Fed plan would shrink states' powers
From: www.stateline.org
"Some state officials see the federal government’s plan to overhaul the country’s financial regulatory systems as an intrusion on their powers to enforce state laws, and state regulators warn that it could carry grave consequences for consumers."
California bill would ban helium-filled metallic balloons
From: www.sacbee.com
"California would become the first state to ban helium-filled metallic balloons under a bill unanimously advanced Tuesday by a legislative committee."
Energy assistance for needy to end $500 check plan
From: www.adn.com
"The state House has added more money in a $2.3 billion capital budget to help cushion the state's neediest residents from the financial crunch they're feeling from high oil prices."
Income gap in Connecticut is growing fastest, study finds
From: www.nytimes.com
"STAMFORD, Conn. - Marie Wendorff knows better than most about Connecticut's economic contradictions. "
Crowd at immigration workshop urges lawmakers to act
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"A workshop to briefly outline several immigration-related bills attracted a crowded audience Tuesday, with many stepping up to urge legislative action."
BP, ConocoPhillips join forces to build natural gas pipeline
From: newsminer.com
"Alaska producers BP and ConocoPhillips announced Tuesday they are moving ahead with a major natural gas pipeline project from the North Slope into Canada."
Palin praises gas pipeline plan
From: juneauempire.com
"Alaska's governor and top legislative leaders are both praising a BP and ConocoPhillips proposal to build an Alaska natural gas pipeline."
Interview with Conoco Phillips and BP Alaska top execs
From: www.ktuu.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Conoco Phillips in Alaska President Jim Bowles and BP Alaska President Doug Suttles sat down with Channel 2 News Tuesday to discuss their recently-announced venture to build a natural gas pipeline."
AGIA credited as catalyst for BP-Conoco plan
From: www.ktuu.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Even though the new Denali Plan is in competition with the state's gas line legislation, lawmakers in Juneau and Washington, D.C. are crediting the AGIA process with forcing the industry's hand. "
BP, Conoco join forces to pursue gas pipeline
From: www.adn.com
"Oil giants BP and Conoco Phillips announced Tuesday they're joining forces on an Alaska natural gas pipeline, news that fired both excitement and doubt in the state capital."
Alaska now has 2 gas pipeline proposals
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"JUNEAU, Alaska - For decades, Alaska has unsuccessfully pursued a pipeline project that would ship natural gas to U.S. markets to power homes and business. After years of failure and frustration, suddenly there are a pair of viable proposals on the drawing board."
State wants to stop gaming
From: www.al.com
"Alabama officials have asked a federal judge in Mobile to stop the U.S. Department of the Interior from allowing the Poarch Band of Creek Indians to install video gaming machines in its gambling facilities."
State's rich/poor gap 2nd-widest in U.S.
From: www.al.com
"Alabama's gap between its richest and poorest families is the nation's second-widest, and has grown in the last decade by the second-highest amount, driven in part by income declines among the poor."
Alabama income disparity second-highest in U.S. as poor continue to lose ground
From: www.al.com
"WASHINGTON - The gap between the rich and the poor in Alabama is the second-widest in the nation and has grown wider in recent years, according to a national study released Tuesday."
Alabama ranked 2nd in nation for income inequality
From: www.accessmontgomery.com
"The income gap between Alabama's richest and poorest families has widened considerably over the last two decades, giving the state the second-highest level of income inequality in the nation, accord?ing to a study released Tuesday."
Group pops cork on wine trail
From: www.accessmontgomery.com
"CALERA, La. -- Alabama has all sorts of tourist trails -- there's one for civil rights, another for birds and yet another for old churches. The newest one was introduced Tuesday to promote the state's wineries, but Baptists aren't joining in the toast."
State Farm wants damages from 'whistleblowers'
From: hosted.ap.org
"State Farm Fire and Casualty Company wants a federal judge to sanction two sisters who sued the insurer while acting as "whistleblowers" for tort lawyer Richard "Dickie" Scruggs."
Slow-moving Senate tied up with gambling
From: www.accessmontgomery.com
"The slow-moving Alabama Senate has had a Macon County gambling bill on its work agenda more days than any other bill this session. It's because the bill has become part of what could be a political trifecta for some gambling interests."
Alabama county faces bankruptcy
From: www.npr.org
"AlA financial crisis has Alabama's Jefferson County on the verge of a $4.2 billion bankruptcy action. The county is home to Birmingham, the state's largest city."
Home sales fall in February, but at lower rate
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"The number of homes sold in Arkansas in February fell 12.8 percent compared to the same month last year, while the average price of homes sold dipped 0.6 percent, the Arkansas Realtors Association reported Tuesday."
