Voters may decide fate of payday loans
From: www.stateline.org
"In Ohio and Arizona, the payday loan industry is trying a different strategy in its battle to survive."
Weak economy squeezing more states
From: www.stateline.org
"(Updated 1 p.m. EDT, June 19, 2008)
A new survey says states could be facing two years of budget troubles as revenues continue to fall and spending pressures mount.
"
Even Exxon gets chunk of money
From: www.adn.com
"HOMER, Alaska -- Exxon stands to put about $110 million from the award in its own pocket thanks to a side deal cut in 1991 with seven Seattle fish processors."
Plaintiffs react to Exxon decision
From: www.adn.com
"Reactions from Alaska plaintiffs to the Supreme Court's Exxon decision Wednesday morning ranged from disappointment to cynical outrage - mixed for some, with a tinge of relief that a two-decade ordeal had come to an end."
Alaska politicians react to U.S. Supreme Court ruling on punitive damages
From: www.juneauempire.com
"Public officials in Alaska are reacting strongly to the U.S. Supreme Court's decision Wednesday to slash the $2.5 billion damage award to Alaska fishermen to $508 million, nearly 20 years after the Exxon Valdez disaster."
Lawmakers study AGIA's impact on in-state gas pipeline
From: newsminer.com
"A legislative hearing Wednesday on legal issues relating to TransCanada?s gas pipeline proposal drifted into a debate on what the Alaska Gasline Inducement Act would mean for an in-state gas pipeline."
Exxon Valdez - 'This is it; it's done'
From: www.adn.com
"WASHINGTON -- In a victory for corporations seeking to limit big-dollar lawsuits, the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday sharply reduced the $2.5 billion in punitive damages awarded in the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill."
Decision torments Cordova fishermen
From: www.adn.com
"CORDOVA, Alaska -- Disappointment. Resignation. Disgust. Residents of this tiny fishing town, so hopeful for a blockbuster payday from the Exxon Valdez oil spill, faced a gray and rainy day Wednesday with a stark sense of loss."
Exxon ruling disappoints villagers in Alaska
From: www.npr.org
"The U.S. Supreme Court ended a 14-year lawsuit Wednesday when it cut the award in a punitive damages case against Exxon. The lawsuit was brought by 30,000 people who suffered economic loss when a tanker leaked 11 million gallons of oil into Alaska's Prince William Sound in 1989."
Valdez ruling pains many in Cordova, Alaska
From: www.latimes.com
"An unusually warm and dry winter has killed off the fish hatcheries that the people of Prince William Sound depend on for their livelihood. The gasoline needed to power their boats is nearly $6 a gallon."
High court slashes Exxon Valdez oil spill damages
From: www.csmonitor.com
"WASHINGTON - The US Supreme Court has struck down a $2.5 billion punitive damages award against oil giant Exxon for its role in the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska. "
In Alaska, rage and sorrow over decision
From: www.nytimes.com
"When the Exxon Valdez ran aground in 1989, Andrew Wills was a successful herring fisherman in Alaska and the owner of three canneries."
Mistakes may have led to Northrop winning tanker contract, GAO report says
From: www.al.com
"WASHINGTON - Northrop Grumman Corp. and Alabama might not have won the $35 billion contract to build new refueling tankers if the Air Force had not made so many mistakes in evaluating the proposal of rival bidder Boeing Co., according to a more detailed explanation of the bid protest released Wednesday."
Housing bill would extend GO Zone tax break
From: www.al.com
"WASHINGTON - South Alabama companies would get more time to take advantage of a Hurricane Katrina-related tax break under a waiver tucked into a housing bill now before the U.S. Senate."
What will Ark. lottery bring? Pick a number
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"Both supporters and opponents of a proposal to create a state-run lottery in Arkansas are obsessed with finding their own winning numbers."
Lottery supporters, opponents release rival studies
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"Supporters and opponents of a proposed state lottery to fund college scholarships released two separate studies Wednesday, with each group saying its study supported its point of view."
HP enticed with $43M to build Ark. facility
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"Hewlett-Packard Co. was offered more than $43 million in incentives from state and local officials to build a new customer and technical service center in Conway, according to documents released Wednesday."
State lottery estimates vary by $40 million
From: www.nwarktimes.com
"Arkansas was treated to dueling lottery reports Wednesday, and they differed by $40 million."
Bipartisan nod sends rail-yard bill to governor
From: www.azstarnet.com
"PHOENIX - State lawmakers gave final approval Wednesday to a bill that would require public hearings before the construction of major railroad projects in Arizona."
