As credit dries up, car dealers close
From: www.stltoday.com
"Over 27 years, Feld Chevrolet in Bridgeton built itself into a recognizable auto dealer and adopted the nickname "the Red Hot Dealer.""
California feeling credit crisis, treasurer warns
From: www.sacbee.com
"Eight days after Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a new state budget to end a record 85-day standoff, the nation's financial storm poses a new threat to the state's ability to pay its bills."
La. panel hears testimony over hurricane deductibles
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"Unlike some of his neighbors, Steven Jaros of Baton Rouge said he knew about the 5 percent hurricane deductible on his homeowner's policy before Hurricane Gustav damaged his home."
Economists to lawmaker-- Worst is yet to come for Arizona
From: www.azcapitoltimes.com
"Arizona is in for a rough economic ride in the foreseeable future and policy makers will have their hands full trying to fix deficits that could reach a total of $3.6 billion over the next 21 months."
Newspapers urged to print gamble helpline
From: www.wrn.com
"A gambling group encourages newspapers in the state to include a helpline. "
Foes call illegal-hiring measure a sham
From: www.azcentral.com
"A day after a poll showed a new employer-sanctions proposal passing handily, some of the state's staunchest foes of illegal immigration called the ballot measure a sham."
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 focus of gubernatorial debate
From: seattlepi.nwsource.com
"YAKIMA, Wash. -- Democratic Gov. Chris Gregoire and Republican challenger Dino Rossi took their gubernatorial race east of the Cascades into Washington farm country Wednesday night, with immigration, energy and water among the issues in their debate."
Economic turmoil propels Obama, Pa. poll finds
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"The sinking economy is buoying Barack Obama's prospects over John McCain in Pennsylvania, a statewide poll of registered voters shows."
College fund frozen
From: burlingtonfreepress.com
"The national turmoil in credit and banking industries has trickled down to Vermont's institutions of higher education."
Lehman crash hits Lambert bonds
From: www.stltoday.com
"Wall Street's woes have temporarily grounded the sale of bonds to finance fixes at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport."
Decision on HTA chief put on hold
From: www.starbulletin.com
"The Hawaii Tourism Authority has again delayed a decision on whether its embattled chief executive, who has been accused of using his state laptop to forward racist, sexist and pornographic e-mails to friends, stays or goes."
Gittell, Obama adviser agree N.H. in for hard times
From: www.fosters.com
"DOVER. N.H. -- Even if Congress passes the $700 bailout plan this week, 2009 will be a very difficult year for New Hampshire residents, two economic experts say.
"
Nevada insurance costs jump
From: www.lvrj.com
"RENO, Nev. -- A new report shows health insurance premiums for Nevada families are going up more than twice as fast as earnings."
State -- Retirees' fund not in danger
From: www.sunherald.com
"Although the Mississippi state employee pension fund has lost about $2.1 billion in the stock market since June due to problems on Wall Street, the fund has enough money to pay its beneficiaries for several years."
Perry touts recovery, not a bailout
From: A delegation of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights was in Austin on Wednesday on a fact-finding mission on the treatment of immigrant families and asylum seekers at the T. Don Hutto detention center in Taylor and other Texas facilities.
"Gov. Rick Perry joined the Democratic governor of West Virginia on Wednesday in a bipartisan plea to Congress to "pass an economic recovery package.""
Payday lenders turn in more signatures to get on statewide ballot Nov. 4
From: blog.cleveland.com
"Payday lenders made their final push for the Ohio ballot, dropping off more than 200,000 additional signatures in hopes of qualifying a November ballot issue aimed at overturning government regulations.
"
Oregon credit unions boom as lenders flee some banks
From: www.oregonlive.com
"Anxious consumers, looking for save havens for their money, are steering millions of dollars into Oregon's credit unions or banks like U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo, perceived to be stronger and more stable than many of their peers."
Ohio funds said safe
From: news.cincinnati.com
"Ohio Treasurer Richard Cordray said the state's $18 billion investment portfolio - dollars used for the day-to-day operations of the state - and the STAR Ohio fund, which invests money for local governments, are safe and not threatened by the financial problems on Wall Street.
"
Palin's role in Arctic claims is questioned
From: newsminer.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Russian attempts to claim part of the Arctic Ocean seabed have given Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin unique foreign policy experience, the McCain-Palin campaign says, but there is no evidence she has ever been involved with or spoken publicly about them."