AG -- Majority of payday lenders in Ark. say they will shut down
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"Most payday lending companies operating in Arkansas have said they will close or stop issuing high-interest loans to avoid being sued for violating the state constitution, Attorney General Dustin McDaniel said Tuesday."
Many payday lenders to close, but battles remain, McDaniel says
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"Almost all of the payday lending operations ordered by the state to cease illegal lending practices have said they will comply, Attorney General Dustin McDaniel announced Tuesday."
Ark. budget chief suggests $107M in budget cuts to state agencies
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"About $107 million will be cut from state agencies' budgets in the coming fiscal year to stave off a potential economic downturn, the head of Arkansas' finance office said Tuesday."
Senate OKs bill for right to credit freeze
From: www.azcentral.com
"The Legislature has approved a bill to give Arizonans the right to have a freeze placed on their consumer credit reports."
Bullet train coming to California ballots
From: www.csmonitor.com
"Governor Schwarzenegger is supportive, but a $16 billion state deficit may inspire voters to say 'no' in November."
Tighter rules for retailers urged
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Big-box companies that land state contracts by falsely promising to farm out a large share of the work and profits to small businesses would be barred from more state contracts and heavily fined, under a new bill that made it through its first hearing Tuesday."
Schwarzenegger urges 'creative' revenue increases without tax hikes
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said Tuesday he believes the state can't solve its current budget problem through cuts alone and called on lawmakers to "get very creative" in finding new revenues that don't qualify as taxes."
Figure at center of UCLA medical records flap was just 'nosy'
From: www.latimes.com
"The UCLA Medical Center employee who allegedly pried into the private medical records of the governor's wife and 60 others in a burgeoning scandal was a low-ranking administrative specialist who told The Times on Tuesday that "it was just me being nosy.""
Lawmaker says Calif. retirement plan should help private workers
From: www.sacbee.com
"State Assemblyman Kevin De Leon wants to let private sector employees invest in the state's public employee retirement plan."
State Tomato Board is dissolved
From: www.latimes.com
"GONZALES, Calif. - Melanie Horwath phoned the California Tomato Board with what she assumed was a simple request. "
Governor - Open CalPERS doors
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger threw his political heft Tuesday behind a new proposal to open the California Public Employees' Retirement System to private sector businesses and workers to encourage Californians to save more for retirement."
State panel backs ban on metallic party balloons
From: www.latimes.com
"Birthday gift or guided missile? Mylar balloons bring smiles to partygoers and other revelers, but power companies say they're a bane to utility workers when the glittery orbs end up tangled in electricity lines.
"
Tri-State contemplates nuclear plant in Colo.
From: www2.ljworld.com
"The main utility company behind the controversial proposal to build coal-fired power plants in western Kansas also is considering constructing a nuclear plant."
House votes to lift sales tax cap
From: www.chieftain.com
"Though some questioned its constitutionality, the Colorado House sent to the governor a bill that eliminates the cap on the amount of sales taxes that can be charged."
Colo. gas prices near record; feds foresee $4 as possibility
From: www.rockymountainnews.com
"Colorado's average gasoline price of $3.283 Tuesday was little more than a nickel away from hitting a record high."
Right-to-work bid keeping finances veiled, unions say
From: www.denverpost.com
"Organizers of a "right to work" ballot proposal haven't been reporting the money they're receiving or spending to put the issue before voters, unions alleged Tuesday."
Cleaning up poultry waste
From: www.delawareonline.com
"Put a pile of nitrogen- and phosphorus-rich chicken manure near a ditch or stream and add rain. Soon, those elements are running off into the stream or seeping into the groundwater."
Tax dodge comes under fire
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"In a move to close a tax loophole that has saved millions for big-name real estate investors, the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday unanimously approved a bill ending the break."
House panel gives nod to tax cuts
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"A House panel signed off on new property tax cuts that could limit annual spikes in home valuations and allow partial payments of tax bills."
Court urges Allstate to act quickly
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Both state insurance regulators and Allstate claimed a share of victory with a court order Tuesday in their ongoing political and legal battle."
Lawmakers want to take $250M from Citizens' insurance reserves
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"At the same time they are trying to reduce Floridians' risk in future hurricanes, state lawmakers also want to take $250 million out of reserves held by Citizens Property Insurance to pay private carriers willing to take policies from the state-run insurer."
Downsized state budget to be debated Wednesday
From: hosted.ap.org
"It's cutting time at the state Capitol."
