Maternal care upgrade: SSM Health says it’s building a new maternal and newborn specialized care center at Cardinal Glennon to keep mothers and babies together—even when a newborn needs intensive care. Nutrition policy: Missouri is delaying the Healthy SNAP initiative to Feb. 15, 2027, giving DSS more time to work with local grocers and partners on the “healthier foods” waiver. Public health—food choices: A University of Missouri expert warns that Americans often eat far more protein than needed, and excess intake may raise risks like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Community health—heat safety: Missouri’s Summer Safety Day urges residents to plan for hotter, more humid weather and focus on frequent water breaks as heat index values near 100° approach. Substance safety: Missouri AG Catherine Hanaway says Kansas City-based American Shaman will suspend in-state sales of kratom and 7-OH after allegations of misleading “free sample” marketing. Outdoor health: Missouri is seeing high tick activity, with officials pointing to warm, humid conditions and recommending protective clothing and permethrin-treated gear. Animal health threat: USDA confirmed New World screwworm in Texas; Missouri’s veterinary and public health partners are preparing for possible re-emergence. Road safety: A Parkville man faces manslaughter charges after prosecutors say he was driving over 100 mph when a crash killed a passenger.