As governor, Palin has focused on developing state's resources
From: www.nytimes.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska — When Gov. Sarah Palin meets Senator Joseph R. Biden Jr. on Thursday in the vice-presidential debate, even her fellow Alaskans might hear for the first time some of her views on health care reform, education policy and other issues of state government. "
Sales tax collections up in August
From: www.montgomeryadvertiser.com
"Alabama's sales tax collections increased 7.28 percent in August, the month that included the three-day sales tax holiday on clothing, books, computers and school supplies of certain values."
Folsom to participate in mission to China
From: www.montgomeryadvertiser.com
"Lt. Gov. Jim Folsom Jr. will participate in a first-of-its kind economic development and humanitarian mission to China with four of his colleagues."
State employees' PAC backs both Dems, GOP
From: www.al.com
"The Alabama State Employees Association's Political Action Committee on Wednesday released its list of statewide endorsements, which included Democrats and Republicans."
Endorsement fee to Alabama State Employee Association tied to Nationwide tops $1.25M
From: www.al.com
"The Alabama State Employee Association is getting more money than ever from a group that is passing through dollars from Nationwide Life Insurance Co., the union's latest tax return shows."
Possible $800 mil deficit means tough calls for state
From: www.azcentral.com
"State government will continue to tighten its belt - perhaps to the point of cutting off circulation - while looking for new ways to bring in money without raising taxes, Gov. Janet Napolitano said Wednesday in discussing a state budget deficit that could amount to $800 million."
Napolitano says '09 deficit between $320 million and $800 million
From: www.azcapitoltimes.com
"A thousand drops in the bucket, along with one large rainstorm, are some of the ideas that Gov. Janet Napolitano is proposing to help get Arizona's budget out of the red."
Schwarzenegger to U.S. - State may need $7-billion loan
From: www.latimes.com
"California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, alarmed by the ongoing national financial crisis, warned Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson on Thursday that the state might need an emergency loan of as much as $7 billion from the federal government within weeks."
State pulls the plug on non-Indian bingo machines
From: www.signonsandiego.com
"Delivering a big victory for gaming tribes and the Catholic Church, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed legislation that outlaws non-Indian bingo machines while authorizing high-stakes bingo for charities and nonprofits. "
Governor sets record for vetoing bills
From: www.sfgate.com
"A week after he signed the tardiest budget in state history, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger set another record: He vetoed the largest percentage of bills this year of any California governor in four decades."
State urges market fix before it runs out of cash
From: www.mercurynews.com
"California Treasurer Bill Lockyer warned Wednesday that the state could run out of money by the end of the month if the president and Congress cannot quickly agree on a federal bailout to rescue the ailing economy."
Credit crunch puts California governments in a corner
From: www.latimes.com
"With credit markets all but paralyzed and state and local governments unable to borrow money, California officials joined calls Thursday for quick approval of a financial bailout plan working its way through Congress.
"
A sea of vetoes
From: www.sacbee.com
"When the curtain fell on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's legislative actions Wednesday, he had signed 772 bills and vetoed 415. The veto rate of 35 percent is the highest percentage of rejections in at least 40 years. Here's what happened to some of the bills in the final days."
The State Worker - Bad economy seen limiting gains in pay
From: www.sacbee.com
"The state's budget fight is over, but thousands of workers like Pepper Lewis are still waiting for a new labor contract. She'd like a raise – who wouldn't? – but she's not expecting much."
Analysis - Governor sends loud, clear message with vetoes
From: www.sacbee.com
"After a tumultuous year, lawmakers and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger finally get a break from one another – and, boy, do they need it. Democrats grew angry this week after Schwarzenegger finished vetoing 35 percent of the bills on his desk, a modern record. "
Schwarzenegger's vetoes anger legislators
From: www.latimes.com
"The way legislators tell it, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is the villain in the saga that has played out in the Capitol in recent months.
"
California to cover cost of screening for H.I.V.
From: www.nytimes.com
"LOS ANGELES — California came closer than any other state to instituting routine H.I.V. screening as Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Tuesday signed into law a bill requiring private health insurance providers to cover the cost of the testing regardless of a primary diagnosis. "
Executives pledge funds as unions drop Colorado initiatives
From: online.wsj.com
"DENVER -- In an alliance born in part of fear, corporate executives across Colorado pledged to contribute at least $3 million to help organized labor defeat ballot measures that many in the business community might normally support."
