U.S. lawmakers fault states for AIG collapse
From: www.stateline.org
"
Four members of Congress say the bailout of insurance giant American International Group Inc. points up a need for federal – not just state – regulation of insurers. But state officials protest that they had nothing to do with the crash of AIG.
"
Economy headlines debate
From: www.theolympian.com
"BLAINE, Wash. -- The economy remained the major focus of debate Thursday as Gov. Chris Gregoire and Republican challenger Dino Rossi squared off for the second time this year."
Exec says calling off Bama-UGA game will save fuel
From: www.tuscaloosanews.com
"A spokesman for the governor says a suggestion by a petroleum executive to cancel Saturday night's Alabama-Georgia football game as a fuel-saving measure is "ridiculous.""
No new coal plants until technology improves, panel recommends
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"The Governor's Commission on Global Warming on Thursday adopted the last of about 50 policy recommendations, including a moratorium on new coal plants in the state until better pollution-control technology becomes available."
Facing N.J.'s top issue -- The economy
From: www.philly.com
"The greatest concern among voters in the most significant congressional elections in South Jersey is the ongoing economic crisis."
Mass. bank chief foretold crisis -- in '97
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Regulators knew at least 11 years ago that subprime mortgages could sink financial firms, but didn't back up their warnings with enough action to prevent today's crisis, the Herald has found."
Hundreds of changes to state law take effect today
From: www.azcentral.com
"As of today, it's illegal to sell puppies and other animals along Arizona roads. The state mine inspector can now fill deadly abandoned mines with cement, glass and other donated debris. And fight rules have been relaxed in cage-fighting events, guaranteeing fans more gore."
Developer wants casinos in Miami Beach, downtown Miami
From: www.miamiherald.com
"The developer of a massive project in downtown Miami is quietly considering a campaign to amend Florida's Constitution to allow Las Vegas-style casinos in the city and open the door for a similar casino at Miami Beach's famed Fontainebleau Hotel."
Credit crisis crunches UH-Hilo housing project
From: www.starbulletin.com
"Until a few weeks ago, it looked like there finally was progress in a public-private partnership to build badly needed student housing for the University of Hawaii at Hilo in exchange for rights to develop a hotel/retail and conference center complex on state land."
State-subsidized Nebraska airline considered
From: www.omaha.com
"Is it feasible to have a state-subsidized airline operate in Nebraska?"
State -- Unemployment up in all Illinois cities
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Officials say the unemployment rate is up in all the state's 12 metropolitan areas. "
Firm accused of bilking Muslims probed by state
From: www.suntimes.com
"State regulators said Thursday they are investigating a development firm suspected of bilking Muslim investors of as much as $50 million."
Suit targets online gambling
From: www.courier-journal.com
"Kentucky has taken control of two online casinos as part of Gov. Steve Beshear's attempt to crack down on illegal Internet gambling."
State hopes sharing information could prevent future oil disasters
From: newsminer.com
"The state is hoping oil and gas companies will share potentially proprietary information that could help create an industry infrastructure risk profile to protect Alaska's largest revenue source, as well as human safety and the environment."
Alabama Gov. Bob Riley not optimistic about Jefferson County debt talks
From: www.al.com
"Gov. Bob Riley said Thursday that there has been progress in a flurry of negotiations to avert bankruptcy for Jefferson County, but that he is becoming less optimistic that they will be successful. "
Alabama securities chief warns against scams
From: www.tuscaloosanews.com
"The director of the Alabama Securities Commission is warning investors against making sudden and uninformed decisions during the turmoil on Wall Street."
October court date set for Ark. lottery challenge
From: www.thecabin.net
"The Arkansas Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in a case challenging a proposed lottery one week before early voting begins for the fall election."
Panelists-- Hold back coal plants
From: www.nwarktimes.com
"By an 11-10 vote, the Governor's Commission on Global Warming recommended Thursday that no new coal-fired power plants be built in Arkansas until at least 2020, when new technology could reduce carbon emissions."
Ark. panel tentatively endorses ban on new plants
From: www.thedailycitizen.com
"An Arkansas commission studying ways to reduce global warming tentatively endorsed a ban Thursday on new coal-fired power plants, saying a proposed $1.5 billion facility in Hempstead County shouldn't open until at least 2020."
