Pension plan lost millions on Wall Street's wild ride
From: gazette.net
"The state of Maryland's pension fund lost nearly $47 million in value with the sharp decline of stock prices for insurance giant American International Group and the bankruptcy of investment company Lehman Bros., the state's pension chief said Thursday."
R.I. unemployment rate hits 8.5%
From: www.usatoday.com
"PROVIDENCE, R.I. - A record number of Rhode Island workers were searching for a job in August as the unemployment rate rose to 8.5%, its worst showing in 15 years and more than 2 percentage points above the national rate, according to state data."
N.J. takes final losses on Lehman
From: www.nj.com
"New Jersey may sue Lehman Brothers officials after losing more than half of the $180 million they invested with the bank in June, because, state officials charge, they are not sure they were given accurate information before they paid into the company."
Governor and lawmakers agree on spending plan
From: www.sfgate.com
"California's record budget standoff ended Thursday when Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and legislative leaders struck a deal, avoiding the governor's promised veto of a spending plan the Legislature approved earlier in the week."
Hawaii slipping into recession, report says
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"A forecast being released today shows Hawai'i is tipping into a recession as job losses and a decline in personal income shrink the state's economy."
Plant tells Muslims prayer needs can't be met
From: journalstar.com
"Managers at a Nebraska meatpacking plant told Muslim employees Thursday that shift changes made to meet their prayer demands would be ended."
Casino decision by Kansas could be delayed
From: www.kansascity.com
"The wait for a decision on a Wyandotte County casino may not be over."
Pension funds for workers take a hit
From: www.theunionleader.com
"The value of the state's public pension fund has declined by roughly $500 million during the last three months of market turmoil, and stood at $5.1 billion yesterday, a leading New Hampshire Retirement System board member said.
"
Thirty-five cities and counties seek property buyouts
From: www.radioiowa.com
"Iowa cities and counties damaged by flooding are requesting more than 250-million dollars worth of buyouts from the state. Thirty-five cities and counties have submitted lists of properties they believe are eligible for buyout."
Connecticut unemployment rises to 6.5 percent
From: www.courant.com
"WETHERSFIELD, Conn. - The Connecticut Labor Department says the state's unemployment rate climbed to 6.5 percent in August, topping the national average of 6.1 percent."
State's revenue forecast plunges
From: www.thenewstribune.com
"Washington's budget problems grew larger Thursday when economists predicted tax collections over the next three years will be $530 million less than what was expected just three months ago."
Ahead - Tax $ likely down, bankruptcies up
From: www.bostonherald.com
"From Gov. Deval Patrick to business owners to hotel managers, nervous Massachusetts residents have watched in shock as Wall Street titans fell this week - and they're bracing for the ripple effects in the Bay State in coming days, weeks and months."
Governor is put out over suit by farmers
From: www.azstarnet.com
"Gov. Janet Napolitano lashed out Wednesday at four farm groups that sued her and lawmakers after they balanced the state budget by taking money that group members had taxed themselves for special projects."
Officials don't want Rita repeat for housing aid
From: www.chron.com
"As Gulf Coast residents displaced by Hurricane Ike settled into hotel rooms and shelters Thursday, officials planning longer-term housing assistance focused on avoiding the delays and red tape that hindered recovery from the hurricanes of 2005."
Yankee Stadium gets Bronx cheer in House
From: timesunion.com
"WASHINGTON -- A congressional panel has taken tough swings at the New York Yankees and New York City government over a new stadium for the Yankees. But neither the team nor the city budged from their positions on the $1.3 billion structure."
Aetna, the Hartford assess their risk in AIG, Lehman relationships
From: www.courant.com
"The tentacles of trouble at Lehman Brothers and AIG have spread far and fast as more companies in Connecticut and around the nation — including Aetna and The Hartford — disclosed Thursday what investments and other relationships they have with the two ailing firms."
Poor economy may delay some DelDOT projects
From: www.delawareonline.com
"The Delaware Department of Transportation has begun planning which road projects it will undertake in the next six years, but declining revenues could shelve some projects."
Proposed track called crucial to Nebraska racing
From: www.omaha.com
"A new Lincoln racetrack and equine complex are essential for the survival of thoroughbred racing in Nebraska, members of a state legislative committee were told Thursday."