Labor unions to pull ballot measures today
From: www.rockymountainnews.com
"Colorado labor unions agreed late Wednesday to pull four initiatives from the statewide ballot, just hours ahead of today's withdrawal deadline."
Deadline is today to drop measures
From: www.denverpost.com
"As the deadline looms today to pull initiatives off the November ballot, Gov. Bill Ritter said Wednesday that negotiations were still ongoing in an attempt to get labor groups to drop four ballot measures aimed at businesses."
Economic concerns in Colorado
From: www.denverpost.com
"Here at the corner of Main and Walnut streets in Louisville, outside a sandwich shop and down the street from a yoga studio, two men confide their fears. "It's a very, very uncertain time," said Patrick Caffrey."
Wyman defends estimate of an $800M budget shortfall
From: www.theday.com
"Comptroller Nancy Wyman's statement at first seemed like a mistake: Connecticut's "budget imbalance" could exceed $800 million. "
Candy with chemical in Chinese milk found in Connecticut
From: www.theday.com
"An industrial chemical blamed for sickening thousands of infants in China has been found in candy in four Connecticut stores this week, a state official said Wednesday."
Quinnipiac's new quad goes green
From: www.nhregister.com
"HAMDEN, Conn. — Quinnipiac University will harness the wind and the sun to provide power for its new York Hill campus off Sherman Avenue."
Blumenthal Urges FCC To Reject Rule Change
From: www.courant.com
"Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal urged the Federal Communications Commission on Wednesday to reject a request to shorten the time the state has to decide on proposals for cellphone towers."
Lee says Nextel suit tells story about rival
From: www.delawareonline.com
"After reading more than 150 pages of court documents, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Lee said this week voters "can't believe everything Jack Markell says.""
DNREC to let Valero dredge channel
From: www.delawareonline.com
"State regulators have granted the Delaware City Refinery an unusual temporary permit to dredge a silt-filled cooling water source, citing risks to plant operations and the environment without quick action."
Crist - Local economy has 'brighter future'
From: floridacapitalnews.com
"Local business executives told Governor Charlie Crist they are optimistic about the state economy Wednesday, urging him to talk up consumer confidence among Floridians worried about Wall Street. "
Florida GOP meets in secret as Obama passes McCain in polls
From: www.tampabay.com
"Florida Republican leaders hastily convened a top secret meeting this week to grapple with Sen. John McCain's sagging performance in this must-win state. "
Energy officials respond to Perdue's request
From: www.onlineathens.com
"Federal energy officials say they already had been releasing crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve when Gov. Sonny Perdue sent a letter to the White House this week asking for additional supplies to be sent to Gulf Coast refineries."
Grants to ease foreclosure woes
From: chronicle.augusta.com
"More than $153 million in newly earmarked federal funds will extend a lifeline to Georgia regions hit hardest by the home foreclosure crisis, enabling leaders from Atlanta to Savannah to acquire and redevelop foreclosed properties at risk of being abandoned."
Georgia's budget shortfall could top $2 billion
From: www.ajc.com
"The state's fiscal crisis appears to be growing, and the shortfall may top $2 billion this year, making deeper spending cuts likely, legislators and budget analysts say."
Tax holiday on low-flow toilets, energy-efficient products
From: www.ajc.com
"It's a great time to buy an ultralow-flow toilet, especially for those living in a house built before 1993."
Wachovia freezes fund, but UGA not affected
From: www.onlineathens.com
"Two University of Georgia-related foundations in December withdrew millions of dollars from an investment fund now frozen by Wachovia Bank."
HTA board again postpones meeting on embattled CEO
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"For the third time in less than a month, the Hawai'i Tourism Authority's board has canceled a meeting over the fate of embattled CEO Rex Johnson."
Fate of ceded lands in hands of high court
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"What the state can or cannot do with some 1.2 million acres of ceded lands is at stake in a lawsuit the U.S. Supreme Court yesterday agreed to hear on appeal."
Partnership provides GED via cable TV
From: www.radioiowa.com
"A public-private partnership is making it easier for Iowans without a high school diploma to prepare for the General Educational Development (G.E.D.) Tests. "
DED director seeks tax credits for flooded big businesses
From: www.radioiowa.com
"The director of Iowa's Department of Economic Development is pushing for new tax credits for large Iowa employers that were hit by this spring's flooding. "
Disaster recovery panel looks to future
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"Iowa's disaster recovery effort is shifting gears from emergency repairs to a long-term policy focus that could address simmering statewide issues such as land-use planning, affordable housing and an aging road system."
