States await Obama jobs plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TODAY'S TAKE: State officials are eagerly awaiting a federal job-creation initiative to be outlined by President Obama today (Dec. 8). They hope it will include extended unemployment benefits, infrastructure money and other aid for their battered states.
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MD: O'Malley proposes $3,000 tax credit for hiring unemployed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE, Md. -- Gov. Martin O'Malley, heading into an election year at a time of high unemployment, told a crowd of small-business owners Monday that he will ask the General Assembly to approve a $3,000 tax credit for companies hiring jobless Marylanders.
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AK: Fairbanks hatchery cut back to control cost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FAIRBANKS, Alaska -- A $45 million state fish hatchery under construction won't have onsite housing for employees or laboratories for University of Alaska Fairbanks researchers when it opens next summer.
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AK: Stimulus could expand Internet access in the Bush
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FAIRBANKS, Alaska -- Alaskans are looking to the federal stimulus program to expand broadband Internet access to remote villages.
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AK: Attorney general tackles Palin era's hot ethics issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alaska Attorney General Dan Sullivan is moving to change the state's ethics rules in the wake of the battles waged by former Gov. Sarah Palin.
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AL: Alfa -- Cuts needed to be 'viable'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Less than a week after Alfa Mutual group announced additional cuts in coastal insurance policies, its president said that dropping wind coverage in Mobile and Baldwin counties was necessary to maintain business in the state.
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AL: Perdue says governors will meet Dec. 15 in water war
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sonny Perdue's office announced this afternoon that he will meet with his counterparts in Florida and Alabama on Dec. 15 concerning the tri-state water dispute.
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AR: Firm withdraws bid for building
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A firm offered to buy the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System's Victory Building for $23.2 million, the system's executive director said Monday, but withdrew the offer after the system made a $24.8 million counteroffer.
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AR: Schools' alliance attracts attention
From: feeds.stateline.org
"JONESBORO, Ark. — School finance is big money in Arkansas — nearly $100 million for the Valley View, Nettleton, Jonesboro and Newport school districts' budgets combined.
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AR: EPA ruling -- Another setback for proposed coal plant?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A spokesman for an environmentalist group says a ruling today that greenhouse gases threaten the public health is bad news for an energy company seeking a permit to build a new coal-fired power plant in Arkansas, but the company says the permitting process won't be affected.
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AZ: Arizona AG sues over fake businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard says he's suing three men for advertising at least 47 fictitious businesses in the Tucson Yellow Pages.
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AZ: Commission opens APS rate hearings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Arizona Corporation Commission on Monday opened hearings on a proposed rate hike for Arizona Public Service Co. that could boost the typical household's electric bill by $6.32 a month.
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AZ: Tucson beats Valley in Forbes.com comparison
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It may not achieve the same psychic level of bragging rights as the Arizona Wildcats slipping past the Arizona State Sun Devils in their annual football matchup. But Forbes.com thinks that the Tucson area provides, in its words, a better "bang for the buck" than the Valley of the Sun for anyone looking to settle in Arizona.
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AZ: Storms disrupts traffic throughout state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rain and blizzard conditions pelted the state Monday, prompting a flash-flood watch in the Valley and causing 46 collisions and numerous closures on the highways up north.
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CA: California official who resigned after Prius flap has new job
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A senior state official who resigned in October after The Bee exposed a $1.2 million questionable purchase of vehicles that sat unused for months is back to work, hired by the federal court-appointed receiver overseeing the state's troubled prison health care system.
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CA: California official who resigned after Prius flap has new job
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A senior state official who resigned in October after The Bee exposed a $1.2 million questionable purchase of vehicles that sat unused for months is back to work, hired by the federal court-appointed receiver overseeing the state's troubled prison health care system."
CA: Studier fix found for crack in Bay Bridge
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Caltrans could start structural repairs - and three weeks of nightly lane closures - on the east span of the Bay Bridge as soon as Friday, but the agency expects to avoid closing the entire bridge as originally feared.
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CA: Nurses unions join together for more clout
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nurses from three unions, including the powerful California Nurses Association, have founded a new national union to influence national health care policies and try to extend California's patient ratio law into other states.
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CA: Greenhouse gas law gets cold shoulder from GOP trio
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A trio of local GOP politicos want to put the freeze on GOP Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's favorite environmental law.
