N.J. enacts paid family leave
From: www.stateline.org
"New Jersey this month joined California and Washington in adopting family leave insurance plans that allow workers to take time off with pay to care for sick family members or newborn and newly adopted children. New York and Oregon are expected to consider similar laws next year."
Schwarzenegger to propose lottery borrowing to ease deficit
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will propose borrowing against state lottery income to help close a projected $15.2 billion deficit when he updates the state's budget today, according to administration officials."
State might invest pension fund in Vermont economy
From: burlingtonfreepress.com
"The state of Vermont is considering investing a portion of its multibillion dollar pension fund in businesses that promise to strengthen the state's economy.
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Location of new special session still uncertain
From: juneauempire.com
"Gov. Sarah Palin is not yet committing to where a special session to address energy rates should be held, raising concerns she might suggest it be held outside Juneau."
Producers sue over Point Thomson revocation
From: www.ktuu.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Oil companies say the state of Alaska should pay $800 million in damages, claiming breach of contract when it revoked gas and oil leases in the Point Thomson field on the North Slope. "
Leaving the village
From: www.adn.com
"The migration of rural Alaskans from village to city has accelerated in the last two years, though the reasons are complex and cannot be easily linked to higher energy costs, a new university study says."
Cruise traffic to Alaska flat for ?08
From: www.nwpr.org
"A hundred-and-twenty years ago, prospectors departed Seattle for the goldfields of Alaska. Now, it's tourists who depart, in search of wildlife, scenery and Alaska Native culture."
A city cooler and dimmer, and, oh, proving a point
From: www.nytimes.com
"JUNEAU, Alaska - Conservationists swoon at the possibility of it all. Here in Alaska, where melting arctic ice and eroding coastlines have made global warming an urgent threat, this little city has cut its electricity use by more than 30 percent in a matter of weeks, instantly establishing itself as a role model for how to go green, and fast. "
Alabama foreclosure filings drop while nation's rises
From: blog.al.com
"Foreclosure filings across Alabama continue to drop, defying a national trend that has seen problems caused by mortgage defaults to mount. "
Lottery proposal qualifies for ballot slot, Halter says
From: www.nwarktimes.com
"Lt. Gov. Bill Halter said Tuesday that enough signatures have been collected to get his lottery proposal on the Nov. 4 ballot. If voters adopt his proposed constitutional amendment, the Legislature could create state lotteries in Arkansas as early as next year to pay for college scholarships."
Halter gathers last signature needed for lottery proposal
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"Lt. Gov. Bill Halter said Tuesday that he's gathered more than enough signatures necessary to place his proposed lottery on the November ballot as opponents said they haven't ruled out the possibility of challenging the measure in court."
Schwarzenegger's new budget proposal to give voters option of borrowing against state lottery
From: www.latimes.com
"In his latest plan for closing a budget shortfall now estimated at $17.2 billion, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will propose giving voters a choice between borrowing against the state lottery and paying more sales tax."
Governor eyes lottery profits to fix budget
From: www.sfgate.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will unveil a spending proposal today that calls for borrowing against future profits from the state lottery to help close what is expected to be a $15.2 billion budget deficit in the new fiscal year, administration officials said late Tuesday."
Schwarzenegger faces rough sledding on state budget negotiations
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger held town hall-style meetings everywhere but Sacramento this spring, making the point that the state's budget obstructions reside in the capital city."
California confronts a budget deficit with more gimmicks
From: www.sacbee.com
"Californians and their politicians have been dodging the budgetary bullet for 30 years, refusing to reconcile demands for public services, from education to prisons to firefighting to health care, with a distaste for paying more taxes."
EdFund president says hefty severance package isn't a done deal
From: www.sacbee.com
"The president of EdFund on Tuesday said a severance package drafted for him and six other executives was "not an exit strategy," but meant to retain key managers during the state's anticipated sale of the student loan guarantor program."