Culver -- State disaster assistance program might get federal help
From: ads.qctimes.com
"Iowa Gov. Chet Culver said Wednesday that the federal government may boost funding for a new state program to help disaster victims with housing and business recovery if demand for the program becomes too great."
Culver -- Disaster aid 'bridge' will tide state over
From: www.qctimes.com
"Gov. Chet Culver said Wednesday a $300 million package of disaster relief funding headed to Iowa, on top of disaster assistance already spent, will give the state a "bridge" to ensure aid flowing until January when the Legislature returns in session."
Lawmakers raise alarm on compensation plan changes
From: www.sj-r.com
"Proposed changes to the deferred-compensation plan for state employees have some lawmakers concerned that the revisions could damage the program."
56th District race grows heated between incumbent Paul Froehlich and challenger Anita Forte-Scott
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The race for Schaumburg's seat in the state House of Representatives has become increasingly personal, with incumbent Paul Froehlich accusing challenger Anita Forte-Scott of running a shoddy day-care center and not paying taxes."
Attorney general sues wedding photographer
From: www.chicagotribune.com
"The state attorney general's office filed a lawsuit Wednesday against a Chicago photography business that allegedly took thousands of dollars from clients but never turned over pictures and videos from their weddings."
Dem Gov. candidate to force lenders, borrower into foreclosure mediation
From: www.nwi.com
"Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson wants Indiana to emulate a court-ordered mediation program between borrowers and lenders that has helped hundreds of Philadelphia homeowners avoid foreclosure."
Campaigns debate foreclosures
From: www.journalgazette.net
"Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Jill Long Thompson on Wednesday outlined several legislative changes she would push to combat the home-foreclosures crisis in Indiana."
Long Thompson offers plan to reduce foreclosures
From: www.indystar.com
"Gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson announced a three-part plan Wednesday she said will cut down on Indiana's home foreclosures."
Candidate seeks quicker recovery of stolen funds
From: www.indystar.com
"The Republican candidate for attorney general said Wednesday that he would push for authority to recover stolen public money more quickly."
Nine received Governor arts awards, including a playwright, trumpeter and newsletter editor
From: www.kentucky.com
"When Gov. Steve Beshear was growing up in Dawson Springs, he picked up his parents' love of music and participated in school band and orchestra."
Attorney in bid-rigging case wants audiotape shelved
From: www.courier-journal.com
"Lying is a "time-honored" law enforcement technique, a U.S. attorney argued in a brief filed yesterday in a high-profile bid-rigging case."
Trucks banned from N. Ky. bridge after cracks found
From: www.courier-journal.com
"HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. -- Inspectors discovered a crack in the eastbound Interstate 275 bridge yesterday in Northern Kentucky, prompting the state Transportation Cabinet to ban truck traffic from the span, a spokesman said."
Insurance Department fields fewer calls from residents
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"The state Department of Insurance has fielded close to 2,000 hurricane-related complaint calls in the 30 days since Hurricane Gustav, roughly one-tenth of the number that poured in following hurricanes Katrina and Rita."
Legislators vow to attack high hurricane deductibles
From: www.nola.com
"Members of the House Insurance Committee promised Wednesday that changes in laws dealing with high hurricane-related policy deductibles will be addressed by lawmakers at the April legislative session, but no consensus plan has emerged."
Lawmakers, governor to slice own budgets
From: www.boston.com
"Top lawmakers pledged to snip 10 percent from the budget for the Legislature yesterday while Governor Deval Patrick vowed to trim his office budget by 7 percent, politically significant but relatively small gestures that served as a harbinger of far greater cuts."
National upheaval, local shudders
From: www.boston.com
"Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno said the city has been waiting a long time to repair sidewalks and tear down abandoned buildings in his financially beleaguered city. Now residents will have to wait a little longer."
Turnpike Authority may face demise
From: www.boston.com
"Governor Deval Patrick today will propose dismantling the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority and merging its operations into other state agencies, the first step in a long-promised overhaul of a fractured, debt-burdened transportation network, officials briefed on the plan said."
New subpoenas issued in Dixon case
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The state prosecutor's office has issued a fresh round of subpoenas seeking information about four development projects, the latest chapter in a long-running probe focused at least in part on gifts Mayor Sheila Dixon received from a developer who received tax breaks from the city."
