States get in on calls for a gas tax holiday
From: www.nytimes.com
"SLOCOMB, Ala. - Gov. Charlie Crist of Florida has been fighting to cut 10 cents from the state's gasoline tax for two weeks in July. Lawmakers in Missouri, New York and Texas have also proposed a summer break from state gas taxes, while candidates for governor in Indiana and North Carolina are sparring over relief ideas of their own."
California may run out of cash by August
From: www.sacbee.com
"California is facing a cash crisis this summer, putting pressure on elected officials to submit an on-time state budget or risk asking taxpayers to pay a premium on loans."
Must Florida pay for felled citrus trees?
From: www.csmonitor.com
"FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - A jury is set to begin deliberations Monday in a case that could cost the Florida Department of Agriculture tens of millions of dollars for cutting down backyard citrus trees over the objections of homeowners."
Lawsuit seeks to stop Arctic oil exploration
From: juneauempire.com
"ANCHORAGE - Alaska Native and environmental groups sued Monday to stop exploration by oil companies this summer in Arctic waters frequented by whales, seals and other marine species."
Judge rejects Kohring request to talk to juror
From: www.adn.com
"Former state Rep. Vic Kohring has suffered another legal setback ahead of his sentencing Thursday."
Beebe -- Federal cuts not as bad as feared
From: www.nwarktimes.com
"Federal cuts won?t hurt state work-force programs as much as state officials initially feared, Gov. Mike Beebe said."
As Ariz. degrades, folks may leave
From: www.azstarnet.com
"A symbol of Arizona's growth is the U-Haul, bringing in families pursuing sunshine, mountains, cheaper housing and jobs as they pile in from the Rust Belt or Southern California."
Fed ruling resurrects prospects of Orange County toll road
From: www.contracostatimes.com
"SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. - A federal review has found a toll road proposed to run through a popular coastal state park in Orange County would not jeopardize sensitive wildlife species.
"
Capital One sues to stop Calif. credit card probe
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"LOS ANGELES - Capital One Financial Corp has sued in an effort to keep its records out of the hands of California Attorney General Jerry Brown, who is investigating whether the bank's credit card business violated state false advertising and unfair competition laws."
Vegetable oil fuels cars - and tax bills
From: www.latimes.com
"Dave Eck, a Half Moon Bay mechanic, had attracted a media spotlight with his fleet of vehicles fueled by used fryer grease from a local chowder house. So when Sacramento called, he figured officials wanted advice on promoting alternative fuels. "
California may run out of cash by August
From: www.sacbee.com
"California is facing a cash crisis this summer, putting pressure on elected officials to submit an on-time state budget or risk asking taxpayers to pay a premium on loans."
State invests $1 billion to rebuild path over Sierra
From: www.sacbee.com
"TRUCKEE, Calif. - High on the Sierra crest above this old railroad town, the granite rocks are scarred with ruts carved by the wheels of the wagons pioneers hauled over Donner Summit 150 years ago."
Xcel fees in cross hairs
From: www.rockymountainnews.com
"State regulators are investigating a growing number of fees and surcharges that Xcel Energy and other utilities are tacking onto customer bills."
Legislation advances, awaits Rell's signature
From: www.nhregister.com
"The following bills are among those that have passed the General Assembly. Unless otherwise noted, they are awaiting Gov. M. Jodi Rell's signature."
State Senate gives solid approval to gas-emissions bill
From: www.theday.com
"The Senate on Monday unanimously backed a mandate to cut emissions of greenhouse gases in Connecticut, keeping the state on pace with others in its efforts to combat global warming."
Minimum wage bill now in Rell's court
From: www.courant.com
"The minimum hourly wage in Connecticut would rise Jan. 1 from $7.65 to $8 ? and to $8.25 as of Jan. 1, 2010 ? under a bill the state Senate gave final legislative approval to Monday night. The bill, which the House approved April 22, now goes to Gov. M. Jodi Rell, but her press office said that she doesn't know whether she will sign it into law."
