Hiring leaps in public sector
From: www.usatoday.com
"Federal, state and local governments are hiring new workers at the fastest pace in six years, helping offset job losses in the private sector."
Dulles rail set to get federal approval
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"Federal transportation officials are planning to approve the proposed 23-mile extension of Metrorail to Dulles International Airport in a letter to Congress today, the officials told local and state authorities yesterday. "
AP Interview - Schwarzenegger to try health care fix again
From: www.nytimes.com
"SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Three months after his effort to retool the state's health care system ran aground, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger told The Associated Press he'll try again."
Green energy bill sails through Florida House
From: www.miamiherald.com
"A major push to address climate change in Florida with a comprehensive energy overhaul -- encompassing everything from ethanol fuel standards to new, energy efficient building codes -- passed the House Tuesday."
Regents want groups audited
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"The Montana Board of Regents voted 5-2 on Tuesday to seek a legislative performance audit of the two financially struggling Montana student-loan-related entities, the Student Assistance Foundation and Montana Higher Education Student Assistance Corp."
Governor denies plans to privatize state parks
From: www.nj.com
"Responding to a charge by environmentalists, Gov. Jon Corzine said yesterday he has no plans to privatize state parks or create a new state department by combining the divisions of parks and forestry and wildlife with the Department of Agriculture."
House, Senate won't pay travel expenses for Anchorage trip
From: www.adn.com
"Gov. Sarah Palin's preliminary gas line presentation will be held May 28-30, but it may take place before a sparse crowd."
State officials say MLK director made misrepresentations
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"The Arkansas Insurance Department says the new director of the state Martin Luther King Commission made misrepresentations in traffic accident claims at least eight years ago."
State-land-auction interest wanes
From: www.azcentral.com
"Developers appear reluctant to bid on two tracts of state trust land in the northeast Valley that are set for auction today."
Governor boosts deficit forecast to $20 billion as he bids to change state's spending system
From: www.sfgate.com
"In a startling revelation, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said this week that the state's budget deficit could grow to as much as $20 billion as he prepared to unveil a revised spending plan for the coming year that is likely to include deep cuts in education, health services and prisons.
"
State's new CIO tries to tame hydra-headed computer infrastructure
From: www.mercurynews.com
"When Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger wants to send an e-mail to every employee on the state's vast computer networks, he can't simply pop open a global address book, select "all" and click "send." The government's technology won't allow it. And California is the world leader in technology? Not within state government. That's expected to change under Teresa "Teri" Takai, Schwarzenegger's top technology adviser.
"
Medical-file case brings indictment
From: www.nytimes.com
"LOS ANGELES - A former U.C.L.A. Medical Center employee was indicted on accusations that she gained access to the records of dozens of well-known patients and sold the information to an unidentified news media outlet for $4,600, the United States attorney's office said Tuesday."
Delta canal measure put on hold
From: www.sacbee.com
"An Assembly committee on Tuesday shelved legislation to build a canal around the suffering Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, telling the bill's author to try again next year.
"
GOP senators demand changes in business, environmental policies
From: www.sacbee.com
"Senate Republicans stood with business representatives Tuesday in demanding a series of business and environmental regulation changes as part of state budget talks.
"
Slack housing market in Denver area still better than most
From: www.rockymountainnews.com
"Denver home prices fell 5.5 percent over the 12-month period that ended in February, according to the closely watched S&P/Case-Shiller National U.S. Home Price Index."
Lawmakers at odds on property insurance changes
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"Negotiations broke down Tuesday night between House and Senate Republicans over a bill to freeze windstorm premiums for Citizens Property Insurance Corp. customers, leaving in doubt the outcome of the session's most sweeping property insurance changes.
"
Gov. Crist plans second global warming summit
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"Gov. Charlie Crist announced plans Tuesday for a second summit in Miami to fight global warming."
Counties bear the costs of Legislature's 'mandates'
From: www.miamiherald.com
"In the waning days of the session, legislators are poised to pass a budget teeming with billions of dollars in cuts -- but also mandates that county and municipal officials say will shift the burden to local taxpayers."
Medicaid experiment will remain same size this year
From: www.miamiherald.com
"A proposal to expand a controversial experiment in making the state's Medicaid healthcare system work more like the private sector is dead for this year, the plan's chief legislative booster said.