Maryland arbitration case tops Supreme Court agenda
From: www.journalism.umd.edu
"WASHINGTON - One of the first cases the U.S. Supreme Court will hear during its October session is a Maryland one concerning whether federal courts have jurisdiction to enforce an arbitration agreement under state law."
Legislators, lawyer blast state on Dobbins
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"Legislators and the attorney for the man who built the controversial home on Little Dobbins Island are challenging the state's latest lawsuit, saying the Critical Area Commission has overstepped its authority by utilizing a new law to try and knock the house down."
Officials say state's banks able to lend
From: kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com
"The head of the state's Bureau of Financial Institutions, which oversees banks and credit unions, said Wednesday that Maine banks are able to lend money despite national upheaval in financial markets."
Maine gets handle on energy crunch
From: www.bangornews.com
"Private donations, along with additional federal dollars and expanded conservation efforts, are part of a multifaceted effort to ensure no one goes without heat this winter despite soaring energy costs, the state's top energy official said. "
Maine lobstermen instruct candidates on fishing issues
From: www.bangornews.com
"ROCKLAND, Maine — The Maine Lobstermen's Association hosted a meeting Tuesday to educate midcoast state legislative candidates on issues facing the industry."
McCain abandons his efforts to win Michigan
From: www.nytimes.com
"DENVER — Senator John McCain is giving up on his efforts to win the state of Michigan, his campaign said Thursday, in the latest sign that the faltering economy has reshaped the presidential race and cost Mr. McCain support in crucial states."
Bill would authorize street railroad company
From: www.crainsdetroit.com
"A nonprofit street railway company could be created under a package of pending legislation paving the way for a $103 million, private-sector-backed light-rail system in Detroit."
GOP wants to revamp Mich. business tax
From: www.detnews.com
"Senate Republicans intend to launch an offensive today on Michigan's 9-month-old business tax in reaction to some taxpayers who say the new levy is exorbitant, complicated and driving them out of the state -- or out of business."
Property tax plan change raises alarm
From: www.detnews.com
"A proposed state constitutional amendment that would keep property taxes from rising when home values fall is getting cheers from homeowners and jeers from schools and local governments, which worry about the loss of tax dollars."
If you think HMOs were different, just you wait
From: www.startribune.com
"Dr. Thomas Harman has been caring for some very sick patients for the past two months. Including some he's never met."
State treasurer, director say Miss. PERS is stable
From: www.sunherald.com
"Investments held by the Mississippi Public Employees Retirement System have lost more than 10 percent of their value in the turbulent financial markets the past three months."
Mississippians skeptical about plan for bailout
From: www.clarionledger.com
"As the Senate prepared to vote on a revised $700 billion bailout plan, some Mississippians were skeptical Wednesday about the bill's purpose and effect."
Revenue Department -- Drop in value of companies left Missoula short
From: www.missoulian.com
"The drop in expected value of companies such as NorthWestern Energy and Qwest Communications translated this year into less revenue for the city of Missoula, according to the Montana Department of Revenue."
Rural co-ops confident coal-fired plant will be built
From: www.greatfallstribune.com
"Rural electric cooperatives hoping to construct a coal-fired power plant east of Great Falls expressed confidence Wednesday that the project will go forward despite financing, legal and environmental challenges."
Climate change tops electric co-ops' agenda
From: www.greatfallstribune.com
"Climate change and the financial challenge it poses to producing and delivering affordable electricity to rural residents was the focus of the Montana Electric Cooperatives' Association's annual membership meeting Wednesday in Great Falls."
Official opposes raising fuel tax
From: www.billingsgazette.net
"Montana Department of Transportation Director Jim Lynch said Wednesday that he would oppose efforts to raise the federal fuel tax -- currently at 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.3 cents for diesel -- as a way to pump more money into the nation's deteriorating highway system."
State proposes certification of crane safety operators
From: www.newsobserver.com
"Operators of construction cranes would have to be certified under new safety rules proposed by state labor officials."
Missouri, Niobrara rivers get higher profile
From: www.omaha.com
"Two of Nebraska's newest national parks own little or no land."
Lynch, Kenney argue money
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"In their first face-to-face meeting as candidates, Democratic Gov. John Lynch and Republican state Sen. Joe Kenney agreed on several points yesterday.
"
State pays $140,000 to ex-nurse
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"The state has paid $140,000 to settle a lawsuit by a former nurse who said she was penalized for accusing a supervisor of sexually harassing her. The woman claimed her supervisor was jealous because he wanted to date the same man she was dating.
