Economists are saying that many of the 7.2 million jobs lost during the recession won't return -- a worrisome message for states, including many in the South, that have been uniquely hard-hit by high unemployment. More...

The 2010 Census, just a mere six months away, is facing a number of challenges that could have a lasting impact on already struggling communities. More...

A new report examines life in Louisiana four years after Hurricane Katrina, and finds that portions of the state's population experience health, education and income levels that the rest of the country surpassed three to five decades ago. More...

Even though Georgia Senate Republicans are proposing to amend the state constitution to prevent health care reform in the state, other Georgia lawmakers are weighing in. Monday the Atlanta City Council passed a resolution calling on Congress to enact "comprehensive, quality, affordable health care legislation for all Americans." More...

Texas Governor Rick Perry's talk of secession last spring has fed the efforts of a group of Texas secessionists who say it's time for the governor to follow through. More...

In light of the continuing affordable housing crisis in post-Katrina New Orleans, advocates are worried about the local housing authority's lackluster efforts to inform residents about a rare chance to get housing assistance. More...

Cities and towns across Mississippi are still trying to recover from hurricanes Katrina and Rita, but their efforts are complicated by what community advocates call misplaced priorities. More...

Thousands of homeless people are living in New Orleans' storm damaged and abandoned homes and buildings. Four years after Katrina, recovery and rebuilding has come slow to this city, reports Jordan Flaherty. More...