Weekly wrap: Taxpayers in 29 states hit with hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new report shows 29 states raised taxes or fees this year, generating an estimated $23.9 billion. Meanwhile, projections released this week show Arizona and Iowa headed on very different paths to economic recovery. And the upcoming Republican primary for Texas governor could be seen as a gift for the Democratic Party.
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NY: Hevesi linked to pay-to-play as Broidy admits guilt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California money manager Elliott Broidy on Thursday admitted to making nearly $1 million in gifts to benefit four former top officials in the office that oversees New York state's pension fund, including onetime state comptroller Alan Hevesi, according to people familiar with the matter.
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AL: Navy reveals cost of LCS contract awarded seven months ago
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- A second littoral combat ship to be built at Austal USA's shipyard in Mobile will cost at least $547.7 million, according to figures released this morning.
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AL: Two senators say move ahead on tanker, even if Northrop drops out
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Air Force should move forward with its plan to buy new refueling tankers with or without Northrop Grumman Corp. as a bidder on the potential $40 billion contract, a pair of U.S. senators said Thursday.
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AL: Riley backs off no-bid contract policy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bob Riley is backing off an October announcement by his administration that it would no longer approve contracts that weren't bid.
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AL: I-20 blasting in St. Clair County scheduled tonight, but none planned during weekend
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alabama transportation officials say blasting for the widening of Interstate 20 in St. Clair County is scheduled tonight between 7:30 and 9, but there will be no blasting or planned traffic delays on the interstate this weekend.
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AL: New electronic bingo machines displayed at Fairfield City Hall
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Proponents of electronic bingo in Fairfield today displayed new machines they say will comply with guidelines handed down by the Alabama Supreme Court.
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AR: Obama declares 37 Arkansas counties federal disaster areas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Obama has declared 37 Arkansas counties federal disaster areas because of damage from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that began Oct. 29, Gov. Mike Beebe's office announced today.
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AR: Arkansas home sales up in October
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Home sales in Arkansas improved in October from the same month a year ago for just the third time in 45 months, according to a report today from the Arkansas Realtors Association.
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AZ: Arizona, feds target home loan schemes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona's top prosecutor is partnering with federal regulators to stop more loan-modification scams aimed at struggling homeowners.
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AZ: Supreme Court won't hear water fund sweep challenge
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the moment, the state Legislature can count out one of the many lawsuits it faces, as the Arizona Supreme Court will not hear a challenge to the sweeping of millions of dollars from a fund used to carry out a multi-state water-rights agreement.
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AZ: Pension funds rethink strategies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The plans that fund the retirements of state and municipal workers continue to struggle in an uncertain economy and could take years to fully recover.
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AZ: Rivals attack Brewer's payday lending stand
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Current and potential political foes of Gov. Jan Brewer are blasting efforts to keep the payday loan industry alive.
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CA: PG&E moves to add energy from wind, space
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two developments Thursday will help Pacific Gas and Electric Co. deliver energy from the atmosphere and, possibly, near-Earth orbit.
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CA: California high-speed rail route through Pacheco Pass could be adjusted
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Plans to bring bullet trains into the Bay Area over Pacheco Pass and through San Jose will be opened up for more study to comply with a court ruling.
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CA: Another California ex-lawmaker becomes lobbyist
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former Democratic state Sen. Mike Machado has registered as a lobbyist for Sacramento Advocates.
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CO: Make health reform a faith issue, Boston pastor tells Coloradans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Boston pastor who helped pass health care reform in Massachusetts encouraged Colorado activists Thursday to win over the state's conservative-leaning clergy with the "moral argument" that everyone deserves health care.
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CO: State attorneys argue that political-contribution limits can be constitutional
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A law making it harder for unions and government contractors to give political contributions should be clarified, not struck down, state attorneys told the Colorado Supreme Court on Thursday while defending Amendment 54.
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CO: Praising McInnis, FOX's Cavuto riles Colo Tea Parties, gives Maes a boost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Who says the GOP gubernatorial primary is over?
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CT: Legislators vow to defend school funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMDEN, Conn. -- State legislators are going to have to renew their efforts to maintain funding for the Wintergreen Interdistrict Magnet School.
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CT: Panel looks for ways to cut aid to municipalities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A 14-member panel of legislators, mayors and state leaders convened Thursday, tasked with identifying $84 million worth of mid-year cuts in state aid to municipalities proposed by Gov. M. Jodi Rell.