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CA: Politicians give away donations from Elliott Broidy after conviction for bribery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some California politicians are ridding their campaign coffers of cash from a Los Angeles venture capitalist who has pleaded guilty to bribing pension officials in New York.
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CO: Colorado maternity bill would require coverage for birth control
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A proposed state bill that would require Colorado insurance companies to cover maternity care has a new addition: The bill would also require insurance companies to cover birth control.
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CO: Colorado's job losses are apt to mount in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado's economy, after stumbling horribly this year, will have to limp along next year before it can start running again, according to the state's most comprehensive economic forecast.
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CO: McInnis mulls dramatic anti-tax ballot initiatives
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Colorado wrestles with an already lean state budget growing leaner by the day — one that has forced Gov. Bill Ritter to propose repeated controversial cuts to state services this year — a trio of budget busting anti-tax initiatives is speeding its way to the 2010 ballot.
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CT: Blumenthal says Health Net breach worse than thought
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Richard Blumenthal said Monday that a Health Net data breach that put at risk up to 450,000 Connecticut residents' personal information is more serious than first thought.
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CT: Blumenthal investigating so-called Madoff auction
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state attorney general has begun investigating Sunday's auction of items that purportedly once belonged to Bernie Madoff and his wife, Ruth.
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CT: State's lack of affordable housing hits home for family of three
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Teeka Plummer is articulate, resourceful and persistent, but for six months, she has searched unsuccessfully for an apartment for herself and her three children.
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DE: Mothballing refinery buys state some time
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Delaware officials believe they have received a small ray of hope about the future of the Delaware City Refinery.
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DE: Plight of the nonprofit -- State's groups struggle
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Delaware's nonprofit groups lack the organization, financial stability and sufficient support from foundations, corporations and individuals to handle the state's growing needs, a new report finds.
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DE: Out of the blue, Sussex pays bonuses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The extra $300 coming in Sussex County paramedic supervisor Andrew Wile's paycheck this month is such an unexpected surprise that he decided to write County Council members an e-mail thanking them for approving the one-time bonus for the government's 500 full-time workers.
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FL: S. Fla. fraud suspected in diabetes care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI -- An investigation has flagged Miami-Dade as accounting for over half the $1 billion that Medicare paid out nationally for treatment of homebound diabetes patients.
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FL: Commuter rail passes House -- fight expected in Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the third time in two years, the fate of Central Florida's $1.2 billion commuter-rail project will get settled in the divided state Senate.
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FL: Senate remains close on rail bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill fast-tracking Florida rail projects raced out of the House with strong support Monday but slowed to a crawl in the Senate, barely surviving a 5-4 committee vote.
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FL: Rothstein partner denies earning $6M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Stuart Rosenfeldt's attorney said Monday that Scott Rothstein did not pay Rosenfeldt $6 million last year, despite that salary being listed in a court filing last week.
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GA: The fourth 'R' Rural school systems locally face big challenges
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Georgia has the third-highest rural student population in the country, according to a report released by the Rural School and Community Trust in November.
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GA: Businesses split on effectiveness of ID changes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Georgia driver's licenses are getting a new look by the end of the year, but some Augusta businesses question whether it will help curb underage drinking as the Georgia Department of Driver Services hopes.
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GA: Bipartisan calls for reform after speaker's saga
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bipartisan trio of 2010 statewide candidates is calling for a major overhaul of the state's ethics laws in the wake of the Glenn Richardson scandal.
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GA: Health clinics: Swine flu vaccine available to all
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With thousands of vaccine doses flowing into Georgia, health clinic officials said Monday they are lifting the restrictions that barred many people from receiving swine flu protection.
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HI: State policy on warming earns praise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An environmental group says Hawaii is a leader when it comes to global-warming policies.
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HI: Lingle renews push to revamp schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The public wants to hold elected leaders accountable for education in Hawaii, says Gov. Linda Lingle, renewing her push to change Hawaii's educational structure.
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HI: Hawaii's teacher furlough crisis can be opportunity, federal official says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A top federal education official told parents yesterday to keep the pressure on for a solution to teacher furloughs, but also said the crisis could be used as an opportunity to improve quality at some of the state's poorly performing public schools.
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IA: Nearly all Iowa corn harvested before storm
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa farmers have the bulk of the 2009 corn crop harvested just in time before the first big winter storm is expected to hit the state beginning today.
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IA: Jobless aid could expire for thousands of Iowans, report says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A national report released Monday says that about 10,000 Iowans would lose all unemployment insurance benefits by March without an extension of the federal recovery act.