Hawaii test of 4-day work week for state workers going well
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Halfway into the state's three-month test of the four-day work week, many of the 111 government employees on the new schedule support it and the state is looking to recruit another department to try it."
U.S. Postal Service issues new Alaska stamp
From: www.ktuu.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska-- The U.S. Postal Service unveiled a new stamp in Fairbanks Wednesday to commemorate Alaska's 50 years of statehood."
New stamp honors Alaska statehood
From: www.adn.com
"The U.S. Postal Service unveiled an Alaska statehood stamp Wednesday that uses an image of dog sled racer DeeDee Jonrowe mushing under the Alaska Range."
Palin attitude more to public will, less to job's details
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"It was three days before the legislature was to go home, and Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin was frustrated. The state Senate was thwarting a reduction she wanted in the fee for business licenses."
Ala.'s jobless rate drops in Aug. to 4.9 percent
From: www.tuscaloosanews.com
"Alabama's unemployment rate declined to 4.9 percent in August. State Industrial Relations Director Tom Surtees said the rate was down from 5.1 percent recorded in July."
Officials - Stock market, economy to blame for $27.8M fall in USA Foundation assets
From: www.al.com
"The University of South Alabama Foundation's net assets fell $27.8 million between 2007 and 2008, because of a sagging economy and stock market, according to foundation officials. "
Winter heating bills will be higher, but not as high as expected
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"Natural gas customers will get stuck with higher heating bills this winter, but increases may not be as sharp as originally expected, the state Public Service Commission said Thursday."
Lawmaker turns to AG for clarity on property reappraisal law
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"Amid growing angst over the real estate downturn in Northwest Arkansas, an area legislator wants clarity from the attorney general regarding state law as some property owners' taxes are rising while home prices and values decline."
Sales tax holiday for school supplies discussed by panel
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"Retailers big and small want Arkansas to fall in line with most of its neighboring states in granting consumers an annual sales tax holiday for back-to-school shopping. "
Law OK'ing fiercer Ariz. cage fights spurs clash
From: www.azcentral.com
"A new Arizona law will allow cage fighters in the sport of mixed martial arts to elbow their opponents, knee them in the head or punch them in the face while they are on the ground."
Central Contra Costa residents must hoard medical waste to comply with state law
From: www.contracostatimes.com
"On top of worrying about their fluctuating blood-sugar levels, George Roush and other central Contra Costa diabetics now find themselves in a Catch-22. Since Sept. 1, it has been illegal to put in the trash the needles they need to maintain their health, but they have no alternative legal biohazard bin in the immediate area."
Finally, a California budget Schwarzenegger and lawmakers can accept
From: www.mercurynews.com
"California's agonizing stalemate over this year's state budget appears finally to be ending, but without much confidence that the state government's deeper financial troubles will ease."
Colorado campuses report records
From: www.denverpost.com
"All three University of Colorado campuses report record student enrollment this fall, with CU-Boulder and CU Colorado Springs teaching their biggest freshmen classes ever, officials said Thursday. "
Florida Supreme Court reverses itself on bond issue
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"From billion-dollar stadium projects to sprucing up small-town business districts, the Florida Supreme Court on Thursday gave local governments the authority to bypass voters and borrow money for such projects without referendums. "
Politicians debate how state budget cuts will affect seniors, children
From: www.palmbeachpost.com
"WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — A dozen state legislators and candidates for office engaged in a sharp debate Thursday over how Florida should meet its obligations to seniors and children during unprecedented drop in revenue.
"
New rules make it easier to give up exotic pets
From: www.sun-sentinel.com
"Residents who own reptiles that are not native to Florida can now give up their pets without facing a penalty instead of releasing them into the Everglades."
Cooperation needed to fix health care
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"ORLANDO, Fla. — Gov. Charlie Crist and U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, a Republican and a Democrat, said Thursday the only cure for what ails America's medical marketplace is bipartisan cooperation and compromise. "
Florida's citrus growers bid for a big sale
From: www.miamiherald.com
"Florida's citrus industry is asking for the biggest-ever U.S. Department of Agriculture purchase of Florida orange juice: 284 million gallons of OJ that could cost $750 million to $900 million."
Obama starting key Florida swing with rally at UM
From: www.miamiherald.com
"After one of Wall Street's worst weeks ever, Barack Obama brings his campaign and its hope-and-change theme to Florida, one of the states hit hardest by the economic crisis."