Mayors, others decry state budget decision
From: www.theday.com
"Mayors, union leaders and activists for the poor ramped up the political pressure Monday on the General Assembly and Gov. M. Jodi Rell, hoping to change their minds about not amending the new budget that takes effect July 1."
House passes mortgage relief bill
From: www.courant.com
"The House of Representatives has passed a bill that aims to help struggling homeowners caught up in the subprime mortgage mess."
State Senate approves greenhouse gas reduction measure
From: www.courant.com
"The state Senate gave final -- and unanimous -- legislative approval Monday to a tough new bill requiring drastic reduction of greenhouse gas emissions connected to global warming, and the GOP leader in the Senate said he expects Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell to sign it into law."
Feds investigate state investment pool
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"State investments downgraded during the subprime mortgage meltdown have been targeted in a federal probe.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has asked the State Board of Administration to hand over hundreds of pages of documents related to the buying and selling of at least 10 different securities, according to a letter dated Feb. 22."
Commuter rail far from dead, Mica and Dyer vow
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"Central Florida commuter-rail supporters are preparing to spend as much as $52 million in the next year to keep their plan on track, despite the Legislature's rejection of the deal last week."
UF cuts 400 jobs, undergrad enrollment
From: www.miamiherald.com
"The University of Florida, the state's highest-rated institution of higher education, announced layoffs, reductions in degree programs and a steep cut in undergraduate enrollment as part of a plan to cope with severe budget cuts from the state."
UH-Manoa to measure greenhouse gas output
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"The University of Hawaii-Manoa says it will be the first institution in Hawaii -- and the first college campus in the nation -- to join a registry of corporations that measure and publicly report their annual greenhouse gas emissions."
Ceded-land deal at impasse
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Just days after the end of the legislative session and a failed attempt to reach an agreement over how much ceded-land revenue is owed to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the key parties involved appear to again be at loggerheads."
HECO to seek increase in rates
From: starbulletin.com
"Hawaiian Electric Co. Inc. has given notice that it will ask the state Public Utilities Commission for permission to raise rates again for its 295,000 customers on Oahu."
Airlines raise fuel surcharge
From: starbulletin.com
"Hawaii, which already has the most expensive gas prices in the nation, has the highest airline fuel surcharges, too."
Audit finds state paid $882,000 for $50,000 in savings
From: www.radioiowa.com
"State Auditor David Vaudt has released a second report on business conducted by several state agencies with a consulting company based in Chicago."
State pays $250,000 to settle another TouchPlay lawsuit
From: www.radioiowa.com
"The Iowa Attorney General's office has announced another settlement with a former manufacturer of the TouchPlay machines. The state banned TouchPlay machines in May of 2006, after concerns that the games were too much like slot machines. A-G spokesman, Bob Brammer, talks about the details of the latest settlement."
Culver signs loan oversight bill
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Iowa students might not have to borrow as much money to pay for college as a result of new legislation signed Monday, Gov. Chet Culver said."
Iowa pollution perils lurk among buried fuel tanks
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Leaking underground fuel tanks threaten to contaminate drinking water, lakes, streams and homes across Iowa as environmental officials change rules to speed up detection and cleanup."
Student loan protection bill signed
From: ads.qctimes.com
"Gov. Chet Culver signed legislation Monday to help make the student loan process more transparent for Iowa college students and provide more oversight for lenders."
State approves increase for Rocky Mountain Power
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Idaho utility regulators are giving Rocky Mountain Power permission to charge customers a little more for electricity this year."
Areva plans to build $2 billion uranium plant in Idaho
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"French-owned energy services company Areva Inc. will build what it's said will be a $2 billion uranium enrichment facility near the eastern Idaho city of Idaho Falls, after winning tax concessions from the state Legislature meant to lure the plant to the region."
Idaho gas prices set another record
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Whatlyne Frederick remembers being outraged when she paid $2 a gallon for gasoline in 2005 to fill her 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. On Monday, the situation became "ridiculous," she said, when she paid $3.46 a gallon at the Maverik station at Cole and Ustick roads."