Gaming bills blocked; senator tells panel move is a mistake
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"A pair of high-profile gambling measures that sought to expand Indian casinos while outlawing electronic bingo machines for charities were blocked by an Assembly committee yesterday."
California regulators unveil greenhouse gas plan
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Ushering in a historic effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, California regulators today will unveil a landmark plan that calls for a major hike in the state's use of renewable energy, a new market to trade pollution credits and a move to force automakers to make cleaner cars."
Air board to vet plans for war on warming
From: www.sfgate.com
"The California Air Resources Board today will consider a draft plan for how the state will fight global warming, an ambitious proposal to require cleaner cars, more energy-efficient appliances, less-polluting fuels and more reliance on wind and solar energy."
Latinos fall behind growing digital divide
From: www.contracostatimes.com
"More and more Californians are shopping, chatting, reading news and finding critical health, employment and government information online, but a report published today says Latinos and low-income residents are falling behind, widening the digital divide."
New plan unveiled to fight climate change
From: www.contracostatimes.com
"Greenhouse gas emissions will be capped across California and businesses that exceed their allowances will have to buy credits in a new market to open up across Western states, according to a plan to be unveiled today from state regulators."
California joins legal fight against Countrywide
From: www.sacbee.com
"California Attorney General Jerry Brown says he's seeking something quite simple for thousands of homeowners who lost money or their houses to foreclosure after borrowing from Countrywide Financial Corp."
State renews climate battle
From: www.sacbee.com
"The state Air Resources Board will outline this morning a plan to slash greenhouse gas emissions 30 percent by 2020 and prepare the state for much deeper cuts in the years beyond."
Charities hot as governor urges a fireworks boycott
From: www.sacbee.com
"No less a patriot than the governor himself is asking Californians to forgo home fireworks this July 4 -- though he expects the charities that sell them will scream like a Piccolo Pete."
Ill., Calif. sue Countrywide
From: www.npr.org
"Illinois and California have sued Countrywide Financial, one of the country's largest mortgage lenders. The suits against the company and its chief executive come on the same day Countrywide shareholders approved a takeover by Bank of America."
California emissions plan stirs a fight
From: online.wsj.com
"California regulators are proposing a slate of rules to limit the state's global-warming emissions, setting off a fight among companies and consumers about who will pay the brunt of the bill."
California water shortages to boost some crop prices
From: www.csmonitor.com
"OAKLAND, Calif. - This summer, it's a triage of leaf and limb in California's water-starved Central Valley."
California air board announces plan for carbon-credit trading
From: www.latimes.com
"California air regulators today announced a bold plan to slash greenhouse gas emissions that would alter the way utilities generate electricity, automakers build cars and developers construct buildings, and launch the nation's broadest market in carbon-credit trading.
"
Study - State's student population to decline
From: www.rep-am.com
"STORRS, Conn. - Connecticut's student population will drop 17 percent in the next 12 years, according to a new study by the Connecticut State Data Center."
Targets of taxes try to sway public
From: www.delawareonline.com
"Even before a tax increase package was released by legislative leadership last week, lobbyists for the affected industries were crying foul and launching efforts to stop the rising costs. Now they're calling for backup -- from taxpayers."
Sale of company that makes Florida driver licenses raises privacy concerns
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"The high-tech company that makes Florida's 16 million driver licenses is up for sale and critics are concerned about one of the suitors, Safran SA, a conglomerate that is 30 percent owned by the French government."
U.S. Sugar deal could make costly Everglades reservoir unnecessary
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"A new Everglades land deal means a massive multimillion-dollar South Florida reservoir midway through construction could become obsolete before it's finished. Work stopped on the reservoir this month and contractors are being paid up to $1.9 million a month to stand by while water managers decide whether to proceed."
FAU approves budget, fears more cuts as economy worsens
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"Florida Atlantic University has spent the last year trimming its budget, and the pain may not be over. The FAU Board of Trustees approved a $249 million operating budget for 2008-09 during a conference call Wednesday. "
Everglades deal 'not politics' Gov. Crist says
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
" MIAMI - It was not brilliant political posturing or a self-serving grab to become Sen. John McCain's running mate. Gov. Charlie Crist denied that the juxtaposition of his most unpopular environmental comments made last week with his most spectacular this week was staged."
U.S. Sugar purchase to cost Palm Beach County $5.4 million in taxes
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"For Palm Beach County, the blockbuster purchase of 187,000 acres on the fringes of the Everglades comes with a cost: a hit of more than $5 million to the county budget."
Blockbuster land deal faces many obstacles
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"The price tag to buy 187,000 acres from U.S. Sugar Corp. jumped roughly half a billion dollars Wednesday, just a day after Gov. Charlie Crist announced a historic $1.75 billion deal to reclaim a big swath of the northern Everglades."
