States mortgage relief programs aren't helping much
From: online.wsj.com
"As the Senate continues work on its $15 billion mortgage relief bill next week, states will be keeping a close eye on one measure: it would authorize them to issue an additional $10 billion of tax-exempt housing bonds to fund mortgage programs."
State increases tax revenue estimates
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Iowa's ability to buck the national economic slowdown persuaded state officials Friday to increase the state's revenue outlook by a total of $127 million for the current and coming budget years.
"
Plan would tax music downloads
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Don't get too used to those 99-cent downloads from iTunes. A Los Angeles-area lawmaker trying to help raise money to delete the state government's $8 billion shortfall thinks consumers should pay sales tax when buying from online music stores.
"
Dry Perdue makes do in wet China
From: www.ajc.com
"BEIJING - Gov. Sonny Perdue doesn't drink alcohol. Doesn't keep it at the Governor's Mansion. Doesn't support Sunday liquor sales. But the people who do business in China often booze it up at honorary banquets in a way that would make a fraternity boy blush. And they expect their guests to participate."
Judge strips Texas of its 'pole tax'
From: www.latimes.com
"HOUSTON - Texas was forced by federal law to end its poll tax on voters four decades ago, and now another levy has put the Lone Star State in constitutionally murky waters: the "pole tax.""
University signs salary contracts with three employee unions
From: www.adn.com
"FAIRBANKS, Alaska -- Three union contracts have been approved by the University of Alaska Board of Regents."
Bill requires Palin submit long-range fiscal plan
From: www.adn.com
"Alaska's governor would have to submit an annual long-range fiscal plan under legislation that passed the House and Senate unanimously."
Legislature appears headed for a quiet finale
From: www.adn.com
"The Alaska Legislature may find itself in an unfamiliar situation come midnight Sunday, one in which spats over the budget are minimal."
Siegelman future hinges on appeal
From: www.cbsnews.com
"A federal court has released former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman from prison, six weeks after 60 Minutes aired a report about a prosecution so suspect that 52 former state attorneys-general have asked Congress to investigate. "
Fear, paranoia and, yes, some loathing in Alabama State House
From: www.nytimes.com
"MONTGOMERY, Ala. - There is fear in the halls of the Alabama State House. Your colleague may be wired. Somebody may be watching you. An indictment looms. "
Bill targeting video producers who spur crime prompts debate
From: www.azstarnet.com
"A measure aimed at the producers of videos that are said to encourage rape and other crimes is drawing fire from lobbyists from more traditional media."
Initiative wants anti-bias law to include sexual orientation
From: www.azstarnet.com
"A state legislator started a petition drive Friday to forbid all employers from discriminating against gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender individuals."
Arizona's defense contractors score billions in new budget
From: www.azcentral.com
"President Bush's $515.4 billion 2009 defense budget, now before Congress, bodes well for Arizona's more than 6,000 military contractors and subcontractors."
State measure targets obscene material
From: www.azcentral.com
"Pornographic videos depicting rape scenes. Web sites on how to administer date-rape drugs. Books on how to build a homemade bomb. People who create or sell material that causes someone to commit a serious crime could be sued under a bill that faces a hearing today in the Arizona Legislature that is expected to draw a number of opponents from various industries."
Mercury News investigation - State deal benefits giant retailer
From: www.mercurynews.com
"State officials in 2006 hailed as "unprecedented" their success in getting small businesses involved in selling office supplies to California agencies.
"
Charities press for electronic-bingo fund influx
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"To counter withering competition from Indian casinos and elsewhere, the Catholic Church and other charitable groups want to revolutionize conventional bingo with interconnected games that could offer six-figure prizes. "
Sales tax targeted at military charities
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"Gerriss Klant, the wife of an active duty officer, supports legislation pending in Sacramento that would grant a sales-tax exemption for goods bought at military thrift shops, much like the break afforded Goodwill, the Salvation Army and some other charities. "
Schwarzenegger hinting tax hike possible
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Arnold Schwarzenegger, who stormed into office five years ago deriding tax-and-spend Democrats and mocked his re-election opponent in 2006 as a gleeful "taxoholic," is singing a different tune these days.
"
Phone law isn't moving drivers
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Less than three months before a new state law goes into effect requiring drivers 18 and over to use hands-free cell phone devices when behind the wheel, not many motorists are beating a path to the nearest phone store.
"
Bill targets California's accountant regulations
From: www.sacbee.com
"Four years ago, California accountants pushed for a bill they said would better protect consumers by forcing out-of-state CPAs to let state regulators know they were practicing in the state. Now, they say that 2004 law "created a monster" and want the state Legislature to undo it. The law led to a confusing system that discourages the free flow of commerce between state lines, the state accounting board says.
"
UCSB economists say California headed for recession
From: www.sacbee.com
"SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -- Economists in Santa Barbara say California can expect a mild recession this year.
"
Calif. bill would require sick leave for workers
From: www.sacbee.com
"Assemblywoman Fiona Ma wants to provide some relief for the millions of California workers who face losing pay if they stay home sick.