Lawmaker -- Job moves in works for years
From: ads.qctimes.com
" A southern Illinois lawmaker says Gov. Rod Blagojevich?s controversial decision to move 148 jobs from Springfield to his district has been in the works for two years."
Latest prison closings proposal would benefit Thomson
From: www.qctimes.com
"Pontiac?s loss of a maximum-security prison could be a big win for Thomson."
Plan would keep all of Stateville prison open, shut Pontiac facility
From: www.sj-r.com
"Gov. Rod Blagojevich's administration is canceling its plan to close part of the Stateville prison near Joliet and now wants to shut down the Pontiac Correctional Center instead."
Governor refuses to discuss Rezko trial
From: www.sj-r.com
"GRANITE CITY, Ill.- Insisting "the truth will come out," Gov. Rod Blagojevich on Monday refused to publicly address claims that the former head of the Illinois Finance Authority got his job in exchange for campaign contributions."
Ill. Corrections wants Stateville open, Pontiac closed
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The Illinois Department of Corrections is shelving plans to shutter a maximum security unit in Joliet, targeting a more than 130-year-old prison in Pontiac for closure instead."
Construction begins on new coke plant in Granite City
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"GRANITE CITY, Ill. - Construction began Monday on a coke-making plant that will provide fuel and steam to an adjacent steel foundry in a $570-million venture. "
Stateville gets new lease on life as Pontiac prison is put on chopping block
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The Illinois Department of Corrections has backed off closing a wing of Stateville prison north of Joliet and now wants to shut Pontiac Correctional Center and transfer its 1,600 inmates to a facility near the Iowa border."
Museum broadcasts need for funds to finish building
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The Museum of Broadcast Communications is hoping that naming rights, or perhaps a generous person or foundation, will provide upward of $6 million to rescue its long-stalled efforts to build a new home at Kinzie and State Streets."
Defense calls no witnesses, says case vs. Rezko weak
From: www.suntimes.com
"The prosecution and defense both rested Monday in the Tony Rezko corruption case, but not before the final witness leveled a new allegation. "
Both sides rest at Rezko trial
From: www.usatoday.com
"CHICAGO - Less than two hours after prosecutors rested their case Monday in political fundraiser Antoin "Tony" Rezko's fraud trial, defense attorneys did the same without calling a single witness."
Work in Kansas Legislature stalled by senators' protests
From: www.kansascity.com
"Action in the Kansas Legislature came to a virtual halt Monday as lawmakers looked for an exit strategy for the 2008 session."
Immigration measure close to dying in Kansas Legislature
From: www.kansascity.com
"Legislation aimed at curbing illegal immigration lingers near death at the state Capitol, and no one has issued a resuscitation order."
Coal plant debate stays at impasse
From: www2.ljworld.com
"The wrap-up session continued Monday as lawmakers argued over the final spending bill and a measure allowing two coal-fired power plants in southwest Kansas."
Legislature grinds to standstill
From: www.kansas.com
"As the Legislature staggers toward a last showdown over proposed coal-fired power plants in western Kansas, a resolution to allow the Legislature to sue the governor on the issue will not be going forward, the president of the state Senate said Monday."
Coal debate in final days
From: cjonline.com
"Republican House Speaker Melvin Neufeld is optimistic today's session of the Legislature ? perhaps lawmakers' last big work day in 2008 ? delivers hard-fought victories on a contentious coal debate."
Google invests in KU studio
From: cjonline.com
"LAWRENCE, Kan. - Internet company Google has made a $100,000 gift to help The University of Kansas architecture students design and build sustainable structures, including one of the first new "green" buildings in Greensburg."
Natural resources chief named in Ky.
From: www.courier-journal.com
"Carl E. Campbell, a former state mining official, has been named to replace the recently fired Susan Bush as commissioner of the state Department for Natural Resources."
Panel resists easing building code
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"A House committee on Monday fought efforts by north Louisiana legislators to kill off the new statewide building code but put limits on what inspectors could charge."