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CT: Housing market shows slight improvements
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hartford's housing market, which averted some of the steepest declines of other regions, is showing signs of improvement but the pace of sales in October did not improve nearly as much as in the state as a whole, a new report shows.
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CT: Municipal leaders on panel disagree on how to reduce Connecticut's budget deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After concurring that the state's priority is to close its projected budget gap of nearly $550 million, a panel of town and city leaders Thursday immediately disagreed about whether the best strategy to accomplish that is through spending cuts, mandate relief or new taxes.
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DE: Joblessness plagues Delaware economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One year into his search for a job, New Castle resident Terrance Dendy says state and federal governments need to do something -- anything -- to get people back to work.
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DE: Delaware now requires in-store recycling bins
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Betty Ronston finally got tired of those plastic grocery bags that have a way of piling up in storage drawers or kitchen closets.
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FL: Mortgage rates hit rock bottom
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Mortgage interest rates have dropped to an all-time low, which experts say could cheer the depressed South Florida housing market.
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FL: FAMU mulls furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Florida A&M University's chief financial officer completed her overview Thursday of the university's budget outlook for the next four years, a silence filled the ballroom where the trustees' meeting was being held.
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FL: Class sizes grow amid state's fiscal woe
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ORLANDO, Fla. -- Class sizes in Florida's public schools crept upward this year for the first time since 2002, a reversal fueled by Florida's worsening budget crisis.
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FL: SunRail vexes foes of federal stimulus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The special session launched Thursday to back commuter rail has put Republican lawmakers and Gov. Charlie Crist in something of a political fix as they defend their rush to pull down $3 billion in federal stimulus funding for rail projects.
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FL: Hedge funds sank $775 millions into Rothstein scheme
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Wealthy Fort Lauderdale investor George Levin and his Banyon hedge funds sank $775 million into Scott Rothstein's legal-settlement deals -- accounting for most of the money sucked into the lawyer's massive Ponzi scheme, court records show.
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FL: Boss -- FPL's image has suffered
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Florida Power & Light chief Armando Olivera said Thursday that he was embarrassed to learn earlier this year that his top officials sent personal Blackberry messages and socialized with staff at the Public Service Commission, tarnishing the company's image as it awaits a ruling on its $1.3 billion rate increase request.
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FL: Rail plan on shaky ground
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A special lawmaking session on passenger rail projects opened Thursday with a Republican senator abandoning his support and critics firing off objections that could foreshadow more political trouble ahead.
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FL: Tamiami Trail bridge will be milestone for Everglades restoration
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When completed in 1928, the Tamiami Trail was hailed as an engineering milestone, a narrow stretch of blacktop that took 13 years and 2.6 million sticks of dynamite to carve out of forbidding swamp.
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GA: Gordon a county divided over property taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CALHOUN, Ga. -- As Gordon County leaders prepare to send the county tax digest for state approval, some residents challenge that new property values aren't accurate.
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GA: Richardson out, Burkhalter will be speaker
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Speaker Glenn Richardson announced Thursday that he will resign Jan. 1, nearly a month after trying to kill himself and four days after his ex-wife told the world he had cheated on her with a lobbyist.
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GA: 32% of Georgia residents lack access to banking
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly a third of Georgians have no, or limited access, to banking services, according to a survey by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and the U.S. Census Bureau.
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GA: Oxendine to Ga. insurers -- Keep covering mammograms
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine is warning health insurance companies in Georgia to continue covering mammogram screenings for breast cancer.
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GA: Burkhalter champions tax cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Mark Burkhalter, who will take over as speaker of the Georgia House in January, is the kind of legislator who has seldom seen a tax cut he doesn't like.
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HI: Gun registrations in Hawaii on record pace
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hawai'i residents have registered guns at a record pace for each of the past four years, and appear headed for a new high again this year, preliminary figures show.
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HI: Kid-care aid cut delay urged
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. John Mizuno wants the state Department of Human Services to delay carrying out proposed changes in state child-care subsidies until May 2011.
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IA: UI gets $2.25M health grant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Iowa will be a training ground for a new generation of women's reproductive health researchers through a new grant that took effect this fall.
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IA: Ternus -- Iowa's financial woes hit court system disproportionately
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Marsha Ternus said Thursday the state's financial problems are taking "a disproportionate toll" on Iowa's court system.
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IA: Geoffroy says ISU may have to downsize
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa State University President Greg Geoffroy says ISU will probably be required to eliminate some of its departments and programs to meet its long-term budget goals.