High court reversal clears way for venues bonds
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"In a stunning double flip-flop, the Florida Supreme Court ruled Thursday that it made a mistake a year ago by requiring voter approval for billions of dollars worth of roads, buildings and other local redevelopment projects."
Oldsmar company opts out of prison food service
From: www.tampabay.com
"Citing skyrocketing food costs, an Oldsmar company that provides meals to Florida prison inmates has told the state it wants to quit. "
State issuing gas subpoenas
From: www.albanyherald.com
"ALBANY, Ga. — As state officials released the first of what many anticipate will be a flurry of subpoenas for financial records from gas station owners, locally, residents just appear happy to finally see prices starting to recede. "
PSC member endorses Powell as her replacement
From: www.onlineathens.com
"State Public Service Commission candidate Jim Powell, a Democrat, picked up an endorsement from the Republican commissioner he hopes to replace."
2 wood-to-electricity plants on tap for Georgia
From: www.ajc.com
"Georgia, already a national leader in turning wood into electricity, could get two more wood-burning power plants by 2015, in a plan announced Thursday by Gov. Sonny Perdue."
Carrollton lottery winners 'won't be buying any Porsches'
From: www.ajc.com
"Frank Mack Skinner's family regularly bought Georgia lottery tickets to contribute to the HOPE Scholarship fund. But after claiming the $133 million lottery jackpot Thursday, they plan to use the winnings to pay for education for more of his family members."
State economy not expected to recover until 2010
From: starbulletin.com
"Hawaii's economic outlook is pretty bleak for the next year, with visitor arrivals now expected to tumble 9 percent this year - nearly double an earlier forecast - and a recovery not expected until 2010, according to a report released today."
Flood buyout money could fall far short
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"The money that Iowa expects to get next year from the federal government to buy out flood-damaged properties could fall short by as much as $50 million based on preliminary estimates of communities' needs, figures released Thursday to The Des Moines Register show."
Idaho computer software jobs growing again
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"The Idaho Department of Labor says that high-paying jobs in computer software appear to be growing again after stalling seven years ago during a national recession."
Idaho Insurance Dept to protect AIG customers
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"The Idaho Department of Insurance is working with insurance regulators in other states to look out for the interests of American International Group Inc.'s policyholders."
Antitrust investigation targets Idaho doctors
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"The U.S. Justice Department is investigating whether some Idaho doctors violated federal antitrust laws through fees, contracts and refusal to treat some patients."
Obama phone call triggers pols' unlikely dash for state ethics reform
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Forced to declare his loyalty to either a beleaguered governor or a powerful presidential candidate, Illinois Senate President Emil Jones came down on the side of Barack Obama on Thursday in what could prove to be a key moment in a long path to cleaning up state government."
Illinois lawmakers ordered back to work next week
From: www.stltoday.com
"Under pressure to take action on a sweeping package of ethics reforms, Senate President Emil Jones is calling lawmakers back to Springfield next week."
Governor orders lawmakers back to Capitol, again
From: www.dailyherald.com
"On the heels of Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama trying to nudge loose a stalled state ethics proposal, Gov. Rod Blagojevich ordered lawmakers back to the Capitol next week and demanded they approve his competing ethics plan."
Hope not lost for Dana-Thomas
From: www.sj-r.com
"More than a little uncertainty was in the air Thursday evening as members of the Dana-Thomas House Foundation held their annual meeting at the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home."
General Assembly returning Monday
From: www.sj-r.com
"State lawmakers are returning to the Capitol for another overtime session, this time on ethics reform and potentially much more."
Will County moves toward $200 million road construction plan
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Escalating construction costs have the Will County Board trying to complete much-needed road projects as quickly as possible."
Court hears case involving compulsive gambling
From: hosted.ap.org
"ANDERSON, Ind. -- Attorneys defended an Ohio River casino from accusations that it should not have allowed a compulsive gambler who lost $125,000 in a single night to play."
Lawmakers halt audit of illegal immigration
From: www2.ljworld.com
"Legislators have decided against initiating a state audit of the costs to Kansas associated with illegal immigration."
Study-- Kansans' workers comp benefits lagging far behind cost of living
From: www2.ljworld.com
"Workers compensation payments to injured Kansans have lagged far behind the increasing cost of living, according to a study released Thursday."
