesses open at higher rate in KC
A new Kauffman Foundation report shows business creation rebounding to pre-pandemic levels, led by Black, Latino and immigrant founders. But increasing numbers are often driven by necessity, and Kansas City is falling behind the national pace.
Looking for what’s happening in Wyandotte County? Livable Neighborhoods has you covered
The task force’s May meeting covered junk vehicles, Juneteenth, World Cup, a community forum and more.
Wyandotte County leaders at odds with Kansas lawmaker over Chiefs stadium decisions
A state lawmaker said the Unified Government’s ordinance to support the Chiefs deal exerts too much power over Kansas negotiations. County leaders believe he’s mistaken.
Hickman Mills school board approves slew of educational, administrative contracts
New tools include an AI-supported writing platform.
Missouri’s drive to eliminate income tax leaves KC-area officials with more questions than answers
Officials worry about the bill’s impact on businesses, consumers, revenue for local services and budget planning.
These are Missouri’s newest education laws if Gov. Mike Kehoe approves
Most education bills failed in Jefferson City this year. But measures on antisemitism and school security are among those that the legislature approved.
Future of KCK apartment complex up in the air
Report to the Kansas City Kansas Housing Authority says that 302-unit Wyandotte Towers is nearly obsolete.
Missouri lawmakers pass sweeping healthcare changes in 2026 legislative session
The Missouri General Assembly passed a number of changes to healthcare in the state, including expanded contraceptive access, doula coverage, 340B drug protections and ambulance district reforms.
Missouri legislative session ends without property tax reform
As property assessments have spiked over the past two cycles, homeowners worry the same trend will continue in 2027.
Does the safety net need a safety net? With changes to SNAP, more Kansas Citians are losing benefits
The Trump administration’s drive to slash safety-net spending is hitting SNAP. As the cost of gasoline spikes, rent and utilities climb and food remains expensive, more than 3.5 million Americans have lost food benefits.
Nearly 600-acre rezoning to pave way for development at downtown airport
The proposed $55 million Apex Aero Center would include a 12,000-square-foot passenger terminal and room for nearly 40 aircraft.
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