"
Education leadership overhaul nearly dead
From: www.miamiherald.com
"A bill to dismantle the system governing state universities and make the education commissioner an elected job fizzled to near death Tuesday when the House failed to take it up."
Small business gets aid
From: www.miamiherald.com
"Not all small businesses owners use the Internet, keep offices, or have the time and staff to comply with state regulations, especially regulations that are designed for larger business. That's why state lawmakers this week created a small business council and the post of advocate to look out for small businesses' interests when state agencies are devising rules.
"
State mortgage fraud penalties hiked, tax help offered
From: www.miamiherald.com
"In the wake of Florida's real estate downturn and rapid rise in foreclosures, the state Senate passed a second bill in as many years Tuesday, increasing the penalties for those convicted of mortgage fraud."
High court will decide whether gas is pollutant
From: chronicle.augusta.com
"The Georgia Supreme Court must decide whether carbon monoxide gas is a pollutant, in a case that could have repercussions for the insurance industry."
Air turbulence
From: starbulletin.com
"They say bad things come in threes. First, Aloha Air ended its passenger service. Then on Monday it closed up its cargo operations, which handled 85 percent of interisland freight."
Carriers expand their fleets to meet shipping demand
From: starbulletin.com
"Pacific Air Cargo is leasing a Boeing 727 freighter aircraft, which was expected to arrive in Honolulu from Oakland, Calif., today, to fill some of the void left by the shutdown of Aloha Airlines' cargo unit."
Lingle won't issue state of emergency
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"The Lingle administration is talking with county mayors about cargo alternatives in the wake of the Aloha Airlines cargo unit shutdown and is working with carriers and shippers to pass along information about what resources might be available."
State trying to regain control of lands
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"The state has appealed a major Hawaii Supreme Court decision that blocks the state from selling or transferring former Hawaiian monarchy lands."
Bill that shields reporters, bloggers passes
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Reporters and bloggers would be protected from having to reveal their sources and notes under a bill passed yesterday by the state House and Senate and now is heading to Gov. Linda Lingle for her signature."
Higher Hawaii produce prices expected
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"For O'ahu shoppers, the Aloha cargo closure is expected to make it harder to find produce grown on the Neighbor Islands. Prices for local produce could also go up, at a time when consumers already are paying more for groceries."
Lingle budget slashed by $44M
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"State lawmakers yesterday signed off on a $10.7 billion state budget for next fiscal year that trims Gov. Linda Lingle's spending requests by more than $44 million because of concerns about the economy."
Hawaii struggles after cargo shutdown
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Pacific Air Cargo, a Los Angeles company that operates five Boeing 747 cargo flights a week between Honolulu and California, said yesterday it is interested in possibly filling the void left by the closure of Aloha Airlines' cargo division."
Campaign sign bill falters
From: starbulletin.com
"Clotheslines, campaign signs and confidential sources were on the agenda yesterday as state lawmakers took final votes on dozens of bills crafted over the past four months."
Firms want Kauai ferry service
From: starbulletin.com
"LIHUE, Hawaii - A number of food industry executives, led by Love's Bakery President Mike Walters, are asking the Hawaii Superferry, Gov. Linda Lingle and Kauai politicians to bring the Superferry back to Kauai."
Tactics in Swift raids denounced at hearing
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Allegations that federal officials illegally arrested nearly 1,300 Swift workers in raids at Marshalltown and across the country were highlighted Tuesday at a union-sponsored hearing that included remarks by former Gov. Tom Vilsack."
Panel probes 2006 immigration raids at Swift plants
From: www.radioiowa.com
"A national commission investigating immigration raids at Swift meatpacking plants held a hearing in Des Moines Tuesday. Former Governor Tom Vilsack questioned plant workers and their families along with immigrant advocates."
Environmentalists -- Lawmakers failed on environmental issues
From: www.qctimes.com
"For environmental groups, there's no better illustration of their gripe with the Legislature than this: One of the 2008 legislative session's signature environmental measures is a five-year odor study -- with no funding."
EPA gives early nod to Idaho field burning plan
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"The Environmental Protection Agency has given an early nod to Idaho's proposed new rules and changes to its approach to regulating the long-standing farm practice of field burning in northern Idaho."
Illinois income tax rate remains unchanged
From: ads.qctimes.com
"The Senate struck down another bid Tuesday to change Illinois' income tax rate."
