Commerce secretary declares fishery disaster
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"U.S. Commerce Secretary M. Carlos Gutierrez on Wednesday declared a fishery resource disaster for the Gulf of Mexico because of damage caused to the industry by hurricanes Gustav and Ike."
Horse racetrack planned for east edge of Lincoln
From: www.omaha.com
"The University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a group of city business leaders will unveil a plan Thursday to build a thoroughbred racetrack on the east edge of Lincoln, replacing the track at State Fair Park."
States ask MillerCoors to pull alcoholic energy drink
From: www.latimes.com
"MILWAUKEE -- Twenty-five states asked beverage maker MillerCoors on Wednesday to abandon plans for a new caffeine-infused alcoholic energy drink."
State may have $2.1 billion storm burden
From: www.dallasnews.com
"The state could be on the hook for as much as $2.1 billion because of the massive property damage inflicted on the Texas coast by Hurricane Ike. "
State-local discord stalled storm aid at first
From: www.chron.com
"P.O.D.: You might as well call it a "point of disagreement.""
Commission opposes sage grouse farming
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission has decided against implementing rules for sage grouse farming. But it also wants to know whether it can discount a legislative directive to create a framework for sage-grouse farming in the state."
Shaky economy forcing Rendell to rein in state spending
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Gov. Ed Rendell is like the head of a household who's just learned that his expected income could drop by 3.3 percent or more this year. Of course, Mr. Rendell oversees a budget that's a lot bigger than the average household's -- $28.2 billion for fiscal 2008-09, which started July 1."
Casino referendum's provisions add spice to fight
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"The proponents of Question 2 – the ballot measure to allow a casino in Oxford County – admit that the legislation has flaws."
Some AIG units in California could fetch high bids
From: www.latimes.com
"Bargain hunters could snag some good deals by buying parts of troubled American International Group Inc.'s profitable subsidiaries in California and around the world, market analysts predicted Wednesday."
Ariz. hiring freeze reducing work force by 1,020
From: www.azcentral.com
"A partial hiring freeze imposed on much of Arizona state government last March by Gov. Janet Napolitano because of budget troubles has resulted in 1,020 fewer employees."
State--Rebates require income-tax return
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"The state is trying to make certain that eligible New Mexicans receive their tax rebates. "
What's next for AIG in Springfield?
From: www.sj-r.com
"An American International Group service center that employs 450 people in Springfield is more likely to be sold than closed as the parent company struggles to reorganize its finances, industry experts said Wednesday.
"
State's jobless rate rising
From: www.nj.com
"New Jersey's unemployment rate spiked to a five-year high of 5.9 percent last month, from 5.4 percent the month before, largely because of a loss of jobs in the public sector."
Gustav deals big blow to Mississippi August casino revenue
From: www.hattiesburgamerican.com
"Seeing the Labor Day weekend clipped by Hurricane Gustav, Mississippi's state-licensed casinos won $232.7 million from gamblers in August, down a bit from a year ago, the Mississippi State Tax Commission reported Wednesday."
Michigan jobless rate up to 8.9%
From: www.freep.com
"Michigan's ailing labor market took another turn for the worse during August as the state's unemployment rate rose four-tenths of a percentage point to 8.9%. That marked the state's highest jobless rate since 1992."
Washington state investments take a hit
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"The Washington State Investment Board that manages $78 billion in public employee retirement funds took a $130 million loss when Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy."
State OKs 2nd proton center for DuPage
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"In a surprise move, a state regulatory board Wednesday gave the OK for a proton therapy facility in DuPage County—the second such cutting-edge cancer-treatment center approved by the board this year and one that will be built just miles from the other."
Gov. Huntsman will call special session to address budget shortfall
From: www.sltrib.com
"Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. will call the Legislature into special session next week to try to plug a $200 million hole in the state budget - a result of the national economic downturn that also has hit Utah."
UAB to offer certificate in Spanish for specific purposes such as health and business
From: www.al.com
"In response to demand from health professionals and business people who want to study Spanish, the University of Alabama at Birmingham plans to offer a certificate in Spanish targeted for their needs."
Farm Bureau takes positions against lottery, for adoption measure
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"The board voted on the positions at a meeting held Monday and Tuesday in Little Rock, Farm Bureau spokesman Steve Eddington said Wednesday. In voice votes, the board's 16 voting members took positions on four of the five statewide ballot questions that will appear on the November ballot."
New-home permits in Valley hit 17-year low
From: www.azcentral.com
"Home building, the backbone of metro Phoenix's real-estate industry, has dropped to its lowest level since the last real-estate crash in the early 1990s."
Actual case of sanction could open law to review
From: www.azcentral.com
"Enacting sanctions that could take away the licenses of employers who hire illegal workers is a proper role for state government, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday."
Voter registration rises in face of gloomy outlook
From: www.contracostatimes.com
"California voters are crabby, but more and more of them vote. Nearly three in four voters say they believe the nation and the state are headed in the wrong direction, the highest figure since the Public Policy Institute of California began asking the survey question in 2003."