Ky. horse regulators asking for more funds
From: www.kypost.com
"The self-proclaimed horse capital of the world is running low on the financial capital necessary to regulate racing. "
Unemployment may be available
From: www.courier-journal.com
"If you've been out of work this week because your employer lost power, you may be eligible for unemployment insurance."
Defying Ike - Why 140,000 stayed behind
From: www.csmonitor.com
"HACKBERRY, La. - Johnny Welch isn't afraid to admit that he put his life on the line in hurricane Ike for a rooster. Not just any rooster, mind you – a $1,500 Kentucky hatch, who wears his feathers like a king's crown. "
Finance fear spreads - State St., Putnam hit even as stocks rebound
From: www.bostonherald.com
"The aftershocks from Wall Street's tumultuous week are now shaking the Massachusetts economy and its top-tier companies."
Builders may owe $100M
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Affordable housing developers may owe cities and towns as much as $100 million, Massachusetts Inspector General Gregory Sullivan told the Senate Committee on Post Audit and Oversight yesterday."
Walk-to-school movement afoot across Mass.
From: www.boston.com
"NEWTON - They gathered on the corner with their book bags and lunch boxes, more than a dozen children chatting and kicking leaves as they waited for their trip to school."
Cordish Cos. may enter slots license competition
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Baltimore based Cordish Cos., which has built signature projects in the Inner Harbor and casinos in Florida, might compete for a slots license in Maryland if voters approve a November referendum legalizing the gambling machines, officials said."
Leggett 'reluctantly' backs slots initiative
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett "reluctantly" endorsed November's slot-machine gambling referendum yesterday, the Democrat said in a statement."
Slots vote prepared for home stretch
From: gazette.net
"A Court of Appeals ruling allowing the ballot question on whether to legalize slot machine gambling, endorsements by the leader of the state's largest county and by Baltimore's chief business and civic group, and the chance of an infusion of cash from the horse racing industry raised the stakes on the slots debate this week."
Maine's college fund should be able to weather financial storm
From: kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com
"No immediate changes to the state's college-investing fund are expected since Merrill Lynch was sold to Bank of America, the head of the Finance Authority of Maine said Thursday."
Maine casino plan questioned
From: www.bangornews.com
"Backers of an Oxford County casino concede there are flaws in their Nov. 4 ballot proposal that would have to be remedied by the Maine Legislature. "
Electric rates to see big increase
From: www.freep.com
"Electric rates will increase sharply for homeowners and decline for businesses, and utilities will have to double the electricity produced from renewable sources like wind farms under sweeping changes the Legislature approved Thursday and Gov. Jennifer Granholm vowed to sign into law."
Granholm sees progress in Japan visit
From: www.freep.com
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm concluded a three-day visit to Japan today, saying there is "a very good likelihood" that at least nine of 23 companies she met with will decide in the next few months to create jobs in Michigan by locating or expanding in the state."
Michigan lawmakers have deal on energy plan
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"Lawmakers on Thursday began approving a wide-ranging energy plan that requires more electricity to come from renewable sources, restricts competition among power companies and aims to make homes and businesses more energy-efficient."
Granholm will sign bills to raise power rates, increase alternative energy
From: www.detnews.com
"An energy package that will raise residential electric rates by up to 12 percent, require more electricity to be generated by renewable sources and put a cap on competition to the major utilities won final passage in the Legislature Thursday."
State's electric rates going up
From: www.detnews.com
"An energy package that will raise residential electric rates by up to 12 percent, require more electricity to be generated by renewable sources and put a cap on competition to the major utilities won final passage in the Legislature Thursday."
By mail, by phone, unions to push for Democrats
From: www.freep.com
"As part of a push for votes for Democratic candidates up and down the ticket, the national and Michigan AFL-CIO organizations are planning to spend more than $2.2 million to reach 1.4 million active members, retirees and their families."
Minnesota's unemployment rate rises again
From: www.sctimes.com
"Minnesota employers dropped 3,100 jobs in August, causing the state's unemployment rate to rise slightly from the previous month, the Department of Employment and Economic Development reported Thursday."
State's industries agree to cut mercury output
From: www.twincities.com
"DULUTH, Minn. - Minnesota's largest smokestack industries have agreed to an unprecedented plan to reduce mercury pollution over 18 years, right down to the pound and ounce. "
Missouri utilities on board with clean energy initiative
From: www.kansascity.com
"The legislatures in Missouri and Kansas for years have refused to do what 26 other states have done and impose renewable energy requirements on power companies. So an environmental group launched a petition drive last spring aimed at doing just that in Missouri. (Kansas law doesn't allow for citizen-initiative ballot issues.)"