Illinois private colleges to split $3.5M in financial aid
From: ads.qctimes.com
"Over the next seven years, 36 public and private colleges will split $3.5 million in financial aid, courtesy of contract negotiations between Illinois and a New York financial firm."
Cuts in Illinois extension services begin
From: ads.qctimes.com
"While hundreds of her University of Illinois Cooperative Extension counterparts are without work because of budget cuts, Decatur horticulture expert Jennifer Nelson still has a job -- for now."
Legislators reject possible tax overhaul
From: www.dailyherald.com
"The Illinois Senate overwhelmingly struck down a proposed constitutional amendment Tuesday that would have asked voters to decide in November if the state needs a new income tax structure."
Governor's pitch for state rebate checks goes nowhere
From: www.dailyherald.com
"In February, Gov. Rod Blagojevich teased taxpayers and lawmakers with the whimsy of state rebate checks that could add hundreds of dollars onto the typical family's federal rebate just as incumbents hit the campaign trail."
Poe will review records on state of fairgrounds
From: www.sj-r.com
"The state's Capital Development Board will meet with Rep. Raymond Poe to review material on the condition of buildings at the Illinois State Fairgrounds."
'Weird Al,' Huey Lewis coming to fair, sites say
From: www.sj-r.com
""Weird Al" Yankovic and Huey Lewis & the News will perform at the 2008 Illinois State Fair, according to the performers' Web sites."
Senate rejects income tax amendment
From: www.sj-r.com
"State lawmakers again Tuesday rejected a constitutional question about a new Illinois income tax system, part of an intense rush to ask voters this fall to weigh in on several hotly debated topics."
New Wrigley Field proposal on deck
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The leader of the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority said Tuesday that the agency has solved a seemingly intractable puzzle: How to purchase and renovate Wrigley Field without using any state or local tax dollars."
No taxes in deal to buy, rehab Wrigley?
From: www.suntimes.com
"Former Gov. Jim Thompson said Tuesday he has found a way to have the state buy and renovate Wrigley Field -- a remodeling cost of "at least $400 million" -- with "no taxes of any kind.""
State may sue school in sex harassment case
From: www.suntimes.com
"More legal troubles could lie ahead for a private school that Gov. Blagojevich said mistakenly got $1 million he had promised for fire-ravaged Pilgrim Baptist Church.
"
Bag of cash to save gov's house?
From: www.suntimes.com
"A former aide to Gov. Blagojevich has told prosecutors that, in 2003, he delivered a black plastic bag filled with $25,000 in cash to Tony Rezko to pay contractors and keep them from placing a lien on the governor's Ravenswood Manor home."
No automatic returns
From: www.indystar.com
"Anger over Indiana's property tax crisis and a general distaste for incumbents have led to an unusual number of primary challenges in Statehouse races this spring, particularly among key Senate leaders."
Coal debate expected to heat up
From: www2.ljworld.com
"The political showdown of the year is expected to play out today as legislative leaders try to overturn Gov. Kathleen Sebelius? veto of two coal-fired power plants."
Key votes await as Kansas Legislature winds down
From: www.kansascity.com
"Health care. Immigration. Energy policy. This may sound like an agenda for Congress, but it's not. It's the week's to-do list for the Kansas Legislature."
Kansas' revenue from gambling less than projected, report says
From: www2.ljworld.com
"Four state-owned resort casinos and slot machines at race tracks could generate up to $739 million in annual revenue even if two Indian casinos operate near the border in Oklahoma, a study prepared for the Kansas Lottery concluded."
Work-force development gets push
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"Work-force development ? the centerpiece of Gov. Bobby Jindal's legislative agenda -- is absent from his $30 billion state operating budget proposal, a state official told lawmakers Tuesday."
Senate panel advances bill for Iberville racino
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"Iberville Parish voters would get a chance to decide whether they want a horse-racing and slot machine complex in St. Gabriel, under a bill that cleared a Senate panel Tuesday."
Senate panel drops bingo proposal
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"An anti-video bingo group from Hammond got help Tuesday from a state Senate committee."
Chamber backs recusal if conflict faces judge
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"The state needs to adopt a law that would require judges to recuse themselves in cases where certain conflicts of interest arise, the Baton Rouge Area Chamber said in a report issued Tuesday."