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IA: Signs show hiring won't improve till mid-2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver's team of economic advisers believes that Iowa has seen the worst of the recession, but that employment will not begin to grow again until next summer.
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IA: No early release of tax credit reports seen
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver's office does not intend to release reports expected this week on tax credit programs that affect thousands of Iowa workers and businesses before holding public hearings next week that will help decide the incentives' fate.
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ID: Idaho colleges could get more tuition flexibility
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Board of Education will consider a rule change to allow Idaho's public universities to seek tuition or fee increases higher than the 10 percent allowed each year.
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ID: Parma ag research center may stay open
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The well-known Idaho agribusiness struck a deal with the University of Idaho: J. R. Simplot Co. will use part of the Parma Extension and Research Center for its own work and in turn pay $300,000 a year.
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IL: High-speed rail deal in works for central Illinois
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Talks aimed at ending an impasse over bringing high-speed passenger rail service to central Illinois could be nearing an end.
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IL: GOP governor candidates spar over state finances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The seven men seeking the Republican nomination for governor delivered some tough talk Monday on how to deal with the state's fiscal mess, with Jim Ryan calling for local governments to share the pain through reduced state revenue-sharing and Andy McKenna proposing to roll back state spending to 2006 budget levels.
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IN: House panel hears input on tax caps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's House Ways and Means Committee, debating whether to put property caps into the constitution, heard Monday from homeowners demanding permanent relief and local government officials urging caution.
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KS: Labor leaders fear that unemployed could soon lose benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Millions of unemployed Americans, including thousands in Kansas, could lose jobless benefits if Congress doesn't act soon, state labor officials and workers' advocates said Monday.
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KS: Statehouse Live -- Internet access initiative gets federal grant; Charter school group gives Kansas an 'F'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas has received a $2 million federal grant that officials said Monday will help provide access to high-speed Internet service throughout the state.
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KS: Lottery to parents -- No tickets for kids
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Kansas Lottery is asking parents not to give their minor children lottery tickets for the holidays.
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KS: Statehouse renovation questioned as cuts continue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Is there anything wrong with this picture?
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KY: Attack on carbon dioxide seen as threat to Ky. coal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency's declaration Monday that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions endanger the public's health could deeply affect Kentucky's multimillion-dollar coal economy.
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KY: Kentucky to add MegaMillions lottery game
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kentucky Lottery players will have a chance to play another multi-state lottery game that generates huge jackpots, when lottery outlets across the state begin selling MegaMillions tickets on Jan. 31, lottery officials announced Monday.
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KY: Beshear defends Peters' decision to fire Mills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Steve Beshear said Monday that he had no involvement in the controversial decision last month to fire Ron Mills, the state's mine permits director. But he defended the decision to do so by Energy and Environment Secretary Len Peters.
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KY: Judge keeps highway trial in Lexington
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Defendants in the case — highway contractor Leonard Lawson, former Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert, and Lawson employee Brian Billings — had asked that the trial be moved to Covington because of what they said has been extensive and prejudicial publicity about the case in Lexington.
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KY: Beshear doesn't rule out layoffs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Steve Beshear said Monday that the effort to balance the state budget for the next biennium might require layoffs of state workers.
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KY: Electric car venture not zapped yet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new venture pieced together from last winter's failed effort to assemble electric vehicles now aims for $16 million in state aid and a $160 million loan from the U.S. Department of Energy.
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LA: Amnesty collects $450.6M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State tax amnesty program collections now stand at $450.6 million, the Jindal administration said Monday. The collections are triple the program's original goal, according to a news release issued by Gov. Bobby Jindal's office.
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LA: Aid links teacher pay to students' success
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public school districts that take part in Louisiana's bid for up to $250 million in federal aid would have to agree to change the way teachers are evaluated, officials said Monday.
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LA: Panels approve film guidelines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Film producer Nick Thurlow urged lawmakers Monday to stop tinkering and finalize rules on entertainment tax credits. "Please just pass them now and move on," Thurlow told a joint meeting of the House Ways and Means and Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs committees.
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LA: State starts reducing its vehicle fleet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW ORLEANS, La. -- The state's vehicle fleet -- derided as bloated by Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration as it tries to downsize state government -- is scheduled to shrink starting this weekend when 280 cars, trucks and buses go on the auction block.
