States unveil a landmark climate plan for the West
From: www.azcentral.com
"Leaders of Western states delivered a landmark proposal Tuesday to reduce air pollution and blunt the effects of climate change, a plan that comes with a challenging deadline less than four years away."
Payday loan industry's anti-ban petitions fall short
From: news.cincinnati.com
"The payday loan industry has struck out in its initial bid to repeal Ohio's new law cracking down on how much interest it can charge customers.
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Gaming groups face off on Ohio casino issue
From: www.toledoblade.com
"Two competing gambling forces will do battle over a proposed ballot issue asking voters to approve a single $600 million casino resort in southwest Ohio."
Largest Ark. payday lender says it will shut down
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"Advance America, the largest payday loan provider in Arkansas, said Tuesday it will shut down its stores in the state because of the attorney general's threat of lawsuits over its high-interest loans."
Western states' plan aims to cut greenhouse gas
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"A coalition of Western states and four Canadian provinces released on Tuesday the most far-reaching plan yet for cutting emissions of the greenhouse gases that are warming the globe."
Hawaii postpones $625M bond sale amid Wall Street turmoil
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Wall Street woes are affecting the state of Hawai'i's finances, or at least its ability to finance public works projects it wants to help boost the local economy."
California budget is signed, 85 days late and despised
From: www.nytimes.com
"LOS ANGELES — Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Tuesday signed California's budget, a document that was 85 days late and among state lawmakers, perhaps the most universally despised budget in the nation."
Md., Va., D.C. face budget upheaval
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"Virginia officials said yesterday that the state budget shortfall may be as wide as $3 billion over two years, triple what they estimated a month ago, while District officials said they are facing a gap of $131 million after years of surpluses. "
Two California economic forecasts see gloomy 2009
From: www.sacbee.com
"The state's economy is halfway through a recession that won't begin easing until sometime next year, according to the latest forecast from the University of the Pacific."
Report says wages not keeping up with insurance premiums
From: www.radioiowa.com
"A report issued today by "Families U.S.A." says wage increases in Iowa continue to lag behind rising insurance premiums. Families U.S.A. executive director, Ron Pollack, talked about the details of the numbers."
State job growth slows
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"Wyoming's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate inched up in August, and the rate of job growth continued to slow."
GOP takes on Corzine over economy
From: www.app.com
"Republican state lawmakers Tuesday ganged up on Democratic Gov. Jon S. Corzine for his ideas on how New Jersey might grope its way through the chaos on Wall Street."
Nebraska, Lancaster County property taxes among highest in study
From: www.journalstar.com
"Think your property taxes are high? They are, according to a study released Tuesday based on updated census data."
Digital billboards spur conflict
From: www.stltoday.com
"Digital billboards — the latest flash point in a decades-long fight between outdoor advertising firms and highway beautification advocates — are making some inroads in the St. Louis area."
Georgia biotech firms growing with help of federal grants
From: www.ajc.com
"MedShape Solutions, a startup biotech firm, is developing a device for reconstructive surgery on the rotator cuff. Not just for pitchers like John Smoltz, but for seniors with similar shoulder problems."
National money problems not affecting Bank of North Dakota
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"The banking industry's financial woes have not affected the Bank of North Dakota, which expects to post a record $57 million profit this year, its president told state legislators."
Jobs, economy dominate Round 2 of gubernatorial debates
From: www.indystar.com
"JASPER, Ind. -- Stark differences were outlined Tuesday night during the second of three debates among the three candidates for governor."
Palin defended bridge to 'spinmeisters'
From: www.politico.com
"Sarah Palin supported the "bridge to nowhere" long after it had become an icon of wasteful federal spending. "
AAA reports decline in gas prices
From: www.tuscaloosanews.com
"If you need gas, there's good news - prices at the pumps are still declining across Alabama."