Plans to build 3 solar-power plants underscore Crist's call for 'green boom'
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"MIAMI - Evoking John F. Kennedy's call to put a man on the moon, Gov. Charlie Crist exhorted Floridians Wednesday to "launch America into the coming green technology business boom" by developing alternative and renewable energy sources and ending the state's addiction to foreign oil."
Climate summit - There's gold in going green
From: www.miamiherald.com
"With 800 participants from environmental groups, universities and the major industries of Florida, Gov. Charlie Crist's second summit on global warming opened Wednesday in downtown Miami with a strong emphasis on how business can profit by cleaning up the environment."
Few knew details of sugar buyout talks
From: www.miamiherald.com
"One day in November, the U.S. Sugar Co. dispatched two high-powered lobbyists to gripe to Gov. Charlie Crist about water restrictions in Lake Okeechobee and a host of other farming concerns."
Gov. Crist takes middle way in environment, energy
From: online.wsj.com
"MIAMI - In the space of a week, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist cheered the oil industry by suggesting he could live with oil wells off the Florida coast, then won praise from Greens for cutting a deal to reclaim 300 square miles of the Everglades from sugar farming."
FPL goal - 3 solar plants in 2009
From: www.tampabay.com
"Florida Power & Light, the state's largest utility, announced Wednesday it plans to build three solar energy plants in Florida, including one that would be the biggest of its kind in the world."
Four-day week gets tryout
From: chronicle.augusta.com
"Businesses and colleges are adapting their schedules in response to record-high gasoline prices."
Iowa disciplines doctor over alleged 1973 abuse
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"State medical regulators have taken the unusual step of punishing a Shenandoah doctor over a disputed allegation that he sexually abused a teenager 35 years ago."
Idaho officials tout benefits of barley
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"LEWISTON, Idaho -- Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter and other state leaders are touting a new type of barley produced in northern Idaho they say has substantial health benefits."
Taking aim at Countrywide
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Illinois Atty. Gen. Lisa Madigan won the race by a nose Wednesday, suing mortgage lender Countrywide Financial Corp. for fraud hours before her California counterpart did the same."
Federal disaster declaration for Illinois inadequate
From: ads.qctimes.com
"U.S. Rep. Phil Hare, D-Ill., criticized the Bush administration Wednesday for what he called an insufficient response to flooding in Illinois."
AFSCME mediator search may take time
From: www.sj-r.com
"The largest state government employee union is heading into uncharted territory, calling in a mediator to help achieve a new contract."
Governor's budget cuts would hit all over state
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"College students, Amtrak passengers and Medicaid patients would be among the Illinoisans to feel the impact of $1.5 billion in budget cuts that Gov. Rod Blagojevich says might be necessary."
Budget stalemate threatens Amtrak
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"A group of Amtrak supporters is criticizing Governor Rod Blagojevich's proposal to cut the state's support of passenger train service at a time when high gas prices are on nearly everyone's minds. "
Illinois governor's flip-flop on Pontiac draws skepticism
From: ads.qctimes.com
"Pontiac-area officials reacted skeptically Wednesday to news that Gov. Rod Blagojevich may be backing off his plan to close Pontiac's maximum-security prison."
Governor to unveil $14M youth jobs program
From: www.suntimes.com
"Gov. Blagojevich today will announce a $14 million, statewide summer-jobs program today for 10,000 teens and young adults in violence-prone neighborhoods."
Double-duty Davis
From: www.suntimes.com
"In July 2004, state pension board member Allison S. Davis voted to turn over as much as $100 million in state workers' retirement cash to an investment management firm."
Blagojevich in full-court press to get new funding
From: www.stltoday.com
"SPRINGFIELD ? Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's administration is escalating its public relations blitz for more state budget money, pressing legislators directly and through the media to approve $1.5 billion in new revenue sources ? and warning that everything from Amtrak riders to AIDS patients will suffer debilitating budget cuts if they don't."
State urges fireworks safety
From: www.nwi.com
"State officials issued a warning Wednesday in the hopes of thinning the ranks of Hoosiers injured by fireworks in the coming weeks."
State lifts wheat embargoes
From: www.cjonline.com
"Kansas Agriculture Secretary Adrian Polansky said Wednesday the state has lifted embargoes on 20 wheat fields and three grain elevators in south-central Kansas based on test results that show no detectable traces of fungicide residue on wheat."
House OKs pension bill
From: www.courier-journal.com
"As House members hailed the passage of a pension reform bill yesterday, at least one lawmaker said future legislatures will be challenged to find the money needed to fully fund the retirement systems by 2025."