UC workers seek ballot measure on pension oversight
From: www.contracostatimes.com
"University of California workers are asking voters to give them a larger role in governing the $48 billion UC pension plan. The union representing about 20,000 UC service employees announced Wednesday it would pursue a ballot measure creating a board of trustees for the retirement fund. The group said it will start gathering signatures next month."
Budget remedy posed to governor
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"Legislative leaders offered yesterday to meet Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's demand for a stronger budget reserve, a move to avoid a historic budget veto that would prolong a record 80-day deadlock. "
Cal to announce $2 billion fundraising drive
From: www.sfgate.com
"UC Berkeley will unveil plans this week to raise nearly $2 billion over the next five years to help compete with deep-pocketed private schools such as Stanford that now are offering some needy students a less costly education than Cal."
Study says greening will raise state's economy
From: www.sfgate.com
"Taking strong measures to reduce greenhouse gases to combat global warming would help California's economy, boost employment and increase household savings and personal income, according to a new analysis."
Governor rallies support for his budget agenda
From: www.sfgate.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger went to the heart of the Central Valley on Wednesday to fight for his budget priorities, holding a rally with local officials on the home turf of Republican legislative leaders he aims to persuade not to block his impending veto of the proposed state budget."
Schwarzenegger digs in; California budget deal on verge of collapse
From: www.mercurynews.com
"The budget deal approved by the state Legislature was on the verge of unraveling Wednesday, as doubts escalated that lawmakers would be able to surmount Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's promised veto of a plan he called deeply flawed."
Barnes & Noble settles California tax dispute
From: www.sacbee.com
"Barnes & Noble Inc., the world's largest bookseller, has paid California $9 million to resolve a tax dispute."
CalSTRS official assesses Lehman, AIG shocks
From: www.sacbee.com
"By Chris Ailman's reckoning, this decade is on pace to be the worst for U.S. investors since the Civil War. It's been a troubling week for Ailman, chief investment officer at the California State Teachers' Retirement System. His $155 billion pension fund has been battered by the worsening credit crisis and the collapse of financial giants Lehman Bros. and AIG Inc."
Global warming fight will boost California economy, study says
From: www.sacbee.com
"Costly as it may seem, California's mandate to cut climate-altering exhausts from vehicles and industry by nearly one-third in the next 12 years actually will boost the economy, a state analysis released Wednesday predicts."
The State Worker: Prison guards ready to fight -- each other
From: www.sacbee.com
"It's an easy stereotype: Unionized state workers mindlessly march in lock step with leaders, endlessly clawing for more power, pay and perks. But every large group has dissent. Take the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, which today votes for the union's state president at its Las Vegas convention. The incumbent, Mike Jimenez, is running against about a dozen opponents."
Overriding Schwarzenegger's promised budget veto won't be simple
From: www.sacbee.com
"Lawmakers who assumed an override of a governor's budget veto would be easy learned differently Wednesday."
State warms to greenhouse gas emissions plan
From: www.latimes.com
"Few dispute that reducing planet-heating greenhouse gas emissions is a good idea. But fewer still know how much it will cost."
Berkeley approves city-backed loans for solar panels
From: www.nytimes.com
"SAN FRANCISCO — The Berkeley City Council moved late Tuesday to eliminate one of the biggest obstacles to making homes more energy-efficient: the upfront cost."
Salazar likes state control of oil shale fields
From: www.chieftain.com
"Having listened to the delegates at the Republican National Convention chant "Drill, baby, drill!," House Democrats approved an energy bill late Tuesday that would open new areas to off-shore drilling but give Colorado and other Western states more control over oil shale development."
Xcel -- Heating bills sure to rise
From: www.denverpost.com
"Xcel Energy on Wednesday estimated that Colorado customers would see a 12 percent increase in a high-use winter-month bill this heating season compared with last year's bill."
Bush decision sends more heating aid to Connecticut
From: www.courant.com
"WASHINGTON — - President Bush signed off Wednesday on millions more in help for Connecticut residents to heat their homes this winter. He cleared the use of a national reserve fund of $120 million, with Connecticut's share totaling $7 million."
Bank Of America, Merrill Lynch have deep roots in state
From: www.courant.com
"The Bank of America-Merrill Lynch juggernaut is poised to take on the world, but the combined company's roots run deep in communities across the country, perhaps nowhere more than in Connecticut."
Copeland unveils ideas for vets in business
From: www.delawareonline.com
"Republican lieutenant governor candidate Charlie Copeland wants to create a program that would assist military veterans starting their own businesses."
Insurance chief hopefuls tout experience
From: www.delawareonline.com
"The candidates for insurance commissioner vowed Wednesday to work closely with insurance agents, while still fighting for consumers, in a debate before about 50 Delaware insurance agents."