Group seeks further study on Ark. power plant
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"An environmental group suggested Tuesday that the state deny an air-quality permit for a proposed $1.5 billion coal-fired power plant in southwest Arkansas, at least until further study is done on controlling the pollution it would produce."
Curbs on underage drinking proposed
From: www.nwarktimes.com
"If a legislative task force has its way, Mike's Hard Lemonade and other "alcopops" will be pulled off grocery and convenience store shelves as part of an effort to curb underage drinking."
Court filing stirs debate over whether state constitution bans casinos
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"Lt. Gov. Bill Halter's response to a legal challenge of his ballot proposal for a state-run lottery for college scholarships has stirred debate over another thorny gambling issue in Arkansas: Whether the state constitution bans casino gambling.
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GOP leaders want special session
From: www.azstarnet.com
"The top budget officials in the House and the Senate said a special legislative session is needed quickly to dig Arizona out of a deepening financial hole."
ASU hits an enrollment record this fall
From: www.azcentral.com
"Arizona State University's enrollment has hit a record 67,082 students this fall, up 4 percent from last year. Figures for individual campuses are expected this week."
Plan for speed cameras on state roads advances
From: www.azcentral.com
"A state official's decision Tuesday to let a contract award take effect means Arizona will launch its groundbreaking photo speed-enforcement program on Friday, the Arizona Department of Public Safety said."
State lawmakers warn of $1 billion deficit
From: www.azcentral.com
"The state budget is careening toward another big deficit, and the Legislature's top budget officials want the governor to call a special session to minimize the harm they see coming."
Budget is signed following long delay
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger ended a record 85-day budget deadlock yesterday, signing a $144.5 billion plan that freezes spending at last year's level but continues a decade-long string of deficits.
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States, provinces have plan to cut emissions
From: www.sfgate.com
"A coalition of Western states and Canadian provinces unveiled a far-reaching plan on Tuesday that would ratchet back greenhouse gas emissions from a broad expanse of North America and could serve as a model for future federal action.
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UCLA economists issue gloomy California forecast
From: www.latimes.com
"Housing prices will hit bottom some time next year, but the California economy will be in distress for months to come, according to a closely followed UCLA economic report scheduled to be released today."
Budget signed, Schwarzenegger sets sights on redistricting, other changes
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger preferred to sign the state's $103.4 billion budget Tuesday in his office with officials from Placerville and other cities – and not one legislator.
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What took so long- Budget battle reflects Schwarzenegger's weak ties to Legislature
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger isn't known for mincing words. But earlier this month, as California's budget stalemate inched from serious problem toward full-blown crisis, he gave an interview to a German publication that was surprising in its candor — and certainly didn't help his cause.
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2008 ballot watch - Proposition 1A: High-speed rail bonds
From: www.sacbee.com
"After a dozen years of study and a variety of political delays in the Legislature, voters will be asked to provide nearly $10 billion in bonds to begin building a high-speed rail system that could ultimately reach from Sacramento to San Diego.
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No quick return for California workers cut in July
From: www.sacbee.com
"Although the fiscal fight is over, state workers who lost their jobs during California's budget battle probably won't be rehired any time soon, a state official said Tuesday.
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Details from the new budget
From: www.sacbee.com
"Here are some of the highlights of the overdue state budget Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Tuesday."
California considers selling ads on signs used for Amber Alerts
From: www.latimes.com
"In a state that has restricted cellphone use by drivers and appears poised to bar motorists from text messaging, the Schwarzenegger administration is considering a plan that could create a new distraction: advertisements on freeway signs used for Amber Alerts and other emergencies."
Arnold Schwarzenegger signs $145-billion California budget
From: www.latimes.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the state's tardiest budget on record Tuesday after eliminating $510 million in spending, including financial aid for elderly renters and homeowners and a program he championed to lower prescription drug prices for low-income Californians."