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IA: GOP leader -- Culver cuts will raise property taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Republican Leader Kraig Paulsen, Hiawatha, charged Gov. Chet Culver's cut in aid to schools will result in a property tax increase possibly greater than a half billion dollars.
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IA: Iowa state employees -- Layoffs, cuts predicted
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Iowa Legislature won't tamper with health care benefits for state workers in the 2010 session, but lawmakers say they intend to cut spending in all departments.
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IA: Cash infusion sought for IPERS
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's largest public employees' pension fund has rebounded sharply with the stock market's upturn, but officials still want to increase contributions from taxpayers and government employees to shore up the fund's finances.
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IA: Lawmakers say mental institutions may close
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A tight budget may force closure of a state facility for the mentally ill or for the mentally retarded, but only if residents would be well cared for in other settings, two state lawmakers said Thursday.
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ID: Idaho Power looks at alternate Ore. line route
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PENDLETON, Ore. — A utility in Idaho may route a transmission line through south-central Oregon rather than along the Interstate 84 corridor.
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ID: Counties, state study regional jails in Idaho
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A regional jail is not an immediate solution to the inmate-crowding crunch in Canyon County, where two jail-bond elections in three years have failed to draw the needed two-thirds majority from voters.
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IL: States cast for way to stop carp
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ROMEOVILLE, Ill. -- A decades-long battle to stop the northern migration of a voracious, invasive fish that can leap eight feet out of the water and batter boaters with enough force to break bones has come down to a six-mile stretch of muddy brown water here.
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IL: CME signs up Wall Street heavy hitters for swaps clearing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CME Group Inc., the world's largest derivatives exchange, said on Thursday it plans to launch a clearing house for the $26 trillion credit default swap market by Dec. 15 and has signed eight of the largest credit derivative dealers to the service.
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IL: SIUC -- No layoffs yet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CARBONDALE, Ill. -- While SIU President Glenn Poshard has said layoffs and furloughs would be a last resort, the employees who could be first on the chopping block, should it come to that, are those without union representation.
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IL: State uses eBay to sell items left in safe deposit boxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Every year, banks turn over dozens of unclaimed safe deposit boxes to the Illinois State Treasurer's Office.
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IL: State shuts down Sammy's Sports Bar until back taxes get paid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A popular downtown sports bar is closed, at least temporarily, after state revenue officials say they took the unusual step of ordering the business shut down until back sales and employee-withholding taxes are paid.
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IL: Community colleges could lose half of state funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a troubled economy where rising unemployment is forcing throngs of jobseekers to return to school, community colleges offer a beacon of hope as a low-cost educational alternative.
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IL: Suburban homeless population grows; shelter crunch worsens
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's a lagging economic indicator of the harshest kind. Even as the recession begins to wane, a growing suburban homeless population may be facing a long, cold winter, with little or no room at local emergency shelters.
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IL: I-PASS users face extra charge
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the second time in two years, it's I-PASS versus i-Zoom. Starting Jan. 1, motorists who use Illinois Tollway I-PASS transponders on the Indiana Toll Road will be paying a little more -- 3 cents per toll -- for the privilege.
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IN: Agreement may close door on Indianapolis homebuilder
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hansen & Horn's 32-year history of building homes could come to an end under an agreement to allow a court-appointed receiver to take control of the company.
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IN: Daniels to update revenue picture
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels plans to give an update on the state's financial picture by announcing how much Indiana state government got in tax collections in November.
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KS: Democratic candidate for Kansas governor was part of multimillion-dollar lawsuit that alleged securities fraud
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thomas Wiggans, who recently returned to Kansas and is running as a Democrat for governor, was part of a $12.75 million settlement in a lawsuit that alleged securities fraud against the company he led.
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KS: Kansas in education competition for up to $175 million in federal funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Kansas hacks away at public school funding, it is also in a fierce competition with other states for a slice of a $4.35 billion federal grant called "Race to the Top."
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KS: Citing budget cuts, state suspends hotel safety and sanitation inspections
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State safety and sanitation inspections of hotels, motels and other overnight lodging operations will be suspended because of budget cuts, officials reported Thursday.
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KS: Kansas governor hopeful's firm settled fraud lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas Democrats' presumed nominee for governor was a defendant in a federal lawsuit alleging he and his former pharmaceutical company misled investors, a case recently settled for almost $12.8 million.