Hulshof's views on economy criticized
From: www.kansascity.com
"Democrats criticized Republican Kenny Hulshof on Thursday for his view that Missouri's economy is doing well even with the highest unemployment rate in 17 years. A spokesman for Jay Nixon, the Democratic candidate in the governor's race, labeled Hulshof "completely removed from reality.""
Endowment Fund set up for USM's Children's Center
From: www.hattiesburgamerican.com
"As a young teen, Beth Harrison loved to not only be around the youngsters at the University of Southern Mississippi's Children's Center for Communication and Development, she did what she could to help them.
"
Stimulus checks boost growth
From: www.hattiesburgamerican.com
"With a large lower-income population, Mississippi had the nation's fastest personal income growth during the second quarter of 2008 as federal economic stimulus checks hit the economy, the Commerce Department reported Thursday.
"
Pharmacy groups will split under bill
From: www.in-forum.com
"A licensing board and trade association for North Dakota pharmacists need to be split up, legislators decided Thursday, citing possible fallout from a federal trade investigation and other issues."
ND mill may get off hook for $5M payment
From: www.grandforksherald.com
"A legislator says North Dakota's state-owned flour mill should not have to pay $5 million into the state treasury when it's losing money."
First homestead records go online
From: www.journalstar.com
"In 1884, an unmarried woman named Sallie Rankin filed a homestead claim at the Broken Bow land office."
Farm groups seek to end COOL loophole
From: www.theindependent.com
"With the new county-of-origin labeling rules going into effect Oct. 1, a number of farm groups are concerned about a loophole in the law that gives consumers false information about the source of meat products sold at retail."
Despite end of deadlock, Waterloo might be history
From: www.nj.com
"State officials and the nonprofit company that operated Waterloo Village reached an agreement that allows the former operator to remove items housed at the Sussex County historic site and sell them."
PRC hopefuls to share stage at forum
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"Jerome Block Jr., who rejects the idea of a head-to-head debate with his Public Regulation Commission opponent, said Thursday he has agreed to take part in candidate forum next month sponsored by business groups. "
Nuclear Projects Agency -- Yucca fight reaffirmed
From: www.lvrj.com
"WASHINGTON -- No matter what happens with the embattled director of Nevada's Nuclear Projects Agency, the state will not give up the fight against Yucca Mountain, Nevada's senators vowed Thursday."
Meeting to discuss Loux's future delayed
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"The meeting where the state's nuclear waste commission would consider dismissing its embattled chief has been indefinitely delayed because of the agency's failure to notify the public of the meeting in time, according to Ben Kieckhefer, Gov. Jim Gibbons' spokesman."
Reid, Ensign determined to kill Yucca Mountain plan
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Despite the fact that one of the biggest opponents of the Yucca Mountain project is in the hot seat, state leaders are still saying the nuclear waste dump is dead."
Resort Association president takes issue with regent's statements
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"William Bible, president of the Nevada Resort Association, had the following choice words for Ron Knecht, a member of the Board of Regents that governs higher education in Nevada: "What on earth were you thinking?""
Parts of Pine Bush set aside for birds
From: timesunion.com
"Birdwatchers take note: About half of the Albany Pine Bush was named Thursday as the state's newest bird conservation area."
Landry leaves NYRA
From: timesunion.com
"SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. -- Former city official Gavin Landry left his job with the New York Racing Association days after it secured a new 25-year franchise deal to run racing at Saratoga Race Course, Blemont Park and Aqueduct Race Track."
Downturn drives up New York's jobless rates
From: www.nytimes.com
"The unemployment rates for New York City and State shot up in August as the rapidly spiraling economic downturn left more people without jobs, the state's Department of Labor said on Thursday."
Meijer to pay $16,000 fine from Ohio EPA
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"TIPP CITY, Ohio -- Meijer Inc. has agreed to pay a $16,450 fine and correct deficiencies in its risk management plan for storage of anhydrous ammonia used in the refrigeration process at its Distribution Center at 4200 S. County Road 25A, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency said this week."