Official - AIG can pay claims; no need for panic
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Florida customers of insurance giant AIG shouldn't panic, despite ominous headlines about the latest Wall Street crisis, Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty said Wednesday. "
Gas prices level out; supply 'stretched thin'
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Price-gouging complaints continued Wednesday as gas prices moderated and supply issues persisted in Florida. "
Bush cancels Florida trip to work on economy
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"WASHINGTON - President Bush has canceled today's trip to Florida. The White House says Bush will instead stay in Washington to consult with his economic advisers. Bush had planned to attend a Republican fundraiser in Jupiter, Fla., then head to Alabama for another fundraiser. His Alabama events have also been canceled."
Florida attorney general sues 25, claiming mortgage fraud
From: www.tampabay.com
"The Florida Attorney General's Office today sued 10 companies and 15 individuals for their alleged roles in a major mortgage fraud scheme first reported by the St. Petersburg Times last year. "
State's budgets could drop 20%
From: starbulletin.com
"Hawaii departments - from education to health and public safety to agriculture - could lose up to 20 percent of their state operating funds under a plan to limit spending because of the slowing economy."
Iowa hog farm under investigation for abuse
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"Greene County law enforcement is investigating alleged livestock abuse at a Bayard hog farm after an animal protection organization released undercover videos of workers beating pigs, spray painting their snouts and slamming piglets on the floor."
Warnstadt -- McCain doesn't support wind, ethanol
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"SIOUX CITY, Iowa ---State Sen. Steve Warnstadt, D-Sioux City, wants Iowans to imagine what the state would be like without wind farms and ethanol plants."
College Savings Iowa turns 10
From: www.radioiowa.com
"The state program designed to help Iowans save money for their kids college has hit a milestone. "
Some Iowans grumble about McCain's airport stop
From: www.freep.com
"DES MOINES, Iowa -- Republican presidential candidate John McCain's decision to hold an airport rally while skipping a tour of a city still reeling from summer flooding has some in Cedar Rapids grumbling."
Northey makes campaign stop for Howard, outlines priorities
From: www.muscatinejournal.com
"Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey brought a three-point message to Muscatine Tuesday during a campaign stop for Bob Howard."
Iowa Power Fund Board OKs funds for rebuilding
From: www.qctimes.com
"CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The Iowa Power Fund Board approved $7.5 million in funding Wednesday to help Iowans affected by flooding and tornadoes. The money is intended to help people rebuild to higher energy efficiency standards and to emphasize renewable resources."
Idaho faces budget shortfall
From: www.spokesmanreview.com
"Idaho Gov. Butch Otter is drawing up plans to cut the state budget mid-year by at least $27 million and possibly as much as $68 million, after an ailing economy forced a rewrite of Idaho's expected tax revenues for the year."
Idaho highway projects could fall victim to tough times
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Worries about the economy and dwindling federal highway spending, along with delays on a North Idaho project, prompted the Idaho Transportation Board on Wednesday to slash the amount of money it hopes to borrow in 2009 to pay for ambitious Idaho highway projects."
Gov. Butch Otter warns officials to prepare for Idaho budget holdbacks
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Gov. Butch Otter on Wednesday ordered top state administrators and department heads to revisit their 2009 budgets and find ways to save money to offset a nearly 6 percent projected shortfall in state revenue."
Obama urges state Sen. Emil Jones to pass ethics-reform bill
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Democratic presidential candidate U.S. Sen. Barack Obama took the unusual step Wednesday of weighing in on a high-profile ethics bill in his home state, legislation that's been held up by his political mentor, Illinois Senate President Emil Jones."
DuPage hopsital's proton therapy center approved
From: www.dailyherald.com
"In a surprise move, state regulators Wednesday approved Central DuPage Hospital's proposal to build a proton therapy cancer treatment center in Warrenville."
Governor signs bill requiring electronics recycling
From: www.sj-r.com
"Citing the need to protect the public from toxic substances, Gov. Rod Blagojevich today signed a bill that calls for electronics manufacturers to collect and recycle or reuse electronics products."
Pat Quinn pushes to keep state parks open
From: www.sj-r.com
"Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn launched his latest online petition drive Wednesday in an attempt to keep 11 state parks open that are slated to close in November."
Blagojevich sued over plan to close Pontiac prison
From: www.sj-r.com
"Three state lawmakers joined the union representing hundreds of workers Wednesday in suing the Blagojevich administration over its plan to close the state prison in Pontiac, challenging its authority to shutter the facility and move inmates and guards to other prisons."
Ill. gov. no-show at historic sites
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Gov. Rod Blagojevich won't know what he missed when two dozen state parks and historic sites shut down because of budget cuts. That's because he's never visited them, according to Blagojevich spokesman Lucio Guerrero. "
Union sues governor to block Ill. prison closure
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - The union that represents the state's prison workers is suing the governor to stop his plan to close a central Illinois lockup. "
Obama urges Ill. Senate to pass ethics measure
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Presidential candidate Barack Obama sought to squelch questions about his commitment to reform by stepping into an Illinois dispute over ethics legislation Wednesday. "
The Illinois toll-pay
From: www.suntimes.com
"In the last three years, salaries for the top brass at the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority have soared, even as the amount of money the state agency collects from drivers has held steady."