U.S.-Canadian group plans to curb emissions
From: www.nytimes.com
"SAN FRANCISCO — An alliance of seven Western states and four Canadian provinces unveiled a blueprint on Tuesday for the most far-reaching effort in North America to curb emissions linked to climate change. "
State in hot water, Rell warns
From: www.nhregister.com
"Gov. M. Jodi Rell says the state's revenue picture is ugly, and some tough budget cuts will be necessary in the coming months."
Candidates talk business
From: www.delawareonline.com
"WILMINGTON, Del. - With an easy gubernatorial primary victory behind him, Republican Bill Lee showed Tuesday that his pre-primary absence at candidate forums was not an effort to dodge tough questions. It was, as he had said, political strategy."
Gas-price inquiries continue
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"With gasoline outages diminishing and prices heading downward, Florida investigators await final documentation from 20 oil-industry companies to conclude price-gouging inquiries."
Rising health-care costs hit Orlando
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"Orlando-area employers experienced some of the biggest increases in health-care costs in the nation this year, according to an annual study released Tuesday by Hewitt Associates.
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Lingle and unions talk budget
From: www.starbulletin.com
"Gov. Linda Lingle finished a week's worth of meetings with the heads of Hawaii public sector unions yesterday, but without getting agreement on forestalling talk of wage increases. In reaction to the latest state budget projection of a $903 million deficit by mid-2011, Lingle called for public workers to scale back wage demands."
Officials -- AIG investments by state workers are safe
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"No state employees are expected to lose retirement money because of their investments with struggling insurance and financial services giant AIG, according to state officials."
Iowa officials begin measuring carbon footprint
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"URBANDALE, Iowa -- Iowa environmental officials are beginning to measure the affect of greenhouse gas emissions in Iowa have on the environment."
DNR has grants available for can and bottle redemption centers
From: www.radioiowa.com
"The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is taking applications for grants that should help make independent bottle and can redemption centers easier for the public to use. D-N-R spokesman Bill Blum says the deadline for the grants is October 3rd."
Group targets Democrats; donors remain anonymous
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Radio ads with a velvety sarcasm are criticizing Democrats for everything from their flood response to support of union-backed legislation."
Vision Iowa dispute may affect Great Places cash
From: www.globegazette.com
"The board that granted Mason City a "Great Place" designation in 2006 is concerned about the City Council's reluctance to follow through on the $9 million Vision Iowa contract."
Iowa treasurer says stakes high in federal bailout
From: ads.qctimes.com
"Iowa Treasurer Mike Fitzgerald says the state has high financial stakes in the federal government's plan to bailout failing companies."
Third Iowa bar faces loss of liquor license over smoking ban
From: ads.qctimes.com
"A Clinton bar faces the revocation of its liquor license for allegedly failing to comply with Iowa's public smoking ban, becoming the third Iowa bar to face such a penalty for smoking violations."
HUD approves disaster recovery plan
From: ads.qctimes.com
"Flood-ravaged Iowa communities took a step toward gaining access to millions in federal community development grants after the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on Tuesday accepted a state proposal on how the money should be spent."
Court rejects 'Terror in the Woods' appeal
From: www.qctimes.com
"The Iowa Supreme Court has rejected an appeal of three ordinance violations issued to the operator of Terror in the Woods in September 2007, saying "substantial justice" was granted."
Gas prices in Idaho fall to near the U.S. average
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Idaho gasoline costs have fallen within a penny of the national average, despite recent volatility in crude oil markets, industry experts said Tuesday."
Edward revises Plainfield hospital proposal - again
From: www.dailyherald.com
"Edward Hospital has once again modified its proposal for a Plainfield hospital that has struggled to gain support from the state."
3 more Illinois counties declared disaster areas
From: www.dailyherald.com
"Governor Rod Blagojevich has declared three more Illinois counties state disaster areas after severe flooding this month."
House approves hotel tax rate hike for East Peoria, Morton
From: www.sj-r.com
"East Peoria and Morton on Tuesday won the go-ahead they need from state government to boost their local hotel tax rates, and elected officials from both communities soon could vote on whether to do that."