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KY: Official sought to help coal interests
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The second-ranking official of the state Energy and Environment Cabinet recommended late last year that "the coal interests" be accommodated by reinstating a mine permit policy that had been rescinded as illegal.
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KY: Report -- Vendors selling less tobacco to minors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state survey shows that Kentucky vendors are complying in record numbers with a state law barring tobacco sales to minors.
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KY: Slumping thoroughbred industry major factor in lower ag receipts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An estimated 31 percent drop in revenues from horse sales and stud fees this year knocked Kentucky's horse industry from a 10-year reign atop the state's farm economy.
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LA: Jindal eyes privatizing workers' health plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Jindal administration is considering the privatization of more of the state's employee health-insurance program operations.
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MA: State warns on oversight of The Ride funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The MBTA program that provides bus and van service to disabled people did not keep close enough track of the payments it made to transportation contractors for gasoline, the state auditor's office said yesterday.
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MD: O'Malley plans to limit oyster harvest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE, Md. -- To praise from environmentalists and complaints from watermen, Gov. Martin O'Malley outlined plans Thursday to restore the Chesapeake Bay's depleted oysters by prohibiting commercial harvests in large portions of the bay while leasing other areas for aquaculture.
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MD: O'Malley proposes expanded oyster sanctuary
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maryland plans to dramatically increase the area of the Chesapeake Bay that is closed to oyster harvests, Gov. Martin O'Malley said Thursday, offering an expanded foothold to an iconic species that has dropped to 1 percent of its peak population.
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MD: Ethics concerns cloud council slots vote
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The odds for a casino in Anne Arundel County just got longer.
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MD: Franchot touts tax break for military spouses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maryland's comptroller is calling attention to a tax break that could be available to military spouses.
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MD: Relief sought for utility ratepayers O'Malley, doubtful of chances for re-regulation, looks for options
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Martin O'Malley is skeptical he can get the General Assembly to allow some re-regulation of the utility industry when the legislature meets for the 2010 session.
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ME: Roads funding at a dead end
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Roads and bridges in Maine won't get the repairs they need due to a lack of funding -- a problem that is not expected to get better any time soon, state and national transportation officials said Thursday.
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ME: Maine floats changes to special education standards
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BANGOR, Maine — The state Department of Education has introduced a set of proposed rule changes designed to bring Maine's special education guidelines in line with federal standards, ensure more statewide uniformity and perhaps save money in the process.
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ME: Unified vision eludes energy corridor panel
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tensions between Maine and Canada over proposed LNG facilities in Passamaquoddy Bay once again have spilled over into efforts to develop regulations for potentially lucrative lease agreements between the state and energy companies.
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MI: Michigan had highest drop as first-time unemployment claims fall for second week
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan had the nation's largest decrease in initial claims for unemployment benefits as state officials cited fewer layoffs in the automotive industry, the U.S. Labor Department said Thursday.
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MI: Southwest Michigan fishermen fear Asian carp could decimate industry
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. -- Local fishermen are waiting intently to learn whether Asian carp, which could wreak havoc on the fishing industry, have migrated to the Great Lakes.
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MI: Senate approves tax credit for proposed Muskegon Township battery plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MUSKEGON COUNTY, Mich. -- The Michigan Senate Thursday overwhelmingly passed a special $100 million tax credit, leaving final action for next week that would pave the way for a 745-job battery plant in Muskegon Township.
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MI: In D.C., Granholm pushes for help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- With President Barack Obama's jobs forum set for this afternoon, Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm is in the nation's capital, pushing legislation that will provide more funding for infrastructure projects, write new tax policies to promote reuse of shuttered factories and create avenues for small businesses to get access to loans.
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MI: Secretary of State to merge more outlets
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Secretary of State Office will merge offices throughout the state after more people have turned to the Internet for the department's services.
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MI: Stakes are high for some in carp fight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Benton Harbor charter boat captain Russ Clark has taken clients on the St. Joseph River to chase steelhead and salmon for roughly a quarter century. Business has been good. He'd like it to continue.
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MI: Archer draws aim on carp
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hunting guide takes clients bowfishing for the leaping species.
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MN: $1.2 billion state deficit? No problem, say Vikings stadium proponents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A few dozen hardy fans braved the first serious winter chill of the season Thursday to rally on the steps of the state Capitol for a new Minnesota Vikings stadium.
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MN: Hard time not likely to be easy on Petters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- Where will Tom Petters live out his days behind bars? Sentry will decide.