Eateries' smoking ban is dissuading teens
From: www.boston.com
"Restaurant smoking bans may be as powerful as peers or parents in the battle to keep teenagers from becoming smokers, a new study suggests."
Mass. revenue collections total $2.7B in April
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Tax collections shot up in April by $400 million compared with the same month last year, but administration officials said the state isn't out of the economic woods and still needs the added revenue of proposed cigarette and corporate tax hikes."
Immigrants feel less welcome in Frederick
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"In just over a decade, Frederick County has been transformed from a bucolic, timeless community of dairy farms and strawberry festivals to a fast-paced mosaic of high-tech firms and housing developments, Pilates classes and exotic eateries, mega-stores and McDonald's. "
O'Malley's office accused of pressuring state police
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"A state police commander who oversaw Maryland's automotive inspections program alleged that "strong political pressure" from Gov. Martin O'Malley's office was behind a recent decision to allow a Prince George's County station to resume inspections four years after its license was revoked for fraudulent practices."
Kittery baker is fighting the feds over food policy
From: www.fosters.com
"KITTERY, Maine ? With the rising cost of food and fuel creating a quagmire for Americans nationwide, local bakery owner Andrew Siegel and U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, gathered Monday afternoon to announce their plans to combat federal renewable fuel policies and the mounting effect on skyrocketing food prices nationwide."
Richmond businessman fears impact of people's veto effort
From: kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com
"RICHMOND, Maine- Bill Keleher runs a small business where he needs to provide health insurance to his workers to stay competitive."
Telford gets $75M Army deal extension
From: bangornews.com
"BANGOR, Maine - The U.S. Army has awarded Telford Aviation Inc. a $75 million contract to continue maintaining military aircraft and airborne reconnaissance surveillance systems used on the aircraft, according to a company official."
Food prices on a roll
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"Americans may be getting another helping of food inflation, thanks to higher prices for chicken and pork."
U.S. secretary of transportation in town to encourage state to allow use of use of private dollars for I-94 improvements
From: www.mlive.com
"Plans to expand and improve I-94 through Jackson County are expensive and overdue."
Bipartisan caucus hopes to grow area
From: www.lansingstatejournal.com
"A small but booming Delta Township Web services firm wants to expand, potentially adding 600 new high-tech jobs."
Scene stealer? Incentives draw 'gold rush' of film-related work to state
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"When Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed a package of incentives for filmmakers, Chuck Speed was ready to go."
Senate Republicans discuss giving up opposition to Gun Lake Casino compact
From: www.mlive.com
"Legislative opponents of a Wayland Township casino may be ready to fold their cards after last week's federal appeals court ruling in favor of the Gun Lake tribe."
Pawlenty signs bovine TB eradication plan into law
From: www.twincities.com
"A plan to eradicate bovine tuberculosis from Minnesota cattle is now law."
House passes measure aiming to remake state tax picture
From: www.startribune.com
"A bill that seeks to dramatically alter the Minnesota tax landscape, increasing property tax relief for some while wiping out the property tax deduction on state income taxes for all, won approval in the state House on Monday night."
House passes property tax bill
From: www.twincities.com
"Minnesota homeowners would get property tax refunds based on their ability to pay under a bill passed Monday night by the House."
Proposed foreclosure freeze thawed a bit
From: www.twincities.com
"State lawmakers have tried to soften up a proposal to freeze foreclosures for a year, but Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty signaled Monday that he still will reject it."
Poet axes plan for Glenville ethanol plant
From: www.twincities.com
"The world's largest ethanol producer has shelved plans to build an ethanol plant near Albert Lea, and is blaming Minnesota environmental regulators for costly delays. Instead, the company vowed to take its business elsewhere."
Preliminary approval of foreclosure relief bill
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"The Minnesota Senate has given preliminary approval to a bill that tries to help some homeowners avoid mortgage foreclosure. "
Affirmative action petition misses deadline for ballot
From: newstribune.com
"A group seeking to bar many state affirmative action programs has missed a Sunday deadline to submit its initiative petition."