"
Madera County tribe faces long haul on casino proposal
From: www.sacbee.com
"The Mono Indians of Madera County's North Fork Rancheria are rolling the dice in their efforts to build a Las Vegas-style casino on Highway 99 miles from their traditional home. Other California tribes have built casinos on recently acquired land. North Fork, though, wants to become the first to build what is often called an off-reservation casino.
"
Trees block solar panels, and a feud ends in court
From: www.nytimes.com
"SUNNYVALE, Calif. - Call it an eco-parable: one Prius-driving couple takes pride in their eight redwoods, the first of them planted over a decade ago. Their electric-car-driving neighbors take pride in their rooftop solar panels, installed five years after the first trees were planted. "
Ritter, energy industry part on regulatory path
From: www.rockymountainnews.com
"Gov. Bill Ritter inserted himself squarely in the middle of the debate over two issues vital to Colorado's future: jobs and the environment."
Connecticut's clean energy policy creating demand
From: www.courant.com
"Electricity in Connecticut comes mostly from hulking power plants scattered around the state, but under official policy, that's supposed to change."
Rubio's budget wording benefits ally
From: www.miamiherald.com
"Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio quietly slipped tough-to-spot language in a state budget plan last week that helps a friend and political money-man bid on a major fuel contract in a $265 million turnpike overhaul proposal."
Sorry, Charlie. It's not so sunny.
From: www.tampabay.com
"It's fitting that Charlie Crist is governor of the Sunshine State. The man always looks on the brighter side of life, just like one of his heroes, Ronald Reagan. No problems, only opportunities."
Bill would lower fees for mortgage brokers
From: www.miamiherald.com
"Applying to be a mortgage broker in Florida may soon become cheaper if a bill moving through the state House gets the approval of the full Legislature."
Florida may see more nuclear plants
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Going green in Florida looks like more nukes and high-voltage transmission lines will be crisscrossing the state.
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Ruling - Florida insurance regulators can ban Allstate
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Florida insurance regulators have the power to shut down Allstate to force it to cooperate with rate investigations, a court ruled Friday.
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The $65 billion question is - Where won't the money go?
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"From schools and social services to the court system, arts and environmental programs, Florida is facing a stark new reality this spring. No money.
"
Gov. Crist clings to his early budget plan
From: www.tampabay.com
"Florida's poor, sick and elderly might not be the only ones who lose out in the state budget. Gov. Charlie Crist's priorities are likely to take a hit, too. "
Major bills and resolutions in the 2008 session
From: www.ajc.com
"The 2008 Georgia General Assembly completed its 40-day legislative session late Friday night. A look at the disposition of major bills and resolutions taken up by the state Senate and state House of Representatives:"
Guns allowed in more public places with bill's passage
From: www.ajc.com
"Georgians with weapons permits will be able to carry guns in far more places under a bill that passed both chambers Friday night."
Bills on GMO taro, new felony laws await votes
From: the.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Tuesday is the 46th day of the 60-day Legislative session. Facing the second crossover deadline on Thursday, committees spent the past week readying bills for marathon floor sessions Tuesday."
Hawaii lawmakers dispute welfare funding
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"State lawmakers want to keep the Lingle administration from spending more than $20 million in federal welfare money next fiscal year to build a reserve in case a downturn in the state's economy forces more people onto welfare."
State snagged on elections protest
From: starbulletin.com
"Planning has been halted because of a protest by a company that did not win the bid for new equipment to run elections this fall in Hawaii."
Agency aids stranded travelers
From: starbulletin.com
"In an attempt to help speed the return home for stranded ATA passengers, the Hawaii Tourism Authority has budgeted up to $5 million in emergency funds to underwrite additional airline capacity."
Hawaii targets taro genetic modification
From: www.nytimes.com
"HONOLULU - Lawmakers have approved a five-year moratorium on genetically modifying Hawaiian taro in the state, a compromise between researchers and farmers who consider taro a sacred plant."
Lack of technical experience hinders Power Board
From: www.qctimes.com
"In the three months since the state opened the new Iowa Office of Energy Independence to oversee its Power Fund, board members are finding themselves wrestling with technical questions as they carefully review applications for funding."
Q-C lawmakers push to get projects funded
From: www.qctimes.com
"Energized by a projection that estimates the state will generate millions more in tax revenue, Quad-City area lawmakers this week will push to get their priorities funded in what Democratic leaders have called a tight budget year."
Senate leader says change in bottle deposit law "in jeopardy"
From: www.radioiowa.com
"A key statehouse Democrat says the governor's bid to add more containers to the state's bottle deposit law is "in jeopardy." A nickle deposit fee is added to all beer and pop containers sold in Iowa and folks return the empties, mainly to grocery stores, to redeem that deposit."
Group says Iowa revenue increases by $80 million
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"When it comes to the economy, being small has its benefits.
"
Firm hired to cut state costs won't seek bonuses
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"A consulting firm hired to help the state trim costs has agreed not to collect $225,000 in bonuses after a state audit showed the consultant was paid more than the state saved, officials said Thursday.