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MO: Memo contradicts Forsee's cap-and-trade argument
From: feeds.stateline.org
"University of Missouri System President Gary Forsee's recent letter to lawmakers opposing cap-and-trade legislation sparked both criticism and praise and drew national attention, but at the end of the day, the letter was based on inaccurate assumptions, according to a congressman's memo.
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MO: Gov. Jay Nixon joins with members of both parties to push for autism insurance bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a rare display of bipartisanship on the eve of an election year, a group of Republican and Democratic lawmakers joined Gov. Jay Nixon on Thursday to ramp up pressure on the Legislature to pass an autism insurance bill next year.
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MS: Barbour trims budget more
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Haley Barbour made another round of painful cuts in state spending on Thursday, this time trimming $54.3 million from the state's $6 billion budget for the 2010 fiscal year, on top of the $170 million in cuts he made in September.
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MS: Entergy Miss. closer to upgrade at Port Gibson nuclear plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mississippi soon could become home to the largest single-unit nuclear power plant in the nation.
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MS: FEMA -- USM owed $2.5M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Federal Emergency Management Agency has sided with the University of Southern Mississippi's claim that it is owed $2.5 million in Hurricane Katrina damages.
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MT: Recession recovery will take time, speakers tell Montana taxpayers group
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's going to take a while for Montana's economy to recover from the recession and even when it turns around, the growth rate will be slow, speakers told the Montana Taxpayers Association's annual meeting Thursday.
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MT: Bad census info hurt Montana, official says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montana lost a potential $43.2 million in federal money because more than 14,000 people weren't counted in the 2000 census, a state official told the Montana Taxpayers Association on Thursday.
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MT: State FWP to Molloy -- Wolves are recovered, should be delisted
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks claims wolves are recovered sufficiently to be delisted from the federal Endangered Species Act.
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NC: N.C. clears way for alcohol on floor of Cherokee casino
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state attorney's opinion appears to clear the way for Harrah's Cherokee Casino to serve alcohol to players on the casino floor.
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NC: Tony Rand faces sharp questions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Sen. Tony Rand was re-elected to the Law Enforcement Associates board Thursday during an annual shareholders meeting where he was asked pointed questions about the solvency of the company and how itplans to handle accusations of misconduct made by LEA's former president.
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NC: Verizon, DMV settle dispute
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Division of Motor Vehicles has settled a dispute with Verizon Business over hundreds of unused emissions inspection computers that were bought but never delivered.
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NE: Neb. towns get storm repair help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four Nebraska communities will receive $187,000 to help them evaluate and repair damage caused by storms in May and June of 2008.
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NH: NH foreclosures hit record level
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New figures from the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority say a record number of state homeowners fell behind on their mortgages in recent months.
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NH: FairPoint asks for a hold on rebates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FairPoint Communications has filed a court motion asking that it not be forced to give Maine customers rebates because of its poor service as the company works through bankruptcy.
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NH: Firms were Ponzi fronts, lawyer says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two Lakes Region investment companies that closed abruptly last month were fronts for a massive Ponzi scheme that may have cost investors as much as $100 million, a lawyer for the trustee overseeing the companies' bankruptcy told a federal judge yesterday.
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NJ: N.J. borrowing grew by 700 percent over past two decades
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey taxpayers are awash in debt thanks to the spending habits of Trenton politicians — and voters themselves — who have driven up state borrowing by nearly 700 percent over the last two decades.
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NJ: Port Authority of NY, NJ to cut 150 jobs in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW YORK — The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's 2010 preliminary budget calls for 150 job cuts and investing $3.1 billion on capital projects including the World Trade Center.
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NJ: Proposed N.J. bill would use trust funds to fix potholes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fixing potholes that pop tires on New Jersey's busy highways shouldn't be covered by the state's dwindling operating expenses, lawmakers said Thursday
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NJ: N.J. AG recommends banning doctors from accepting medical company freebies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tighter controls on potential conflicts of interest between doctors, drug companies and medical-device manufacturers were recommended in a report Thursday by New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram.
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NM: State seeks input on revamp of Medicaid program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the state looks for ways to streamline Medicaid costs, it will hold several public meetings around the state to gather input on new concepts for the program.
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NM: State revenues projected to drop $53 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Mexico's revenue outlook is getting worse as the economy sputters, aggravating the state's budget problems.