Missouri House OKs bill allowing telecoms in rural areas to increase rates
From: www.kansascity.com
"Rural telecommunications customers could see their monthly bills rise under legislation passed Monday by the Missouri House."
Board of Horse Racing plans to offer fantasy football betting
From: www.helenair.com
"The Montana Lottery is hoping to kick off a statewide fantasy football betting game by September in time for the professional football season, the agency's director said Monday."
Lobbying group for state employees announces affiliation with union
From: www2.journalnow.com
"GREENVILLE, N.C. -- North Carolina's leading lobbying group for state employees has agreed to affiliate with a union."
Nebraska's cheap, in a good way -- as a vacation spot
From: www.omaha.com
"Being cheap isn't a good quality for a boyfriend or a wedding gift. But it can help if you're a state trying to attract tourists."
Bruning vows to fight fraud at the pump
From: www.omaha.com
"The Nebraska Attorney General's Office is looking into reports of gas stations cheating the public by substituting ethanol for regular fuel."
State promises to prosecute gas stations that cheat customers
From: www.journalstar.com
"Nebraska gas stations trying to cheat customers by selling alcohol-blended gas as regular unleaded will be prosecuted, Attorney General Jon Bruning said Monday."
Judge dismisses discrimination suit against state
From: www.journalstar.com
"A federal judge has ruled with the Nebraska Health and Human Services System and the owners of Chadron mobile home park in a civil lawsuit that alleged they provided substandard housing to Native tenants based on race."
Shaky at home: N.H. mortgage crisis spreads from subprime to standard loans
From: www.fosters.com
"Signs of greater housing market strain have begun to bubble up in the Granite State."
Officials say artificial turf isn't hazardous
From: www.nj.com
"No serious health hazards are present in synthetic, artificial turf, according to officials representing AstroTurf branded products."
Bill offers tax breaks for saving energy, water
From: www.nj.com
"A bill to allow taxpayers to apply for a property tax exemption for energy-saving measures was unanimously approved by the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee yesterday."
N.J. leaders assure AARP -- No cuts in senior rebates
From: www.nj.com
"Responding to concerns raised by AARP New Jersey, the governor's office and Assembly Speaker Joseph Roberts (D-Camden) said separately yesterday there is no plan to cut property tax rebates to seniors and the disabled."
Urban educators say of new state reform efforts -- Get real
From: www.nj.com
"When several of New Jersey's government and business leaders recently made a bold promise to remake the state's public high schools, the foot soldiers at Orange High School could be forgiven a weary sigh."
Gas-tax-holiday proposals raise budget worries
From: www.philly.com
"TRENTON, N.J. -- The state's transportation chief said yesterday that a state or federal gas-tax break would jeopardize funding for critical bridge and road projects just as New Jersey expects a robust summer tourism season."
Lawmakers discuss repairs for workers' comp system
From: www.nj.com
"Key state lawmakers yesterday proposed reforms to shore up New Jersey's workers' compensation system, saying judges and state officials need more power to punish employers and insurers that don't play by the rules."
Rail Runner -- Work on city streets hits snag
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"Construction work on city intersections that need new safety features before Rail Runner commuter trains arrive won't begin as soon as the state Department of Transportation had planned. "
Demand for energy assistance grows in Nevada
From: hosted.ap.org
"RENO, Nev. - State social services agencies say more people are seeking help in paying their utility bills at a time when energy assistance programs are facing a shortfall."
Nurses unions' showdown starts today
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"The reputation of one of Nevada's largest unions is on the line as 1,100 registered nurses at three St. Rose Dominican hospitals vote today and Wednesday on whether to retain the Service Employees International Union as their bargaining representative -- or join a rival union."
Governor pitches tax amnesty plan
From: hosted.ap.org
"Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons announced plans Monday for an amnesty program for businesses that are delinquent on at least $69 million in taxes that, if paid, could help the state deal with a looming revenue shortfall of more than $900 million."