State oil revenues accelerate
From: www.thenewsstar.com
"State gasoline tax revenues are dwindling because high prices at the pump are forcing people to drive less, a state economist said."
Consumers' data leaked by ex-mortgage workers
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Personal information of about 56,000 Maryland consumers was compromised when several former employees of LendingTree.com, an online mortgage lending exchange, gave three mortgage brokers unauthorized access to company databases, according to state records."
Md. chamber joins fight for slots
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The Maryland Chamber of Commerce yesterday joined the coalition of interests that will fight for passage of a November referendum to legalize slot machine gambling in the state."
Energy bill aid on rise in state
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Maryland's energy assistance program is expected to run $12 million over budget this year because of soaring demand from residents who can't afford their utility bills - another sign of how severely the economic downturn and rising energy bills are pinching consumers' wallets."
As fuel prices rise, so does ridership
From: gazette.net
"It used to take nearly half a tank of gas for Lisa Thomas, 41, of Germantown to make her round-trip commute to her job as a policy analyst with the American Federation of Teachers in Washington."
Legislature at odds over spending millions on state construction projects
From: www.mlive.com
"Democratic and Republican lawmakers remain at odds over spending hundreds of millions of dollars on university buildings, airport runways, trails, fishing piers and other state projects. And time is running out to strike a deal."
Senate Health Policy Committee postpones vote on Blues bills
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"The Senate Health Policy Committee has postponed a vote Wednesday on four controversial House bills that would change the individual insurance market and give permission to a for-profit worker's compensation subsidiary of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan to enter other insurance lines."
State attorney general asked to take action against casino
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"A dispute is growing over the decision by the owner of the new Four Winds Casino Resort to withhold revenue-sharing payments from the state and county."
Gov. Jennifer Granholm undergoes emergency surgery
From: www.mlive.com
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm has undergone emergency surgery to treat a bowel obstruction, postponing a planned investment trip to Israel and Kuwait, her office said Wednesday."
Granholm has emergency surgery
From: www.detnews.com
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm is "recovering and resting comfortably" but will be hospitalized for about a week following emergency surgery Tuesday night to treat a bowel obstruction, aides said Wednesday."
Granholm undergoes emergency surgery, cancels Mideast trip
From: www.freep.com
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm underwent emergency surgery Tuesday evening to treat a bowel obstruction and has canceled a trip to Israel and Kuwait, her office said today."
Mall of America subsidy backers showcase top-tier support
From: ap.brainerddispatch.com
"Minnesota's most powerful legislators united Tuesday behind a major Mall of America expansion based on hundreds of millions of dollars in public subsidies and to be built by thousands of construction workers."
Minn. foreclosures could hit record in 2008
From: ap.brainerddispatch.com
"Minnesota could have a record number of foreclosures in 2008, according to a report."
Making movies in Minnesota: Clint should be here. Johnny Depp, too.
From: www.twincities.com
"If things had worked out, Clint Eastwood would be strolling down Rice Street right now. Instead, Eastwood will be traipsing around Grand Rapids, Mich., where he decided to shoot "Gran Torino" when it became clear Minnesota couldn't come up with incentives to match Michigan's. "
State workers to get 3 percent pay raise
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"Missouri state workers will get a 3 percent pay raise next year. House and Senate budget negotiators agreed on the pay hike today, to begin with the new state budget July 1."
Amtrak gets subsidies to keep Missouri train
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"Amtrak has been allotted the money it needed to keep two passenger trains chugging back and forth across Missouri."
Bill on car dealer suits headed to Blunt
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"Car buyers who believe they have been stuck with a lemon could face new restrictions on whom they can sue."
Bill to reverse tax increase on nonresidents gets OK from lawmakers
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"Missouri lawmakers settled a dispute with Kansas today by passing legislation that could reverse a tax increase on nonresidents working in Missouri."
Fuel price provision in biodiesel bill debated
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"COLUMBIA, Mo. ? A provision designed to protect consumers from having to pay higher prices at the pump took center stage in the Capitol on Tuesday during a hearing on legislation that would require all diesel fuel sold in Missouri to be blended with biodiesel fuel derived from soybeans."
