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The panel reported that similar criminal-justice issues were a problem across the St. Louis area. The members were tasked with determining the underlying causes of inequity and offered 189 policy recommendations covering education, job training, health care and other quality-of-life issues. ... For example, in the St. Louis area, life expectancies vary by nearly 40 years between those living in a wealthy, predominantly white ZIP Code and residents in a mostly black one. And according to a survey cited, nearly 18% of black residents lack health insurance, while just more than 7% of white residents are uninsured. (Kesling, 9/14)

The commission's report said the racial divide through the St. Louis region is deep and cuts across access to healthcare, housing and high-quality education, and fosters injustice in the courts. ... Among other recommendations: improved public transportation; more quality, affordable housing; expanded Medicaid eligibility; expansion of nutrition assistance programs for poor people; a higher minimum wage; improved education; and the establishment of school-based health centers. (9/14)