"
Panel clears path for high-tech signs on Iowa's roads
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Digital billboards that resemble jumbo television screens would be allowed along Iowa's highways under proposed rules that cleared a legislative hurdle Friday."
Dynamics put smoking ban in odd spot, Gronstal says
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"A top leader in the Iowa Legislature said Friday he can't predict whether a tougher smoking ban will pass this year, simply because of some unusual dynamics between the House and Senate."
CIETC pay scandal case goes to trial
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"Trial in one of Iowa's biggest government scandals is scheduled to begin Monday in Davenport.
"
Lawmakers race clock on major issues
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
" Northwest Iowa lawmakers are running out of time to address a long list of priorities. The legislative session is scheduled to end on April 22, leaving a little more than two weeks."
Fuel prices take toll on Iowa's rough roads
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Iowans are driving less, and that means there's less money from gasoline taxes to fix the state's badly deteriorating roads."
Past offers road map to building process
From: www.qctimes.com
"When it comes to crafting a plan to pay for new highways, bridges and schools, Illinoisans have been down this road before."
Illinois construction plan -- Thousands of jobs at stake
From: www.qctimes.com
"Backers of a proposed $25 billion statewide construction plan say it will be a major boost to the Illinois economy. But rather than saying how many jobs it will create, they are using a different phrase: It will "support" 784,000 jobs, they say."
Illinois construction plan -- Federal dollars won't disappear
From: www.qctimes.com
"Federal dollars will not disappear if the Illinois General Assembly fails to approve a statewide construction plan to update its roads, highways, bridges and buildings, say U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and the federal transportation and highway administrations. They simply will deflate or buy less."
I-94 from Milwaukee to Illinois may get wider
From: www.dailyherald.com
"MILWAUKEE -- A plan to widen the interstate from Milwaukee to Illinois may receive final approval soon after a new report says the project would comply with federal environmental laws."
Authorities doubt state smoking ban is enforceable
From: www.sj-r.com
"Sangamon County authorities have concluded that Illinois' statewide smoking ban, as written, is probably unenforceable. But that doesn't mean you can get away with smoking in your office or in a bar or restaurant."
GOP power broker in spotlight
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"For four decades, William Cellini has been a shadowy Illinois government insider who exerted political clout across the state, accruing wealth to match his power."
Rezko jury weighing star witness' account of 'deals made in hell'
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Jurors at the fraud trial of political fundraiser Antoin "Tony" Rezko are coming face to face with the meaning of a saying that most criminal defense lawyers learned long ago. "
Downstate officials praise meth law
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"CHARLESTON, Ill. - Downstate law-enforcement officials say an 18-month-old law that limits the sale of some cold medicine is working to clamp down on methamphetamine production."
Dems -- It's the Indiana economy, stupid
From: www.nwi.com
"The slumping economy continues to shape the race for Indiana governor, with both Democratic primary contenders touting their personal experience and job-creation platforms."
The fight goes on, Obama tells Hoosier crowd
From: www.indystar.com
"FORT WAYNE, Ind. -- Sen. Barack Obama on Friday called on Americans to continue the fight for racial and economic justice that took the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life 40 years ago."
Coal plant issue left hanging
From: www.kansas.com
"The fight over a coal-burning power plant goes on, with no resolution in sight as Kansas lawmakers prepared to leave the Capitol for a three-week break."
Immigration bill stalls in House
From: www.kansas.com
"Efforts to crack down on illegal immigration stalled in the state House on Friday, possibly for the rest of this legislative session."
Legislators put off biggest issues
From: www.kansas.com
"Legislators have left some of the session's biggest issues -- health care, illegal immigration and coal power -- for later."
Casino's' 'battle legale' persists
From: www2.ljworld.com
"KANSAS CITY, Kan. - The fight over the 7th Street Casino isn't over. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Rogers in Topeka on Friday allowed Kansas to reopen a lawsuit challenging the legality of the Oklahoma-based Wyandotte Nation's downtown casino."
Legislature has a lot left to do
From: www2.ljworld.com
"State lawmakers Friday ended the major part of the legislative session a lot like they started it on Jan. 14 -- arguing about coal-fired power plants, illegal immigration and health care."
Second coal plant bill OK?d
From: www2.ljworld.com
"Gov. Kathleen Sebelius on Friday vowed to veto a second bill approved by the Legislature that would allow the construction of two 700-megawatt coal-fired plants."
Compromise immigration bill stalls in House
From: www2.ljworld.com
"A compromise immigration bill's best chance for reaching Gov. Kathleen Sebelius is House members reversing course and allowing a vote on the measure when they return April 30 from their spring break."
Carbon tax on large utilities evaporates
From: www.kansascity.com
"TOPEKA, Kan. - Why should the state stop western Kansas from getting the cleanest coal plant in the state, when eastern Kansas enjoys the power from some of the state?s dirtiest plants?"
Many major issues remain for Kansas Legislature
From: www.kansascity.com
"TOPEKA, Kan. - Democratic Gov. Kathleen Sebelius has a name for the current session: The do-nothing Legislature. Republicans, on the other hand, said the governor is just upset because few of her priorities have been addressed."