State Senate panel awards $80,000 contract to law firm with attorney linked to anti-insurance group
From: www.tampabay.com
"The Florida Senate's no-bid $80,000 contract for legal advice on property insurance went to a law firm that employs an attorney with ties to a well-known anti-insurance law firm."
Immigration bills face long odds in state House
From: www.tampabay.com
"At state capitals across the country, frustrated lawmakers have filed hundreds of bills to crack down on illegal immigration just one year after the congressional stalemate. "
Businesses push for veto
From: chronicle.augusta.com
"Georgia business leaders stunned by the Legislature's approval of a plan that allows guns in more public places urged Gov. Sonny Perdue on Tuesday to veto the measure."
State urged to void Turtle Bay order
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"The Defend Oahu Coalition is asking the state to rescind a 1986 reclassification of 236 acres at Turtle Bay, saying that the owners of the property have failed to implement conditions attached to the reclassification."
Opening arguments wrap up, testimony begins in CIETC trial
From: www.qctimes.com
"DAVENPORT, Iowa - The trial of three former job training officials continued on Tuesday as defense lawyers claimed their clients were victims of corrupt leadership at the now-defunct agency."
Transportation called critical to growth
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Legislators need to be convinced that more money for road construction is needed to bolster the state's economy, the leader of a central Iowa planning group said Tuesday."
Iowa Tourism Office to run ads in Chicago
From: www.radioiowa.com
"The Iowa Tourism Office plans to begin running an ad campaign in Chicago TV market next week."
Smoking ban heads to Culver
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"Iowa legislators put aside months of differences Tuesday to approve a near-total ban on public smoking, sending the measure to Gov. Chet Culver."
Senate gives final legislative approval to smoking ban
From: www.radioiowa.com
"The Iowa Senate has given final approval to a bill that would ban smoking in most public places around the state. There would be exceptions as, for example, smoking would still be allowed on the gaming floors at the state-licensed casinos."
Smoking ban goes to Culver
From: www.press-citizen.com
"The Legislature approved a statewide ban on indoor smoking Tuesday that supporters said would save countless lives, boost public health and protect thousands of Iowa workers."
House approves natural resources, agriculture budget
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"The Iowa House Tuesday approved a $43.4 million budget to fund agricultural and natural resources programs -- a plan that includes few funding increases because majority Democrats are trying to limit spending at the expense of new programs."
Smoking ban gets OK from Iowa Senate, House
From: www.omaha.com
"After weeks of political wrangling, Iowa is getting ready to say goodbye to smoky bars and restaurants."
Strict smoking ban heads to Culver
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Restaurants, bars and most other public places in Iowa must be smoke-free starting July 1 under a bill Iowa's governor is expected to sign."
Idaho Power to pursue rate increases
From: www.magicvalley.com
"Idaho Power Co. customers will see a series of rate increases over the next several years, all to help boost the company's power production and infrastructure, company officials said Tuesday."
Heston had an appeal to Idahoans that went beyond just the movies -- he influenced its politics as well
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Charlton Heston played one of his most effective cameo roles in Idaho -- and it wasn't in a film. Heston, who died Saturday at 84, was a critical figure in Idaho's Right to Work law, approved by voters in 1986 after the most expensive ballot-measure campaign in state history."
Idaho Judge orders state to reconsider permit for big cat breeder
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"BLACKFOOT, Idaho -- A judge says the Idaho Department of Agriculture acted in an arbitrary manner when it blocked a Nevada man who keeps tigers and other endangered large cats from moving his operation to eastern Idaho."
Law on Medicaid will benefit state's hospitals
From: www.rrstar.com
"Hospitals in Rockford and around Illinois are in line for another $470 million in additional federal money, thanks to a law signed Tuesday by Gov. Rod Blagojevich."
Regulatory board rejects NIU's competition for cancer center
From: www.rrstar.com
"The Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board has rejected Central DuPage Hospital's plan to build a $140 million proton-therapy cancer treatment center in Warrenville."
Madigan sues citing mortgage scam
From: www.chicagobusiness.com
"Attorney General Lisa Madigan filed a lawsuit against a Chicago company for allegedly scamming financially troubled homeowners by posing as a mortgage rescue firm."
DuPage hospital's proton therapy center denied
From: www.dailyherald.com
"Unable to justify two proton therapy treatment centers only miles apart, the state Health Facilities Planning Board struck down Central DuPage Hospital's proposal Tuesday."
Press, IHSA reach deal for sports coverage
From: www.dailyherald.com
"The state's newspaper industry and Illinois High School Association have struck a deal to resolve a dispute over taking pictures at state championship tournaments."