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MA: Legislators opt for furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"All but 16 members of the 160-member House of Representatives, including all seven members of the Cape delegation, are taking five voluntary furlough days to offset the state's latest budget woes.
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MA: Student ordered to destroy downloaded music files
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A graduate student who must pay four record labels a combined $675,000 in damages for downloading and sharing songs online has been ordered to destroy his illegal music files — but a judge declined to force him to stop promoting the activity that got him in trouble.
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MA: Gov. Deval Patrick urges execs to pump up volume on Mass. innovations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Deval Patrick thinks Massachusetts high-tech firms should be bragging a little more.
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MA: Deval Patrick blows off turbine critics
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Deval Patrick yesterday brushed off criticism of his proposal to plant 166 massive wind turbines off the coast of toney Martha's Vineyard, even as he sought to reassure the wealthy enclave's enraged residents he's not spoiling for a fight.
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MD: Planned Md. casino gets state approval
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Developers of Maryland's largest planned slots casino secured one of two key votes they were seeking Monday to move the controversial project forward: approval from the state.
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MD: Arundel delays slots decision
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE, Md. -- State officials have granted a long-awaited license for a proposed 4,750-machine slots casino at Arundel Mills mall, but Maryland's premier gambling project still needs local approval that was delayed again on Monday.
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ME: Tax amnesty brings in more than expected
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state limited tax amnesty program that ended Nov. 30 has brought in $16.2 million, well above the $9 million that was estimated for the plan to help balance the state budget.
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ME: More Mainers in food stamp program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More Mainers have been enrolling in the federal food stamp program as the recession has taken its toll on jobs and the economy.
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ME: Maine has collected $15M in sale of pollution credits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As momentum builds in Washington, D.C., for federal regulation of greenhouse gases, Maine is preparing to dole out millions of dollars in grants collected as part of the nation's first regional "carbon market."
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MI: $178 million expansion at Grand Rapids, Michigan's Van Andel Institute aims to create life-science jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Van Andel Institute on Tuesday will take the wraps off of its $178 million Phase II expansion in a move that could play a huge role in efforts to build West Michigan into a life science research and employment hub.
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MI: Detroit casinos say blanket smoking ban could be detrimental to their financial health
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Detroit's three casinos say they stand to face a significant drop in their revenues if they are forced to comply with a workplace smoking ban being considered by state legislators.
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MI: MDOT warns it will delay 243 road projects unless Michigan lawmakers increase funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Michigan Department of Transportation is looking at delaying 243 proposed road and bridge projects -- including 26 in Kent and Ottawa counties -- over the next five years unless the state comes up with the cash to match available federal funds.
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MI: Unlike rest of Michigan, survey shows more Grand Rapids-area companies planning to hire than layoff in early 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Businesses in the area planning to hire in the first quarter outnumber those cutting jobs during the first quarter, according to the quarterly Manpower Employment Outlook Survey released this morning.
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MI: State senator believes smoking ban compromise will pass
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate Republican leader said Monday he believes he has the votes to pass a workplace smoking ban with exceptions for the Detroit casinos, cigar bars and tobacco shops, but one industry group would rather see a total ban.
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MI: Blue Cross needs to offset losses in Medigap policies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Left to find $181 million to subsidize its popular Medigap policies after the state insurance commissioner held monthly increases to no more than 3.8%, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan now has to find another way besides a substantial rate hike to offset losses in those policies.
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MI: 'The new GM, the new Michigan'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Workers at General Motors Co.'s Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant have begun installing new equipment for the long-awaited Chevrolet Volt electric car, and Gov. Jennifer Granholm and local politicians on Monday celebrated GM's $336-million investment and the $136 million in tax abatements that made the project possible.
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MN: Is 'opting out' a real option? Would Minnesota 'opt out'?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON - The idea that Minnesota could 'opt out' of the controversial government insurance program at the center of a proposed national health overhaul has received a push from no less a figure than Gov. Tim Pawlenty.
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MN: Rally at Minnesota Capitol backs spending limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hoping to push a very big rock up a very steep hill, dozens of supporters rallied Monday in the rotunda of the state Capitol, drumming up support for a constitutional amendment that would throw a lid on state spending.
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MN: DFLers making a bid for governor debate how to preserve, create jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- With long-term shortages in state tax revenue looming, DFL candidates for governor Monday advocated government support of programs to boost employment and income and described the approach as their best strategy to win.