"
Cigarette tax increase on hold for two weeks
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"An expected 25-cent increase in New Hampshire's cigarette tax was put on hold yesterday, as state officials review recent tax receipts to see if an increase is necessary.
"
State budget could be $100 million short
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"Gov. John Lynch says New Hampshire's budget could be short $100 million by summer and he's looking at making cuts to ensure the spending plan is balanced.
"
Jersey's many South Asians encounter hurdles
From: www.nj.com
"Language difficulties and bias are hindering the ability of New Jersey's growing South Asian community to get an education, earn a paycheck, and obtain justice and health care, community activists and public officials said yesterday at a Statehouse conference."
Corzine enacts bills to bolster workers compensation program
From: www.nj.com
"Gov. Jon Corzine yesterday signed into law a package of bills designed to mend flaws in New Jersey's $1.8 billion-a-year workers compensation insurance program."
McCain's family ties to racetrack unveils sordid tale
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"A recent article in the New York Times alluded to a little-known John McCain tie to New Mexico. His father-in-law, Jim Hensley, whose Arizona beer distributorship helped bankroll the Republican presidential candidate's first congressional race, once owned Ruidoso Downs with his brother Gene Hensley. "
Utility OK'd to build one plant, buy another
From: www.lvrj.com
"State regulators on Wednesday approved changes in NV Energy's integrated resource plan, allowing the company to buy one power plant and build another one."
Foreclosures might spawn vote trickery
From: www.lvrj.com
"Nevada's skyrocketing foreclosure rate combined with its growing profile as a battleground state in next month's elections could encourage political groups to falsely challenge voters who changed addresses after losing their homes."
Political rivals agree on helping tenants in foreclosed homes
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"There's at least one issue state Sen. Bob Beers and his Democratic challenger, Allison Copening, agree on: helping renters who are victims of negligent landlords."
OSHA faults crane company in CityCenter death
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"State inspectors found that serious contractor violations contributed to two major accidents -- one fatal -- at CityCenter last year, according to new reports released this week to the Sun."
Too fast
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Nevada workplace safety regulators say a building contractor's poor safety practices and rush to finish work at Echelon on the Strip led to the death of a construction worker in June."
Attorney sues state, county to get pension restored
From: www.newsday.com
"Albert D'Agostino, the politically prominent Nassau attorney who lost a six-figure public pension after the state comptroller determined he didn't deserve one, has sued both the state and Nassau County to get the benefits back."
State environmental group grades New York lawmakers
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"A leading environmental group Wednesday credited the Legislature for approving measures to cap carbon emissions and encouraging solar power, but blamed lawmakers for blocking congestion pricing in Manhattan and nixing deposits on water and juice containers."
State discount morgage unit moves to increase interest rate
From: www.nytimes.com
"Squeezed by the tightening credit markets, a New York State agency that provides subsidized mortgages to first-time home buyers stopped offering discounted interest rates this week and started looking for new sources of funds."
Suits claim wide reach of cigarettes from tribes
From: www.nytimes.com
"He emerged from the No. 2 subway at 125th Street wearing a bright orange shirt and aviator sunglasses, with a small backpack concealing his stock in trade — tax-free Newport cigarettes. "
Ohio EPA loans Miami County $1.5M to help build sewers
From: www.daytondailynews.com
"MIAMI COUNTY, Ohio -- The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency said Tuesday, Sept. 30, that it has loaned Miami County $1.5 million interest-free to help design and build sanitary sewers.
"
Convicted Ohio GOP fundraiser denied new trial
From: www.ohio.com
"A judge has denied a request for a new trial for a former Republican fundraiser convicted of stealing from an Ohio investment fund.
"
Ohio governor creates Economic Growth Cabinet
From: www.ohio.com
"Gov. Ted Strickland has created a state cabinet that will be handed the task of creating jobs and increasing economic growth opportunities in Ohio, goals he says are the highest priorities of his administration.
"
Governor names two to horse racing commission
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Gov. Ed Rendell today named one of the state's top veterinary doctors and a horse-training specialist with international credentials to fill two open posts on the three-member Horse Racing Commission."
Grant to help crack down on illegal gambling devices
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Homestead police have received a $79,000 state grant to use in cracking down on illegal slot machines and other unsanctioned gambling devices."
South Carolina employees pay larger portion of their health-care costs
From: www.greenvilleonline.com
"Health coverage costs less in South Carolina than it does around the nation but employees here pay a larger portion of the tab, a new survey shows."