Denver's commercial real-estate market booming
From: www.denverpost.com
"Even as the national economy appears to spiral downward, a number of companies are choosing Denver to expand their operations, bolstering the region's commercial real-estate market. At least three national engineering companies are considering adding staff and increasing their space here. "
Students squeezed in search for loans
From: www.denverpost.com
"Getting money for college ? especially for community college and graduate school ? could be a lot harder this year because a weaker economy has left less money available to fund student loans. "
Democrats' Colorado dilemmas
From: online.wsj.com
"DENVER - A labor-union campaign in Colorado to tighten restrictions on layoffs and crack down on corporate fraud could put Democrats in an awkward position as they gather here in August for their presidential convention."
Rell has tough time ahead with deficit
From: www.nhregister.com
"Now that state lawmakers have gone home, it?s up to Gov. M. Jodi Rell to deal with Connecticut?s newfound deficit problems."
Rell limits state purchasing cards
From: www.courant.com
"Gov. M. Jodi Rell is directing the state's Department of Administrative Services to restrict the use of state purchasing cards, which are similar to credit cards."
State police upset over gas restrictions
From: www.courant.com
"The state police union is challenging a new directive designed to reduce the department's gasoline consumption by prohibiting troopers from using state gas pumps on their days off."
Raising the stakes on gambling
From: www.delawareonline.com
"Lawmakers scratching for cash in a tight budget year are eyeing expanded gambling opportunities as a way to bolster Delaware's sagging finances."
Firefighters focus on Brevard
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Hundreds of state firefighters battling more than 17,000 acres of wildfires were concentrating most of their efforts Tuesday on Brevard County, according to the Division of Emergency Management."
Marks urges minority business owners to compete for government contracts
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Despite "gloom-and-doom stories" about the economy, the chairman of the Florida Public Service Commission told minority business owners Tuesday to be optimistic about doing business with Florida government."
State Democratic candidates targeting long-held GOP seats
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"Signaling their intentions to contend for longtime Republican seats in Tallahassee this fall, four Democratic candidates on Tuesday accused the GOP-led legislature of neglecting homeowners' insurance and other meaningful issues and pursuing "frivolous" matters instead."
Fla. households using food stamps about three times the national average
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"If there was any doubt that rising prices and a souring economy are affecting South Florida families, more proof has arrived: The number of households using food stamps is up 26 percent in Palm Beach County since April of last year and up more than 19 percent in Broward County, data released this week from the state Department of Children & Families show. "
Teachers union poised to fight amendments
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"Major interest groups are gearing up to campaign against three constitutional amendments that will be on the November ballot: two that would authorize school vouchers and one that would swap $9.5 billion in property taxes for higher sales taxes."
Arson-started Florida wildfires fueled by growth
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"PALM BAY, Fla. - Wildfires that have gutted at least 40 homes along the state's Atlantic coast are believed to have been started by arsonists, but they got help from two classic Florida phenomenon: rampant development and a year-round growing season. "
Isle bill-paying a stimulus reality check
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Money has started arriving for some of the 600,000 Hawaii households that will get a total of $500 million from the federal stimulus package and, like a lot of people, Rebecca Dayhuff used her refund for nothing sexier than paying down debt."
Hawaii foreclosure rate climbs by 218%
From: starbulletin.com
"Hawaii's foreclosure rate tripled in April, with a 218 percent increase over the year-earlier period."
Governor signs healthcare bills into law
From: www.radioiowa.com
"A three-year push to ensure every Iowa child has health care coverage is among the key provisions of legislation Governor Chet Culver has signed into law."
Judge cites concern Postville plant will close
From: www.radioiowa.com
"Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge says there's concern the kosher meatpacking plant in Postville will close."
State money given for projects in Amanas, Osceola, Boone
From: www.radioiowa.com
"The Iowa Transportation Commission approved funding Tuesday to help build roads for businesses that include an auto parts manufacturer, a biodiesel plant and two German food companies."
In Postville, shock but no surprise
From: www.wcfcourier.com
"No one was surprised this happened. Workers at Agriprocessors had heard rumors of an impending immigration raid for weeks."
Plant owners -- NY workers were in US illegally
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"The owners of the Postville meatpacking plant where 390 workers were arrested Monday admitted in court last year that many of the workers in its New York distribution center were in the United States illegally."