Planned coal plant gives up its water source
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"A canceled contract for water could signal trouble for a coal-fired power plant planned for the Mesquite area."
Teamsters may undercut members
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Members of Teamsters Local 631 complain their union is colluding with major convention center contractors to wean them of union labor, a suspicion that has spurred efforts to replace local Teamster leadership with a slate of insurgent candidates."
You've got to sue to win
From: www.nypost.com
"The New York Lottery's impish "Little Bit of Luck" character is really a wolf in sheep's clothing, according to a Staten Island woman who's suing the state and shopkeepers, alleging fraud and racketeering."
GOP offers $2.6B tax-cut package
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"Assembly Republicans Monday marked the state's "tax freedom day" by calling for about $2.6 billion in tax cuts. "
State official treated business leaders with taxpayer dollars
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"The head of the state's effort to revive the upstate economy spent thousands of taxpayer dollars in his first year on the job paying for the meals of business leaders, economic-development officials and staff members, according to state records."
State GOP bulks up vulnerable candidates
From: www.timesunion.com
"The Republican-led Senate is pouring millions of dollars in taxpayer money into "pork" projects where GOP incumbents face difficult re-election campaigns this fall."
Old ruling adds to pension dispute
From: www.timesunion.com
"With private lawyers under state scrutiny for getting themselves listed as public employees in order to get into New York's pension system, a 2004 court case has come to light that clearly stated the practice was not allowed."
Summit finds out how much economic pinch hurts
From: www.ohio.com
"Summit County planned to dip into reserves this year to pay for an expected $4.6 million gap in its operating budget. That was wishful thinking."
Online cigarette buyers hit with state tax bills
From: www.cleveland.com
"The state is smoking out Ohio smokers who evaded cigarette taxes by shopping online between July and March."
GM Lordstown plant reaches tentative contract - Kansas City plant strikes
From: blog.cleveland.com
"General Motors has reached a tentative deal with stamping plant employees at its car plant in Lordstown while workers at a plant in Kansas City went on strike Monday."
Kroger widens tax bonus program
From: hosted.ap.org
"CINCINNATI - The Kroger Co. is casting its net wider in the battle among retailers to lure extra dollars from shoppers during the U.S. economic stimulus effort."
Ohio Attorney General resists calls to quit
From: online.wsj.com
"Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann is resisting pressure to resign over what he described as a "romantic relationship with a member of my staff," but the situation threatens to stall his probes of alleged wrongdoing related to subprime mortgages."
Survey names Oklahoma among cheapest vacation spots
From: newsok.com
"For a good time that doesn't pinch the pocketbook, head to Oklahoma, namely Tulsa."
Cowtown no more? OKC looks to Sonics to improve image
From: www.journalrecord.com
"Even the mayor admits this is a town with an image problem."
Bonanza from lease of turnpike not so big?
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Leasing the Pennsylvania Turnpike for 75 years may not offer as big a bonanza as some officials have suggested."
PLCB thirsts for more sales
From: www.pennlive.com
"The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board racked up a record $1.7 billion in sales in the 2006-07 fiscal year. Yet the PLCB isn't satisfied."
State drug testing proposal hits snag
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Robert Birnbrauer can't understand why medical professionals in Pennsylvania hospitals aren't randomly tested for drug use."
State gambling board seeks to add 'slots cops'
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Some Gaming Control Board agents would be "slots cops" with arrest powers in casinos under a proposal aired Monday before a special legislative panel."
Got milk? Could be a crime
From: www.philly.com
"MOUNT HOLLY SPRINGS, Pa. -- The Department of Agriculture threw its weight at dairy farmer Mark Nolt."
Court orders judge to examine DeNaples investigation
From: www.philly.com
"A Dauphin County judge has been ordered to determine whether grand jury secrecy rules were violated in the investigation of a casino owner and a Catholic priest."
Governor vetoes gambling bill
From: www.pawtuckettimes.com
"Gov. Donald Carcieri made good on his threat to veto legislation allowing Twin River and Newport Grand to stay open all nights on weekends and holidays, but his action could be overridden in the House as early as this week."