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NV: Gibbons opposes health care reform bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Saying Sen. Harry Reid's health care reform bill would cost Nevadans more than a half billion dollars, Gov. Jim Gibbons Thursday urged the rest of Nevada's congressional delegation to vote against it.
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NV: Governor's office asks for impact of additional cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons has asked his agencies to spell out what they would do to cut another 1.4 or 3 percent from their budgets.
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NV: AG says any Station Casinos trustee must be licensed by gaming regulators
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto and gaming regulators are intervening in the Station Casinos Inc. bankruptcy case, demanding that if a trustee is appointed that the trustee be licensed by state casino regulators.
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NV: Nevada expands high-risk group for vaccine
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State health officials are expanding the high-risk group to receive priority for the swine flu vaccine.
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NV: Chronic offenses may close facility
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State health authorities are revoking the license of Chancellor Gardens of the Lakes after a third investigation in two months revealed that residents were still not receiving proper medications.
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NY: Pension plan cuts costs, helps unions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New York's new public worker pension plan is being described as both landmark reform that will save taxpayers billions and the latest gift to powerful state employee unions.
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NY: L.A. venture capitalist pleads guilty
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Los Angeles venture capitalist and philanthropist Elliott Broidy pleaded guilty Thursday to charges that he paid $1 million in gifts to New York public pension officials to win $250 million in investment capital for his private equity fund.
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NY: Court bars taking land for Columbia campus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A New York appeals court ruled Thursday that the state could not use eminent domain on behalf of Columbia University to obtain parts of a 17-acre site in Upper Manhattan, setting back plans for a satellite campus at a time of discord over government power to acquire property.
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NY: Struggle looms if funds withheld
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. David Paterson's plan to close the remaining state budget gap by withholding local aid funds could land him in court facing off against plaintiffs, including the Legislature.
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NY: Mass. health advocates fight alcohol tax question
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public health and addiction treatment advocates are vowing to fight a proposed ballot question that would roll back the state's new sales tax on alcohol sold in stores.
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OH: BGSU trustees approve buyout program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BOWLING GREEN, Ohio -- The Bowling Green State University Board of Trustees on Thursday unanimously approved a buyout-style program that will save the university at least $5 million.
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OH: Local plant poised to get $20M grant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $20 million federal grant toward development of a $25 million biorefinery near the University of Toledo's Health Science Campus in South Toledo will be announced during a news conference this morning.
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OH: Ohio stimulus plan gives rebates on new appliances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio will use $11 million federal stimulus money to provide rebates to people who buy energy efficient appliances for their homes.
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OH: Cincinnati wants first Ohio casino
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Casino developer Dan Gilbert has said he's considering a 300,000-square-foot casino, with two or three stories, on which he hopes to break ground in November.
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OH: Consumers might not like changes FirstEnergy is planning
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Consumers' electric rates could be adjusted annually -- or almost immediately in the case of storms and fuel price increases --in a scenario that FirstEnergy Corp. presented to analysts Thursday.
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OH: AmTrust Financial attorneys talk about possibility of selling bank
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLEVELAND -- Attorneys for AmTrust Financial Corp. talked candidly Thursday about planning for the day that the struggling bank is sold.
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OH: All-day kindergarten in doubt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cash-strapped school districts might get out of a new state requirement to offer all-day kindergarten.
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OK: Health agency reduces services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Oklahoma State Department of Health has reduced nurses at county health departments, cut dental services and cut back on jail inspections, a House panel was told Thursday.
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OK: Rep. Randy Terrill pushes plan to defer state employees' pay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House member is pushing a plan that would allow state employees to voluntarily defer their pay rather than take unpaid furlough days.
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OK: H1N1 releases hold on Oklahoma
From: feeds.stateline.org
"No swine flu deaths were reported last week to Oklahoma health officials, who said the state has moved from widespread to regional influenza activity.
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OK: Loan scammers hide behind 405 area code
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bad credit? No credit? Offers abound to help individuals get loans or credit cards, even with less-than-perfect credit history.
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OK: Regents approve new OU nursing degree
From: feeds.stateline.org
"EDMOND, Okla. — State Regents for Higher Education on Thursday gave approval for a new doctor of nursing practice degree at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.
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OR: Scaled-back plan for I-5 bridge replacement gets airing Friday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Don't expect a "no" vote when key government officials -- including the mayors of Portland and Vancouver -- assess the tweaked Columbia River Crossing project.