Culver endorses coverage for all kids
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Iowa Gov. Chet Culver signed legislation Tuesday aimed at covering all Iowa children with health insurance."
DOT plan focuses on maintenance
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"AMES, Iowa -- A five-year, $2 billion road construction plan unveiled Tuesday focuses on safety, maintenance and preservation of Iowa's road system."
Culver signs 'historic' health insurance bill
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"Iowa Gov. Chet Culver signed what he called historic legislation to expand access to health insurance Tuesday, including a $25 million effort over the next three years to insure all Iowa children."
Postville immigration raid largest ever in U.S.
From: www.qctimes.com
"A federal immigration raid at a kosher meatpacking plant in northeast Iowa was the largest such operation in U.S. history, with nearly 400 people arrested, federal officials said Tuesday.
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Undercover worker helped immigration agents in Postville
From: www.qctimes.com
"POSTVILLE, Iowa - Monday's immigration raid at Agriprocessors was the result of almost eight months of investigation, according to U.S. Attorney Matt Dummermuth."
State rejects towns' request for municipal utilities
From: www.qctimes.com
"CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - State regulators have rejected requests from five Iowa towns to create their own municipal electric utilities."
State tries to help Postville in wake of raid at meatpacking plant
From: www.qctimes.com
"State officials are working to help Postville residents deal with the fallout of a raid by federal immigration officials Monday on kosher meatpacker Agriprocessors."
Idaho home foreclosures rise again in April
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Idaho?s April foreclosure rate jumped 15 percent from the previous month and was 79 percent ahead of a year ago, a report issued Wednesday said."
Feds hit back at Rezko as case goes to jury
From: www.suntimes.com
"Standing just inches from the jury box, his voice raised, an emphatic prosecutor on Tuesday pointed across a federal courtroom to remind jurors why they were there."
Zell rejects state-Wrigley deal; Thompson still trying
From: www.suntimes.com
"Former Gov. Jim Thompson said Tuesday he's still negotiating with the Cubs and still hopeful the state can find a way to buy and renovate Wrigley Field with "no taxes of any kind" that is acceptable to Tribune Co. CEO Sam Zell."
Blagojevich attorney sent gubernatorial staff on hunt for Rezko links, memo says
From: ads.qctimes.com
"A month before opening arguments were made in Antoin Rezko's federal corruption trial, Gov. Rod Blagojevich?s top lawyer issued a memo to the governor's senior aides.
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IDOT moves closer to receiving road work money
From: www.rrstar.com
"State lawmakers today advanced a plan to give the Illinois Department of Transportation an additional $20.1 million to avoid suspending road work."
Illinois auditor -- State health-care agency behind on bills
From: www.rrstar.com
"The state agency in charge of health care was chronically late in paying doctors and other providers, avoided paying interest on those late payments and otherwise didn?t follow established guidelines, Illinois Auditor General Bill Holland reported today."
Warning labels would have 'chilling effect,' critics argue
From: www.dailyherald.com
"Stricter warning labels proposed for toys containing a legal amount of lead would have a "chilling effect" on consumers, one suburban lawmaker argued Tuesday."
Lawmakers -- Enough space for IDOT in Springfield
From: www.sj-r.com
"Three Republican legislators representing the Springfield area hopped into a car Tuesday and conducted a fact-finding mission to see if state office buildings here have any empty space."
Audit points out "appalling'' problems with Medicaid bills
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"A new state audit points out "appalling" problems with the Blagojevich administration's management of payments to health care providers that go much deeper than a large stack of unpaid bills, lawmakers and Illinois' comptroller said Tuesday. "
Rezko jury told of 'crime at the highest levels of power'
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Jurors began deliberations at the corruption trial of political fundraiser Antoin "Tony" Rezko on Tuesday after hearing a prosecutor accuse him of crime "involving the highest levels of power." "
Antoin 'Tony' Rezko's fate now lies with the jury
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The federal corruption trial that has sent ripples through the administration of Gov. Rod Blagojevich has reached its final stage, and the fate of political insider Antoin "Tony" Rezko is now in the hands of the jury."