Montgomery County, state seek federal aid
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"While working to secure government funding for actions in response to Sunday's windstorm and its fallout, local and state officials labored Thursday, Sept. 18, to establish avenues for residents to receive and give assistance."
Expanding the natural gas supply
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Federal regulators on Thursday overrode repeated protests from Oregon's elected leaders and approved the controversial Bradwood Landing liquefied natural gas terminal and a related pipeline. "
Pay raises for officials criticized
From: www.statesmanjournal.com
"A public commission got an earful Thursday from some opponents of pay increases proposed for Oregon's top elected officials."
Oregon liquefied-natural-gas terminal approved
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"WASHINGTON -- The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Thursday approved a liquefied natural-gas terminal along the Columbia River -- the first LNG terminal on the West Coast to receive such approval."
Fluid debate over gas supply
From: www.oregonlive.com
"A look at the Bradwood Landing liquefied natural gas terminal planned for the Columbia River:"
Witnesses fault workers' comp rule
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Gene Lawhorn told a House committee Thursday that while the state has been wrestling the past two months with how workers' compensation doctors can be paid, he has been calling around trying to find a doctor who would treat his workplace injury. "Nobody wanted to take me on," said the Salem carpenter. "I'm the guy that this affects.""
Oregon's housing market still hasn't hit bottom
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Crummy mortgages and drooping home prices whacked Wall Street this week. If the experts are to be believed, the same forces will slam Oregon at least through the first half of 2009."
Recent sunny weather buoys Oregon's winemakers
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Late bursts of summer sunshine have gone a long way toward easing -- if not erasing -- frown lines that only a few weeks ago creased the faces of Oregon's winemakers."
Republicans call for deep spending cuts
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Citing the potential for state worker layoffs and a multibillion-dollar tax increase next year, Republican lawmakers Thursday called upon the governor to immediately open up the state budget approved in July and enact deep spending cuts."
Gaming board employees testify in corruption probe
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"The supervisor of Pittsburgh casino investigators testified before a state grand jury investigating political corruption, the Tribune-Review has learned."
Calls mounting to reopen state budget
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Some conservative legislators and business groups are complaining that Gov. Ed Rendell's $200 million in budget cuts aren't nearly enough, and want the Legislature to re-open the 2008-09 state budget to slash even more spending and avert potential tax increases next year."
Funding lost for 'racino' project
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Consider the prospects for a racetrack-casino in Lawrence County dimmer, but not yet dead."
August jobless rate soars in county, state
From: www.greenvilleonline.com
"Nearly 14,000 additional South Carolinians lost their jobs in August when the unemployment rate in both Greenville County and South Carolina soared, the second consecutive month of significant increases, according to the state Employment Security Commission."
S. Dakota should weather AIG storm
From: www.argusleader.com
"As the U.S. government lends $85 billion to American International Group, the head of South Dakota's division of insurance is reassuring people about the company's subsidiaries."
Twenty state airports to receive aeronautics grants
From: www.tennessean.com
"Aeronautics grants totaling $19.4 million have been approved for 20 Tennessee airports, including Nashville International Airport, Gov. Phil Bredesen announced Thursday."
Nature's fury hits state's prized parks
From: www.chron.com
"With Hurricane Ike, the brutality of nature struck the beauty of the natural world head-on. And in many places, Ike won out."
A&M-Galveston students to relocate to main campus
From: www.dallasnews.com
"COLLEGE STATION, Texas – More than 1,200 students at Texas A&M University's Galveston branch are being relocated to the main campus in College Station for the rest of this semester because of hurricane damage that will take months to repair, officials say."
Texas Open Beaches Act may stall rebuilding after Hurricane Ike
From: www.dallasnews.com
"GALVESTON, Texas – Hundreds of people whose beachfront homes were wrecked by Hurricane Ike may be barred from rebuilding under a little-noticed Texas law. And even those whose houses were spared could end up seeing them condemned by the state. "
Study finds new anti-psychotics no better than generics for kids
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Texas has spent nearly $300 million since 2003 on expensive anti-psychotic medications for poor children – drugs that cost more, have worse side effects in kids and are no more effective than older generics, according to a new federal study. "
'It's a public health emergency'
From: www.usatoday.com
"HOUSTON — A 30-year-old man falls 25 feet from a cherry picker, smacking his head and breaking his leg so badly that bone pokes through his thigh. A trauma team at Texas Medical Center's Memorial Hermann Hospital crowds around him."