Missouri restores Kansans' tax break
From: www.kansascity.com
"Missouri lawmakers approved a truce Tuesday in the income tax border war they provoked with Kansas. By a tally of 144-0, the House voted to restore the property tax deduction for Kansas residents who work in Missouri that was eliminated last year. The legislation now goes to Gov. Matt Blunt, who pledged to sign it after a prompt review."
Governor hopeful over funds for Toyota road improvements
From: www.djournal.com
"Gov. Haley Barbour said Tuesday he is committed to finding a method of funding highway improvements to attract additional Toyota suppliers to Northeast Mississippi."
Crop could prove beneficial to diabetics
From: bozemandailychronicle.com
"Gov. Brian Schweitzer Tuesday helped unveil a type of barley that he said could become a lucrative export for Montana farmers because of its reported ability to prevent type 2 diabetes."
Qwest offers $16M bill reduction to settle complaint
From: www.helenair.com
"Qwest Communications is offering a $16 million reduction in customers' bills to settle a complaint that it was overcharging Montana consumers."
Board erred in closing Bair museum, high court rules
From: billingsgazette.net
"The Board of Advisers for the Charles M. Bair Family Trust breached its duty when it closed the Bair family museum at Martinsdale six years ago, the Montana Supreme Court ruled Tuesday."
PSC may try to block sale of NWE interest
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Public Service Commission Chairman Greg Jergeson wants the regulatory board next week to consider going to court to block any attempts by NorthWestern Energy to sell its unregulated interest in the Colstrip 4 power plant."
ABC board chairman hosts Perdue event
From: www.charlotte.com
"The sometimes controversial chairman of the board that regulates N.C. liquor sales held a campaign event at his home this month for gubernatorial candidate Beverly Perdue, even as Perdue was distancing herself from the liquor industry and speculation that she had promised to reappoint the chairman if she's elected."
Timing of Long's move questioned
From: www.charlotte.com
"The state's longtime insurance commissioner, Jim Long, surprised Raleigh's political circle when he announced his retirement on the last day of February, just a few hours before the filing deadline for anyone who might want the job he was vacating. He then escorted the assistant commissioner, Wayne Goodwin, to the state board of elections, and Goodwin put his own name on the ballot."
N.D. farmers won't face charges for indemnity fund
From: www.grandforksherald.com
"A fund to help farmers who have credit-sale contracts with elevators that go bankrupt has reached its $6 million cap, meaning sellers won't have to pay into the fund after June 30."
Project seeks to save meadows
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"TOWNER, N.D. - An irrigation project is bringing relief to hay meadows and to farmers in the heart of the state's cattle country.
"
Sodsaver loophole concerns many conservation groups
From: www.grandforksherald.com
"Conservation groups are worried a provision in the compromise farm bill agreement could further threaten native grassland habitat in North Dakota and Montana, and they are mobilizing constituents to take action. "
Amendment 1 supporters make their case
From: www.journalstar.com
"Two politicians and a banker turned out Tuesday to show their support of a proposed change to the Nebraska constitution. Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning, Lincoln Sen. DiAnna Schimek and Cornhusker Bank chairman emeritus Alice Dittman held a news conference to urge voters to mark yes on their ballots beside Amendment 1."
Nursing home cost up 25 percent since 2004
From: www.journalstar.com
"The cost of nursing home care in Nebraska has increased 25 percent since 2004, according to an annual Cost of Care Survey released Tuesday by Genworth Financial. This compares to a 17 percent increase nationwide."
Cities and towns wait for verdict on retirees
From: www.fosters.com
"Several local communities could see significantly higher retirement costs if lawmakers' efforts to rein in benefits for retirees are blocked in the state Senate.
"
Lynch wins approval for spending cut
From: www.fosters.com
"Gov. John Lynch is expanding a state spending freeze. The joint Fiscal Committee voted Tuesday to approve Lynch's request to broaden a freeze on purchases of equipment and other commodities -- with the exception of food, drugs, medical supplies and other items needed in an emergency.
"
Senate panel okays carbon initiative, with amendment
From: www.cmonitor.com
"A Senate committee passed a bill that would enter New Hampshire into a 10-state plan to curb emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide after amending it to add protections for ratepayers."
Corzine reviews options to boost transit trust fund
From: www.nj.com
"Gov. Jon Corzine yesterday said he is considering both scaled-down toll hikes and a higher gasoline tax as a way to bolster state transportation funding, but insisted that no final decisions have been made."