Audit fuels criticism of Blagojevich on health-care programs
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Comptroller Dan Hynes and several lawmakers used a stinging new audit to blast Gov. Rod Blagojevich's administration for trying to expand state-subsidized health care when the current state Medicaid program is racking up huge deficits and is sometimes taking months to pay doctors who care for the poor and elderly."
Cubs sale could face new delay
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Tribune Co.'s plans to sell the Chicago Cubs, announced more than 13 months ago and supposedly on track to be completed this year, now may be delayed as the Chicago Tribune's parent continues to negotiate with the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority in pursuit of an advantageous way to sell and renovate Wrigley Field, the team's home for more than 90 years."
Illinois House panel OKs bill to require label for lead toys
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Toys containing trace amounts of lead would be required to have a label warning parents of the potentially toxic component under legislation a House panel advanced Tuesday."
Watchdog groups appeal BP refinery permit
From: www.indystar.com
"WHITING, Ind. -- Two watchdog groups are appealing a state air permit issued for the planned expansion of BP's oil refinery on Lake Michigan, contending that it doesn't adequately protect the health of low-income and minority residents."
Whiting BP plant's expansion opposed by 2 watchdog groups
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Two watchdog groups are appealing an Indiana air permit for the planned expansion of BP's oil refinery on Lake Michigan, contending it puts low-income and minority residents at risk."
Speaker - Economic bills were session's highlight
From: www.kansas.com
"Kansas House Speaker Melvin Neufeld defended the Legislature's performance this year, saying lawmakers passed bills making significant strides in economic development."
Is another coal plant 'Hail Mary' in store?
From: www2.ljworld.com
"Will there be another ?Hail Mary? attempt to get approval of the coal-burning plants project in southwest Kansas?"
Students' financial literacy examined
From: cjonline.com
"Bill Wagnon, chairman of Kansas State Board of Education, remembers watching fellow board member Carol Rupe teach a gathering of students about thriftiness."
Senate rejects coverage for wind
From: www.nola.com
"WASHINGTON -- Gulf Coast lawmakers say they aren't giving up efforts to add catastrophic wind coverage to the national flood insurance program despite the Senate's overwhelming rejection of the proposal.
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House tweaks insurance bill
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"A House committee amended a bill Tuesday to give the Louisiana legislative auditor access to ratemaking records of private insurance companies that the state holds confidentially.
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Iberville racetrack bill faces veto
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"Gov. Bobby Jindal plans to veto legislation that would allow Iberville Parish voters to decide whether Louisiana should get a fifth racetrack.
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Anti-gambling bill dies in Senate
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"Anti-gambling legislation that would have banned ATMs and any credit extensions from casinos narrowly failed Tuesday.
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Bill lets insurance deductibles vary
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"A bill that would allow insurance companies to set different deductibles on policies for named storms, such as tropical hurricanes, passed a House committee Tuesday.
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'My Louisiana' features famous faces
From: www.thenewsstar.com
"Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu chose some of Louisiana's most recognizable faces in their most comfortable places as a way to pitch the state to tourists.
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Panel backs new round of incentives for insurers
From: www.nola.com
"Any money left after a third round of offerings from a $100 million incentive program passed a year ago should be used to reduce premiums for homeowners, the House Insurance Committee decided Tuesday.
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Many at MBTA retire before new law cuts benefits
From: www.boston.com
"The MBTA saw an unusual spike in retirements this month, weeks after Governor Deval Patrick signed a law that will reduce some benefits for workers who retire before they turn 65."
Ticket brokers acknowledge hiring speaker's longtime friend
From: www.boston.com
"The association representing Massachusetts ticket brokers acknowledged for the first time yesterday that it hired Salvatore F. DiMasi's longtime friend and accountant, Richard D. Vitale, as a lobbyist to push its agenda on Beacon Hill, according to Secretary of State William Galvin's office."
Death threats targeted DiMasi
From: www.boston.com
"House Speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi was given State Police protection at his North End home after he received what authorities felt was a credible death threat during the highly charged debate over casino gambling, said three people who have been briefed on the threat and the State Police response."