Public-private pacts on roads considered
From: chronicle.augusta.com
"COLUMBIA, S.C. -- Imagine letting a private company design, construct and operate a major road in South Carolina, in exchange for letting it keep the toll-booth revenues."
University enrollment up again in S.D.
From: www.argusleader.com
"Almost 33,000 students enrolled at South Dakota's six public universities this fall, an increase of almost 2.5 percent that marks the 11th year of growth in the system, Board of Regents figures show."
New TN rules call for charges on records search
From: www.knoxnews.com
"Government officials in Tennessee will be able to charge people asking for public records when it takes more than an hour of staff time to fulfill the request.
"
State bank examiner gets judicial diversion
From: www.knoxnews.com
"ATHENS, Tenn. - A state bank examiner charged with attempting to bribe an Athens business has been granted judicial diversion.
"
State to improve intercity bus service
From: www.tennessean.com
"Officials on Wednesday announced a $3.6 million grant from the Federal Transit Agency to help with the project.
"
Millions for Tenn. projects in budget bill
From: www.tennessean.com
"WASHINGTON -- More than $264 million in projects for Tennessee are included in a budget bill signed by President Bush this week.
"
Uninsured Texas drivers warned of expanded verification program
From: www.dallasnews.com
"Texas' one in four drivers without insurance were put on notice Thursday that it will now be more difficult to avoid detection – and a ticket."
Texas Coalition for a Competitive Workforce calls for tougher school standards
From: www.dallasnews.com
"A coalition of business and research groups announced Thursday that it will push for more emphasis on career and college readiness in public schools, including tougher performance standards for schools."
Rights group investigates T. Don Hutto immigrant detention center
From: www.statesman.com
"A delegation of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights was in Austin on Wednesday on a fact-finding mission on the treatment of immigrant families and asylum seekers at the T. Don Hutto detention center in Taylor and other Texas facilities."
FW firm pledges part of lawsuit proceeds to UT
From: www.dallasnews.com
"A lawsuit Moncrief Oil International has filed over its interests in one of Russia's largest natural gas fields could benefit the University of Texas."
Too many evacuees taken to Tyler during Hurricane Ike
From: www.dallasnews.com
"TYLER, Texas – As Hurricane Ike blew through Texas, a different kind of storm was brewing inside an old Wal-Mart hastily converted into a shelter for evacuees. "
Biden, Palin trade jabs on economy, war, energy
From: www.npr.org
"The vice presidential candidates dueled in a highly anticipated, fast-paced and wide-ranging matchup Thursday night. In the end, both candidates met or exceeded expectations."
Nine states, Canadian province sue EPA over pollution
From: www.bloomberg.com
"Nine states including New York, Illinois and Michigan joined the Canadian province of Manitoba in suing the Environmental Protection Agency for allegedly diluting U.S. Clean Water Act protections of waterways and drinking water. "
Biden, Palin clash on taxes, Iraq in sharp-edged debate
From: online.wsj.com
"ST. LOUIS -- A confident, folksy Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin attacked the Democratic presidential ticket Thursday over tax hikes and partisanship, holding her own against her vice-presidential rival, Delaware Sen. Joe Biden."
Financial chaos threatens to besiege universities
From: www.boston.com
"Amid a deepening financial crisis that has sapped college endowments, college and university officials are grappling with the growing fear that the Wall Street turmoil could cast a shadow over nearly all their operations."
One-year ban on oil shale regulations expires
From: www.casperstartribune.com
"GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. -- Time has run out on a congressional ban on issuing final regulations for oil shale development in Colorado, Wyoming and Utah."
Rendell, Corzine order cuts in trying times
From: www.philly.com
"The epicenter of the nation's financial crisis is on Wall Street, but officials are bracing for aftershocks in Trenton and Harrisburg. Facing the prospects of high-income residents losing their jobs, declining tax revenues and increased demands on unemployment funds, Govs. Rendell and Corzine have already sought to trim spending in Pennsylvania and New Jersey to head off deficits."
No easy ride for bike programs
From: www.usatoday.com
"From New York City to San Francisco, cities across the country intent on getting greener through bicycle programs are finding a difficult road ahead of them."
Bank limits fund access by colleges, inciting fears
From: www.nytimes.com
"In a move suggesting how the credit crisis could disrupt American higher education, Wachovia Bank has limited the access of nearly 1,000 colleges to $9.3 billion the bank has held for them in a short-term investment fund, raising worries on some campuses about meeting payrolls and other obligations."