Corzine weighs options on toll increases
From: www.nytimes.com
"NEWARK, N.J. - After spending much of the past 18 months creating a plan to reduce New Jersey's debt and finance transportation improvements by drastically raising highway tolls, Gov. Jon S. Corzine is apparently back to Milepost 1."
Association of Counties opposes Mexican gray wolf reintroduction
From: www.daily-times.com
"Members of New Mexico Association of Counties recently banded together to oppose the reintroduction of Mexican gray wolves into New Mexico."
Affordable housing: Stopping the exodus
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"New study shows city loses $301 million annually because high costs force workers to find cheaper places to live
"
State GOP seeks to halt gas tax
From: www.timesunion.com
"The Republican-led Senate will call for the suspension of the state's gasoline tax as a way to cut the price at the pumps by more than 30 cents a gallon."
Lawmaker - Tax stance aids terror
From: www.timesunion.com
"A congressman claims that New York's practice of not collecting taxes on Indian cigarette sales supports smugglers whose profits can end up in the hands of terrorists."
Elected officials pile up pensions
From: www.timesunion.com
"On paper, James Scalzo rarely sleeps. He works full time as a cook at the Albany County jail, five days a week, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. But he's also serves on the Albany Common Council and, like most of his 15 colleagues, is listed as working 30 hours a week in that job at $13 an hour. For both jobs, Scalzo, 58, is accruing pension credits in the New York State and Local Retirement System.
"
State may abolish foundation, raid its coffers
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"Legislators and Gov. Ted Strickland hit on a novel way to end a legal battle holding up their economic stimulus plan: abolish the group that filed the lawsuit."
Ohio GOP lawmakers aim to cap payday loan rates at 28 percent
From: www.cleveland.com
"In a stunning turn, Ohio House Republicans will offer a stringent payday lending bill today capping loan interest rates at 28 percent annually, below the 36 percent cap that supporters of new industry restrictions had sought."
Teamsters rally against turnpike lease
From: www.pennlive.com
"About 100 angry Teamsters tried to get personal with Gov. Ed Rendell on Tuesday over his proposal to lease the Pennsylvania Turnpike, chanting "No lease the pike!" and "Come out, Eddie!" outside Rendell's Capitol offices."
State news briefs -- Smoking ban talks delayed
From: www.mcall.com
"State legislators trying to negotiate a compromise bill banning indoor smoking say they don't have an agreement ready. As a result, they canceled a committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, and said they will keep talking."
State, managed-care companies argue over drug coverage
From: www.mcall.com
"Managed-care companies that provide health coverage to nearly 1 million Medicaid recipients are opposing Pennsylvania's proposal to directly manage prescription drug benefits -- a move the state's public welfare chief says could eventually save taxpayers up to $95 million a year."
Bill boosting state pensions advances
From: www.mcall.com
"A Pennsylvania House committee on Tuesday advanced a multibillion-dollar bill to increase pension benefits for some 250,000 retired state workers and teachers."
Gambling staffers 'stonewalled me,' legislator says
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"A Beaver County House member said state gambling regulators avoided his questions Tuesday as he tried to determine how thoroughly the gambling board investigated the finances of Majestic Star Casino and its owner, Don Barden."
Teamsters rip turnpike leasing
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Chanting "No Lease the Pike" and waving small U.S. flags, scores of Teamsters on Tuesday converged on the Capitol and then Gov. Ed Rendell's office to protest his plan to lease the Pennsylvania Turnpike to the highest qualified bidder."
Pa. newspapers fight Senate bill on legal ads
From: www.philly.com
"The state Senate is poised to consider a bill that would allow local governments to place legal notices in free community papers and end a monopoly long enjoyed by the established newspaper industry."
Developer pulls out after tax credit cutback
From: www.pawtuckettimes.com
"PAWTUCKET, R.I. - The General Assembly's recent cutback of the historic tax credit program has caused one potential developer to back out of a downtown rehabilitation project and is apparently causing a second developer to think twice."
State likely to empower Authority to run Vets
From: www.projo.com
"The state appears to be moving closer to transferring the underperforming Veterans Memorial Auditorium from the private foundation that now runs it to the state's Convention Center Authority, adding it to a stable of properties that includes the Dunkin' Donuts Center and the convention center."