House hindered by split among leaders
From: www.courier-journal.com
"When former President Bill Clinton came to Frankfort for a rally last month, House Democrats shut down legislative proceedings long enough for House leaders and other members to attend."
State budget depends on assumptions
From: www.courier-journal.com
"Just before the House cast the final vote on the $19 billion state budget last Wednesday, Rep. Jim Wayne warned that it had been "patched together" with every trick the legislature could find."
Professional boards decry expropriation by Kentucky House of their fees
From: www.courier-journal.com
"In a move critics say could threaten public safety, lawmakers scooped up millions of dollars in fees that professionals -- such as doctors, nurses and dentists -- pay to support their licensing agencies."
Senator wants to ax La. Airport Authority
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"A Senate leader wants the state to abolish the panel directing a 16-year-old bid to erect a cargo airport near Donaldsonville."
Road Home can lead to big payday
From: www.nola.com
"While ICF International's expanding Road Home contract has led to high-profile inquiries and lots of hand-wringing, there are also three dozen subcontractors that have made hundreds of millions of dollars off the program."
Deval warns - $150M in cuts may be needed
From: www.bostonherald.com
"LOWELL, Mass. - Citing unexpected health care and other costs, Gov. Deval Patrick yesterday asked executive branch department heads to identify at least $150 million in budget cuts in case state tax revenues do not remain at anticipated levels.
"
End-of-life care costlier in Boston
From: www.boston.com
"During their final years, chronically ill patients in Boston spend more time in the hospital, receive more care from specialists, and run up substantially steeper bills than senior citizens in much of the nation, according to a sweeping report released this morning."
Deep cuts loom across state
From: www.boston.com
"In Canton, middle school students idle in vast study halls because electives have been pared and teachers have been laid off. In Shirley, selectmen recently removed 103 light bulbs from Town Hall and may switch off some streetlights to reduce electric bills. "
Pr. George's hospitals get relief, not a cure
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"The Maryland General Assembly has passed emergency legislation intended to provide long-term stability for the ailing Prince George's County hospital system. "
House OKs reprieve for PG hospital
From: www.washingtontimes.com
"The House has given final approval to legislation to keep the financially troubled Prince George's Hospital Center open until an owner can be found."
Delegates see vindication on 'tech tax'
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The House Ways and Means Committee objected to Maryland's new tax on computer services during November's special legislative session, so when it was its turn yesterday to take up a bill to repeal the unpopular levy, some delegates saw it as an occasion for vindication."
Senate passes bay bill
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The Maryland Senate passed legislation yesterday that would further tighten shoreline development restrictions in an effort to save the Chesapeake Bay from decline, though legislators amended a key provision that the bill's supporters said would weaken the effort."
Tighter lead-product limits advance
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The Senate voted yesterday to strengthen pending restrictions on products that contain lead, matching a bill that has passed the House of Delegates."
Emergency fund bill milks dry cow
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The General Assembly has taken a baby step toward bringing Maryland in line with a handful of other East Coast states that have passed legislation to subsidize their beleaguered dairy farmers."
Computer tax battle quickly begets a lobby
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"When Annapolis politicians decided to single out the computer services industry for a 6 percent sales tax last November, the move horrified the professional geek community but didn't elicit a murmur of protest from its lobbyists."
Energy rebates hang in balance
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"By midnight tonight, Gov. Martin O'Malley must line up the necessary votes in the General Assembly to approve a $2 billion settlement he brokered with Constellation Energy Group or risk the deal's collapse."
Senate amends Critical Area law to create buffer
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"A buffer zone protecting the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from shoreline development would double, instead of triple, under an amended bill approved yesterday by the Maryland Senate that overhauls state zoning laws on construction near water."
Lawmakers lob bills in bid to beat buzzer
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"An ambitious plan to reduce carbon dioxide emissions believed to contribute to global warming was in limbo as the Maryland General Assembly headed toward adjournment today. "
CONSOLIDATION Senate to vote today on bill Cost-sharing has no opposition
From: kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com
"Planners working out mergers between local school districts are turning up the pressure on legislators to pass a bill that would allow their consolidation work to continue"
Mainers warned about insurance scams
From: bangornews.com
"The current downturn in the economy has brought another wave of insurance scams to Maine, the state?s insurance superintendent confirmed."
State campsites filling up fast
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"Even with an impressive winter that seems reluctant to relinquish its hold, some people are making plans for the coming camping season. Camping reservations at state parks have hit an all-time high for this time of year, according to the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands."
Utilities lobby Michigan lawmakers
From: www.southbendtribune.com
"LANSING, Mich. -- Utilities that want a rewrite of Michigan's eight-year-old electricity law are outspending their opponents when it comes to lobbying lawmakers and giving to their campaigns."
Distillers hope new license will boost their spirits
From: blog.mlive.com
"A newly proposed liquor license is boosting the spirits of 11 artisan distilleries across Michigan."
Many new jobs come with low pay
From: blog.mlive.com
"Michigan's attempt to stimulate the economy by creating new jobs may not be effective because most of the jobs are low-paying, experts at the Michigan League for Human Services say."