Senate approves ethics reforms
From: www.sj-r.com
"A day after targeting Gov. Rod Blagojevich, the Illinois Senate reversed course Tuesday and overwhelmingly approved his broad ethics package despite opposition from reform advocates who predicted doom for the measure."
Lawmakers vote to reverse budget cuts
From: www.sj-r.com
"Faced with potential voter backlash in November, Illinois senators Tuesday approved bills to reverse budget cuts that threatened to close state parks and historic sites and cause hundreds of state workers to be laid off."
Senate sends $220 million economic-assistance bill to governor
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Chicago area mass transit, state parks and social services would get more than $220 million to prop up their budgets under legislation sent Tuesday to Gov. Rod Blagojevich."
Illinois Senate approves Blagojevich-endorsed package that restricts lawmakers
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Less than 24 hours after approving major ethics legislation aimed at Gov. Rod Blagojevich, the Illinois Senate on Tuesday overwhelmingly approved a package backed by the governor that would put some of the same restrictions on lawmakers."
Bush declares region disaster area
From: www.nwitimes.com
"President Bush declared a disaster area across three Northwest Indiana counties Tuesday, and homeowners, renters and business owners can start applying today for FEMA assistance."
Elders' lawyers slam planned Ind. Medicaid changes
From: hosted.ap.org
"Advocates for the infirm and nursing homes say the state is rushing Medicaid changes that would leave some patients with no means to pay for care and some nursing homes forced to close their doors because of money given to family members or charities years ago."
Candidates tap-dance on taxes, transportation
From: nwi.com
"JASPER, Ind. -- Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels and Democratic challenger Jill Long Thompson clashed over taxes, transportation and a slew of other topics Tuesday night during the second of three gubernatorial debates."
All-day kindergarten proves popular
From: www.kansas.com
"Enrollment in all-day kindergarten programs is booming in Kansas."
NASA climate expert warns Kansans of dire consequences of global warming
From: www2.ljworld.com
"One day after a scientist told Kansas leaders not to worry about global warming, one of the leading experts on climate change stated Tuesday that if carbon dioxide emissions continue to increase it will eventually mean the end of life."
Beshear to allow early sale of winter gasoline
From: www.kentucky.com
"Gov. Steve Beshear has issued an executive order that will allow wholesalers to immediately begin distributing gasoline that usually is sold only during the fall and winter months in Kentucky. Beshear said the move will expand the state's supply of gasoline."
Accounting requested for walking horse funds
From: www.kentucky.com
"Kentucky regulators have asked a walking horse group to show that members who received money from a state fund have not violated a federal law ensuring that horses aren't mistreated."
LABI gives top rating to two local lawmakers
From: www.nola.com
"Sen. Ann Duplessis, D-New Orleans, and Rep. Nita Hutter, R-Chalmette, scored the highest among New Orleans area lawmakers in rankings from the state's largest business lobby covering votes in the two special sessions and one general session held this year."
Patrick administration unveils development plan
From: www.bostonherald.com
"The Patrick administration is creating a $250 million bond fund to finance business development programs that aim to create new jobs and tax revenues capable of repaying the cost of those bonds.
"
Lottery to stop doling out free sports tickets
From: www.boston.com
"State Treasurer Timothy P. Cahill is scrapping a multimillion-dollar incentive program that rewarded lottery retailers with free sports tickets, deciding that it had become excessively generous because of the hefty prices tickets command on the resale market."
State economy slumping
From: www.journalism.umd.edu
"Maryland's economy has softened in several categories, as foreclosures, welfare receipts, and unemployment claims have all increased in the past year, according to a pending state report."
Two groups call for an increase in the state's minimum wage
From: gazette.net
"A report to be released today calls for the state to raise its minimum wage to $7.15 immediately and to $8.15 in July 2009, when the next national increase takes effect."