Group links 18 deaths a week to lack of insurance in Ill.
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"More than 18 working-age Illinoisans die each week due to a lack of health insurance, according to a report released Tuesday by a health care advocacy group. "
Hospital closing gets attention, no bid
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"SSM Health Care, parent of St. Francis Hospital in Blue Island, said it has been approached by several parties interested in taking over the financially troubled hospital since its announcement last week that the facility was closing, but says it's unlikely a deal will emerge."
CHA critics say work rule might violate child-welfare law
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Housing advocates say a proposed Chicago Housing Authority work requirement might violate a state child-welfare law."
Levine recalls no firm benefiting from pension board deal
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Stuart Levine has spent much of his time on cross-examination at the trial of political fundraiser Antoin "Tony" Rezko fending off questions from Rezko's chief lawyer about his drug use and memory failings."
Long Thompson talks up jobs plan
From: www.southbendtribune.com
"MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- The gathering might have been small, but Jill Long Thompson says she has big plans to create jobs in Indiana and keep the ones already here."
Tax changes should help homeowners
From: www.indystar.com
"More than three-quarters of Indiana homeowners should enjoy a net tax savings of at least $50 under a recently passed tax restructuring law, according to a new analysis by Larry DeBoer, a Purdue University economist."
Danger from above?
From: www.indystar.com
"Indiana requires hypnotists and barbers to get a license, but you don't need one to run cranes like those that tower above Downtown."
Bioscience funding set for KU Medical Center
From: www2.ljworld.com
"Kansas Bioscience Authority will pump $2 million into an effort to help Kansas University Medical Center attract biomedical startups to the Kansas City metro area."
FBI investigates road bids under Fletcher
From: www.courier-journal.com
"The FBI is investigating the process former Gov. Ernie Fletcher's administration used to award some highway construction contracts, current Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials say."
FBI probe focuses on Transportation
From: www.kentucky.com
"The FBI has launched an investigation into the state Transportation Cabinet regarding "activities that occurred during the previous administration" of Gov. Ernie Fletcher, a cabinet spokesman confirmed Tuesday."
Court ruling hits N.O. policyholders
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"NEW ORLEANS - The Louisiana Supreme Court dealt a blow to thousands of New Orleans area residents Tuesday, ruling an insurer does not have to pay for water damage from the failure of man-made levees after Hurricane Katrina if the homeowners insurance policies in question excluded flooding."
Boll weevil program needs funds to stay alive
From: www.thenewsstar.com
"A bill by state Rep. Noble Ellington would pump $2 million into the Boll Weevil Eradication Program from the current budget so the state can continue its quest to eliminate the pest that can destroy cotton crops."
Court says policies exclude floods
From: www.nola.com
"The Louisiana Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected arguments that homeowner insurance policies should have covered damages caused by levee breaches during Hurricane Katrina, saying the disaster clearly involved a "flood" not covered by such policies."
House delays debate on tax hikes
From: www.bostonherald.com
"The Massachusetts House has delayed a vote on a package of tax hikes after pressure from business leaders and lawmakers who said they needed more time to study the bill."
Pay caps eyed as remedy to hospital bigs' salaries
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Fourteen top executives at nonprofit Bay State hospitals raked in million-dollar-plus pay packages, a Herald review of the latest figures shows - a sharp increase from just a few years ago that's drawing fire on Beacon Hill as citizens and businesses struggle with health-care premium hikes and benefit cuts."
Governor seeks $3.8b to fix bridges
From: www.boston.com
"Governor Deval Patrick plans today to unveil a $3.8 billion bond proposal to repair 411 deteriorating bridges throughout the state over the next eight years, a project he will argue not only improves road safety but also pumps cash into the economy to buffer Massachusetts from a recession."
Compromises play key role in O'Malley legislative wins
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"By the time the confetti fell at the close of Maryland's 90-day legislative session Monday night, Gov. Martin O'Malley had racked up far more wins than losses. But some of those victories arguably should be recorded with asterisks. "
Session wraps up on a green note
From: www.washingtontimes.com
"Maryland lawmakers approved broad environmental and energy initiatives to close the 2008 General Assembly session but delayed tough decisions on the state's persistent budget problems until they return in January."
Gov. Martin O'Malley ends second legislative session with some success amid financial frustrations
From: www.journalism.umd.edu
"State Circle jumped with the feel of a carnival late into Monday night as legislators, staffers, lobbyists and reporters streamed from one celebration to the next."