Hail to the victors solvent! UM bests Buckeyes at bonds
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"Unable to conquer the Buckeyes on the gridiron in recent years, the University of Michigan can take solace in the fact it is bucking the crisis in the municipal bond market better than its counterpart to the south. Why? Because it's the University of Michigan, and Wall Street loves it."
Insurance bills back to negotiation
From: www.detnews.com
"A legislative battle in the state's Capitol over new regulations for insurers selling individual policies will resume in mid-April, when members of the Senate Health Policy Committee hold another round of hearings and move to a final committee vote at the month's end."
On tap -- More could get MEGA credits
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"Michigan businesses may no longer have to shop outside the state for another location to qualify for Michigan Economic Growth Authority tax credits."
Culture clash or power play?
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"When the state's housing authority set out to find a new director in 2005, a memo crafted for the headhunter laid out the expectations."
When foreigners buy factories - 2 towns, 2 outcomes
From: www.nytimes.com
"HOLLAND, Mich. - Four years ago, a low-slung factory on the fringes of town here was stagnating and shedding workers. Then Siemens, the German industrial giant, bought the plant and folded it into a global enterprise. "
High gas prices might not hurt northeast Minn. resorts
From: ap.brainerddispatch.com
"Tourism officials in northeastern Minnesota say rising gas prices probably won't hurt resort business -- and might even help."
MOHELA is buffeted by credit market crisis
From: www.showmenews.com
"How long can the goose continue to lay golden eggs? For anyone interested in the construction of the new Ellis Fischel Cancer Center on the University of Missouri campus, it is a very relevant question."
State revenue 4.8 percent higher than '07
From: www.newstribune.com
"State tax revenues for the year are 4.8 percent higher than a year ago. That's higher than the projected growth rate, but the increases are slowing. "
Jefferson City will vote again on casino ban
From: www.stltoday.com
"As an architectural icon and the seat of state government, the Missouri Capitol draws more than 100,000 visitors each year to its ornate perch on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River."
Experts say Coast casinos shouldn't fear
From: www.sunherald.com
"BILOXI, Miss. -- After a record-breaking year at the Coast casinos, competition is closing in from Mobile and Florida as other states look to legalize gambling to pay for schools and Medicare."
Hotel tax hike has slim chance, lawmaker says
From: www.clarionledger.com
"A bill that would increase the hotel-motel occupancy tax from 75 cents to $4.25 per room per night has a slim chance of getting through the state Legislature."
Recent bus tour of foreclosed homes a first for the state
From: www.nashuatelegraph.com
"This is Nashua, where foreclosures are markedly fewer but growing quickly enough to attract the Foreclosure Express - a whirlwind Saturday tour of about 10 bank-owned properties. The March 29 tour in Nashua was the first of its kind in New Hampshire. "
Lawsuit: Hannaford breach cost residents
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"The local class-action lawsuit filed against Hannaford Bros. now includes two people who say their debit or credit cards were fraudulently charged following the grocery store's security breach. "
Corzine aid testifies against a former friend
From: www.nytimes.com
"NEWARK, N.J. - Javier Inclan, a deputy chief of staff to Gov. Jon S. Corzine, came to Federal District Court here on Friday to testify against a former friend and ally, Mayor David Delle Donna of Guttenberg, N.J., who is charged with extorting money from a bar owner accused of trafficking in illegal immigrant girls."
Plan for big stores to sell lottery tickets gets mixed reviews
From: www.nj.com
"Behind the counter at the Krauszer's store in New Brunswick, owner Atul Tijoriwala knows his regulars by name, engaging them in the peppy small talk that keeps his store feeling like a family-run business."
In Jersey, attacking fraud not 'a primary concern'
From: www.nj.com
"The state of New Jersey, which spends about $68 million a year on workers' compensation claims, pulled the plug on thousands of potential claims by taking a simple step: hiring seven investigators to check out injury claims. Since the investigators came on board in 2005, workers' comp claims from state employees plunged by 27 percent, from 8,791 claims in 2004 to 6,367 last year."
That weight you feel is state's debt burden
From: www.nj.com
"New Jersey residents continued to grapple with one of the heaviest state debt loads in the nation last year, a new survey of public borrowing shows."
Chamber faults state on family leave bill
From: www.nj.com
"With the final vote on the paid family leave bill scheduled Monday in the Senate, the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce yesterday released a report accusing the state of hiding the true cost of what the program would cost workers."
Codey -- Expanding lottery sales may be just the ticket
From: www.nj.com
"Saying it would generate more cash for the state, Senate President Richard Codey will push a plan to expand the New Jersey Lottery by selling tickets at big box stores such as Home Depot or Target, adding internet sales and even allowing people to play the games with their cell phones."
How Jersey fails injured workers
From: www.nj.com
"John DeJulio, a retired veteran, fell into New Jersey's workers' compensation system when he slipped on a puddle and broke his leg at the Home Depot in Freehold. More than three years passed before surgery was approved to replace his injured knee."