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OR: Idaho utility may route line through south-central Oregon
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PENDLETON, Ore. -- A utility in Idaho may route a transmission line through south-central Oregon rather than along the Interstate 84 corridor.
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PA: Pa. auditor urges end to interest-rate swaps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner urged the Delaware River Port Authority yesterday to ban the use of exotic financial instruments known as "interest-rate swaps."
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PA: Pennsylvania revenue chief may testify in legislative corruption investigation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A member of Gov. Ed Rendell's Cabinet received a letter from prosecutors inviting him to testify before the grand jury investigating possible legislative corruption, the governor said Thursday.
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PA: Arguments to begin ex-lawmaker's trial
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Opening arguments are scheduled to begin today in the trial of former Rep. Sean Ramaley, where two seasoned trial lawyers from McCandless will argue against each other before a jury of six men and six women.
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PA: House leadership invited to testify to grand jury
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A statewide grand jury has invited the state House majority leader, the man he displaced in that job and the state secretary of revenue to appear before the panel, a move that has presaged charges against others who received such letters in an ongoing corruption probe.
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RI: Seize the breeze -- Carcieri urges speed in development of offshore wind projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BOSTON –– Governor Carcieri is urging an acceleration in the development of the nation's offshore wind resources.
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SC: Tradition trumps Sanfords' marriage woes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In her first public appearance in the capital city since her husband, Gov. Mark Sanford, admitted to an affair with an Argentine woman, the first lady greeted a steady stream of South Carolinians who had come to check out the mansion's wreaths, Christmas trees and lights.
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SC: Mercedes move may boost Upstate auto suppliers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Upstate automotive parts manufacturers heard some good news from Germany, but this time it didn't come from Munich, the home of BMW.
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SC: App outreach
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The College of Charleston has launched what the school said is the nation's first interactive, self-guided university tour application for the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch.
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SD: Budget plan cuts, caps S.D. spending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Sen. Scott Heidepriem unveiled his budget proposals Thursday, calling for a cap on state spending and across-the-board cuts to every department and agency of state government.
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TN: TN opens health plan for adults to sickest children
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Amid controversy about the state's decision to cut off enrollment for a health insurance plan for low-income children, Tennessee expanded another program Thursday to give the sickest children an alternative.
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TN: Tennessee Channel starts Saturday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public television stations from across Tennessee, including local WTCI-TV 45, will begin airing local shows statewide.
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TN: Appliance stimulus slowly heating up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Homeowners in Tennessee and Georgia wanting to buy new, energy-efficient appliances will get some help from Uncle Sam next year.
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TX: Mitchell moving Aggies to center of cosmos
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Today's dedication of two new physics buildings at Texas A&M University represents something of a renaissance for physics in Texas.
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TX: Medical school is ultimate goal, UT System official says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A plan to expand medical education and research in Austin through a partnership involving the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas and the Seton Family of Hospitals is an important step toward establishing a medical school, a senior UT System official said Thursday.
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TX: The doctor is in ... eventually
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State health officials are considering lifting a requirement that Texas emergency rooms have a physician on-site at all times — as long as a doctor can get there within 30 minutes.
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UT: AG's office appeals dismissal of case against teen who paid man to induce a miscarriage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Uintah County Attorney's Office and Utah Attorney General's Office have appealed a judge's decision to throw out the case against a teenager charged with hiring a man to beat her up so she would miscarry her unborn child.
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UT: TRAX turns 10 -- UTA move to rail line seems to have grown on residents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Barbara Toomer never dodges a fight with the Utah Transit Authority when fares and access to the disabled are at stake.
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UT: State senator proposes opening freeway express lanes in off-hours
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It makes little sense for Utah to restrict access to its freeway express lanes in times other than the morning and evening jams that they were designed to bypass, one lawmaker believes.
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VA: Va. uranium mining study could start this winter
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A study of the safety of uranium mining in Virginia should start this winter and be finished in two years, legislators say.
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VA: McDonnell adds five to administration's team
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell, at least temporarily, will keep the state's top financial official in his new administration, hoping for some continuity as he manages in difficult economic times.
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VA: Va., Md. governors ask U.S. for $365 million to help in cleaning Chesapeake Bay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The governors of Virginia and Maryland are asking the federal government for $365 million next year to restore the Chesapeake Bay.
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VA: Road priorities 2.0: Officials want to tweak computer rankings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHESAPEAKE, Va. -- Area transportation leaders want to overhaul a new computer ranking system designed to help elected officials prioritize spending on road, bridge and tunnel improvements.