Carcieri vetoes bill for 24-hour gambling
From: www.projo.com
"While lawmakers are counting on round-the-clock gambling on weekends and holidays at Twin River and Newport Grand to raise upward of $14 million in new money for the cash-strapped state, Governor Carcieri has vetoed the legislation."
Landfill controversy inspires Sanford to attack "good ol' boy" system
From: www.greenvilleonline.com
"Gov. Mark Sanford said today he wants the Legislature to pass a law to prevent state government regulators from leaving their jobs to work for lobbyists of companies they had been in charge of regulating."
Advocates of SC cigarette tax increase rally support
From: www.goupstate.com
"Groups pushing for higher cigarette taxes in South Carolina are facing off with tobacco companies in mailboxes and at the Statehouse as state lawmakers consider raising what's now the lowest tobacco tax in the nation."
S.C. Senate to vote on cigarette tax soon
From: www.thestate.com
"The S.C. Senate is ready to vote on a plan to raise the state's lowest-in-the-nation cigarette tax more than a year after the proposal first entered the chamber. The Senate is expected to begin debating the bill today."
Limits to video lottery delayed
From: www.argusleader.com
"Sioux Falls city councilors delayed a major vote on restricting video lottery Monday after state officials asked for more time to study the measure."
State employees will request salary, health changes
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"The South Dakota State Employees Organization plans to press for a salary change when the 2009 Legislature convenes."
Canadian company plans 2nd pipeline
From: www.argusleader.com
"TransCanada Corp. is planning "Keystone Phase II," a second oil pipeline from Alberta, Canada, that would travel through western South Dakota to Port Arthur, Texas."
State fair needs to expand reach to draw crowds, consultant says
From: www.tennessean.com
"The Tennessee State Fair should consider reinventing itself as a true statewide event rather than a Nashville-oriented one so it can become more relevant and competitive, a consultant says in a report the fair's board will discuss today."
Nashville - Lottery deal tough with less money
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"House and Senate efforts to resolve a yearlong standoff on how to spend some Tennessee Education Lottery funds are running into new problems as a result of lower-than-expected lottery growth, top lawmakers said."
Bredesen to lay out budget plan
From: www.commercialappeal.com
"Gov. Phil Bredesen says he may reveal his budget plan this week that could include laying off some of the state's nearly 47,000 employees."
Tennessee - Corker battles Bush TennCare cuts
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., vowed Monday to fight Bush administration efforts to cut TennCare funding and said he backs a moratorium on new Medicaid rules that would cost the program hundreds of millions of dollars."
Strip clubs ask high court to halt fee collection
From: www.mysanantonio.com
"An association representing strip clubs asked the Texas Supreme Court on Monday to stop the state from collecting a new fee that a trial court has ruled unconstitutional. "
Fake documents swamp Houston
From: www.chron.com
"Illegal immigrants fearful of being caught in stepped-up workplace raids are fueling a growing market in Houston for phony immigration and work documents.
"
Boomer retirees are loving what Texas Hill Country affords them
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Baby boomers' growing desire to retire to small towns is turning the Texas Hill Country into one of the nation's hot spots for the silver-haired set. "
Attorneys general meet to discuss energy issues
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho -- One highly effective way to reduce electricity use is to hang laundry on an outdoor clothesline, instead of using a dryer, Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden said Monday."
Republican River tour will address water use
From: www.journalstar.com
"An early June tour will visit the lower Republican River basin in Kansas and Nebraska to help answer water use questions in both states."
EnergySolutions sues to import Italy nuclear waste
From: deseretnews.com
"EnergySolutions filed a lawsuit after business hours Monday in U.S. District Court, asking a judge to decide whether the Northwest Interstate Compact on Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management has authority over whether the company's Clive facility should be allowed to store materials coming from Italy."
EnergySolutions sues to stop state's bid to block Italian nuke waste
From: www.sltrib.com
"EnergySolutions has gone to court to protect its plan to import low-level nuclear waste from Italy."