Maryland feels pinch of thinning federal dollars
From: www.usatoday.com
"BALTIMORE — Where Anthony Hurt once saw rubble and litter, he now sees a bright mural. From his second-story window, the view of drugs and decay has given way to sunflowers and trees. "
Lower drinking age opposed by experts
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"With some of the nation's most prominent college leaders suggesting that the nation's drinking age be lowered, a group of researchers and safety experts told Maryland lawmakers yesterday that younger drinkers would bring more accidents and deaths. "
Study urges state to help working poor survive
From: www.bangornews.com
"It's no surprise to learn that times are tough for low-income working families in Maine — and likely will get tougher."
Bill to bar public smoking falls short
From: www.detnews.com
"A smoking ban for all public places in Michigan came up six votes short of passage in the state House on Tuesday, but advocates say they'll try again -- perhaps as early as today."
State House snuffs out statewide smoking ban
From: www.freep.com
"Concerns about the possible impact on Detroit's casinos led to the state House's narrow rejection Tuesday of a bill to ban smoking in all Michigan workplaces."
MOHELA is behind in making payments under plan
From: www.stltoday.com
"By the end of this month, Missouri's student loan authority will have fallen about $8.5 million behind on payments to the state under a $350 million plan to fund college construction projects."
Far fewer West Nile cases this year
From: www.stltoday.com
"The high season for West Nile virus is nearly over, and the disease seems to have taken an extended summer vacation."
Hulshof faults selection process for judges
From: www.columbiatribune.com
"Kenny Hulshof, the Republican candidate for governor, says there is disorder in Missouri's courts because lawyers who represent people with damage claims control the state's process of selecting high court judges."
Drury bans hard alcohol on campus
From: newstribune.com
"Drury University is banning hard liquor on campus as part of a crackdown on binge drinking."
UM losses small, curators hear
From: www.columbiatribune.com
"Like many investors the past few weeks, the University of Missouri System has not been immune from feeling a financial strain."
Miss. AG warns against selling Salvia
From: www.sunherald.com
"Attorney General Jim Hood is warning business owners to not sell a hallucinogenic plant that was recently outlawed in the state."
Asarco, EPA and state agree on E. Helena cleanup
From: hosted.ap.org
"Copper company Asarco LLC has reached an agreement with the state and the Environmental Protection Agency over the cleanup of soil on private property in East Helena that was contaminated by a lead smelter operating in the city for more than a century."
2 resign from Board of Livestock
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Two longtime members of the state Board of Livestock have resigned, saying the board is no longer representing the state's livestock industry."
Grimes proposes insurance plan
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Republican state auditor candidate Duane Grimes has proposed a five-point plan he says will control "skyrocketing health insurance costs" in Montana, including changes for the popular Insure Montana program for small businesses."
AG -- Basnight appointee meets law's requirements
From: www.news-record.com
"CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The state attorney general's office said Tuesday the appointment of a real estate lawyer to the North Carolina Appraisal Board does not violate a state law that requires the seat be filled by someone not involved in the profession."
NDSU breaks 13,000 mark
From: www.in-forum.com
"North Dakota State University charged past several milestones Tuesday."
Process irritates committee member
From: www.in-forum.com
"Ten years of property tax breaks were approved Tuesday for a planned five-story retail and housing complex to serve North Dakota State University's growth in downtown Fargo."
N.D. Legislature may include worker tally in budgets
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"Future North Dakota state agency spending bills may include how many employees are authorized to work in each department, state lawmakers say."
Lawmakers push for fuel aid
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"State lawmakers are due to decide today whether to spend millions of state dollars on fuel assistance and weatherizing programs. If passed, the proposal would free up money for low-income residents in advance of the coming winter.
"
NH insurance chief works to reassure AIG customers
From: www.fosters.com
"New Hampshire's insurance commissioner is working to reassure residents who are insured by AIG, one of the firms being bailed out by the government.
"
High court hears Highlands Act development case
From: www.app.com
"The state Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday over whether the Highlands Act unjustly barred development of a 93-acre lot retroactively without doling out proper compensation to the property owners."