Wrap-up for 'grueling' time
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Gov. Martin O'Malley and top General Assembly leaders capped off a whirlwind legislative session yesterday, signing into law the final piece of a foreclosure reform package and legislation that repealed Maryland's new computer services tax."
Md. House passes bill that would allow MMA
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Mixed martial arts competition in Maryland is nearly a reality after the House of Delegates passed legislation Monday night that would allow the state's athletic commission to oversee the sport."
The cost of being rich
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"It's quite an exclusive club, Maryland's new millionaires' tax bracket. A little more than 6,000 households statewide qualify for the distinction - more than 40 percent of whom reside in Montgomery County."
Lawmakers kill global warming bill
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"Maryland lawmakers killed a bill last night that would have required major cuts in carbon dioxide emissions."
2008 session comes to a close
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. ratepayers will get a $170 rebate, county video bingo machines will be banned, and legislation to fight global warming will have to wait for another year."
Tax on millionaires a bitter pill for county
From: gazette.net
"Lawmakers repealed a $200 million tax on computer services that Montgomery County legislators said would hurt technology companies, replacing it with a new tax on the wealthy and closing the gap on a $31.2 billion state budget as the 2008 General Assembly came to a close Monday."
Immigrant activists attack license plan
From: bangornews.com
"Immigrants' rights activists went on the offensive Monday against Gov. John Baldacci's proposal to make driver's licenses more secure, saying it targets the most vulnerable, encourages aliens to drive illegally and does little to make Maine safer."
LaMarche to aid casino campaign
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"RUMFORD, Maine - Former Green Party gubernatorial candidate Pat LaMarche has been named spokeswoman of the campaign to put a casino in Oxford County."
'Sportsmen' license plate unveiled
From: bangornews.com
"State officials unveiled a new specialty license plate Monday that will benefit programs popular with lovers of the outdoors."
Maine lab finds phthalates in children's products
From: bangornews.com
"The Alliance for a Clean & Healthy Maine has found high levels of chemicals that can cause health problems in children's toys and products."
Lawmakers tout easing truck weight limits
From: bangornews.com
"U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud and state Rep. John Piotti of Waldo County believe the time is long overdue to begin allowing heavy trucks on interstates in Maine."
State releases construction guide
From: www.freep.com
"The state has released its annual guide to construction across Michigan."
Casinos in Detroit hit by ill economy
From: www.detnews.com
"Detroit's three casinos are feeling the sting of the state's economic downturn, even with two new resort hotels and expanded floor space for gambling, according to a report Tuesday to the Michigan Gaming Control Board."
Michigan closer to issuing food stamps twice a month
From: www.mlive.com
"Michigan is closer to becoming the first state in the nation to issue food stamps twice monthly, despite most recipients preferring to get the government assistance once a month."
Here's one way Wall Street turmoil costs you -- Millions in local bond financing
From: www.mlive.com
"Billions of dollars in bond turmoil in New York comes down to a couple of extra hours flipping burgers for a Grand Valley State University student. About $15. That's the bottom line -- the extra cost to a GVSU student for a dorm room after the school had to refinance $175 million in bonds because of rising interest rates."
Minnesota puts teeth into carbon-reduction policy
From: www.minnpost.com
"As governors and presidential candidates ballyhoo their embrace of broad measures to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, Minnesota is quietly developing a regulatory policy that would make it a national leader in requiring industries seeking air-pollution permits to demonstrate how they would reduce emissions linked to climate change."
Bill to extend last call for RNC to hit House floor
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"Twin Cities bars might have the chance to stay open until 4 a.m. for the Republican National Convention in September."
Democrats say it's up to Pawlenty to revive rail money
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"Metro area Democrats say it's up to Gov. Tim Pawlenty to save the Central Corridor light rail line. DFL Legislators joined city and county leaders Tuesday to condemn Pawlenty's veto of funding for the transit project from the state bonding bill. But they offered no clear plan for getting the train back on the track."
DFLers slam Pawlenty for cutting light-rail funds
From: www.startribune.com
"DFLers blasted Gov. Tim Pawlenty on Tuesday for cutting $70 million for the Central Corridor light-rail line from the bonding bill. Many say the project is dead unless Pawlenty tries to revive it, and they indicated they wouldn't seek an override."
Red Lake school disappointed in governor's line-item cuts
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"BEMIDJII, Minn. - Red Lake school officials said they are disappointed that Gov. Tim Pawlenty vetoed funding for construction projects in their district."
Central Corridor dead ? or alive?