Politics tangle a safety net for workers hurt on job
From: www.nj.com
"After losing a bare-knuckle, down-to-the-wire state Senate race four years ago, George Geist needed a new job. A former assemblyman and influential chairman of the Camden County Republican Party, Geist wanted a Superior Court judgeship but couldn't muster the support of the state bar."
N.J. weighs paid work leave bill
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"TRENTON, N.J. -- New Jersey may be poised to become the third state to require companies to offer six weeks of paid leave to workers wishing to care for a new child or sick relative. "
Tax Revenues - State budget woes to continue
From: www.lvrj.com
"Gov. Jim Gibbons and state legislators cannot count on a quick recovery from the severe economic downturn that has left them scampering to find where to cut $898 million from Nevada's two-year budget."
State of Nevada feeling pinch of higher gas prices, too
From: hosted.ap.org
"With three months left in the fiscal year, the state of Nevada has spent all but $1.3 million of its $10 million total budget for gasoline and diesel, officials said."
Nevada governor resumes budget shortfall talks with lawmakers
From: hosted.ap.org
"Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons will resume private talks with legislative leaders on Monday in efforts to find more ways of reducing state spending beyond the 4.5 percent cutbacks he ordered in January to deal with a revenue shortfall now projected to hit $900 million by mid-2009."
Tourism juggernaut shows signs of slowing down
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"For all the highly technical and nuanced ways to identify economic slowdowns, in Las Vegas there's one simple way to take measure: room rates."
Official put on leave after latest report on trooper inquiry
From: www.nytimes.com
"Daniel Wiese, the inspector general of the State Power Authority, was placed on indefinite administrative leave on Friday."
Budget is going nowhere
From: www.nypost.com
"State budget talks remained stalled over the weekend, despite Gov. Paterson's call Friday for lawmakers to remain in town until a budget is done.
"
Battle on for brutal bouts
From: www.nypost.com
"Once called "barbaric" by then-Gov. George Pataki, Ultimate Fighting is getting a second look in New York.
"
In congestion talks upstate, mayor sends in the surrogates
From: www.nytimes.com
"New York City's mayor stayed at home last week. With his congestion pricing plan being negotiated down to the wire in the capital, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg was notably absent. "
Comptroller DiNapoli to critique state budget
From: www.newsday.com
"Thomas DiNapoli will soon get his second chance as state comptroller to dissect a spending plan from his former peers in the legislature, this time under a new governor.
"
Experts - NY State budget will need revise later
From: www.newsday.com
"Fears the still-unfinished state budget will unravel later this year as tax collections are pinched by the worsening economy are hanging over final deliberations in the Capitol like a storm cloud.
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Skelos seeks state aid for Belmont Park neighbors
From: www.newsday.com
"Securing millions of dollars in state aid for the neighborhoods near Belmont Park thoroughbred race track emerged yesterday as one of the issues in the way of a final deal on the new state budget.
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A distaste for budget pork
From: www.timesunion.com
"A frustrated Gov. David Paterson blasted the Legislature Friday for ignoring the state's economic slide even as he agreed to spend at least $45 million on lawmakers' pet projects this year.
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Nickels and dimes and nicotine
From: www.timesunion.com
"NEW YORK -- Tucked away on just 55 acres in a nondescript Long Island suburb, the Poospatuck Indian Reservation is easy to miss on the drive up the coast from New York City. But to anyone looking for cheap tobacco, the 60-mile drive is worth the trip."
Traffic plan faces an uncertain vote
From: www.nytimes.com
"As Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg's plan to charge drivers a fee to enter Manhattan below 60th Street neared its Monday deadline, support for the proposal in the State Legislature remained tenuous at best."
In the tent of tomorrow, a faded map of yesteryear
From: www.nytimes.com
"It took Adrian Benepe much less than a minute to cross Adirondack Park, but he was clearly impressed. "How big the Adirondacks are when you walk through," he exclaimed, his black oxfords looking none the worse for wear."
Budget holdup benefits Bloomberg
From: www.timesunion.com
"Lawmakers returning to the Capitol today will likely be waiting for new budget bills, giving New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg a little longer to lobby for his plan to charge fees to ease traffic congestion in Manhattan."
Behind the Emperor's Club escort service
From: www.nytimes.com
"The escort service accused of enticing Eliot Spitzer and a host of other clients was operated by four improbable masters of temptation: a rejuvenated tax specialist, a boarding school pixie, a literature major from Virginia and a clog-wearing nutritionist. "
Turnpike officials unsure what revenue loss will mean
From: www.cleveland.com
"Just over a year ago, the people running the Ohio Turnpike raised tolls, saying they needed the money to maintain quality service on the 241-mile highway."
State disability agency to cut 97 jobs
From: www.cleveland.com
"The Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities will abolish the jobs of 97 employees and leave 89 other positions unfilled to cope with budget cutbacks from the Strickland administration."
NASA Glenn union wants answers on workers' cancer rate
From: www.cleveland.com
"A union at NASA Glenn Research Center is worried about the number of workers who have been diagnosed with cancer, despite studies saying the rates are within normal range."