Hoosiers' gas woes fuel campaign talk
From: www.journalgazette.net
"The Democratic candidate for attorney general said Wednesday she would do more to investigate high gasoline prices in Indiana, pointing out that Hoosiers are paying more at the pump than people in all but a few other states."
Whose facts are correct in Indiana gubernatorial debate?
From: www.southbendtribune.com
"Democrat Jill Long Thompson and Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels disagreed so strongly at Tuesday's debate, the third candidate joked about it."
Debate sheds little light on future of Gary
From: www.nwi.com
"Kurt Weiss wanted to know what the next Indiana governor will do to lift the struggling city of Gary, which is staring down a $13 million deficit this year and even greater 2009 budget cuts forced by state property tax caps."
Home heating bills likely going up this winter
From: hosted.ap.org
"Home heating bills could rise as much as 25 percent this winter because of higher costs for natural gas, two central Indiana utilities say."
Candidate -- Investigate gas pricing
From: www.indystar.com
"The state attorney general's office should investigate pricing practices for gasoline in Indiana, especially due to a spike at the pump in recent days, Democratic attorney general candidate Linda Pence said Wednesday."
Study -- Obama serious about play for Indiana
From: www.indystar.com
"WASHINGTON -- Presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain spent about the same amount of money on television advertising immediately after the national party conventions, but only Obama ran ads in Indiana."
State studies Amtrak expansion
From: www.kansas.com
"OKLAHOMA CITY - Expanding an Amtrak route from Oklahoma to Kansas appears likely as the railroad operator and the Kansas Legislature move forward with a joint feasibility study this month, a state transportation official said."
Colleges detail how harsh cuts would be
From: www.kansas.com
"If the state goes through with a 7 percent cut in its higher education budget in the next two years, here is what educators say would happen:"
State health officials seek 75-cent increase in tax on pack of cigarettes
From: www2.ljworld.com
"It might seem odd to seek a 75-cent increase in the state tax on cigarettes after the Legislature refused to consider a 50-cent increase this year."
State's illegal immigrant audit halted
From: cjonline.com
"A chance to bring clarity to illegal immigration's economic impact on the state was stopped Wednesday amid concerns that any information produced in a study would be inaccurate."
Gov. assesses storm damage in w.Ky.
From: www.kypost.com
"Gov. Steve Beshear Wednesday in western Kentucky visited some of the hardest hit areas of Sunday's storms. He met with local and state officials who are currently conducting damage assessments with Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) representatives."
Transit case evidence in tug-of-war
From: www.kentucky.com
"Defense attorneys in a high-profile corruption case in the state Transportation Cabinet are refusing to give back to prosecutors a recorded conversation between the FBI and their key witness that was mistakenly released."
Return of road-bid tape asked
From: www.courier-journal.com
"The prosecutor in the federal road-bid tampering case says copies of a confidential tape recording were inadvertently given to defense attorneys last week, and he wants them back."
Reformulated gas waiver may help save money
From: www.courier-journal.com
"In an effort to avoid a gasoline supply crunch and huge price increases after two hurricanes, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has temporarily waived its requirement that six Kentucky counties use reformulated gasoline."
Insurance panel set to review problems
From: www.nola.com
"The Senate Insurance Committee will meet Friday to hear from state insurance regulators, homeowner insurers, and citizens who have run into problems with the insurance companies after Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, the chairman of the panel said Wednesd"
Damage to roads, bridges tallied
From: www.nola.com
"Hurricanes Gustav and Ike did an estimated $221.6 million in damage to state highways, bridges and other transportation infrastructure, with numbers likely to change as more inspections are done, transportation officials said Wednesday."
We want same as Texas, Jindal tells Bush
From: www.nola.com
"Gov. Bobby Jindal appealed to President Bush in a letter Wednesday to afford Louisiana the same help he gave Texas on Tuesday by waiving the local share of some hurricane cleanup and evacuation costs."
Medical debt plagues Mass. residents
From: www.bizjournals.com
"Medical debt continues to be a problem for lower- and middle-income residents of Massachusetts, even though hundreds of thousands of state residents now have health insurance under the landmark health reform law, according to a new report from research group The Access Project."
Gov eyes ax for toll takers
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Gov. Deval Patrick is declaring war on the patronage-laden ranks of toll takers, announcing plans to fire 100 Pike booth jockeys and push toward fully automating the state's toll roads, the Herald has learned."
Greater Baltimore group supports slots measure
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The Greater Baltimore Committee, a group of regional business and civic leaders, announced its support of a November referendum authorizing 5,000 slot machines at five locations in Maryland."
Franchot blasts 'legalized bribery'
From: www.journalism.umd.edu
"State Comptroller Peter Franchot slammed the parent company of two Maryland racetracks Wednesday, accusing the firm of "legalized bribery" for wanting to spend $2 million to support the November slots referendum."
Maine getting $7 million to help poor pay heating costs
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"WASHINGTON — The Bush administration on Wednesday said it was releasing $121 million in emergency relief funds to help poor people cope with record home heating bills expected this winter."