Lawmakers hear concerns about pharmaceuticals in water
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Beacon Hill lawmakers are hearing testimony on steps the state is taking to protect its drinking water supply from pharmaceuticals."
Gov., engineer hit it off in new Google digs
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Gov. Deval Patrick yesterday celebrated the recent opening of a Google office in Kendall Square by playing a pretty solid game of pingpong with a head engineer for the search Web site."
Patrick scales back bridge repair plan
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Gov. Deval Patrick unveiled a bill Tuesday to borrow nearly $3 billion to speed repairs for 250 to 300 "structurally deficient" bridges."
Patrick, teens urge more summer jobs
From: www.boston.com
"Flanked by three Boston teenagers, Governor Deval Patrick encouraged businesses yesterday to take advantage of a 27 percent increase in state money for summer jobs."
Patrick offers $3b plan for bridge repairs
From: www.boston.com
"Governor Deval Patrick yesterday announced a $3 billion bond proposal to repair deteriorating bridges throughout the state over the next eight years, a scaled-back version of an initiative he announced last month."
Magna positions itself for Md. slots
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"One piece of Preakness tradition appears to be missing this year: the prediction that without a quick infusion of cash from slot machine gambling, the race could be Baltimore's last."
O'Malley signs safety, BRAC bills
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Gov. Martin O'Malley yesterday signed into law bills aimed at improving public safety, including an expansion of the state's DNA database, as well as dozens of other measures such as legislation to prepare the state for growth that's expected from a nationwide military base realignment."
BIW union leaders suing for defamation
From: morningsentinel.mainetoday.com
"Suspended union leaders at Bath Iron Works have sued their parent organization and officers, claiming their removal from office violated federal labor laws and defamed them."
Gas prices put strain on police budgets
From: bangornews.com
"When lawmakers adjusted the state budget earlier this year, they assumed gasoline would average about $2.55 a gallon at the pump. This week it is a dollar higher throughout most of Maine, and those higher costs are affecting law enforcement more than other governmental agencies."
Taxpayers' plans more survival than stimulus
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"Only 17 percent of Maine residents plan to spend their government economic stimulus checks on discretionary purchases such as trips, clothing and furniture, a new statewide survey has found."
Oil-reserve moratorium approved by Congress
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"WASHINGTON - Congress overwhelmingly approved a bill Tuesday that would temporarily halt the purchase of oil for the nation's emergency reserves, a move aimed at reining in escalating fuel prices."
Mich. secretary of state fines Meijer for campaign law violations
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. -- The state of Michigan fined retail giant Meijer Inc. more than $190,000 Tuesday for violating campaign law in its effort to build a superstore in Grand Traverse County."
Gaming board sets hearing on forced sale of Greektown Casino
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"The Michigan Gaming Control Board on Tuesday set a June 10 show-cause hearing to decide whether to order a forced sale of Greektown Casino L.L.C. because the casino isn?t hitting prescribed financial goals. "
State slaps Meijer with record fine
From: www.detnews.com
"A bitterly contested, eight-year effort by Meijer Inc. to build a superstore near Traverse City hasn't yielded a groundbreaking yet. But it netted the supermarket chain a record-setting fine Tuesday. "
State budget looks bleaker
From: www.detnews.com
"Despite predictions that Michigan's economy would begin to recover in 2009, fiscal experts now believe state revenues will be more than $400 million short of their forecast."
Michigan has questions for Obama
From: www.detnews.com
"Sen. Barack Obama's campaign is willing to make "pretty generous" concessions in order to resolve the debate over Michigan's Democratic convention delegates, Obama's campaign manager said Tuesday."
Deficits hinder gas tax break
From: www.freep.com
"Calls for a summer holiday from the 6% state sales tax on gasoline are being muffled by more potential deficits in the state budget."
Ouster request called a no-win for governor
From: www.detnews.com
"The Detroit City Council's appeal to Gov. Jennifer Granholm to oust Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick from City Hall is a no-win proposition for the governor, political observers said Tuesday.