Court to hear arguments in lottery amendment challenge Oct. 13
From: www.arkansasnews.com
"The Arkansas Supreme Court has set oral arguments for Oct. 13 in a lawsuit challenging Lt. Gov. Bill Halter's proposed constitutional amendment to create a state-run lottery to fund college scholarships."
Bill would allow gifts for California lottery workers
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Tucked inside California's thick budget package is a bill that allows the state lottery director to spend money on employee gifts, a practice that came under scrutiny after staff members were treated to a $46,336 party last year."
State approves $239 million for BART extension to San Jose
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Fulfilling a promise made nearly a decade ago, the California Transportation Commission on Thursday unanimously approved spending $239 million to help build the BART extension into Santa Clara County."
Governor signs bill requiring EMT criminal background checks
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation Thursday that requires California's 70,000 emergency medical technicians to undergo mandatory criminal background checks."
Calif. lawmakers get free gasoline
From: www.usatoday.com
"SACRAMENTO, Calif. - California lawmakers enjoy a perk not available to their colleagues in any other state: unchecked use of gasoline charge cards that stick taxpayers with the bill."
Schwarzenegger vetoes mortgage broker restrictions
From: www.sacbee.com
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a proposal Thursday that would have imposed tough restrictions on mortgage brokers, such as banning exotic loans to risky borrowers that cause balances to grow rather than shrink over time."
Budget deficit looming, Ritter slashes spending
From: www.denverpost.com
"Days after discounting an economic forecast that predicted a $100 million shortfall in the current year's state budget, Gov. Bill Ritter on Thursday announced a partial hiring freeze for state employees and other steps to cut spending. "
Colorado hopefuls debating bailout
From: www.denverpost.com
"With the attention of both voters and the market riveted on congressional negotiations over the financial crisis, the debate over the bailout is spilling onto the campaign trail in Colorado. "
DPS takes hit on bond refi
From: www.denverpost.com
"Denver Public Schools' pension plan was pulled into the financial crisis on Wall Street this week when a dearth of buyers at a bond sale cost the fund "hundreds of thousands" of dollars in increased interest payments. "
Budget deficit looming, Ritter slashes spending
From: www.denverpost.com
"Days after discounting an economic forecast that predicted a $100 million shortfall in the current year's state budget, Gov. Bill Ritter on Thursday announced a partial hiring freeze for state employees and other steps to cut spending. "
State lawmakers warned of deficit??
From: www.nhregister.com
"The legislature's fiscal office told lawmakers Thursday that the state is facing billions of dollars in budget shortfalls between now and the end of the 2012 fiscal year."
UConn president declines performance bonus
From: www.courant.com
"STORRS — Would you give up a $100,000 job performance bonus? UConn President Michael Hogan did."
Florida's budget may be cut again
From: www.tampabay.com
"Even after $7-billion in spending cuts, raids on cash reserves and salary freezes for state workers, the Florida budget is not back in the black: Another $800-million in red ink must be erased this year."
Florida Board of Governors seeks more money
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"The Florida Board of Governors on Thursday voted to ask the Legislature for $24 million to help defray rising utility costs. Energy costs for colleges and universities are expected to be much higher than budgeted. Some university officials said utility costs have skyrocketed by nearly 20 percent."
Tax dispute closes Parramore's iconic Johnson's Diner
From: www.orlandosentinel.com
"Parramore's iconic Johnson's Diner -- the soul-food favorite of politicians and professional athletes -- has been shut down over a tax dispute. Restaurant president Clarence Taylor III said he's working to satisfy the Florida Department of Revenue and hopes to reopen the eatery founded by his grandmother, Lillian Johnson, by Tuesday."
Southeast gas shortage squeezes small retailers
From: www.macon.com
"Ralph Sheffield's tidy gas station has stayed open around the clock for 13 years, keeping the lights on even during lonely Christmas mornings and the slow holiday season."
School meal, bus fees could rise
From: www.starbulletin.com
"But education officials have backed out, at least for now, of plans to raise fees for after-school programs and adult education to offset a $9.2 million spending cut imposed by Gov. Linda Lingle earlier this year."