House approves state pension bill
From: www.kypost.com
"The Kentucky House approved legislation Wednesday aimed at keeping the state's public employee retirement system financially solvent."
Execs unveil plans for $1B New Bedford casino
From: bostonherald.com
"A $1 billion destination resort casino would take shape on New Bedford?s waterfront under plans laid out by a group of local business executives."
State set to allege securities fraud
From: www.boston.com
"Massachusetts securities regulators today are expected to file civil fraud charges against UBS Financial Services Inc. for allegedly selling investments it claimed were as safe as cash even though the Swiss firm knew they were risky, according to a state official briefed on the case."
Maryland board OKs $50 million slash of budget
From: www.washingtontimes.com
"The Board of Public Works approved $50 million in spending reductions Wednesday to compensate for the repeal of a hugely unpopular sales tax that never took effect. "
Prince George?s officials rally against slots
From: gazette.net
"Prince George's County State's Attorney Glenn F. Ivey and elected officials raised their voices against legalizing slot machines on Tuesday during a stop in Laurel as part of a statewide anti-slots campaign."
State orders budget trims
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Maryland officials voted yesterday to cut the state's budget by $50 million, a move that affected nearly every state agency and included reductions in aid to private universities and funding for cancer research."
State investigates worksite death
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"A man who died after falling from scaffolding Tuesday was working for a company that has a history of helmet and safety violations, according to records."
Disaster status urged for crabs
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Maryland and Virginia's U.S. senators say there's no time to waste in declaring the decline of Chesapeake Bay blue crabs a federal disaster."
A lot of lots, but not enough
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"On Avon Court in Halethorpe, there's an unwritten law that says the parking space in front of your home is your spot. But the commuters who flock to the Halethorpe MARC station don't follow that code. They see the absence of no-parking signs as an invitation to leave their cars on the residential street - especially as the 770-space lot at the station fills up every day."
Conyers helps lead casino bill's defeat
From: www.thetimesherald.com
"WASHINGTON -- Backers of a proposed Indian casino in Port Huron were overwhelmed by a coalition of conservative members opposed to gambling and others who represent districts where casinos already exist."
Michigan officials -- 10 of 16 E. coli cases have Kroger link; Grocer recalls ground beef
From: www.mlive.com
"The Kroger supermarket chain says it's voluntarily recalling ground beef linked to an outbreak of illnesses from E. coli bacteria."
All bets are off
From: www.thetimesherald.com
"Corrupt lobbyist Jack Abramoff may be locked in a prison cell, but he still received credit Wednesday for the crushing defeat of the Port Huron and Romulus casino bills."
Michigan honeybees are back in town
From: blog.mlive.com
"This summer, consumers swarming to farm stands and supermarkets may find the local produce extra succulent, thanks to a resurgence in the honeybee pollination."
Senate approves interstate Lakes bill
From: www.detnews.com
"Michigan will regulate large-scale water use within the state and join an interstate pact to protect the Great Lakes under a package of bills given final approval in a series of unanimous Senate votes on Wednesday."
Water protection bills near passage
From: www.freep.com
"Legislation designed to protect Michigan water and join the state in a regional compact to prevent the diversion of Great Lakes water was hailed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm as "a defining moment in Michigan history" as it neared final passage Wednesday."
Plan for Indian casinos defeated
From: www.freep.com
"WASHINGTON -- In a victory for Detroit's casinos, a push to allow new American Indian casinos in Port Huron and Romulus was overwhelmingly defeated Wednesday in the U.S. House after a fiery debate among Michigan's congressional delegation."
Agencies, new state laws boost help for renters stuck in foreclosed properties
From: www.minnpost.com
"In May 2007, Yvette Blanton put down a $1,500 deposit on a house rental in North Minneapolis. Money was tight, but she stayed current with her rent and kept her four children fed and clothed by working as a receptionist at a weight-loss clinic in Edina."
Minnesota e-Health Summit plans for electronic records
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"The focus of today's annual Minnesota e-Health Summit in Brooklyn Park is a plan to adopt electronic health care records by 2015."
Business groups spend most to lobby this year
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"Two organizations that advocate for businesses spent more than $1 million lobbying the Legislature and the Pawlenty administration over the first six months of this year. Lobbying reports filed this month also show that top spenders include groups supporting increased transportation funding, the insurance industry and the cell phone industry."
O'Fallon can accept more sewage, state says
From: www.stltoday.com
"O'FALLON ? The state has granted O'Fallon permission to handle an additional 1.25 million gallons of wastewater per day, ending a freeze on new sewer hookups for homes and businesses."