From: www.twincities.com
"On the day Democrats bashed Gov. Tim Pawlenty's veto of state funding for the Central Corridor light-rail line linking St. Paul and Minneapolis -- with several lawmakers even alleging he "killed" the plan -- another picture emerged."
Federal restrictions hit Minn. livestock
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"MINNEAPOLIS -- New federal restrictions meant to prevent the spread of bovine tuberculosis may force the state's livestock producers to spend more time and money shipping their cattle and bison out of state. "
Missouri House approves tax credit for Missouri-made vehicles
From: www.newstribune.com
"For the third straight year, the House has approved a tax break for those who buy vehicles made in Missouri."
Dispute between Missouri, Kansas could prompt taxpayers to amend returns
From: www.newstribune.com
"Tens of thousands of people who work in Missouri but live in other states could end up filing amended tax returns because Missouri legislators have been slow to reverse a new law raising taxes on people who commute here to work."
Blunt wrestles with cattle rustling
From: www.stltoday.com
"SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Cattle rustling seems to have declined slightly but is still a problem in Missouri two years after Gov. Matt Blunt created a task force to deal with the issue, Blunt told a meeting of ranchers Tuesday."
Missouri still hasn't rescinded tax law
From: www.stltoday.com
"So you've scrambled to file your tax returns before next Tuesday's deadline. Think you're done? Missouri workers who live elsewhere may want to think again."
One tax debate turns to another in Missouri Senate
From: www.kansascity.com
"A Senate debate on legislation to repeal a tax increase on property owners who work in Missouri but live in other states descended into a quarrel over local earnings taxes Tuesday."
Wind pool rate cuts approved
From: www.sunherald.com
"Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney approved a rate reduction Tuesday that could save some South Mississippi homeowners an average of about 11 percent this year on wind pool premiums."
Utility company bill's fate could be decided today
From: www.clarionledger.com
"State lawmakers are expected to make a recommendation today on the fate of legislation that would allow Mississippi's two largest utility companies to seek rate hikes during the planning and construction of additional plants."
Kids' toy bill headed back before House
From: www.clarionledger.com
"A key House chairman said he plans to bring a bill dealing with defective children's toys back to the floor in an attempt to override Gov. Haley Barbour's veto of the legislation."
Senate opposes tax hikes to fund Medicaid
From: www.cdispatch.com
"The Senate on Monday agreed with the House to allow Medicaid-funding legislation to be filed to raise cigarette and liquor taxes, but that?s as far as these tax increases are expected to go in the Senate."
Death looms for a flood-control project
From: www.nytimes.com
"STEELE BAYOU, Miss. - Seven decades of hydro-engineering have transformed the lower Mississippi Delta from wetlands to dry fields of cotton and soybeans. "
Montana's income gap grows
From: www.helenair.com
"WASHINGTON -- The gap between the richest and poorest families continued in Montana and grew in Wyoming over the past two decades, with the lowest-income Wyoming families seeing almost no boost in earnings, a new report says."
Smith -- Vision alone doesn't get the job done
From: www.newsobserver.com
"In the sour real estate market of the late 1980s and early '90s, Fred Smith was staring at rows of unsold homes he had built. He was swimming in debt and telling creditors to hang with him while he worked on a plan to repay them."
Council gives nod to energy projects
From: www.in-forum.com
"Five experimental projects that would develop alternative energy businesses in North Dakota will be recommended for state funding from the North Dakota Industrial Commission."
Lawmakers hope to remedy rural vet shortage
From: www.journalstar.com
"A shortage of veterinarians in rural counties has persuaded state lawmakers to take action."
Resomation ban recommended
From: www.cmonitor.com
"Resomation could soon be banned from New Hampshire, after a House committee yesterday unanimously voted to recommend striking from the books a law allowing the process of dissolving corpses in superheated lye."
DOT finds fault with retirement incentives
From: www.nj.com
"Gov. Jon Corzine plans to save $135 million by luring state workers into early retirement later this year, but in the Department of Transportation, at least, departing employees could end up being replaced by private contractors at higher cost."
Obscure but far-reaching panel convenes
From: www.nj.com
"Only a handful of people attended the inaugural meeting of a new state commission yesterday, but its actions may get the attention of thousands of New Jerseyans in the not-too-distant future."
Study - Gap between state's rich, poor among nation's largest
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"The gap between high- and low-income families is wider in New Mexico than in most of the nation and has increased more in the state than in most places, according to a new study. "
Union demands safety upgrade
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"The Las Vegas Ironworkers Union is asking Nevada safety regulators to require contractors to provide netting or temporary flooring of the kind that could have saved two workers who fell to their deaths last year on the Strip."