State announces recipients of Great Places grants
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"Iowa's Department of Cultural Affairs has selected four sites to receive grants from the state's Great Places program."
Key unions redirect money away from Culver
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Some unions that are big players in Democratic politics have cut off money to Gov. Chet Culver."
90 Iowa counties declared ag disaster areas
From: www.muscatinejournal.com
"U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Edward Schafer declared 90 Iowa counties disaster areas Thursday, with more disaster declarations possible in the future."
Idaho finance chief says budget holdback likely
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's financial chief said Thursday it's likely Idaho's current fiscal year budget will be trimmed because a slumping economy, higher unemployment and turbulence in financial markets prompted state economists to slash their 2009 tax revenue forecasts."
Idaho finance chief says budget holdback is likely
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"Gov. Butch Otter's financial chief said Thursday it's likely Idaho's current fiscal year budget will be trimmed because a slumping economy, higher unemployment and turbulence in financial markets prompted state economists to slash their 2009 tax revenue forecasts."
Tollway chief's move begs question on ethics law
From: www.dailyherald.com
"In Gov. Rod Blagojevich's first term, he declared the state's corrupt revolving door "closed.""
Judge -- IDOT suit can proceed
From: www.sj-r.com
"A lawsuit to block the move of 150 state transportation jobs from Springfield to southern Illinois will formally be filed today after a Sangamon County judge gave permission for it to proceed."
High court allows hog farm near Rochester
From: www.sj-r.com
"ROCHESTER, Ill. — A ruling by the Illinois Supreme Court will allow Rochester farmer Bob Young to proceed with a controversial plan to raise thousands of hogs on his property west of Buckhart."
Groups -- Ill. electricity rates won't soar in '08
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"Electric rate increases are back on the horizon for Illinoisans, but consumer advocates said Thursday they don't expect the kinds of jumps that unnerved consumers last year and prompted lawmakers to negotiate a $1 billion relief package. "
Secretary of state's office looks to suspend Sunrise Equities
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The Illinois secretary of state's office has filed an order to stop a troubled Chicago-based real estate development company and its officers from receiving any more investments."
Bush housing chief talks about Illinois governor's race
From: newsblogs.chicagotribune.com
"Federal Housing Secy. Steve Preston acknowledges there have been some people urging him to consider a 2010 bid for governor, but trying to resolve a national housing crisis and rescue the Republican Party in Illinois may be a bit too much multitasking."
Illinois tollway chief exiting for job with agency contractor
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"For the second time in less than three years, the executive director of the Illinois tollway is leaving to take a job with a company that does work for the agency, despite a "revolving door" law that Gov. Rod Blagojevich championed to end cozy relationships between state officials and the people who seek state business."
BP chief admits not considering refinery reaction
From: hosted.ap.org
"MUNSTER, Ind. -- The head of BP America Inc. says the company didn't anticipate the strong public reaction to its plans for a $3.8 billion expansion to its refinery in Whiting."
Child care study finds Ind. behind most states
From: hosted.ap.org
"A new report ranks Indiana low among states in providing government subsidized child care to working families, with an income eligibility cutoff lower than all but two states and a waiting list of nearly 4,800 families this year."
Regents' student count rises 2%
From: cjonline.com
"Even as tuition and expenses climb, Kansas students arrived at Kansas universities in record-breaking numbers for the fall semester."
Speaker moves to rescind raise
From: www.kentucky.com
"House Speaker Jody Richards wants to reverse the 47 percent pay increase a majority of legislative leaders approved this week for Legislative Research Commission director Bobby Sherman."
Bill would kill 47% raise to LRC director
From: www.courier-journal.com
"House Speaker Jody Richards and Rep. Brent Yonts said yesterday they will file legislation to rescind the 47 percent pay raise given Wednesday to legislative staff director Bobby Sherman."
House OKs budget with storm funding
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"WASHINGTON — The House approved a must-pass budget bill Wednesday that includes $23 billion in disaster assistance for Louisiana and other hurricane and flood damaged states but failed to aid farmers and fishers."