Rain heightens worries along the Mississippi
From: www.nytimes.com
"CLARKSVILLE, Mo. - A storm that federal forecasters had expected would quietly pass through here instead brought about six inches of rain in places along the Mississippi River overnight Tuesday, dashing expectations that the worst of the flooding was over."
Utility industry facing worries
From: www.hattiesburgamerican.com
"As worried consumers watch the price of gasoline skyrocket, they might also want to keep an eye on their power bill."
Dole now supports lifting ban on offshore drilling
From: www.news-record.com
"Sen. Elizabeth Dole said North Carolina should have the option of allowing oil exploration off the state's coast, backing away from her long-held support of a federal moratorium on Atlantic drilling."
Panel revises long-truck bill
From: www.newsobserver.com
"A far-reaching bill approved by a state House committee Wednesday would allow longer tractor-trailers on most North Carolina highways, but state transportation engineers would retain their power to mark some roads off-limits."
Luebke wants instant runoffs
From: www.newsobserver.com
"The Democratic primary runoff for labor commissioner settled the ballot for the general election. Democrat Mary Fant Donnan, who defeated John C. Brooks, will take on Republican incumbent Cherie Berry."
Make way for big rigs: Bill would pave their way on N.C. roadways
From: www2.journalnow.com
"A bill to allow larger and heavier vehicles on North Carolina roads is speeding through the state legislature, despite worries from some safety advocates that it will endanger lives."
Consumer group adds GF to list of airports likely to lose service, Dorgan denies claim
From: www.grandforksherald.com
"Grand Forks International Airport is included on a list of airports considered by a consumer advocacy group among the most likely to lose flights."
Airport manager downplays service
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"The four major airports in North Dakota are considered at-risk for losing service if the airport industry can't regain its footing within a year, a recent report says."
Windfall to help pay debt
From: www.nj.com
"Gov. Jon Corzine yesterday signed legislation that uses an unexpected tax windfall to pay down $650 million of New Jersey's $33 billion in outstanding debt. "
Blue Cross considers for-profit status
From: www.nj.com
"New Jersey's largest health insurer renewed a decade-old attempt to shed its nonprofit status Wednesday, a move that could inject state coffers with billions of dollars in desperately needed revenue but stokes concerns about rate increases and coverage for more than 3 million people. "
Big Spring fire expanding
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"TAJIQUE? A fire burning in thick trees in the Manzano Mountains that already forced the evacuation of a summer church camp led officials Wednesday to urge people to leave Tajique and the surrounding area. "
Udall casts only vote against cuts at LANL
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"The House Appropriations Subcommittee passed, almost unanimously, a budget proposal that would cut funding for some nuclear weapons-related activities at Los Alamos National Laboratory in its fiscal 2009 budget. "
Audit - Fossett search costly
From: www.rgj.com
"Costs for the unprecedented search to find missing aviator Steve Fossett in the Nevada desert last year spiraled out of control in an operation marked by the lack of "an effective command structure" and little way of tracking costs and resources, according to an audit released Wednesday."
State panel OKs Fossett search payment
From: www.lvrj.com
"A state panel including Gov. Jim Gibbons approved a payment of $419,000 to the Office of the Military on Wednesday to cover some of the cost of looking for missing adventurer Steve Fossett last fall."
Gibbons says plan leaves raises alone
From: www.lvrj.com
"Gov. Jim Gibbons said he will not recommend cutting or delaying 4 percent cost-of-living pay raises for teachers and state workers when he announces his plan today on how to slash $250 million to balance the state budget."
Bruno's final bill abandoned mid-vote after revolt
From: www.newsday.com
"The last legislation of Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno's 32-year Albany career was a hastily drafted measure benefiting dentists that he abandoned mid-vote after it sparked an extraordinary revolt within the Brunswick Republican's own conference last night."
Bill isn't pols' bag
From: www.nypost.com
"Angry City Council leaders called on Gov. Paterson yesterday to veto a bill they charged was passed "in the dead of night" in Albany to supersede a city law on plastic-bag recycling set to take effect in two weeks."
State panel gets advice on how to best help working families in Rochester
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"State officials looking for advice on the best path to a better quality of life for working New Yorkers in need of economic security received many ideas on Wednesday."
Million-dollar interests are zealous for Skelos
From: www.nypost.com
"New Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos is sitting on a campaign war chest of more than $1.2 million - funded mostly by powerful interest groups with much to lose or gain from his actions, according to a Post analysis."
Options are open for Bruno
From: timesunion.com
"Former Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno's exit plan involves continuing to work in the private sector, and insiders say, possibly with close friend Kay Stafford's Latham consulting firm."