As economy wobbles, N.J. worries
From: www.app.com
"The orders at New Jersey Iron Inc., a steel fabricator in Jackson, are steady enough that the company has spent thousands of dollars replacing aging equipment -- from trucks to copier machines. But these days, the company's economic outlook is growing more uncertain."
State sitting out first emission-credit auction
From: www.nj.com
"A regional program designed to curb greenhouse gas emissions gets under way tomorrow with New Jersey, one of the prime advocates of the plan, sitting on the sideline."
Crop losses lead to disaster area label for 10 N.J. counties
From: www.nj.com
"Ten New Jersey counties with farming operations have been designated primary federal disaster areas because of extensive crop damage following a summer of drought, hail and other severe weather conditions, officials said yesterday."
Retiree health benefits threaten other programs, report says
From: www.lvrj.com
"If Nevada's elected officials don't act quickly to rein in the cost of providing subsidized health care to their retirees, then programs and services from education to public safety will suffer as more money is diverted to a benefit that has disappeared from the private sector, a new Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce study suggests."
Nevada Supreme Court -- Property tax cap dies on the vine
From: www.lvrj.com
"In what is expected to be the death blow to the effort to put a measure before voters to cap property tax increases, the Nevada Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a request to disqualify the judge who ruled the measure ineligible for the ballot."
Prop-13 petition dealt double blow by court
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"Sharron Angle's property tax-cutting petition suffered a double blow Tuesday as the Nevada Supreme Court rejected two motions filed by attorney Joel Hansen attempting to get it back on the November ballot. And the wording of the order makes it clear the appeal of Senior Judge Charles McGee's order has little chance for success."
Census -- 27% of Nevadans don't speak only English at home
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"More than one in four Nevadans speak a language other than English at home, according to an estimate released today."
Mandate foe, not medicine's
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"State Sen. Joe Heck is one of the Legislature's strongest voices on health care, which isn't surprising given that he's a physician. What is surprising, however, is that on some key issues he's an ally of the health insurance industry -- surprising because doctors often view insurance companies like some virulent bacterium."
Financial data for 3,100 agencies on comptroller's site
From: www.newsday.com
"Financial data for 3,100 counties, cities, towns, villages, schools and fire districts became available yesterday on the state comptroller's Web site"
State Web site shows local spending
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"New Yorkers can now review how local governments spent their tax dollars over the past 10 years with a new addition Tuesday to the state Comptroller's Web site.
"
An 'Open Book' on costs
From: www.timesunion.com
"With Wall Street imploding, sales and mortgage tax revenues declining and a $5 billion state budget gap looming next year, localities will be facing some tough times, Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli warned on Tuesday."
Official -- Thousands of casino signatures not valid
From: hosted.ap.org
"Nearly 5,000 signatures collected in support of building a casino in southwest Ohio are invalid because they were fraudulently collected, elections officials said Tuesday.
"
Erosion along Route 99 focus of ODOT meeting
From: www.toledoblade.com
"MONROEVILLE, Ohio -- The Ohio Department of Transportation's proposed alternatives for stabilizing an eroding Huron River cliff that could undermine State Rt. 99 near here, or rerouting the road to avoid the problem, will be the subject of a meeting tomorrow evening."
Oklahoma's eateries thriving despite smoking ban
From: newsok.com
"State smoking restrictions at about 7,000 Oklahoma restaurants have not caused adverse effects on their revenues or their ability to recruit employees, the state Health Department reports."
State reviewing utilities' response to power outages
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Now that electricity has finally been restored to the last of at least 130,000 homes that lost power due to a violent wind storm Sept. 14, the state Public Utility Commission will review how Duquesne Light, Allegheny Power, Penn Power and Penelec performed during the massive outage."
Turnpike lease lacks support, Teamsters told
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"House Transportation Chairman Joe Markosek on Tuesday outlined a grim outlook for Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell's proposal to privatize the Pennsylvania Turnpike."