Louisiana's annual job growth slows a bit
From: www.thenewsstar.com
"NEW ORLEANS — Louisiana's annual employment growth slowed in August as the national economy continued to stagger, but the state still showed a boost of 18,200 non-farm jobs from a year ago, the state labor department reported Thursday."
Jindal -- Handle recovery locally
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"A homeowner storm recovery program similar to Road Home is unlikely for hurricanes Gustav and Ike."
Mass. signs driver's license contract
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Massachusetts driver's licenses are getting a new look. The Patrick administration on Thursday awarded a six-year, $32 million contract to a Connecticut company to produce the next generation of driver's licenses."
Deep cuts loom for state
From: www.bostonherald.com
"A swelling chorus of Bay State political and fiscal leaders is warning that the Wall Street meltdown and staggering state economy have created a perfect financial storm, making deep and "painful" budget cuts to police, schools and other essential services unavoidable."
Md. takes part in CO2 sale
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Maryland and five other states launched a pioneering effort to combat climate change yesterday by auctioning off rights for power plants to release Earth-warming carbon dioxide into the air."
O'Malley calls for 5% cuts in state agencies' budgets
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Gov. Martin O'Malley directed state agencies yesterday to look for budget cuts of up to 5 percent that could include layoffs or unpaid furloughs for state employees, as he seeks savings in this year's budget and prepares a spending plan for next year."
Maryland public defender says it can't afford private lawyers
From: www.journalism.umd.edu
"WASHINGTON - The Maryland Office of the Public Defender announced Thursday that it will stop paying for private attorneys for indigent clients because it can't afford them."
Odd allies opposing slots vote
From: gazette.net
"The slot machine debate is creating fault lines through one of the largest Democratic strongholds in Maryland. The Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee on Wednesday voted to oppose the Nov. 4 referendum, crossing party leaders and finding an unlikely ally: the Republican Caucus of the House of Delegates."
Pols see silver lining in Constellation deal
From: gazette.net
"The deal that would sell Constellation Energy Group to a company controlled by magnate Warren E. Buffett has some lawmakers from both parties renewing their call for increased competition or even reregulation of the industry."
House GOP presents $3.8B proposal
From: gazette.net
"House Republican lawmakers on Thursday mapped out an extensive plan to freeze spending and roll back tax increases to balance a state budget that may be $1 billion in the red by the time lawmakers return to the State House in January."
Budget - it's not raining — yet
From: gazette.net
"How bad is bad? Not bad enough to raid the state's rainy day fund to plug the budget gaps. On one of the few subjects on which both sides of the aisle agree, Annapolis is not yet ready to tap the $700 million fund."
O'Malley calls for 5% cuts in state agencies' budgets
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"Gov. Martin O'Malley directed state agencies yesterday to look for budget cuts of up to 5 percent that could include layoffs or unpaid furloughs for state employees, as he seeks savings in this year's budget and prepares a spending plan for next year."
Statehouse report - reward wood burners
From: kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com
"A report due out today recommends tax incentives and a state buyback program designed to help Maine people reduce their dependence on home heating oil."
Flight service to connect northern, southern Maine
From: www.bangornews.com
"PORTLAND, Maine — For the first time in several years, regular flight service will soon link southern and northern Maine. "
Lobstermen optimistic on sustainability
From: www.bangornews.com
"ROCKLAND, Maine — Three public meetings this week in Ellsworth, Rockland and Portland on sustainable lobster fishing practices and market certification produced the support organizers had wanted."
Business tax cut floated in Lansing
From: www.freep.com
"Michigan's business tax climate is an inequitable mess that extracts punishing sums from everyday entrepreneurs while writing huge subsidy checks to exotic out-of-towners, a group of state senators said Thursday as they introduced legislation to cut business taxes across the board while trimming high-profile subsidies, including one enacted months ago to attract the film industry to Michigan."
Majority back medical marijuana
From: www.detnews.com
"A majority of Michiganians is inclined to legalize marijuana for sick people, but a second statewide ballot proposal to relax restrictions on embryonic stem cell research in Michigan is a closer contest -- and the advertising blitz has just begun on that measure. "
State audit finds inappropriate funding of Excelsior Energy
From: www.duluthnewstribune.com
"In light of an audit that criticized Iron Range Resources staff, Excelsior Energy Inc. will be asked to repay a sliver of the $9.5 million in loans it received from the agency."