Mobile home eviction law too late for Bontivilla Trailer Park residents
From: www.sltrib.com
"BOUNTIFUL, Utah -- An extra three days would have meant an extra six months."
Utah's mixed drinks simpler, but rules still complex
From: www.sltrib.com
"The Utah Legislature, often known for its resistance to anything that might encourage liquor consumption, has inspired the invention of a new martini unique to the Beehive state."
10 of 11 cities OK $181 million UTOPIA refinance
From: deseretnews.com
"MURRAY, Utah -- Given the nod from 10 of 11 cities, UTOPIA will charge forward with a $181 million refinance that will allow it to cut old ties, finish build-out and repay contractor debts."
Tech joins state schools, raises rates
From: www.inrich.com
"The cost of a public-college education is climbing across the state, with Virginia Tech yesterday becoming the latest school to raise its tuition and fees."
Douglas' housing chief, John Hall, to leave post
From: www.timesargus.com
"Commissioner John Hall, a main force behind Gov. James Douglas' housing proposals, will leave his post next week as the head of the Department of Housing and Community Affairs."
Can M-U-D really spell M-O-N-E-Y?
From: www.nytimes.com
"LOWER WATERFORD, Vt. - In Vermont, mud season is the limbo between winter and spring, when the snow melts, the crocuses start peeking through and rubber boots and low gears are needed to navigate the mess that takes over many roads and fields."
Gas tax holiday would cost state $126 million
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"The gas tax holiday proposed by Sens. John McCain and Hillary Clinton would save the typical Washington driver $28 this year but cost the state about $126 million in lost highway money and more than 4,300 highway-related jobs, according to a recent report."
No exceptions -- Wisconsin lobbyists cannot donate to a fundraiser for a legislative aide with cancer
From: www.madison.com
"State regulators agreed Monday not to make an exception to a state law barring lobbyists from giving gifts to legislative employees, even when the gifts involve contributing to a fundraiser for a legislative aide with cancer."
Commerce -- New rule saves money and lives
From: www.wrn.com
"Certain multi family buildings being constructed must now have sprinklers installed. Tony Hozeny, Communications Director with the WI Commerce Department, says any new multi family dwellings with eight or more units must have a sprinklers."
Calling attention to Wisconsin emu industry
From: www.wrn.com
"Did you know it's emu week in Wisconsin? Did you even know Wisconsin had a significant emu population?"
WVU faculty wants president's ouster
From: www.post-gazette.com
"MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- West Virginia University's faculty senate yesterday voted overwhelmingly for the ouster of university President Mike Garrison after a debate in which he was rebuked for what one faculty member called a "serious academic crime" in the Heather Bresch M.B.A. controversy."
Day care demand exceeds supply
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"Southeast Wyoming faces a shortage of child care that some say is hurting the area's ability to attract workers."
Industry treats more water
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"More groundwater extracted by coal-bed methane operators in the Powder River Basin is being cleaned so it can be discharged into river drainages, and the trend should continue as operators move into areas of the basin where water quality worsens."
Exxon Mobil plans Wyo CO2 plant
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"Exxon Mobil Corp. plans to spend more than $100 million to build a plant in Wyoming to continue developing and testing technology that could make capturing and storing carbon dioxide more affordable and open up vast new sources of natural gas."
Oh say, is that banner made in the U.S.A.?
From: www.stateline.org
"Lawmakers in 10 states have taken steps to require that American flags bought with state funds be manufactured in this country. While not all the legislation has passed, one state’s new law even bans the sale of foreign-made American flags in that state."
WORTH NOTING: Voters' guide promotes phone sex
From: www.stateline.org
"An Oregon voters’ guide lists a very wrong number. California’s governor insults rural legislators. And Pennsylvania considers selling wine in vending machines. In case you missed those stories this week, “Worth Noting” fills you in."
Parents turn to states for autism help
From: www.stateline.org
"(UPDATED 4 p.m. EDT, Thursday May 1) 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."
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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