Changes sought in union construction rules
From: timesunion.com
"For decades, business groups pushed for overhaul of a state law that they said inflates the cost of public construction projects."
Bulk buying ordered in bid to save Ohio up to $72M
From: www.toledoblade.com
"Gov. Ted Strickland yesterday ordered state agencies to buy everything from paper clips to airplane propellers as a group when possible, saying it could save up to $72 million a year."
With funding gone, Ohio tobacco prevention jobs go up in smoke
From: www.toledoblade.com
"Katy Ruby is losing her job in the name of job creation."
Kroger recalls ground beef over E. coli fears; 32 stricken in Ohio, Michigan
From: www.toledoblade.com
"Faced with an E. coli outbreak that caused dozens of illnesses in Michigan and Ohio over the last month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced yesterday that the Kroger Co. is recalling all ground beef sold in its Toledo-area grocery stores over a 2 1/2 week span."
Immigration crackdown could cost state $1.9B in lost spending
From: journalrecord.com
"TULSA, Okla. - The Oklahoma economy would lose $1.9 billion in annual consumer spending if all undocumented workers are forced out of the state, said a new nonprofit group in support of national immigration reform efforts."
Inhofe: Highways face cuts
From: www.tulsaworld.com
"WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, who proudly points to $3 billion he has steered toward Oklahoma transportation projects, said Wednesday that a looming highway funding crisis could put those projects at risk."
Exxon Valdez ruling cuts payment to Oregon fishermen
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Gary Soderstrom had just got off the Columbia River after a long night of fishing Wednesday morning when he heard that the Supreme Court had slashed the money coming to him."
State Senate approves gas-testing measure
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Pennsylvania has moved one step closer to having a law that protects consumers from gasoline stations that might sell tainted or lower-grade gasoline than advertised to take advantage of soaring fuel prices."
SEPTA looking to lease railcars from NJ Transit
From: www.philly.com
"To help ease overcrowding on Regional Rail lines, SEPTA plans to lease eight used railcars from NJ Transit."
Pike lease, I-80 tolls gain support
From: www.pennlive.com
"WASHINGTON -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters is offering praise to proposals to lease the Pennsylvania Turnpike and toll highways like Interstate 80."
Survey -- One in six Pennsylvanians plays slots
From: www.mcall.com
"The state Health Department has begun collecting data on Pennsylvanians' gambling habits and a survey found that one of six residents gambled on slot machines in a 12-month period."
Fireworks Season -- Industry officials say Americans are shooting off more 'backyard' explosives
From: www.spokesmanreview.com
"In addition to fears about contaminated tomatoes or tainted hamburger meat at your Fourth of July picnic, add this to your holiday considerations: Injuries from fireworks are creeping up."
Sprinkler bill veto overridden
From: www.greenvilleonline.com
"Lawmakers voted unanimously on Wednesday to override Gov. Mark Sanford's veto of a bill providing incentives to those installing fire sprinklers."
S.C. Senate keeps gun, appliance sales tax holidays ?
From: www.greenvilleonline.com
"The South Carolina Senate has voted to give shoppers sales-tax-free holidays for guns and energy-efficient appliances."
Sprinkler veto, others overridden
From: www.thestate.com
"State lawmakers, assembling in a one-day special session Wednesday, threw out most of Gov. Mark Sanford's vetoes, clearing the way for 15 bills to become law."
Most of Sanford's vetoes overridden
From: www.charleston.net
"Tax credits for the owners of homes and businesses who install fire sprinklers became law Wednesday, along with 14 other bills when the Legislature reconvened to take up Gov. Mark Sanford's vetoes."
Gas costs scramble budget
From: www.argusleader.com
"PIERRE - State government's motor fuel budget is shot and then some, Finance Commissioner Jason Dilges says."
Crude oil pipeline means new revenue for counties
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"PHILIP -- The proposed Keystone XL Pipeline sounds like a "good deal" to Haakon County Commissioner Neal "Obie" Brunskill."
Tennessee- Some stimulus checks going toward child support, other debts
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"People expecting an economic stimulus check in the mail but who owe child support or back taxes may already have had their payments spent for them."
Rural deputy pay low despite big duties, dangers
From: www.knoxnews.com
"MONTEAGLE, Tenn. - Grundy County sheriff's deputy Shane Tate, a father of five, was making $10.50 an hour when he was gunned down in the line of duty."
State bars public, media from meetings on buyouts
From: tennessean.com
"State officials barred reporters and the public from town hall meetings with state employees about Tennessee's voluntary buyout plan."
Tennessee ranked best for business in tort liability study
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"Tennessee is the most business-friendly state when it comes to litigation, according to a new study."