State treasurer rejects ethanol plant incentive
From: www.stltoday.com
"The Missouri treasurer's office rejected financial incentives Thursday for an $82 million ethanol plant whose investors include the governor's brother, a congressman's wife and a state lawmaker."
Mississippi taxpayers not keen on federal fix
From: www.clarionledger.com
"Congress is expected return to work today on a plan to rescue the nation's financial services industry, but Mississippians - even those who think government action is necessary to correct the nation's credit crisis - are not enthusiastic about the proposed $700 billion bailout."
NeMiss bankers -- Action needed to avoid damage to economy
From: www.djournal.com
"While the general public - and many in Congress, too - are skeptical about the $700 billion bailout of the financial industry, Northeast Mississippi banking leaders say the plan is necessary."
Mississippi leads nation in income growth
From: www.sunherald.com
"Mississippi made it to the top of a positive list, coming in number 1 in the country for income growth in the second quarter of 2008. But most of that growth is thanks to the economic stimulus checks targeted for lower income families."
Miss. state-supplied cottages condemned after Gustav
From: www.usatoday.com
"BAY ST. LOUIS, Miss. - In Donnell Landtroop's state-supplied cottage, mold grows on the walls and dried mud coats the floor, the foul remnants of Gustav, the second hurricane in three years to leave her family homeless."
Utah may receive sheep from Montana
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Several dozen wild sheep west of Great Falls are likely to be trapped this winter and sent to Utah as Montana officials try to deal with a population surplus and Utah officials try to build their state's sheep numbers."
Nonprofits hit by sagging economy
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"The state of the economy is hurting nonprofit organizations across the nation but especially in "under-resourced" states such as Montana, said Brian Magee, executive director of the Helena-based Montana Nonprofit Association."
Brucellosis proposal released
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Under a plan offered Thursday by state livestock officials, cattle ranchers near Yellowstone National Park would have to test their entire herds for brucellosis and vaccinate their animals against the disease."
Lindeen knocks opponent's plan
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Democratic state auditor candidate Monica Lindeen says a health insurance plan proposed by her Republican competitor, Duane Grimes, won't help consumers and shows his inclination for harmful deregulation."
Easley -- Cut state budgets 2%
From: www2.journalnow.com
"Heading out of office with a souring economy, Gov. Mike Easley told state agencies that their budgets would be reduced by 2 percent and the unspent money placed in reserve in case this year's small shortfall widens."
Treasurer Moore to Fed -- Let's make a deal
From: www.newsobserver.com
"Richard Moore says the Federal Reserve is welcome to borrow from North Carolina. In an appearance on CNBC, the Democratic state treasurer said Wednesday that the state's public pension fund would be willing to lend money -- at the right price -- to try to boost liquidity in the banking industry."
U.S. to study effects of wind energy industry on habitats
From: www.omaha.com
"The Great Plains region, often described as the Saudi Arabia of wind energy, has caught the eye of so many wind developers that the federal government is launching an extensive environmental analysis of the alternative energy source."
Illegal immigration discussions begin Friday for Nebraska
From: www.omaha.com
"A series of roundtable discussions in cities across Nebraska begins Friday as part of the Legislature's effort to understand the depth of illegal immigration in Nebraska."
State takes over troubled NH insurance program
From: hosted.ap.org
"MANCHESTER, N.H. -- New Hampshire insurance regulators have taken over operations of an insurance program in Manchester.
"
Corzine witnesses launch of emissions sale
From: www.app.com
"Gov. Jon S. Corzine was at the New York Mercantile Exchange Thursday as the nation's first cap-and-trade system aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions kicked off with the initial selling of carbon-emission allowances."
Jitney drivers upset at state
From: www.app.com
"Another large inspection sweep this week of the jitney buses that carry passengers between New York City and northern New Jersey has some drivers crying foul."
Katz argues Corzine e-mails should be exempt
From: www.nj.com
"Former state workers union leader Carla Katz says e-mails she exchanged with Gov. Jon Corzine should be kept secret because they were sent "in connection with" union negotiations."