Carcieri -- Rhode Island must get its full share from Twin River
From: www.projo.com
"A day after a national credit-rating firm warned of a "high probability of bankruptcy" for the owners of the Twin River slot parlor, Governor Carcieri said he would oppose any "bailout" bid that involved lowering the state's potential $254-million share of the video-slot revenue at the refurbished dog track."
State on the wrong track, says poll
From: www.pawtuckettimes.com
"Wracked by skyrocketing unemployment, staggering budget deficits and watching more and more of their neighbors' homes going into foreclosure each day, 70 percent of Rhode Islanders think the state has gotten off on the wrong track according to a new Brown University poll."
Chattanooga -- $80 million in state grants now flowing to VW project
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"About $80 million in state grant money was approved today to go toward the Volkswagon assembly plant project.
"
Ike-battered Galveston allows residents to return
From: www.usatoday.com
"GALVESTON, Texas — Many residents who fled this storm-ravaged island waited in their cars early Wednesday for permission to return and see for themselves what Hurricane Ike had done to their homes."
Texas, Louisiana press for aid
From: online.wsj.com
"State and local officials from Texas and Louisiana told Washington lawmakers the credit crisis will make it more difficult to get loans for hurricane-cleanup efforts. They said it is critical that cities get a quick, direct infusion of federal funds."
Mexico to step up U.S. border searches
From: www.mysanantonio.com
"Mexico's government plans to search 10 percent of all vehicles entering the country from the United States in an effort to curb arms smuggling, the attorney general said Tuesday."
Texans seek aid in Congress as Ike cost estimates soar
From: www.chron.com
"Texas suffered damage from Hurricane Ike estimated by government officials and private insurers on Tuesday to range from $27 billion to $52 billion."
Hundreds of thousands may stay without water for a while
From: www.chron.com
"A quarter of a million people in the Houston region were without running water Tuesday, according to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, which regulates more than 2,500 public water systems in the 10-county region hammered by Hurricane Ike."
Officials-- It could be November before all traffic lights restored
From: www.chron.com
"With darkened intersections leading to traffic snarls on freeways and city streets, officials are searching for at least some relief by putting more officers on traffic-directing duty and reopening high-occupancy vehicle lanes."
$12.5 million awarded to train engineering teachers
From: www.statesman.com
"The University of Texas has been awarded $12.5 million by the National Science Foundation for a program intended to prepare high school engineering educators."
House Democrats to let ban on drilling expire
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"Congressional Democrats bowed to political pressure yesterday and agreed to let the ban on offshore oil drilling expire, a decision that would allow exploration just three miles off the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines unless the next president reinstates an executive branch order that prohibits drilling. "
Western U.S.-Canada initiative proposes emission-trading plan
From: www.helenair.com
"SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Seven western states and four Canadian provinces on Tuesday proposed a comprehensive program to cut greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, manufacturers and vehicles."
Bush to sign Great Lakes ban on water diversions
From: www.detnews.com
"WASHINGTON -- Ending a decadelong struggle to ensure thirsty states and countries can't raid the Great Lakes, the White House said Tuesday that President Bush will sign the Great Lakes compact to ban water diversions."
State on team to cut greenhouse gases
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"After years watching from the sidelines while industrialized countries around the world tackled globe-warming greenhouse gases, Washington and six other Western states on Tuesday became the first in the U.S. to propose a comprehensive approach to the problem."
Wine lovers se red over state laws that restrict home delivery of bottles
From: online.wsj.com
"Alison Light and her husband fell in love with several small California wineries this summer while celebrating their wedding anniversary. But when Ms. Light tried to have bottles shipped to her Norfolk, Mass., home, she was miffed to discover that her state effectively barred most such shipments."