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Detroit City Council votes to request removal of mayor by governor
From: www.nytimes.com
"DETROIT - The Detroit City Council voted on Tuesday to ask the governor of Michigan to oust the city's mayor, Kwame M. Kilpatrick, who is charged with perjury and obstruction of justice. "
Mo. lawmakers pass water park insurance legislation
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"In response to the drowning of a Joplin boy while on a field trip to a swimming pool, Missouri lawmakers voted Tuesday to mandate that privately owned, for-profit swimming pools carry liability insurance."
Lawmakers reject database fee increase
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"In a rebuke of Gov. Matt Blunt?s administration, House members on Tuesday overwhelmingly rejected a large fee increase charged to businesses obtaining vehicle and driver?s license information from state databases."
House passes tax relief measure
From: www.stltoday.com
"The House approved a bill Tuesday aimed at making sure property taxes don't skyrocket after homes and businesses are reassessed."
Controversial amendment could stall immigration reform
From: www.columbiamissourian.com
"Whispers of a special session began circulating the Capitol on Tuesday after a controversial amendment was added to an immigration reform bill, a piece of legislation the governor has specified as one of his highest priorities."
Missouri House approves property tax bill
From: www.kansascity.com
"The House on Tuesday approved a wide-ranging property tax measure that would limit future tax increases on homeowners and provide tax breaks for developers at Kansas City International Airport."
Barbour signs movie incentives bill
From: www.clarionledger.com
"Legislation to create new incentives to attract filmmakers and television productions to Mississippi has been signed by the governor."
Top tax man -- Property prices holding up
From: www.helenair.com
"BOZEMAN, Mont. -- Housing prices may be plummeting elsewhere, but a strong state economy means prices aren?t dropping as much in Montana, Revenue Director Dan Bucks said."
High gas cost not slowing Yellowstone tourism
From: billingsgazette.net
"Even with gas on a trajectory toward $4 a gallon this summer, Montana may seem like a travel bargain to visitors from states where it's already approaching that dreaded threshold."
Runoff sought in race for labor commissioner
From: www.newsobserver.com
"Former Labor Commissioner John C. Brooks, who is currently in second place for votes in the Democratic primary for his old job, filed for a runoff Tuesday."
Gwinnett stadium Sunday beer sales OK'd
From: www.ajc.com
"Gov. Sonny Perdue has led the opposition to Sunday package store sales of alcohol, but he decided Tuesday that beer at the ballpark on the Christian Sabbath is OK."
Public Service Commission evaluates Xcel proposal
From: www.grandforksherald.com
"The Public Service Commission is evaluating a proposal from Xcel Energy that would charge North Dakota electric customers an average of 40 cents a month to save them money."
Senator suggests comp judges get Bar Association review, too
From: www.nj.com
"The chairman of the Senate Labor Committee has formally asked Gov. Jon Corzine to subject prospective workers' compensation judges to the same Bar Association review that Superior Court nominees have received for almost 40 years."
Corzine revises budget for town aid, parks
From: www.philly.com
"Gov. Corzine wants to scale down cuts in aid to small towns, keep all state parks open, and leave agriculture as its own department, New Jersey's treasurer told state senators yesterday."
Lack of closure in reopening of State Museum
From: www.nj.com
"More than two years behind schedule, the New Jersey State Museum reopens -- a little -- after a four-year, $15 million renovation."
Tax windfall could soften budget cuts in New Jersey
From: www.nytimes.com
"TRENTON, N.J. - The state treasurer said Tuesday that New Jersey collected $533 million more than anticipated in 2007 tax revenue, allowing Gov. Jon S. Corzine to soften his proposed budget cuts to small towns and largely spare the state parks from closing this summer and the Department of Agriculture from being dissolved."
Bittersweet market: Local real estate stable, but sellers outnumber buyers
From: www.daily-times.com
"FARMINGTON, N.M. ? The San Juan County real estate market continues to be its own animal ? active, healthy and stabilizing, and remaining largely unaffected by the national trends that have negatively affected thousands of people."
Casino tax revenues may mean more cuts
From: www.lvrj.com
"More state budget cuts could be on the table for next fiscal year because of a dismal March gaming revenue report, Nevada Budget Director Andrew Clinger said Tuesday."