Business-friendly package is rushed through Assembly
From: www.nj.com
"Taking a cue from Delaware, the state Assembly yesterday unanimously approved a package of bills designed to make New Jersey better for business."
Rutgers' football game plan requires wins
From: www.nj.com
"Game day for the Scarlet Knights means a stadium packed with the faithful. And for all the controversy hanging over Rutgers these days -- the secret amendments to the coach's contract, the questions over marketing deals and unaudited spending, two investigations, and a $102 million stadium expansion -- this is the real yard marker for the state university's athletics department."
Savings methods devised
From: www.lvrj.com
"Nevada's state coffers could see as much as $500 million in savings and additional revenue over five years under steps recommended by a commission tasked with finding ways to make government more efficient."
Despite state budget crises, few people laid off
From: www.nevadaappeal.com
"Despite the fears of employees early in the state's budget crisis, actual layoffs have been almost non-existent."
Paterson calling leaders to Albany
From: timesunion.com
"Gov. David Paterson is calling legislative leaders to the Capitol next Friday to review the state's deteriorating finances and all but promised he would bring the Legislature back for a special cost-cutting session before January."
New unit to probe abuse
From: timesunion.com
"Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli has cleared 680 lawyers of potential pension fund abuse in his ongoing probe as he revealed plans to create a new compliance unit to monitor the system."
New subpoenas from Cuomo on L.I.R.R. disability cases
From: www.nytimes.com
"Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo has sent subpoenas to officials at the Long Island Rail Road and the federal Railroad Retirement Board as part of an investigation into questionable disability payments to retired L.I.R.R. employees, a senior assistant to Mr. Cuomo said on Thursday. "
Strickland has ODOT look into road salt shortages
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"The Ohio Department of Transportation, at the request of the Governor Ted Strickland's office, is setting up a bid analysis team to look at factors driving the shortages and unprecedented price increases of road salt.
"
Casino issue still on Nov. 4 ballot despite protest
From: blog.cleveland.com
"A casino gambling referendum remains on the Nov. 4 ballot despite a rival casino group's attempt to remove it.
"
High demand forces Ohio to import road salt
From: blog.cleveland.com
"The salt melting snow on Ohio roads this winter may be imported from Chile, Poland or some other country.
"
Oregon looks to hire more bank examiners
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Citing the worsening condition of some Oregon financial institutions, a legislative panel on Thursday endorsed the hiring of five additional bank examiners -- a 40 percent increase."
Appeals court backs Oregon crab limit
From: www.oregonlive.com
"The Oregon Court of Appeals has upheld the state limit on the number of crab pots for commercial fishermen. The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted the limits in 2006 after two years of meetings to deal with concerns about too many boats with too many pots."
Financial meltdown figures into Oregon treasurer's race
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Allen Alley and Ben Westlund have been watching the financial meltdown on Wall Street with a growing unease, not because their own investments and retirement accounts are taking a beating. In three months, one of them will inherit a much larger stake in the financial markets."
Bush supports Senate bill for payments to counties
From: www.oregonlive.com
"The Bush administration gave new hope Thursday to a federal payment program crucial to rural Oregon counties, and Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said he's now optimistic Congress will extend funding for the program."
Kulongoski says Oregon must invest in green jobs, electric cars
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Gov. Ted Kulongoski expects legislators will face tough decisions in 2009 because of weakening state revenue amid national economic problems. Oregon's economy, bad as it may be right now, will cycle back to better times, says Gov. Ted Kulongoski, and when it does, he wants the state in the driver's seat of a lucrative future market: electric cars."
Rendell to revive turnpike lease in '09
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Gov. Ed Rendell said Thursday that he will try again next year to put the Pennsylvania Turnpike lease proposal out to bid. It was an acknowledgement by the governor that his $12.8 billion plan to lease the turnpike for 75 years to a Spanish-led consortium is virtually dead in the Legislature."
Pensions' stock drop could cost taxpayers
From: www.pennlive.com
"Few entities in Pennsylvania are more heavily invested in the stock markets than the state's two major public employee pension funds. Together, they hold more than $45 billion in publicly traded stocks in America and around the world."