House OKs bill requiring employers to use E-Verify
From: www.projo.com
"The immigration question that has blanketed Rhode Island politics in recent weeks saw its first real debate last night, with House lawmakers approving a bill requiring private employers to electronically verify the citizenship of new hires."
24-hour gambling OK'd on weekends, holidays
From: www.projo.com
"The House and Senate yesterday approved 24-hour gambling at the state's two video-slot emporiums on weekends and holidays, after a raucous debate in which critics accused the Assembly's Democratic leaders of violating both the Constitution and the wishes of people living in Newport and Lincoln who have repeatedly said "no" to more gambling."
Senate seeks House vote on immigration
From: www.greenvilleonline.com
"Stymied in negotiations with House lawmakers over a compromise on an immigration reform bill, senators made a new attempt Tuesday to force the issue onto the House floor."
Farmers market to spotlight S.C.-grown produce +listing!
From: www.thestate.com
"By the end of the week, new signs will be posted at the State Farmers Market to identify farmers selling South Carolina-grown produce."
State Farmers Market to identify SC-grown produce
From: www.goupstate.com
"South Carolina agriculture officials say they have a new program to help people buy produce grown in the state."
Immigration in S.C.: Proposal may bypass logjam
From: www.thestate.com
"Seeking to break a caustic impasse and avoid going back home to voters this summer without passing an immigration law, the Senate rolled out a new plan Tuesday to establish an online identity verification system for all S.C. employers."
Democrats accuse governor of imposing new tax
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"Democrats say Republican Gov. Mike Rounds' administration has imposed an unlawful new tax on certain blends of ethanol, while Rounds denies it's a new tax.
"
State has road woes
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"South Dakota can no longer depend on adequate federal funding for roads and must do what it can to ensure that road needs are met without placing too large a burden on taxpayers, legislative leaders say.
"
'Perfect storm' slams budget
From: www.tennessean.com
"Tennessee's April sales tax revenues took their steepest drop in more than four decades, a top financial adviser told state officials Monday, as the administration and General Assembly prepared to sharply cut their budget plans for the rest of this year and next."
Tennessee - Sales tax growth drops to 47-year low
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"Tennessee sales tax collections suffered their worst drop in 47 years this month, officials said Tuesday."
Lawmaker -- Investigate FLDS-linked contract
From: www.sltrib.com
"WASHINGTON -- A Texas congresswoman wants the House Armed Services Committee to look into a federal contract awarded to a company linked to the polygamous sect raided earlier this month and under fire for alleged child abuse."
Perry taps UTSA prof to crunch Texas data
From: www.mysanantonio.com
"Gov. Rick Perry appointed Karl Eschbach of San Antonio as the new state demographer Tuesday, putting the University of Texas at San Antonio associate professor in charge of distributing census information for the state. "
Scientists at Capitol talk of global warming, water
From: www.statesman.com
"With rising temperatures putting more pressure on Texas' water supplies, state policymakers should fold climate change into their planning, according to scientists who are meeting at the Capitol this week."
Soccer stadium funding hits a snag
From: deseretnews.com
"Real Salt Lake and Sandy city leaders better look elsewhere if they want any more money to build a soccer stadium."
Kaine may float gas-tax increase to offset shortfall
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"RICHMOND, Va. - Gov. Timothy M. Kaine (D) said Tuesday that he would consider backing an increase in Virginia's 17.5 cent-a-gallon gasoline tax, despite the record price of fuel at the pump. "
Pr. William softens policy on immigration status checks
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"The Prince William County supervisors abolished a key part of the county's illegal-immigration policy last night by directing police officers to question criminal suspects about their immigration status only after they have been arrested. "
Democrats release economic stimulus package
From: www.timesargus.com
"Even before legislative Democrats on Tuesday released the work of a special committee appointed to shore up Vermont's faltering economy, Gov. Jim Douglas was attacking their proposals as lacking components contained in his economic stimulus package."
Douglas pans committee's stimulus plan
From: www.rutlandherald.com
"Even before legislative Democrats released the work of a committee appointed to shore up Vermont's faltering economy Tuesday, Gov. James Douglas was attacking their proposals as lacking components contained in his economic stimulus package."