Governor lauds spirit of town that suffered fire
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"MILO, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci said Wednesday that he was heartsick to see the damage caused by a weekend fire that left much of the small downtown area in ruins, and promised to work with local officials to bring the rural town's business district back to life."
Gambling on heating oil cost - buy now, or wait a bit?
From: pressherald.mainetoday.com
"Mainers who heat with oil and have put off filling their tanks might want to procrastinate: The statewide average price has fallen 89 cents a gallon in the past two months, and key indicators suggest that it will continue to drop in the coming weeks."
Candidates have 60 seconds to give snapshot at forum
From: kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com
"Fifteen candidates for local legislative seats each had one minute Wednesday morning to talk about why they are best suited to serve in the Legislature."
Baldacci visits Milo fire site
From: www.bangornews.com
"MILO, Maine - Gov. John Baldacci has traveled to Milo with a promise to work with local officials to rebuild the downtown, which was devastated by a weekend fire."
BDN offers heating cost comparison
From: www.bangornews.com
"The cost of heating a home this winter is expected to be higher than at any time in recent memory. "
Michigan's unemployment rate grows
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"Michigan's unemployment rate rose to 8.9 percent in August, the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth said Wednesday."
State and city pensions take losses
From: www.detnews.com
"Michigan's state government stock portfolio dropped $75 million in value as a result of Wall Street's crisis this week, but Treasury Department officials said the loss represents a small portion of total investments and professed confidence in an eventual turn-around."
Cox to announce Comerica Bank settlement
From: www.detnews.com
"Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox is expected to announce a $1.46 billion settlement with Comerica Bank at a 10 a.m. press conference."
Michigan a hot market for campaign ads
From: www.freep.com
"Michigan television stations are again cashing in on the presidential campaign season, with markets in Detroit, Flint and Grand Rapids all in the top five nationally for the number of campaign ads aired in the week following the two parties' conventions, according to a report released Wednesday."
John McCain can't seem to find his economic footing
From: www.latimes.com
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- With the economy in turmoil and the country's second-largest insurer faltering, John McCain was unequivocal Tuesday: "We cannot have the taxpayers bail out AIG or anybody else.""
Some not so eager to drive new I-35W bridge
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"For many Twin Cities residents, today's opening of the I-35W bridge in downtown Minneapolis means some relief from traffic congestion. But not everyone embraces the new span. Some people will avoid traveling on the bridge because they've changed their commuting habits. And some say the bridge still raises difficult emotions. "
New bridge doesn't fix transportation problems
From: minnesota.publicradio.org
"The new 35W bridge was built in record time, and the mostly federal funding for it was found with amazing speed. But don't expect the fast action and cooperative spirit to be a model for other state transportation projects. "
I-35W made whole as new bridge opens at 5 a.m.
From: www.startribune.com
"Honking their horns and stirring up faint clouds of post-construction dust, hundreds of drivers helped open the new Interstate 35W bridge this morning just a few minutes after 5 a.m."
A new bridge helps a city heal some old wounds
From: www.nytimes.com
"MINNEAPOLIS — Her sunglasses pushed up against her bangs, Olivia Reynolds, 12, peered at the new bridge, then closed her eyes for long moments, as her dad rubbed her shoulders."
Tour of Coast gives insurers confidence
From: www.sunherald.com
"BILOXI, Miss. -- Uncertainty in the financial markets and a catastrophic hurricane season in the Gulf have tempered predictions of lower insurance rates for South Mississippi residents covered through the state wind pool."
Long files lawsuit against WSI
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"Another dismissed whistleblower from Workforce Safety and Insurance agency has filed a lawsuit against the agency, alleging a conspiracy to fire him by agency officials."
Compromise with Muslims on prayer cuts hours for all at Swift plant
From: www.theindependent.com
"A compromise reached to accommodate prayer for about 500 Somalian meatpacking plant workers in Grand Island led to a counter protest of even more workers at the JBS Swift & Co. plant Wednesday."
$3.19m in heating help slated for state
From: www.nashuatelegraph.com
"New Hampshire will receive $3.19 million from the federal government to help low-income residents with the cost of heating their homes. But even as New Hampshire officials and representatives praised the move Wednesday, they continued to push for more.
"
Report says costs at NH hospitals vary greatly
From: www.fosters.com
"A new report says it pays to shop around for hospital care in New Hampshire.
"
$1m in federal funds to help troops in NH
From: www.theunionleader.com
"PETERBOROUGH, W. Va. -– The state will receive $1 million from the federal government to help soldiers and their families find the assistance they need.
"
Study finds 'brain gain' as residents leave, come to NJ
From: www.app.com
"New Jersey is gaining highly educated, high-income workers in their peak employment years, but losing lower-income residents who aren't working and find it too expensive to live in the state, according to a Princeton University study that researched New Jersey's migration trends this decade."
Artifacts in auction to help pay debts of village's ex-operator
From: www.nj.com
"The state and the defunct Waterloo Foundation for the Arts have quietly reached a tentative agreement that will allow the former debt-ridden operator of the shuttered state-owned Waterloo Village historic site near Stanhope to take a "substantial amount of items" -- thousands of artifacts, antique furniture, 19th Century household items -- and auction them off to pay off debts."
