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The cruise ship disaster off Italy's Tuscan coast still poses a threat to the pristine waters and idyllic islands. The local residents and frequent visitors are upset — and they include NPR reporter Sylvia Poggioli.

Condoms, vaginal films, jellies, foams and sponges containing the spermicide N-9 are widely available without a doctor's prescription. N-9 can increase the risk of HIV transmission in certain cases, but many consumers don't know that.

About 300 babies die each year after being hospitalized for serious injuries, according to a new report. Researchers are testing ways to help parents cope with the anger and frustration that can be triggered by a crying baby.

As the Legislature begins its regular session Tuesday, one of the big issues lawmakers will take up is the state's immigration law — considered the nation's toughest crackdown on illegal immigrants. Business leaders are driving efforts to modify the law now that some say it could cost the state $11 billion.

GOP candidate Mitt Romney has joined those criticizing President Obama over a policy that would require most employers, including Catholic hospitals and universities, to include birth control in their employees' health insurance. The White House now says it will work to "allay" concerns.

While overall rates have dropped, there is still a major gap separating white, Hispanic and black teenagers. Non-Hispanic white teen pregnancy rates fell by 50 percent from their peak; Hispanic teen pregnancy rates, 37 percent; black teen pregnancy rates, 48 percent.

Many employer health plans have effectively been required to cover prescription birth control since 2000. And more than half the states have similar rules.

Catholics are swing voters, and polls show a narrow majority think women employed by Catholic hospitals and universities should have access to contraceptive coverage through their health plans. But the GOP presidential hopefuls are framing the issue as a question of religious freedom.

Some Catholics believe the president's new rule on contraceptive coverage resolves religious liberty concerns. But others, including key bishops, say it is smoke and mirrors.

Along with Republicans, some Democrats said religious institutions shouldn't have to include birth control in their employees' health coverage. The Obama administration altered its policy Friday, but the issue could still affect which party controls the Senate next year.