Teacher merit awards slip-slide away
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"The discussions about how Nevada could reward its best teachers and offer incentives for them to stay on the job began months before the start of the 2007 Legislature."
NY goes `hire' in growth
From: www.nypost.com
"New Yorkers are so far weathering the country's economic problems better than folks in most other regions, new government job statistics show."
Paterson - I'll slash budget by $12 bil
From: www.nypost.com
"In the most forceful speech of his short tenure, Gov. Paterson declared yesterday that he intends to reduce next year's state budget by 5 to 10 percent - up to $12 billion - because the spending plan he inherited this year is "too big and too bloated.""
State budget with Long Island aid to get OK
From: www.newsday.com
"Lawmakers were expected today to give final approval to a new state budget that some said would provide record aid to Long Island's public schools, bolster the neighborhoods near Belmont Park and increase myriad fees to close next year's projected $4.6 billion deficit."
Utility pays state $9.5M in settlement
From: www.timesunion.com
"In its largest payment for a pollution settlement under the federal Clean Air Act, the state received $9.5 million Tuesday for environmental protection projects from the nation's largest coal-fired power plant owner."
Mayor - Pricing plan would have passed
From: www.timesunion.com
"WASHINGTON -- New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg on Tuesday shrugged off the stinging defeat of his congestion pricing plan, saying Albany lawmakers lacked the courage to address it and insisting the proposal would have passed if it had come to a vote."
Wrap near for state budget
From: www.timesunion.com
"A state budget is expected to pass today that provides for more than $1.2 billion in capital project borrowing, including about $47 million for Advanced Micro Devices, according to state officials briefed on the deal."
Group - Legislators' inaction on sick leave hypocritical
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"Ohio legislators get paid sick days, but they're ignoring a proposal to require the same benefit for all Ohio workers. That charge came Tuesday, April 8, from leaders of the campaign to require that Ohio workers be able to earn seven paid sick days a year."
Lawmakers, Strickland shift tobacco money to job fund
From: news.enquirer.com
"Gov. Ted Strickland and lawmakers on Tuesday put a fence around $230 million originally intended for anti-smoking programs that now will be spent on creating jobs."
Solar panels proposed for 2,000 Ohio school roofs
From: blog.cleveland.com
"A state lawmaker wants Ohio to put solar panels on 2,000 school rooftops - about half of the public school buildings in the state - a move he says would create jobs and combat rate spikes."
Prisons department cuts 5 percent of work force
From: hosted.ap.org
"The state prisons department is cutting about 700 jobs as part of budget cuts across many state agencies."
Strickland finds way to use tobacco funds for Ohio stimulus plan
From: www.toledoblade.com
"The war over Ohio?s tobacco prevention money escalated yesterday as lawmakers and Gov. Ted Strickland moved swiftly to cut the legs out from under a plan to transfer the money to nonprofit organizations where the state couldn?t get to it."
Lawmakers - Tax cuts costing state workers
From: www.journalrecord.com
"Members of a state workers' union lobbied Tuesday for better pay and benefits, but were told their cause has been hurt by huge tax cuts in recent years."
New labor leader hopes to boost job training in Oregon
From: www.statesmanjournal.com
"As Oregon's new labor commissioner, Brad Avakian said Tuesday that he would build on his predecessor's work but also make his own mark on job training."
Farmers look for help as honeybees dwindle
From: www.oregonlive.com
"CORVALLIS, Ore. -- Oregon berries, pears, apples and other specialty crops worth nearly $300 million annually are at risk from a mysterious disease that is wiping out commercial honeybee colonies, farmers say."
Bill would aid locales of high tax exemption
From: www.pennlive.com
"Harrisburg and other communities with scores of tax-exempt properties could get more state aid under a bill before the state House of Representatives, but the Rendell administration has concerns about the cost."
Pa. House passes 5 mortgage measures
From: www.philly.com
"The state House took steps yesterday to ease the financial crunch that has left thousands of families scrambling to avoid losing their homes."
House panel amends mine safety bill, but Senate OK unlikely
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Mine workers will have to wait a while longer for new mine-safety regulations that have been in the works for more than three years."
Anti-casino group's study says gambling costs will outweigh benefits to Philadelphia
From: www.philly.com
"An anti-casino group yesterday released a study warning that the arrival of riverfront gambling would cost Philadelphia more in hidden expenses than the city would receive in financial benefits."
House subcommittee opts to avoid fight between cable companies, NFL Network
From: www.goupstate.com
"A House subcommittee on Tuesday blitzed Carolina Panthers President Mark Richardson and threw the NFL Network for a loss."