Environmental challenge to Xanadu rebuffed
From: www.nj.com
"The state Appellate Division rejected a legal challenge yesterday to the environmental approvals for Meadowlands Xanadu, the massive shopping and entertainment complex due to open next summer."
Corzine says Wall Street crisis can be opportunity to invest
From: www.nj.com
"Gov. Jon Corzine, appearing this morning on CNBC's Squawk Box, said despite the crisis on Wall Street there are investment opportunities to purchase marked-down assets. "We're in one of those fear periods," Corzine said."
Judge accused of conflict of interest in property tax cap ruling
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Senior District Judge Charles McGee, who ruled that the initiative petition seeking to cap property taxes was invalid, is being accused of a conflict of interest in the case."
New insurer announced for Medicaid program
From: www.lvrj.com
"Amerigroup Nevada has replaced Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield as a health maintenance organization for the state's Medicaid program, officials announced this week."
Tax cap backers allege judge has conflict
From: www.lvrj.com
"A group pushing a Nevada version of California's property tax-capping Proposition 13 claims a judge who knocked it off the Nov. 4 ballot failed to disclose he has an apparent conflict of interest in the case."
Commission rejects unfair interpreter rules
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"The Legislative Commission on Wednesday rejected proposed regulations by the state's hearings division, saying the regulations would be grossly unfair to injured workers who don't speak English well."
Paterson revives 'I Live New York'
From: www.timesunion.com
"Gov. David Paterson's administration will relaunch the "I Live New York" program started by former first lady Silda Wall Spitzer."
Ohioans cope without electricity for 5th day
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"CINCINNATI, Ohio -- Utility crews battled the dark for a fifth day on Thursday in an effort to restore power to all Ohio residents and some students went back to school for the first time since the remnants of Hurricane Ike hit the Midwest region on Sunday.
"
Ohio law bans life-insurance scam against seniors
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"A new state law prohibiting a life-insurance investing scheme to make money off senior citizens when they die went into effect Sept. 11.
"
Regulators reassure Ohio AIG customers
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"State regulators say Ohio consumers with AIG (ay-eye-jee) insurance have no reason to fear, despite concerns about the company.
"
Oregonians to get heating assistance from federal funds
From: www.statesmanjournal.com
"PORTLAND, Ore. -- The federal Department of Health and Human Services announced that Oregon will receive $1.2 million in emergency energy assistance."
Feds may make LNG decision today
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Bringing Oregon's debate over liquefied natural gas to a boil, federal energy regulators are expected to issue a licensing decision today on the controversial Bradwood Landing LNG terminal, proposed for a site 20 miles east of Astoria on the Columbia River."
Dog law overhaul clears House
From: www.mcall.com
"The long-debated overhaul of the state's regulation of dogs and kennels moved a step closer to reality Wednesday when the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved the measure. The bill passed the House 181-17. It now goes to the Senate, which is expected to address it this fall."
Lawrence County casino developer gives back $455 million
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"The would-be developer of a Lawrence County racetrack and casino no longer has the money to build the $455 million Valley View Downs facility."
Payments to ex-gaming chief Neeb frozen
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"The state Treasury Department is freezing severance payments to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board's former director under a $120,000 contract she received after leaving the agency."
Hiring freeze puts 'drag' on area, economist says
From: www.pennlive.com
"Just last week, Commerce Bank economist Joel Naroff observed that the local economy was "not doing that bad," but said the biggest risk for the area during an economic downturn was state government."
Trump -- Rendell's no friend of mine
From: www.philly.com
"To hear Donald Trump tell it yesterday, the 2006 decision that left him without a casino in Philadelphia was an "outrageous" case of political insiders reaping awards that outsiders like Trump can't attain. Gov. Rendell is doing "a lousy job" and puts his friends first in casino matters, Trump fumed. He said he'd probably avoid doing any future casino business in Pennsylvania."
Staffing, services concerns weigh heavily on agencies
From: www.pennlive.com
"Gov. Ed Rendell's call for belt-tightening in state government has left state agencies scrambling to figure out what that means to them -- and in turn, what that means to you."
Pa. House sends kennel mandate to Senate
From: www.philly.com
"A bill designed to dramatically improve conditions for dogs kept in Pennsylvania's larger commercial kennels passed the state House yesterday and went to the Senate."
Gaming Board director's severance package under review
From: www.philly.com
"The state Department of Treasury is temporarily withholding severance payments to the former head of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board because they were not given the proper legal review."
State doing better on campaign finance disclosure
From: www.greenvilleonline.com
"South Carolina is the second-most improved state in access to campaign finance records, rising to an overall C but remaining 33rd among the states, according to an annual survey released Wednesday by the Campaign Disclosure Project, a consortium of groups backed by the Pew Charitable Trusts."
Tennessee -- Agencies get $1.32 million in energy aid
From: www.tennessean.com
"Local social services agencies that provide heating and cooling assistance to low-income families will receive $1.32 million extra this year, according to the Tennessee Department of Human Services.