PUC to review response to outages
From: www.post-gazette.com
"The state Public Utility Commission voted unanimously yesterday to review how the 11 electric distribution companies in Pennsylvania respond to storms and customers who lose power."
Revenues decline slightly at casinos
From: www.post-gazette.com
"One nonsmoker with emphysema, Claire Colbert of Cranberry, is elated with how much cleaner the air seems at The Meadows Racetrack & Casino since smoking restrictions took effect Sept. 11."
Rhode Island joins effort to cut pollution
From: www.projo.com
"Rhode Island yesterday joined nine other Northeast and mid-Atlantic states in an unprecedented auction of the rights of local power plants to generate pollution. The auction is being called historic, but to the average electric customer, it should also be unnoticeable — at least for awhile."
In R.I., housing prices lower but still a hurdle
From: www.projo.com
"WARWICK, R.I. — Housing prices are down in most Rhode Island cities and towns, but even with drops of more than 20 percent, those lower prices are not necessarily moving people closer to the American Dream."
SC Economic Board expected to have more bad news
From: www.goupstate.com
"South Carolina's Board of Economic Advisors is getting an update on just how bad the state's economy is."
Local officials taking action
From: www.charleston.net
"The federal moratorium on new offshore drilling sits just days short of expiring as state legislators discussed plans Thursday to position South Carolina to tap its resources."
S.D. leaders back proposal, with conditions
From: www.argusleader.com
"South Dakota business leaders are pressing the state's congressional delegation to approve a lifeboat for the nation's finance industry, fearing that South Dakota's economy will be sucked into the vortex of a sinking Wall Street."
State plans to pursue VW engine facility
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"While Volkswagen of America's plans for a U.S.-based engine plant remain unclear, Tennessee's chief economic recruiter says if the German auto giant does decide to build such a facility, the state intends to compete for it.
"
Abbott-- Nation's financial crisis threatens pensions
From: www.chron.com
"Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott warned Wednesday that the nation's current financial crisis makes a $20 billion unfunded liability in the state and local public pension funds a financial threat to public employees and taxpayers."
University of Texas' endowment may have broken even, manager says
From: www.dallasnews.com
"The manager of the University of Texas' $24 billion endowment says it may have actually broken even – or better – as four mighty financial houses fell this month."
Texas pension funds say benefits secure
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Managers of Texas' four big public pension funds say future benefits are secure and they have no plans to ask for financial help from state taxpayers in the wake of the collapse of several Wall Street firms. "
Evacuees leaving Austin Convention Center face uncertainty
From: www.statesman.com
"Some of the Hurricane Ike evacuees headed back to Galveston from the Austin Convention Center on Thursday said they were reluctant to go home and find out what they had lost."
PUC rules no shutoffs of power for Ike victims
From: www.chron.com
"The Texas Public Utility Commission has approved an emergency order banning electric service disconnections for victims of Hurricane Ike until Oct. 10."
In storm's aftermath, cow roundups in southeast Texas
From: www.nytimes.com
"LA BELLE, Texas — Two weeks after Hurricane Ike blew through Southeast Texas, cowboys on horseback and in helicopters are still trying to round up thousands of head of displaced cattle."
New billions in earmarks approach enactment
From: www.nytimes.com
"WASHINGTON — As Congress tried to cobble together a plan to spend huge sums on a financial bailout, lawmakers also moved Thursday toward final approval of an omnibus spending bill with more than 2,300 pet projects, including a $2 million study of animal hibernation."
$6.6 billion in special projects rides on federal spending bill
From: www.usatoday.com
"WASHINGTON — A $630 billion spending bill nearing final approval in Congress includes $6.6 billion for thousands of lawmakers' pet projects, including $51.5 million requested by Democratic vice presidential nominee Joe Biden when both presidential candidates have sworn off seeking any money."
Cleanup in the grocery aisles
From: www.usatoday.com
"Supermarkets and other retailers that provide shopping carts are increasingly looking to limit germ exposure for customers and their families."
Insurance firm gouging Hispanics, suit says
From: deseretnews.com
"A class-action lawsuit accuses United Automobile Insurance Company of gouging thousands of Utah Hispanics through fraudulent and misleading practices."