Owners argue for NFL Network
From: www.thestate.com
"The NFL Network should be available to cable subscribers in South Carolina and for a similar price as 24-hour golf programming, the owner of the Carolina Panthers will argue today in the S.C. Legislature."
Wine business booming in South Dakota
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"South Dakota vintners are expected to make more than 50,000 gallons of wine this year. The state winery business produced a mere 230 gallons when it first bloomed in 1997."
Tax breaks to cost S.D. $15.5 million
From: argusleader.com
"Tax refunds used as incentives for developers will hit South Dakota's general fund for $15.5 million or more next year, state budget officials estimate."
Shortfalls put state pay raises in jeopardy
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"State employees? pay raises are on the line as Tennessee?s revenue collections continued to plummet in March, Gov. Phil Bredesen acknowledged Tuesday."
Pacific Coast salmon fishing will be all but off-limits this summer
From: www.oregonlive.com
"SEATTLE -- Key advisers pushed Tuesday for a near-complete closure of the Pacific Ocean salmon fishery off the Oregon and California coasts, leaving room only for extremely limited commercial trolling and sportfishing."
Outdoor groups line up behind mining reform
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Hunting and angling groups, including 30 from Montana and four from Wyoming, are adding their voices to a growing chorus calling for reform of the 1872 Mining Law."
Dominion will bury Stafford cable
From: fredericksburg.com
"A state agency approved the burial of a controversial power line planned in Stafford County. The project was originally designed as an overhead cable connected by steel towers."
Lawmakers reach deal for Dale employees
From: www.rutlandherald.com
"Many of the more than 40 workers at Waterbury's Dale Women's Facility will have the opportunity to switch to other jobs within the corrections system without losing their pay or benefits under a deal given preliminary approval Tuesday."
State fines stores over inaccurate scanners
From: www.timesargus.com
"The state has levied fines totaling more than $30,000 for checkout scanner errors at 20 retail stores around Vermont."
Smoking ban support grows
From: www.wrn.com
"A new report claims support for a statewide smoking ban in Wisconsin continues to grow."
Court -- Customers must cooperate to benefit from Wis. Lemon Law
From: hosted.ap.org
"A court says customers who buy faulty cars are not entitled to remedies under Wisconsin's Lemon Law if they fail to cooperate with manufacturers."
Wis. governor to make 'major announcement' on Great Lakes Compact
From: hosted.ap.org
"Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle plans to make what his office called a "major announcement" regarding the Great Lakes Compact that has stalled in the Legislature under Republican opposition."
Smoking bans pick up steam in latest poll
From: www.madison.com
"Wisconsin residents show an increased support for smoking bans, according to a poll released today."
Doyle awards Landmark $4 million soybean grant
From: www.gazettextra.com
"EVANSVILLE, Wis. - Gov. Jim Doyle today awarded a $4 million state grant to Landmark Services Cooperative for the construction of Wisconsin's first soybean crushing facility."
Market woes also hit hospitals
From: www.madison.com
"Homeowners aren't the only ones suffering from variable-rate loans. Hospitals were also sickened by interest rates that soared because of market difficulties."
Proposed low-fare W.Va.-based airline grounded
From: hosted.ap.org
"West Virginia's hopes of creating a low-cost air carrier have failed to take flight."
Bresch -- Work experience counted as credit for disputed MBA
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Though a career-defining work opportunity kept her out of the classroom, the daughter of West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin insists she earned her master's degree from West Virginia University fairly, earning work-experience credit for her final four courses in 1998."
New government report says mines lack safety equipment
From: www.dailymail.com
"Underground coal mines lack stockpiles of breathable air and communications gear for trapped workers, according to a federal report released nearly two years after Congress required the industry to install more safety equipment."
Income gap widens in Wyo
From: www.trib.com
"Despite a surging state economy, low- and middle-income wage earners in Wyoming have seen only slight or modest pay increases over the last two decades, a new report says."
Wolf kills reach at least 10
From: www.trib.com
"LANDER, Wyo. -- At least 10 gray wolves have now been killed in Wyoming since the animals were removed from the federal endangered species list."
In Northern Rockies, wolves raising howls
From: www.stateline.org
"A recent decision by the federal government to lift protections for gray wolves living in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming means the three states now are responsible for managing the animals — and inherit a years-old debate between conservationists and ranchers over what should be done with them."
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
"
(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.
"
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
"
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.
"
Ariz., Fla. duel for spring training role
From: www.stateline.org
"
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.
"
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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