House OKs Great Lakes cleanup bill
From: www.jsonline.com
"WASHINGTON -- The House approved a measure Thursday that could help clean up pollution in the Great Lakes."
Environmentalists see flaws in pollution credit program
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Environment advocates on Thursday charged the West Coast's leading-edge effort to curb global warming would let polluters off the hook and allow utilities, industry and fuel distributors to get credits to emit greenhouse gases mostly for free."
Great Lakes bill approved
From: www.detnews.com
"WASHINGTON -- The U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed legislation Thursday to reauthorize a federal program to clean up toxic sediments in rivers and harbors feeding into the Great Lakes and triple its annual appropriations to $150 million annually."
Study - U.S. financial aid fails students who need it most
From: www.csmonitor.com
"The United States government spends upward of $86 billion a year on grants, loans, work aid, and tax benefits for college students. But the patchwork system is a barrier to many who are academically qualified for college, say a group of policy experts and higher-education professionals who laid out their recommendations in a report Sept. 18. "
Legislation aims to aid state in water debates
From: www.deseretnews.com
"Utah public water suppliers trying to plan for future decades struggle with the arid state's always-uncertain future for precipitation, but they may soon have a tool that gives them more time to sort through the complicated realm of water rights."
Report - Va. could slash energy needs 20 percent
From: hosted.ap.org
"A new report says Virginia could reduce its electricity needs by one-fifth by 2025 through energy efficiency."
Vermont bankers keep close watch
From: www.timesargus.com
"Bankers here say Wall Street chaos has had only a nominal impact on lending practices in Vermont, where sound management in recent years has insulated state-chartered financial institutions from the subprime meltdown."
Gubernatorial candidates offer up economic ideas
From: www.timesargus.com
"BURLINGTON, Vt. -- The three major candidates for governor all had differing views on the direction of Vermont's economy as they spoke before an audience of business leaders Thursday afternoon."
Candidates debate business goals
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"For two hours Thursday afternoon, the three leading candidates for governor tried to persuade an audience of Vermont manufacturers of their understanding and ability to tackle the challenges facing the business community."
Gregoire says state expects deficit next year
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"Gov. Christine Gregoire for the first time Thursday echoed what Republicans have been saying for months: The state will face a budget deficit next legislative session."
McKenna doesn't recuse from BIAW case
From: www.theolympian.com
"Republican Attorney General Rob McKenna appears to be resisting calls by his Democratic election opponent, John Ladenburg, to step aside and let someone else decide whether to file campaign-finance charges and seek penalties against the Building Industry Association of Washington."
State revenue forecast sheds $529 million
From: www.theolympian.com
"Fewer housing permits, falling car sales and fewer jobs in the construction sector helped blow away $529 million in expected future state tax collections, top state revenue forecasters said Thursday."
Wash. insurance commissioner OK's Safeco sale
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"Liberty Mutual Group's $6.2 billion purchase of Seattle's Safeco Corp. has been approved by the Washington state insurance commissioner's office."
State facing a projected $3.2 billion deficit in next budget
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"A new $530 million downgrade in the state's tax revenue forecast has spurred immediate spending cuts and amplified worries among business leaders that a looming $3.2 billion budget shortfall could trigger tax increases."
Manchin lends his support for gambling at The Greenbrier
From: www.register-herald.com
"Gov. Joe Manchin says he applauds a push by unions representing employees at The Greenbrier to bring table games to the resort.
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WVEDA starts new fund for investment
From: wvgazette.com
"The West Virginia Economic Development Authority board of directors decided to establish a new account with the state's Board of Treasury Investments at its monthly meeting Thursday."
Gov urges caution
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal urged federal land managers to proceed cautiously in developing rules for oil shale leasing, even though commercial development is likely many years away in Wyoming, if at all."
Wall St. ills worsen state fiscal headaches
From: www.stateline.org
"The turmoil on Wall Street is setting off warning bells in state capitols. The immediate casualty is the loss of millions of dollars in the value of states’ pension funds and other investments, but a bigger fear of state officials is a prolonged financial crisis that further reduces already shrinking tax revenue."
Club asks governor to halt oil shale bill
From: www.deseretnews.com
"An environmental group is asking the governor to step in and stop legislation that would open some federal lands for oil shale development."
Health care reform goes to voters
From: www.stateline.org
"
 |
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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.
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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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