TxDOT contract today will push Trans Texas Corridor forward
From: www.dallasnews.com
"The second half of the massive Trans Texas Corridor will take a large step toward reality today, when state transportation officials award a $5 million design contract to a team of private toll road operators. "
First 'cashless' toll road for Central Texas
From: www.statesman.com
"The 183-A tollway in Cedar Park will go "cashless" late this year, the first of Central Texas' four toll roads to take payment through only toll tags and bills mailed to drivers who don't have tags. It won't be the last, however. "
State's new tax on firms 'a miss'
From: www.chron.com
"AUSTIN ? Texas' new business tax has brought in $4.2 billion so far, raising questions about whether it will hit the $5.9 billion in collections projected for this fiscal year."
Property tax deduction included in housing bill
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"WASHINGTON -- Iowa homeowners strapped by the economy and natural disasters could be in for some tax help from Congress. Buried in a massive housing bill is a provision that for the first time would give homeowners a standard federal deduction for property taxes they pay at the state and local level."
'50 states in 50 days' - Denver man hikes Mount Katahdin in effort to engage kids
From: bangornews.com
"Standing atop the highest point in all 50 states sounds like the sort of goal that a travel buff would pursue over decades, even a lifetime."
Supreme Court greatly reduces damages in Exxon Valdez spill
From: www.latimes.com
"WASHINGTON -- The Supreme Court on Wednesday brought to a close the 19-year legal battle over the Exxon Valdez oil spill by sharply reducing the punitive damages to be paid by Exxon Mobil Corp. "
Exxon oil-spill damages slashed by Supreme Court
From: online.wsj.com
"WASHINGTON - In the final act to a legal drama that began with the devastating Exxon Valdez oil spill 19 years ago, a splintered Supreme Court sliced $2 billion from punitive damages imposed on Exxon Mobil Corp., leaving fishermen, native Alaskans and local landowners with just 20% of the award approved by a federal appeals court."
Cities take bike-transit plans for a spin
From: www.usatoday.com
"Led by Washington, D.C., several cities across the U.S. are launching or considering public bike-rental programs to give residents and tourists an alternative to $4 gas, pollution and congestion."
Homeowners fight for their mortgage rights
From: www.usatoday.com
"Beset by financial problems in 2002, Eunice Anderson fell months behind in the mortgage payments on her four-bedroom ranch in Redford Township, Mich., near Detroit."
Justices slash damages for Exxon oil spill
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"Nearly two decades of legal battles over the Exxon Valdez oil spill came to an end yesterday when the Supreme Court slashed the punitive damages imposed against Exxon Mobil from $2.5 billion to $500 million. "
White House tried to silence EPA proposal on car emissions
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"White House officials last December sought to stop the Environmental Protection Agency from submitting a proposed rule that would limit greenhouse-gas emissions from new vehicles, agency sources said yesterday. "
High Court to announce ruling on D.C. gun ban
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"With its term coming to an end, the U.S. Supreme Court this morning is expected to issue its ruling on the District's handgun-ownership ban in a case that could result in a landmark interpretation of the Second Amendment. "
Gov. pitches 4-day work-week to save energy, lower employees' driving expenses
From: www.sltrib.com
"Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. is looking to retool the state's workweek, with a sweeping proposal to move state agencies to four, 10-hour days a week in order to save energy and reduce commuting expenses. "
Uranium mill signs on for site in Emery
From: www.sltrib.com
"Emery County is revisiting an old theme in search of new prosperity. "
Wise power plant wins approval
From: www.inrich.com
"WISE, Va. - The state yesterday gave Dominion Virginia Power permission to build a $1.8 billion power plant in Wise County but slashed the amount of pollution it would be allowed to emit."
Senate passes bill raising state gasoline tax
From: fredericksburg.com
"The state Senate yesterday approved a bill to raise the gas tax 6 cents statewide."
House panel effectively kills Kaine's transportation plan
From: www.inrich.com
"The House Rules Committee this morning voted to pass by indefinitely Gov. Timothy M. Kaine's transportation plan, effectively killing it."
Gas tax increase passes in Senate
From: www.roanoke.com
"The Virginia Senate passed legislation Wednesday that would increase the state's gasoline tax and other levies to generate funds for transportation programs, but that bill and a proposal from Gov. Tim Kaine face near-certain deaths in the House of Delegates."
Fresh off the farm - Va. program connects schools to homegrown food
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"State officials have launched a program designed to connect small Virginia farmers with schools in hopes of boosting the agricultural economy and encouraging children to eat organic, locally grown food. "
Pollina -- Douglas' 'Buy Local' claim ridiculous
From: www.timesargus.com
"Progressive gubernatorial candidate Anthony Pollina says his incumbent rival's claim to have founded the "Buy Local movement" is tantamount to Al Gore taking credit for inventing the Internet.