"
Peters promises more for Houston-Galveston recovery
From: www.chron.com
"The $3 million in emergency federal aid for cleanup and repair to the Houston-Galveston area's roadways and airports is just a down payment, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters said after getting a glimpse at Hurricane Ike's handiwork."
Elderly, ill patients search for answers
From: www.chron.com
"In a city suddenly forced to ration health care in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, Houston's seriously ill and elderly were struggling Wednesday to get the most critical care, from kidney dialysis to insulin injections."
A little ice would be nice
From: www.chron.com
"Ice, beautiful ice. Cold and crystalline. Cloudy or clear. Snapping and crackling its way out of an ice-cube tray, swooshing crisply from a plastic bag, chinking and tinkling in a tall glass."
Powers spells out UT's legislative agenda
From: www.statesman.com
"William Powers Jr., president of the University of Texas, sketched out a strategy Wednesday for next year's state legislative session that essentially amounts to two parts offense and one part defense."
Bill lets states decide on oil shale moratorium
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"The U.S. House has passed an energy bill that would allow Colorado, Utah and Wyoming to decide whether to open up oil shale fields in their states for development."
House takes up bill to help clean up Great Lakes
From: hosted.ap.org
"WASHINGTON -- The House is taking up the Great Lakes Legacy Act, which would expand a program to reduce contaminated sediments in the lakes."
States ask MillerCoors to pull energy drink
From: www.courant.com
"Connecticut and 24 other states are asking a national beverage maker to abandon plans for a new caffeine-infused alcoholic energy drink."
Energy brews creating a negative health buzz
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Take one of the hottest trends in the beverage world — energy drinks — combine it with alcohol, and what do you get? A brew with a wallop of liquor that also delivers a wide-eyed caffeine punch, masking intoxication in the process, according to concerned attorneys general in 25 states, including Illinois."
Carville, Rove in Fla. for health-care discussion
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"ORLANDO, Fla. — Rival political managers James Carville and Karl Rove agreed Wednesday that the Wall Street shocks of recent days were "a game-changer" in the presidential race, but disagreed over which party will benefit from the economic fallout. "
State urged to increase sharing of information
From: deseretnews.com
"With hard financial times approaching, legislators were told to start investigating the costs of sharing information between state agencies now, even if they are not counting on getting the money immediately."
Lawmakers responding to LDS liquor statement
From: deseretnews.com
"Legislative leaders said Wednesday that the LDS Church's new statement on alcohol makes it easier to consider Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s proposal to change the state's liquor laws."
Utah lawmakers vowing ethics reform next session
From: www.sltrib.com
"More than a dozen legislators signed a pledge Wednesday, vowing to support ethics legislation next session that would strengthen lawmakers' disclosure requirements and prohibit using campaign contributions for things like clothes and car repairs.
"
Poor to get $121 million boost to help heat their homes
From: www.sltrib.com
"The federal government released $121 million Wednesday to help poor Americans heat their homes this winter. Utah will receive a little more than $700,000 of the emergency assistance funds, which are spread among all states.
"
Firm wins suit against VDOT
From: www.inrich.com
"A contract wrangle over a highway project gone very sour could cost taxpayers more than $21 million."
Groups want registry for gifts to doctors
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"Calling transparency the best antidote to influence buying, two groups involved in mental health called on the state Wednesday to close a loophole in disclosure laws that allows drug companies to make donations to doctors without publicly identifying the recipients."
Vermont receives $2.5 million for heating fuel aid
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"Vermont will receive an extra $2.5 million to distribute to the growing list of low-income Vermonters who need help paying to heat their homes this winter."
Advocates push for pharmaceutical transparency
From: www.timesargus.com
"Two mental health advocacy organizations on Wednesday announced plans to lobby lawmakers for more transparency in the relationship between Vermont's medical field and the pharmaceutical industry."
Local economists say troubles will hit home
From: www.rutlandherald.com
"The financial crisis on Wall Street, proving to be the biggest hit to the domestic economy since the days following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, will trickle down to Rutland's main streets one way or another -- an opinion reiterated among local proprietors and economists."
Energy efficiency loans available
From: burlingtonfreepress.com
"When Bob Poczabut saw the projected price for fuel oil this winter, he decided it was time for the energy efficiency improvements he and his wife had long talked about making to their 40-year-old Burlington ranch house."
House-warming loans available through state
From: www.timesargus.com
"Cash-strapped Vermonters seeking to button up their homes before winter now have access to $2 million in low-interest loans."
$728M "rainy-day" fund may be used to boost state budget
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"Lawmakers may tap Washington's new "rainy-day fund" for the first time next year to help balance the state budget, leading Democrats said."
Scholarships for low-income students extended
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"Washington's new scholarship program for low-income students is being expanded. Students in ninth grade will now be able to enlist in the program that was only available to seventh and eighth graders."
Pay step for state workers draws dispute
From: www.theolympian.com
"A dispute about whether a contract with the largest state workers union goes too far in promising future pay raises prompted the Washington Federation of State Employees to change part of its contract."