Douglas insists on tax holiday and targeted credit
From: burlingtonfreepress.com
"Gov. Jim Douglas prepared to play political hardball Tuesday over the omission of two tax breaks from the recommendations a special legislative panel was about to make on ways to stimulate the Vermont economy."
State creates habitat plan for Fidalgo Bay
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"State officials announced a management plan Tuesday to protect and restore habitat while supporting public use in Fidalgo Bay near Anacortes."
Global warning -- States must work together, development expert says
From: www.madison.com
"When Brown Shoe announced it was locating its new headquarters in St. Louis, not Madison -- and closing its Famous Footwear offices here -- one reason cited was some $43 million in economic development incentives from the state of Missouri."
Lobbyists make new friends with Assembly Democrats
From: www.madison.com
"When Pedro Colon joined the state Assembly in 1998, Republicans ruled the roost, and meet-and-greet events organized by Democrats for lobbyists were lonely affairs. But things are changing."
BadgerCare Plus off to a healthy start
From: www.jsonline.com
"More than 71,000 children and parents in Wisconsin have gotten health insurance in the first six weeks after the state consolidated and simplified the health programs that provide coverage for low-income families."
1 bill could cover 2 issues
From: www.jsonline.com
"Legislative leaders are thinking of combining ratification of the Great Lakes compact and a budget-repair bill in a package that would resolve the last two roadblocks keeping lawmakers from full-time campaigning."
Partial tentative settlement reached in Sago lawsuits
From: www.dailymail.com
"Lawyers for families of miners involved in the 2006 Sago mine disaster have reached a tentative settlement with two suppliers named in a series of lawsuits."
Vaccinations urged for livestock and pets
From: www.dailymail.com
"HINTON, W.Va. - The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is encouraging farmers to vaccinate their livestock against rabies."
Patriot reports loss
From: hosted.ap.org
"Mine operator Patriot Coal Corp.'s first-quarter loss narrowed 74 percent due largely to soaring prices for coal from the eastern United States, the St. Louis-based company said Tuesday."
Prominent alumnus wants more out at WVU
From: www.post-gazette.com
"A prominent alumnus yesterday reiterated his call for the resignations of West Virginia University President Michael Garrison and Board of Governors Chairman Steve Goodwin, saying "both have to go" after the university awarded a graduate degree to Mylan Inc. executive Heather Bresch that she did not earn."
Operator of juvenile jail set to receive provisional license
From: billingsgazette.net
"CASPER, Wyo. -- The Department of Family Services will issue a temporary license to Cornerstone Programs Inc. for the operation of the Regional Juvenile Detention Center, a DFS official said during a Natrona County Commission work session Tuesday."
Parents turn to states for autism help
From: www.stateline.org
"One of the toughest problems facing autism patients, their families and policymakers is paying for treatment. Families are increasingly relying on states to help them cope with the financial, medical and educational needs.
"
Legislators prod Congress on Medicaid, Real ID
From: www.stateline.org
"As some states tumble into what they fear is a recession, state lawmakers from across the country are pushing Congress for relief from impending federal rules that would force states to pick up more Medicaid costs and spend billions to make drivers’ licenses more secure."
23 states face budget gaps in '09
From: www.stateline.org
"
Like a college student fishing for stray quarters in the sofa cushions, states are tightening their belts, dipping into their rainy day funds and hoping revenues will pick up. But the faltering economy already has punched a $26 billion hole in 23 state budgets for 2009 – and it could get worse, according to a new report issued today (April 25).
"
WORTH NOTING: Phantom voter stalks Ala. State House
From: www.stateline.org
"An Alabama lawmaker says someone’s been using his voting machine. Florida’s House Speaker locks the doors and turns off Internet access to make legislators pay attention. And Mayberry’s Sheriff Taylor endorses a North Carolina gubernatorial candidate. In case you missed those stories this week, "Worth Noting" fills you in."
Credit crunch hits states' college loans
From: www.stateline.org
"
(Updated 11:55 a.m. EDT, April 23, 2008)
The credit crisis has led some state lending agencies to suspend their federal and private student loan programs, forcing thousands of students to search elsewhere for money to pay for college.
"
Turf wars rage over fake grass
From: www.stateline.org
"State legislators are used to political turf wars. Now, debates in a handful of states really are about turf, pitting those who back the artificial variety against supporters of natural grass for playgrounds and athletic fields. "
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."
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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