Nevada gasoline prices continue to soar
From: hosted.ap.org
"RENO, Nev. - Gasoline prices continue to skyrocket as the summer driving season nears, with motorists in Nevada paying 26 cents a gallon more than a month ago, AAA Nevada said Tuesday."
More budget cuts possible
From: hosted.ap.org
"State Budget Director Andrew Clinger said Tuesday that more budget cuts are on the table for the fiscal year that starts July 1, following a bleak report on taxes based on Nevada casino winnings."
In anti-tax Nevada, policy can be pawned
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Casino moguls jetting to meet with the governor, clandestine sessions between gaming executives and the teachers union president, eleventh-hour jockeying over raising the room tax ? this is how public policy gets made in Nevada."
City hosps face crushing fund cuts
From: www.nypost.com
"New York City hospitals are facing the devastating loss of $1.2 billion in annual Medicaid funding under new rules ending payments to train doctors, the city's Independent Budget Office has found."
Senate serves up pork
From: www.timesunion.com
"The Senate on Tuesday unveiled $218 million in capital projects, providing funds for private companies, local authorities and previously undisclosed big-ticket expenses such as a music center at Skidmore College and a semiconductor plant in Saratoga County."
Vanity plates drive debate in New York
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"What can hypnotherapists, reporters, former state troopers, BMV owners and union members do that veterans of the Afganistan war, former state lawmakers and disabled firefighters can't? Get a custom state license plate in New York."
SUNY fights potential loss of tuition funds
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"State University of New York officials said Tuesday they were proposing spending cuts that were $40 million less than what the governor ordered, largely because they wouldn't turn back revenues they collect through tuition and fees."
Toys flunk the chemical safety test at health expo
From: www.timesunion.com
"It seemed like just a simple silver chain dangling from 3-year-old Hannah Carey's purse. But on Tuesday, testing at the Bring Your Child's Toys to Work Day at the Women's Health Expo at Empire State Plaza showed it contained 30 percent lead, a heavy metal linked to learning disabilities in children."
New York state overtime costs soaring
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"As the state looks to curb costs in the face of a weakening economy, state workers continue to rack up overtime pay, a review of state records shows."
Senate approves $350 million in projects intended for economic development
From: www.nytimes.com
"While state analysts are forecasting lean times, lawmakers are bankrolling what some see as a bumper crop of pork. "
Kroger expands discount on generic drugs
From: hosted.ap.org
"CINCINNATI - Kroger Co. said Tuesday it's expanding its discount on generic drugs, offering 90-day prescriptions for $10 and covering more women's health medications."
State workers seek pay raise
From: www.journalrecord.com
"Chanting "leave us out, we'll vote you out,' more than 100 state workers rallied at the state Capitol on Tuesday and demanded that lawmakers give them a pay raise this year."
State high court interprets law limiting recovery time
From: www.journalrecord.com
"Injured employees are entitled to as much as eight weeks off for a sprain, 16 weeks if it requires surgery, and 300 weeks if there?s evidence to support a temporary total disability claim."
Oklahoma town unlikely to recover from tornado
From: www.nytimes.com
"PICHER, Okla. - State and federal officials toured this tornado-ravaged town and essentially drilled the final nail into its coffin."
Get ready for less college aid
From: www.post-gazette.com
"For thousands of Pennsylvania college students, turmoil in the financial aid sector will hit home this fall, with average state grants that could be $500 smaller than last year, the head of the state's loan agency said yesterday."
Review of state gambling officials sought
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"House Republicans on Tuesday asked the state attorney general to investigate whether top officials of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board violated any law by allegedly directing investigators to change a background report about Poconos casino owner Louis DeNaples."
Did gaming board break law? Lawmakers ask for probe
From: www.mcall.com
"Six state lawmakers called Tuesday for the state attorney general to investigate whether state gaming regulators broke the law when they, according to sources, ordered their investigators to change a background report on Mount Airy Casino Resort owner Louis DeNaples."