Ohio lawmaker wants to ease restrictions on wine shipments
From: hosted.ap.org
"A state lawmaker from northeast Ohio says he wants to ease restrictions on out-of-state wine shipments."
Judge allows lawsuit challenging legality of casino to reopen
From: newsok.com
"KANSAS CITY, Kan. - The fight over the 7th Street Casino isn't over. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Rogers in Topeka on Friday allowed Kansas to reopen a lawsuit challenging the legality of the Oklahoma-based Wyandotte Nation's downtown casino."
Dollar is cheap, so Oregon tells Europeans -- Come on over
From: hosted.ap.org
"EUGENE, Ore. -- Oregon's travel industry is investing more than a half-million dollars to lure Europeans here, hoping they'll want to capitalize on the weak dollar."
State board upholds Lininger forest rezoning
From: www.registerguard.com
"The state Land Use Board of Appeals has upheld approval for a former Lane County commissioner to rezone 80 acres of forest land southwest of Eugene to build a house."
Clinton supports extending logging compensation
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Federal payments to Oregon's counties should continue until the government can find another way to compensate rural communities for the demise of old-growth logging, Sen. Hillary Clinton said Saturday."
Lawmaker says virtual blackjack shouldn't stick
From: www.mcall.com
"Less than a month after Pennsylvania's newest slots parlor -- Hollywood Casino at Penn National outside Harrisburg -- opened its doors, four machines have skyrocketed to stardom and become some of the casino's biggest moneymakers."
Budding beer sales
From: www.thestate.com
"Bi-Lo on Devine Street got a taste of celebrity on Sunday. The store, one of the first of several retailers in Columbia to get approval from the S.C. Department of Revenue to sell beer and wine on Sunday, increased staff and ordered more beer before the big day. It was a good thing."
The Senate budget
From: www.thestate.com
"The Senate Finance Committee on Thursday approved a $7 billion spending plan for the state's fiscal year that starts July 1 that anticipates the S.C. economy slowing further. The Senate budget slashes money for endowed chairs at research universities but gives state employees a bigger pay raise."
South Carolina missing out on sales to Cuba is other states' gain
From: www.charleston.net
"HAVANA - The Hotel Nacional's breakfast buffet covers half its cavernous basement, offering fruits, vegetables, omelets and pastries for just about every international taste. Still, you could call the massive spread a simple continental breakfast -- if that continent is North America. "
State agency tops 1 million acres in oil, gas and mineral leases
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"The state School and Public Lands office says it has surpassed 1 million acres in property leased for oil, gas and mineral exploration. The milestone was reached at the office's spring lease auction on Wednesday."
Compromise legislation expected today on competitive cable issue
From: www.knoxnews.com
"Tennessee lawmakers are expected to present compromise legislation today that would create a statewide system for permitting cable TV franchises."
Legislators debate higher taxes, controls as strip mining rebounds
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"OLIVER SPRINGS, Tenn. - The cleanup of TVA's coal-fired plants in East Tennessee is fueling a new environmental battle over coal."
AT&T, cable rivals agree on rules for TV
From: www.tennessean.com
"After months of secret negotiations between AT&T and the cable industry, both sides have agreed on many of the ground rules for AT&T's entry into the television service business in Tennessee - including how many customers must get access and how many households must be in low-income neighborhoods."
Group said GOP candidates got secret corporate money
From: www.dallasnews.com
"A state district judge has dismissed a campaign finance lawsuit against a statewide business group, its contributors and a high-powered lobbyist over the use of corporate money in a handful of legislative races. "
High court to rehear case
From: www.star-telegram.com
"The Texas Supreme Court has agreed to rehear a case from Jefferson County dealing with the scope of the state workers' compensation law."
Privatization of Texas lottery may get 2nd look in 2009
From: www.star-telegram.com
"Texans could buy lottery tickets at the checkout lines in supermarkets and big-box department stores, at coffee shops and cabarets. They could pay with credit cards or personal checks and play online or the old-fashioned way with a ticket that's also a tiny ad for anything from soft drinks to sporting events."
Texas' welfare privatization efforts snagged
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Lawmakers are worried that a partly privatized system for determining who receives public assistance is still shaky and may not be salvageable. "
Texans beat big coal, and a film shows how
From: www.nytimes.com
"HOUSTON - David had only a slingshot. Texans fighting big coal have Robert Redford. "
Judge dismisses lawsuit againt business group and allies
From: www.statesman.com
"The slowly unwinding litigation against the Texas Association of Business has taken another decisive turn in the group's favor."
'Pole Tax' Unconstitutional in Texas
From: www.statesman.com
" A $5-per-customer fee on strip club patrons dubbed the "pole tax" has been declared unconstitutional."
Hurricane price tags soar on crowded coasts
From: www.msnbc.msn.com
"MIAMI - The damage caused to coastal cities by hurricanes promises to rise into the stratosphere, raising concerns about a possible $500 billion storm and prompting calls for tougher building codes."
Wyo -- Toss Montana's lawsuit
From: www.trib.com
"BILLINGS, Mont. -- Wyoming's attorney general asked the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday to dismiss a lawsuit alleging the state's agriculture and energy industries are using too much water in violation of an interstate agreement."