State proposals for slicing spending could include layoffs
From: hamptonroads.com
"State spending cuts could range from 2 percent to 20 percent and may include layoffs, but cuts to schools will probably be delayed to next year, Gov. Timothy M. Kaine said Thursday."
Coalition decries cuts to F&W
From: www.rutlandherald.com
"STOWE, Vt. — The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department will see major cuts in manpower and programs due to a 22 percent decrease in Vermont funding, according to a coalition of sportsmen, business and conservation organizations.
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Vermonters voice their frustrations about bailout on the streets
From: www.timesargus.com
"Jessica Moseley of Montpelier remembers hearing about The Depression and the panic of the people.
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Gregoire says no tax hike; Rossi takes on minimum wage
From: www.spokesmanreview.com
"BLAINE, Wash. -- After a bruising campaign challenge that's focused heavily on state spending, Gov. Chris Gregoire pledged for the first time Thursday night to not raise taxes during a weak economy."
Gregoire, Rossi spar over taxes in second debate
From: www.theolympian.com
"BLAINE, Wash. -- Gov. Chris Gregoire pledged Thursday not to raise taxes if re-elected, her strongest statement yet on plans for erasing the projected $3.2 billion state budget deficit that is a campaign centerpiece for her challenger, Dino Rossi."
PSE gas rate to rise 10.4 percent
From: www.theolympian.com
"Puget Sound Energy natural gas rates will climb by 10.4 percent Wednesday for residential ratepayers, state regulators announced Thursday. An average residential customer monthly bill will go to $90.61, an increase of $8.49."
Free speech at heart of BIAW case
From: www.theolympian.com
"A pivotal First Amendment case with huge implications for the gubernatorial election will be heard in the courtroom of Thurston County Superior Court Judge Christine Pomeroy this morning."
Lake Roosevelt drawdown approved by state
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"MOSES LAKE, Wash. -- Washington state officially authorized additional water releases from the reservoir behind Grand Coulee Dam on Thursday, a move that has been in the works for months and opens the door for the first new water rights along the Columbia River in years."
More services, amenities in state parks plan
From: www.madison.com
"The Wisconsin State Parks System has completed a strategic plan that will guide development, restoration and management of the park system through 2013."
Doyle touts energy independence
From: www.wrn.com
"Governor Jim Doyle was in Cashton Thursday to announce grants for three local companies that are developing renewable energy technology."
W.Va. to pay $75,000 to settle discrimination case
From: www.dailymail.com
"West Virginia will pay $75,000 to a veteran agriculture department employee who threatened to sue for sexual discrimination and workplace retaliation.
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W.Va. official reminds politicians of sign laws
From: www.herald-dispatch.com
"With the general election just over a month away, the state Division of Highways is reminding political candidates about the rules for outdoor advertising.
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Sumner pitches toll-free PSC line to air complaints
From: www.register-herald.com
"West Virginia consumers deserve a toll-free line to call in complaints to the Public Service Commission rather than being obligated to mail in written ones at a time utilities are pushing for higher rates, says Delegate Linda Sumner, R-Raleigh.
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Prevailing wage hearing held in Raleigh court
From: www.register-herald.com
"Father Tom Acker of Forward Southern West Virginia and the West Virginia Division of Labor appear to agree on one thing — the state's prevailing wage law is a good piece of legislation.
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Official -- Gas gougers will 'face the music'
From: www.register-herald.com
"West Virginia's chief deputy attorney general served notice Thursday to any gas-gouging retailers they can expect to "face the music" if caught ripping off the motoring public by charging outlandish prices.
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Presentation still short on answers, many attendees say
From: www.register-herald.com
"Some liked it, others did not. West Virginia Attorney General Darrell McGraw's presentation regarding gasoline prices in the Beckley area received mixed reviews from those in the crowd Thursday.
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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.
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Three states weigh calls for new charters
From: www.stateline.org
"
Voters in Connecticut, Hawaii and Illinois will decide this year whether to convene constitutional conventions that could alter the framework of their state governments. Proponents hope the conventions would bring about much-needed changes; opponents worry the results would be unworkable."
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."
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."
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."
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.
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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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