Lawmaker proposes using slots money for water projects
From: www.post-gazette.com
"The 2004 law that legalized slot machines in Pennsylvania created a new Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund. Fueled by a 5 percent tax on gambling revenue, the fund is to be used to help finance the new Penguins' arena in Pittsburgh and a major expansion of the convention center in Philadelphia. But what about the other 65 counties in Pennsylvania?"
With time running out, sprinkler bills in trouble
From: www.charleston.net
"Although communities across the state have been impacted by fires in the last year that have grabbed the national spotlight, legislation aimed at getting sprinklers in more homes and businesses is in trouble."
Payday lending opponents' hopes for bill dim
From: www.goupstate.com
"Supporters of a bill curtailing payday lending operations in South Carolina are seeing their hopes dim for action this year."
Rounds slams Big Stone ruling
From: www.argusleader.com
"South Dakota's fledgling wind-energy industry relies in part on the power-plant transmission lines that an administrative ruling in Minnesota places in jeopardy. Gov. Mike Rounds criticized the ruling that recommended against allowing transmission lines from the proposed Big Stone II power plant to be built across west-central Minnesota."
Tennessee - Sales tax holiday no more for spring
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"Tennessee shoppers won?t get another sales-tax holiday next spring as state officials try to cope with the biggest drop in sales-tax collections in a half century."
Texas trade trip to Cuba headed by agriculture commissioner
From: www.statesman.com
"Todd Staples, the state agriculture commissioner, will soon become Texas' first statewide elected official to visit Cuba since the United States imposed an embargo against the Communist nation in 1962."
Dewhurst has yet to appoint members of task force looking at sporting goods sales tax
From: www.dallasnews.com
"A year after legislators decided to review what items should be included in a sporting goods sales tax, work has yet to begin because Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst hasn't named any senators to the task force. "
U.S. foreclosure filings surge 65 percent in April
From: www.startribune.com
"LOS ANGELES - More U.S. homeowners fell behind on mortgage payments last month, driving the number of homes facing foreclosure up 65 percent versus the same month last year and contributing to a deepening slide in home values, a research company said Tuesday."
Gas-tax hike, tolls during rush hour may be in future
From: www.sltrib.com
"Utahns would need to pay up to 40 cents per gallon in state gas tax and face a varying toll to drive during rush hours to cover transportation needs, say some state leaders."
Kaine - 'This is a balancing act'
From: www.inrich.com
"WOODBRIDGE, Va. -- Gov. Timothy M. Kaine began a series of town hall meetings last night pushing his newest investment plan -- this time by raising a regional sales tax in Northern Virginia to upgrade its transportation system."
Va. launches business startup Web site
From: hosted.ap.org
"Virginians looking to start a business now have a one-stop Web site to help them through the process."
Kaine begins promotional roads show
From: hosted.ap.org
"WOODBRIDGE, Va. - It's a tough sell: nearly $1 billion a year in new taxes and fees for transportation while fuel prices are soaring past the means of many family budgets."
Kaine takes transit-tax increase plan on road
From: www.washingtontimes.com
"Like a traveling salesman, Gov. Tim Kaine hit the road in Northern Virginia last night to pitch his plan to boost transportation spending and relieve traffic congestion. Motorists in the northern part of the state would be among the hardest hit by his proposed $1 billion in new taxes - but arguably would benefit the most."
Guns in restaurants draw stares but little outcry
From: www.nytimes.com
"RESTON, Va. - The patrons at Champps, an upscale restaurant and bar chain, were eating ribs and drinking beer on a recent Saturday when customer Bruce Jackson stood up and made an announcement: He was armed, and so were dozens of other patrons."
State offers advice for Vermonters behind on mortgages
From: www.rutlandherald.com
"As the number of foreclosures in Vermont continues to creep upward, the state has added a program to offer advice to those behind on paying their mortgages.
"
Slide in existing-home sales in state steepest in Central Puget Sound area
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"Washington's home sales are down, and the dip is more pronounced in the Central Puget Sound region, which has the lion's share of the state's housing transactions."
State weighs Exxon Mobil's CO2 venting
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"A high-profile case regarding carbon dioxide that is vented at Exxon Mobil's Shute Creek gas plant in Lincoln County will be continued until next month."
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.
"
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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