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VA: Virginia will probe Salahis' Polo Cup
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services on Thursday began a formal investigation into the America's Polo Cup, the business entity run by Michaele and Tareq Salahi that the couple says raises funds for their charitable organization, as a host of other problems became apparent for the couple.
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VT: Plans to cut retirement fund decried
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MONTPELIER, Vt. — A commission trying to find acceptable ways to save costs in the state's public employees' retirement systems asked to hear from Vermonters about the issue Thursday evening. Did they ever!
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VT: Council wary of Burlington Telecom loan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayor Bob Kiss called a special City Council meeting Thursday to persuade councilors to move ahead on negotiations with Minneapolis-based investment firm Piper Jaffray for a $61.6 million dollar loan for Burlington Telecom.
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VT: Vermont, union negotiate pay cut
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some 7,000 state workers will see a 3 percent pay cut next year if union members approve a contract agreement reached Thursday between the Douglas administration and the Vermont State Employees Association.
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WA: Gregoire, Dems say tax package will be in budget fix
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire and Democratic leaders in the state House and Senate on Thursday said they plan to propose a tax package next year to help close a $2.6 billion budget shortfall.
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WA: Bail-bond agents gamble on unknown
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHEHALIS, Wash. — There's a sign in the window at the Jail Sucks Bail Bonds office that says "Open 24 hours," but the door is locked and the lights are out.
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WA: Gregoire "can't live" with certain budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an interview with TVW airing Thursday, Gov. Chris Gregoire says she "can't live" with the level of cuts that would be necessary to deal with a $2.6 billion budget deficit.
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WA: Pridemore, Zarelli split on proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire's announcement Thursday that she will propose new taxes to help close a yawning $2.6 billion state budget deficit drew quiet agreement and sharp criticism from two Clark County lawmakers who sit on the budget-writing Senate Ways and Means Committee.
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WA: Gregoire will propose tax hike to help bridge $2.6 billion budget deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire will definitely propose a tax package to avoid the deepest cuts in state spending needed to fill a $2.6 billion state budget deficit. The only remaining questions: Whom to tax, and how much to raise.
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WA: 17 state boards get axed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire killed 17 boards and commissions by executive order Thursday and called on state lawmakers to get rid of 78 other boards and transfer dozens of small agencies into larger ones.
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WI: Rate watch -- 3.5% hike approved for Madison electric utility
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Customers of Madison Gas & Electric Co. would see electricity rates rise 3.5% in 2010, which amounts to $2.25 for a typical residential customer, under a rate plan approved Thursday.
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WI: Asian carp found in Chicago canal during poisoning
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LOCKPORT, Ill. -- Fish are floating in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal in one of the nation's largest ever river poisoning operations - and at least one of those fish is a confirmed Asian carp.
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WV: Pension-relief bill signed into law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A long-discussed measure to help West Virginia cities shouldered with skyrocketing police and firefighter pension costs was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Joe Manchin.
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WV: Byrd says coal industry must change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Sen. Robert C. Byrd says the American coal industry must change, as it has changed before, and that it's time to "speak the truth" and "have an open and honest dialogue about coal's future in West Virginia."
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WY: "Big Step" in progress toward Cheyenne supercomputer project, says Wyo Business Council
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Business Council Board of Directors approved a $20 million contract to help build the NCAR-Wyoming Supercomputing Center (NWSC) during its Dec. 2 meeting in Cheyenne.
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WY: Stimulus unemployment benefit exempt from income calculation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $25-a-week unemployment benefit issued as part of the economic stimulus act no longer is counted as income for those applying for the state's food stamp program, according to the Wyoming Department of Family Services.
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WY: Decision on increasing community college tuition will come Monday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state panel is set to decide Monday whether to raise tuition at Wyoming's community colleges or accept the governor's proposal to hold the line.
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WY: Contractors push for more state road money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Contractors Association suggested Thursday that the state should dip into its cash reserves to fix the state's deteriorating roads
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After furloughs, states mull permanent cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
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The protracted fiscal crisis is forcing states to shrink their bureaucracies to match revenues. Some are seizing the opportunity to make government more efficient.
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Tax revenue down in at least 44 states
From: feeds.stateline.org
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TODAY'S TAKE: Tax collections declined in the third quarter in the 44 states for which early data are available, according to a report released today (Nov. 23). Even North Dakota -- which has weathered the recession better than most states -- is feeling the effects.
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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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