Ethics -- One lawmaker accused of bribe, another of giving media false info
From: www.sltrib.com
"Dueling ethics complaints were filed Wednesday, one accusing Rep. Greg Hughes of a pattern of unethical behavior, including offering a bribe, the other filed by Hughes himself, seeking to clear his name and accusing another member of leaking false information to the news media."
Utah to increase HEAT cash
From: www.sltrib.com
"Utah's HEAT program, which helps low-income residents with their energy bills, will begin accepting applications Nov. 3 and may have more funds available this year. "
Utah almost last for fed cash
From: www.sltrib.com
"A new census report on federal spending shows that Utah remains near the bottom on per-capita spending. The Consolidated Federal Funds Report, released today, said Utah received $6,486 in federal funds per resident, which is the second lowest. Nevada came in last at $6,032."
More road projects on chopping block in Va.
From: www.washingtonpost.com
"Just months after slashing $1.1 billion in road and transit projects from the state's six-year transportation spending plan, Virginia officials say the state's fiscal situation is so bad that they will have to hold a special meeting to cut even more projects. "
College fund frozen
From: burlingtonfreepress.com
"The national turmoil in credit and banking industries has trickled down to Vermont's institutions of higher education.
"
Panel -- Vt. can borrow more than thought
From: www.timesargus.com
"A financial advisory committee says the state of Vermont can afford to borrow $10 million more for capital projects than originally recommended."
Gregoire, Rossi talk economy in Yakima debate
From: www.theolympian.com
"YAKIMA, Wash. -- Democratic Gov. Chris Gregoire and Republican challenger Dino Rossi took their gubernatorial race east of the Cascades into Washington farm country Wednesday night, with immigration, energy and water among the issues in their debate. But the flagging economy was the first topic."
Governor skeptical about bailout plan
From: www.wrn.com
"The Governor says he understands the apprehension over a proposed federal bailout for Wall Street. "
State funds bike projects
From: www.wrn.com
"The governors's office has announced nearly $17 million, for 47 transportation projects, many of them bike routes. "
Foreclosures in southeastern Wisconsin jump 18% in September
From: www.jsonline.com
"Foreclosures in September jumped almost 18% from the previous month in southeastern Wisconsin as the housing slump continued to take its toll."
Business, healthcare groups band together to promote W.Va. health care reform
From: www.dailymail.com
"A group of businesses and healthcare groups are joining forces to help make health care more accessible and affordable in West Virginia.
"
County bars could lose liquor license
From: www.wvgazettemail.com
"State Alcohol Beverage Control Administration Commissioner Dallas Staples put Kanawha County bars and gambling parlors on notice Wednesday: They could lose their liquor licenses, if convicted of violating the county's expanded smoking ban.
"
WORTH NOTING: Idaho kids get a new state history book
From: www.stateline.org
"
Idaho’s first lady publishes “Ida Visits the Capitol.” Wine drinkers have mixed feelings about a syrah named Palin. And Marylanders are urged to take a walk after eating the state cake. In case you missed those stories this week, “Worth Noting” fills you in.
"
State workers face bleak budget picture
From: www.stateline.org
"The economic downturn has hit states hard, and among those feeling the effects are state employees, who are retiring before they wanted to, being asked to take unpaid days off, and in an estimated 7,000 cases, have been laid off."
At high court, states' authority in question
From: www.stateline.org
"The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday (Oct. 6) begins a new term that so far lacks the controversy of last term’s politically explosive cases on gun control, the death penalty and voter-identification laws, but that still is grabbing the attention of states."
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."
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."
States act to cushion Wall Street meltdown
From: www.stateline.org
"
Cascading economic problems flowing from the crisis on Wall Street are forcing states to urgently redraw their financial blueprints for the rest of this year and next to cushion the impact of the credit squeeze, staggering paper losses for millions of ordinary Americans and soaring energy prices."
Several AG contests still tight
From: www.stateline.org
"
As their campaigns wind down to the wire candidates for attorney general in 11 states vie for attention in the flurry of higher-profile contests for president, Congress and governor. “Out There” once more rates how vulnerable the parties in control are."
Medicaid rolls, spending up in bleak economy
From: www.stateline.org
"After two years of flat Medicaid enrollment — the same two years which also saw the smallest spending increases for the federal-state health insurance program for the poor — the failing economy has led to a dramatic growth both in enrollment and spending, according to a new report."
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.
"
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."
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."
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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