Western states pitch plan to reduce greenhouse emissions
From: www.latimes.com
"Seven Western states and four Canadian provinces proposed a sweeping regional crackdown on global warming emissions Tuesday in the face of continuing reluctance by the Bush administration and Congress to pass comprehensive climate legislation."
Western Climate Initiative unveils plan for capping emissions
From: deseretnews.com
"Utah and other members of the Western Climate Initiative on Tuesday announced support of an emissions-trading plan to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions in the West."
Shortfall could hit some state agencies harder than others
From: deseretnews.com
"Some state agencies could face a bigger budget cut than others, as lawmakers grapple with a $272 million revenue shortfall during the special session that begins Thursday."
Department of Commerce warns Utahns to protect selves
From: deseretnews.com
"The Utah Department of Commerce warns Utahns to be on the lookout for scams during these times of economic upheaval. Executive Director Francine Giani announced Tuesday that residents can go to the Division of Securities or the Division of Real Estate within the Department of Commerce to see if an investment or real estate deal is legitimate."
Medicaid funds on chopping block
From: www.sltrib.com
"For Medicaid, it's a double whammy. With the economy foundering and unemployment ticking up, about 8,300 more Utahns have turned to Medicaid for health insurance since August 2007.
"
Va. facing $3 billion shortfall
From: www.inrich.com
"The declining economy could force additional Virginia spending cuts of nearly $3 billion, raising the specter of deeper reductions in public services and broader layoffs."
$2 billion-plus budget gap spells deep cuts for Virginia
From: hamptonroads.com
"Confronted by a weakening state economy, Virginia officials are bracing for drastic government spending cuts in the current two-year state budget that could approach $3 billion"
Climate plan proposed for Western states, provinces
From: www.theolympian.com
"A regional initiative announced Tuesday is aimed at reducing greenhouse gases by 15 percent in the West, but it will have to get through the Legislature first. The Western Climate Initiative will require lawmakers to make major policy decisions, including how much violators will pay for pollution allowed under an emissions cap that will be set in 2010 and go into effect in 2012."
Midcareer adults boost enrollment at some technical colleges
From: www.jsonline.com
"Blackhawk Technical College in Janesville is just about bursting at the seams."
Real estate kickback trial stalls as attorney claims political motivation
From: www.jsonline.com
"The federal trial of a Brookfield real estate agent charged with seeking a $75,000 kickback on the sale of a $30 million state office building stalled again Monday as his attorney argued that the case was brought for political purposes."
Properly funding child care
From: www.wrn.com
"A new study shows Wisconsin is fairing well when it comes to providing childcare to low-income families. "
The next step in Great Lakes protection
From: www.wrn.com
"With Congressional approval of the Great Lakes Compact out of the way, Governor Doyle says the hard work can begin. "
Tri-State to open more table games
From: www.wvgazettemail.com
"Officials at Tri-State Racetrack & Gaming Center hope to have blackjack, roulette, craps and other specialized table games up and running Oct. 9.
"
States prepare for home heating crisis
From: www.stateline.org
"
With home energy costs rising and the economy pushing more people into poverty, states are bracing for a widespread public health emergency this winter. Communities are preparing shelters for those unable to pay their heating bills, and Congress is considering nearly doubling the annual federal aid for low-income home energy assistance.
"
Okla. speaker stresses wind, gas energy
From: www.stateline.org
"
 |
Oklahoma House Speaker Chris Benge (R) |
National security – but not necessarily global warming – dictates that the country must diversify its energy sources, said Oklahoma House Speaker Chris Benge (R) during an interview with
Stateline.org last week."
States work to avert nurse shortage
From: www.stateline.org
"A perfect storm of retiring baby boomers, an aging nurse population and too few nursing instructors is setting up a health-care crisis. One report estimates that by 2020, there will be a staggering shortage of nurses — possibly more than 1 million vacancies."
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."
Wall St. ills worsen state fiscal headaches
From: www.stateline.org
"(Updated 4:30 p.m. EDT, Sept. 19, 2008)
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."
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."
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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