335 artists aim for Washington State Arts Commission roster
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"This year, 335 artists submitted applications to be on the Washington State Arts Commission's roster of artists eligible for public-art funding. Only 68 made the cut. What gives?"
State and Ho-Chunk reach new gaming compact
From: www.wrn.com
"The state of Wisconsin and the Ho-Chunk Nation have resolved a lengthy court battle over tribal gaming payments. "
Governor requests more flood assistance
From: www.wrn.com
"The Governor is requesting more federal aid to help Wisconsin recover from the summer floods. "
Doyle wants more federal flood aid
From: www.madison.com
"Gov. Jim Doyle made a formal request for more aid from the federal government to deal with June's flooding in Wisconsin, citing unmet needs for housing, business and infrastructure repairs at more than $1.2 billion."
Low-income families can get heating bill help
From: www.madison.com
"Low-income families in Wisconsin will be able to get an additional $3.4 million in emergency aid to help pay for home heating bills this winter."
Wisconsin pension fund declines; effect unclear
From: www.madison.com
"If you think your personal retirement account took a hit from the skidding stock market, consider this: The value of the Wisconsin Retirement System's Core Fund equity holdings dropped $2 billion last Friday alone."
Uncovered flood costs listed at $1.22 billion
From: www.jsonline.com
"Gov. Jim Doyle put a $1.22 billion price tag Wednesday on the damage from the June and July floods not covered by insurance or federal disaster assistance."
State, Ho-Chunk Nation agree to settle casino dispute
From: www.jsonline.com
"Ending four years of impasse, state government and Ho-Chunk Nation leaders on Wednesday agreed on a new 25-year gaming compact that requires a tribal payment of $60 million to the state to settle old claims."
Recruiters brings state government employment opportunities to area
From: www.herald-dispatch.com
"HUNTINGTON, W. Va. -- The Governor's Job Fair came to Huntington Wednesday with information on state government employment opportunities.
"
Governor calls for brucellosis vaccine funding
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal on Wednesday said he plans to ask the Legislature for funding to help jumpstart research on a reliable vaccine for brucellosis."
Health care reform goes to voters
From: www.stateline.org
"
 |
|
As presidential contenders John McCain and Barack Obama push their national agendas to help cover more uninsured Americans, voters in three states will get, for the first time, the chance to make dramatic changes to their own states’ health care systems when they go to the polls Nov. 4."
Poverty gap among states widens
From: www.stateline.org
"Even as the economy pushes more people into poverty, revenue-strapped states can be expected to further cut spending on social welfare programs, particularly in poor states where people need it most, a new report predicts."
WORTH NOTING: Schweitzer's tongue in cheek causes trouble
From: www.stateline.org
"Gov. Brian Schweitzer gets grief for remarks he says were made in jest. Vermont officials are fed up with people voting for Bart Simpson. And an Iowa state trooper talks to his car. In case you missed those stories this week, “Worth Noting” fills you in."
Teachers lured from struggling states
From: www.stateline.org
"One state's misfortune is another's opportunity, as out-of-state recruiters hire teachers away from states with large budget gaps."
McCain vs. Obama: The difference for states
From: www.stateline.org
"
In the 2008 presidential race, Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain offer competing ideas on a host of issues that will have repercussions throughout state government, right down to the local driver’s license bureau. See a rundown of the presidential candidates' positions so far on issues of direct interest to states."
Gustav draws attention to Fla. generator law
From: www.stateline.org
"Power outages caused by Hurricane Gustav have shut down gas stations throughout Louisiana this week, but Florida officials are hoping a little-known state law can help them avoid the same complication the next time a major storm reaches their shores — which could be this weekend."
What would an Obama win mean for states?
From: www.stateline.org
"DENVER — If elected president, Democrat Barack Obama promises closer ties with states and an infusion of federal dollars that could lessen points of tension between Washington, D.C., and statehouses on issues from health care to energy."
Renewable energy fuels Colorado governor
From: www.stateline.org
"
Few governors have championed renewable energy as aggressively as Colorado Democrat Bill Ritter. So far, voters seem to appreciate his efforts."
2008 state elections: What's at stake?
From: www.stateline.org
"
(Updated 4:20 p.m. EDT, Aug. 20, 2008)
The historic battle for the White House may be grabbing most of the headlines, but plenty of state races and major ballot measures also could be nail-biters this November — and the results could have national implications.
Stateline.org today is launching a new 2008 interactive guide to help voters keep track of the 11 gubernatorial, 11 attorneys general and seven secretary of state races and some 130 statewide ballot measures.
"
2008 state-by-state summary
From: www.stateline.org
"
(Updated 11:15 a.m. EDT, Aug. 6, 2008)
Here’s
Stateline.org's state-by-state rundown of significant legislative action in 2008."
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: www.stateline.org
"
(Updated 11:15 a.m. EDT, Aug. 6, 2008)
Here’s
Stateline.org's state-by-state rundown of significant legislative action in 2008."
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