States disagree on uranium mining
From: www.sltrib.com
"KANAB, Utah -- Uranium mining was a hot topic at an economic development conference in Kanab, as differing interests between Utah and Arizona came into conflict."
New focus on coal's part in warming
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"James E. Hansen, perhaps the best-known scientific advocate for curbing greenhouse-gas emissions, sent a letter recently to the head of one of the nation's largest power companies, calling on him to confront the role that his coal-fired plants play in global warming. "
Pork barrel remains hidden in U.S. budget
From: www.nytimes.com
"WASHINGTON - Sometimes on Capitol Hill, lawmakers find that it pays to ask nicely instead of just ordering the bureaucrats around."
Economic woes render growth debate moot
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"Throughout the Washington suburbs, the economic downturn has accomplished what the slow-growth movement could not: It has slowed growth significantly. "
Utah No. 2 in U.S. livability rankings
From: deseretnews.com
"WASHINGTON -- Some Utah residents may already think the state is a great place to live or work, but now they have official data to back it up."
State authority deals Internet plan a setback
From: www.timesargus.com
"The Vermont Telecommunications Authority has rejected a business plan from a group of central and southern Vermont towns that are hoping to launch a community-based high-speed Internet project."
Famed Washington ferry system now a vessel for ads
From: www.latimes.com
"BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, Wash. - With the exception of those who travel by floatplane or private boat, everyone who travels to the San Juan Islands depends on Washington's signature green-and-white state-run ferries. "
Winter moratorium on utility disconnections ends soon
From: www.wrn.com
"Utilities in the state are warning their customers to pay up, or else."
Report brings 8-lane plan closer
From: www.jsonline.com
"Plans to expand 35 miles of I-94 from six lanes to eight between Milwaukee and Illinois moved closer to final approval Friday with a report that declared the project would comply with federal environmental laws."
Division of Highways struggles with vacancies
From: www.theintelligencer.net
"The state Division of Highways is running short of people."
W.Va. gas hits new record of $3.41 per gallon of regular
From: hosted.ap.org
"Gasoline prices have hit a new record high, both nationally and in West Virginia, where the price of regular is at least 12 cents higher than any of its surrounding states."
Cyber pressure
From: www.trib.com
"BILLINGS, Mont. -- A move is afoot in the cyber world to boycott Wyoming and the state's businesses over its wolf-management policies that have resulted in the recent killing of six wolves."
States think smaller, slower on immigration
From: www.stateline.org
"The headlong rush of states into immigration policy may be slowing. So far this spring, ambitious proposals in state capitols have been watered down, delayed or outright defeated."
States lead feds in toy safety
From: www.stateline.org
"Reacting to an increase in toy recalls and consumer complaints, 29 states have pursued legislation that in some way regulates toy safety. The toy industry, meanwhile, says abiding by such a wide range of laws is challenging."
Maine gets 2 more days for Real ID
From: www.stateline.org
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(Updated 10:30 a.m. EDT, Tuesday, April 1)
Maine gets two more days to reach an agreement with federal officials on rules to make driver's licenses more secure and avoid extensive security screenings for its residents at airports and federal buildings beginning May 11.
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The economic downturn: an opportunity for governors?
From: www.stateline.org
"Most governors recognize that they have the best political job in America. Most also would concede that the job is more satisfying when the economy is strong and revenues are growing than during an economic downturn, when cutting budgets becomes the major task. But even a recession can present opportunities for governors to make improvements that yield lasting benefits for their states."
Tight budgets, rising costs squeeze states
From: www.stateline.org
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Like an American tourist in Europe, states are seeing their dollars just don’t go as far as they used to. Not only was the amount of tax revenue states collected during the fourth quarter of 2007 the weakest in almost five years, but for the first time since the 1990s, inflation for state and local governments grew substantially faster than for the economy as a whole, according to new data released March 31.
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Ariz., Fla. duel for spring training role
From: www.stateline.org
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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla - Local pride and the possibility of economic benefits are at stake as Arizona and Florida slug it out to attract teams for the annual six-week ritual of spring training. But whether the games generate enough extra money to boost the local economy is debatable."
WORTH NOTING: Gov targeted in critic's galaxy
From: www.stateline.org
"
A New Jersey mayor shifts his aim from a planet to a politician. California’s budget troubles are as bad as what? And a problem gambler gets more help than he wanted to kick the habit. In case you missed any of those stories this week, “Worth Noting” fills you in.
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WORTH NOTING: Illinois gov runs up travel tab
From: www.stateline.org
"Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s commuting costs start to add up. South Dakota Gov. Mike Rounds settles a dispute with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over a cranky game warden.
California corrections officials install “flushometers” to control wasteful toilet flushing in prisons. In case you missed any of those stories this week, "Worth Noting" fills you in."
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: www.stateline.org
"Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s commuting costs start to add up. South Dakota Gov. Mike Rounds settles a dispute with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over a cranky game warden.
California corrections officials install “flushometers” to control wasteful toilet flushing in prisons. In case you missed any of those stories this week, "Worth Noting" fills you in."
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