For many people throughout Mississippi, Hurricane Katrina is all but a memory at this point.

It was that scary period when we got hit by Mother Nature and had to survive for a while without power or gasoline for a bit. Past history, correct?

The truth is the hurricane is still affecting our state in massive ways. Handling those issues should remain a state priority.

Even if you were one of the lucky ones whose life was not directly affected by the howling winds and powerful storm surge, you’ll likely still feel some pain.

Insurance rates are perhaps one of the biggest of such problems facing the state.

A nearly 300 percent increase in insurance rates has stifled rebuilding some businesses along the coast. And this isn’t merely a problem in coastal counties; it affects all Mississippians.

First, the coast is an important part of the state’s economy. We need it to be rebuilt quickly.

Second, the Mississippi Windstorm Underwriting Association, the insurer of last resort, assesses insurance companies throughout the state so it can provide coverage in high-risk areas. Increasing assessment needs have resulted in higher rates throughout the state — even for companies that did not write policies on the coast.

Legislators are considering ways to help provide a temporary subsidy to help lower the impact on businesses and possibly residential rates, too. A $30 million state subsidy might cut commercial rates in half.

Gov. Barbour says he prefers seeking federal funds, not state ones.

Regardless of the source, something needs to be done quickly. The time to get the state’s economy fully “righted” is long overdue.