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Pollina -- Douglas taking credit for others' work
From: burlingtonfreepress.com
"A state Agriculture Agency publication proclaims that the "buy local movement" that Gov. Jim Douglas initiated in 2003 is stronger than ever."
Gregoire delays building project
From: www.theolympian.com
"The governor has put the brakes on a $370 million state building project, asking the Department of Information Services and architects to significantly trim its cost."
Gregoire accuses Countrywide of predatory lending
From: www.theolympian.com
"Gov. Chris Gregoire has accused Countrywide Financial Corp. of discriminatory and predatory lending practices that targeted minority borrowers and of cheating Washington state out of millions of dollars in fees."
Washington fines Shell refinery $110,000
From: www.theolympian.com
"The Washington Department of Labor and Industries has cited the Shell refinery at Anacortes for 23 safety and health violations and proposed $110,000 in penalties."
Gov. Gregoire accuses Countrywide of discriminatory lending
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"SEATTLE -- Gov. Chris Gregoire has accused the Countrywide Financial company of discriminatory and predatory lending practices that targeted minority borrowers."
Supreme Court drastically cuts payouts for plaintiffs in Exxon Valdez oil spill
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"Hopes of fishermen throughout Washington and Alaska were sunk Wednesday when the Supreme Court slashed the amount of punitive damages that Exxon must pay for the epic Exxon Valdez oil spill nearly two decades ago."
Tomato salmonella cases rise -- four more in this state
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"The number of confirmed cases of Salmonella Saintpaul rose to 707, the Centers for Disease Control reported Wednesday, including four new patients identified in Washington state."
Wisconsin board OKs 90% cut in mercury emissions; fishing may benefit
From: www.jsonline.com
"Waupaca, Wis. -- The Natural Resources Board approved sweeping air regulations on Wednesday aimed at cutting mercury emissions by 90% and eventually making fish that are caught in state waters safer to eat."
Capito takes gas price fight to the Web
From: dailymail.com
"Rep. Shelley Moore Capito has unveiled a Web page designed as a one-stop shop for all things related to those dreadful sky-high gasoline prices."
More cattle test positive for brucellosis
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"PINEDALE, Wyo. -- Wyoming Assistant State Veterinarian Jim Logan said Wednesday it appears that another 11 head of cattle from a Daniel-area purebred cattle herd have tested positive for brucellosis."
Outbreaks prompt officials to meet
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"As Wyoming and Montana investigate brucellosis outbreaks, state veterinarians from those states and Idaho plan to meet Friday to discuss strategies for controlling the disease in the greater Yellowstone area."
Brucellosis prompts meeting of Wyo., Mont., Idaho
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"As Wyoming and Montana investigate brucellosis outbreaks, state veterinarians from those states and Idaho plan to meet Friday to discuss strategies for controlling the disease in the greater Yellowstone area."
Violent weather taking toll on states
From: www.stateline.org
"A string of deadly tornadoes and damaging floods in 17 states this year has raised questions about public safety, the toll on infrastructure and how to pay for recovery."
States credit foreign language study
From: www.stateline.org
"Some states are rewarding high school students who study a foreign language outside of the classroom. Connecticut became the latest state to give school credit to students who take private classes and pass a proficiency test."
WORTH NOTING: Scout takes a hike from Md. mansion
From: www.stateline.org
"Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley evicts Scout, one of his family’s dogs, from the governor’s mansion. The Colorado Lottery turns to scratch-and-sniff to attract customers. And a Florida prisoner launches a bid for the state House. In case you missed those stories this week, “Worth Noting” fills you in."
McCain, GOP govs split over disaster fund
From: www.stateline.org
"A congressional proposal to create a national “catastrophe fund” to help states recover from natural disasters has put Republican presidential hopeful John McCain at odds with a handful of GOP governors — including two state chief executives frequently mentioned as possible vice-presidential picks for the U.S. senator from Arizona."
Jobs are at risk if Congress doesn't fix the Highway Fund
From: www.stateline.org
"State budgets and nearly 400,000 jobs are at risk if Congress fails to replenish the Highway Trust Fund, John Horsley, executive director of the American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials, writes in a commentary for Stateline.org."
Tax hikes rare among states — so far
From: www.stateline.org
"Most states are holding off raising taxes to patch holes in their 2009 budgets, but if you live in Maryland, Minnesota, Maine and New York, you’re out of luck."
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."
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
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."
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