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MN: U braces for more state funding cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- A deep state deficit might mean less money for public colleges and universities. But rules surrounding federal stimulus money could cushion any cuts.
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MN: Minneapolis 2010 budget trims police, civilian jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- The Minneapolis City Council on Monday adopted a 2010 budget that spells layoffs for about two dozen of the city's most junior police officers and recruits but keeps the investigation of civil rights complaints in city hands.
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MN: Minn. GOP rallies for, DFL vets Pawlenty amendment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann returned to the Minnesota Capitol today to support a proposed constitutional amendment to cap state government spending.
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MO: State review clears MU veterinarian
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state licensing board has dropped a complaint against a local veterinarian, but Hallsville farmer Gary Morrison said he's now considering legal action.
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MO: Senate panel listens to budget pleas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A stream of petitioners, each given three minutes to state their case, began appearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee on Monday afternoon as work began on the process of matching dwindling revenue sources to the state's needs.
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MO: State looks to close Wellston schools, merge students into Normandy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WELLSON, Mo. -- After four fruitless years of state control, Missouri's education chief is aiming to close the academically troubled Wellston School District at the end of this summer, the state department of education announced Monday.
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MS: Mississippi attorney general, recording industry launch task force
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After announcing plans to start an Intellectual Property Task Force in September, Attorney General Jim Hood is moving forward with that effort.
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MT: Federal act could apply to lawmakers taking state jobs in Montana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Federal law and rules barring many government employees from running for office could make it difficult for the growing group of legislators getting new state jobs to seek re-election.
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MT: State OKs killing of wolf pack
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State wildlife officials have authorized the killing of the remaining members of the Mitchell Mountain wolf pack after a fourth guard dog was killed on private land north of Helena.
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NC: Officials giving NC bank robbers a Web site
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The FBI and the North Carolina Bankers Association plan to unveil Tuesday morning a Web site that will include photographs and information about bank robbers.
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NC: DOT shifts approach on loan for I-485
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Carolina won't be on the hook for any money that a private contractor borrows to finish I-485, a Department of Transportation spokesman said.
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NC: EBX is paid twice for wetlands work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"This year, state environmental officials agreed to pay a Maryland company nearly $1 million for its work to help rid the Neuse River Basin of tons of nitrogen, which pollutes drinking water. Here's the catch for North Carolina taxpayers: The state Department of Transportation paid $1.8 million for the same work several years ago.
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NC: Malpractice information is easier to find
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the first time, consumers can easily check whether North Carolina doctors have settled or lost medical malpractice claims or been convicted of crimes.
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ND: Record acres of corn left in December ND fields
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the second consecutive year, the corn crop in North Dakota has outlasted the weekly schedule of crop progress reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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NE: Nebraska corn harvest is about 88 percent complete
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska's corn harvest is continuing to progress, but limited drying capacity continues to slow things down.
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NE: Federal analysis shows disparity in states' use of water for ethanol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska farmers are part of a Northern Plains grouping of states that typically uses 323.6 gallons of water to produce a gallon of ethanol from corn, according to a new federal study.
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NE: Report suggests Nebraska consider public-private partnerships for roads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Platte Institute sees toll roads in the state's future.
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NJ: Change in N.J. affordable-home rules stymies builders
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A change in New Jersey's affordable-housing regulations, limiting the amount of senior citizens' housing that can be counted toward low-income requirements, is causing developers to rethink their plans in a market reeling from the economic downturn.
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NJ: Declaration on greenhouse gases may spur N.J.'s efforts to create more energy from alternative sources
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Obama administration's announcement Monday that greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health will lead to heavier regulation and may spur New Jersey's efforts to create more energy from wind and solar, the state's top environmental regulator said.
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NJ: Inauguration Day to have a Newark flavor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov.-elect Chris Christie will spend most of his Inauguration Day in Newark after campaigning on a pledge to focus on New Jersey's aging urban areas, according to two people with direct knowledge of the plans.
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NM: State falls short on money for ignition interlocks for indigent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The fund that helps poor New Mexicans pay for ignition interlock devices in their cars is drying up and could be in the red come January.
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NM: Union -- New furlough plan better
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new plan in the works for state employees who will be furloughed for five days is more pleasing to union leaders than an earlier proposal that would have meant three smaller-than-usual paychecks in a row.
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NV: Charges dismissed against Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Charges against Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki and his chief of staff tied to his alleged mismanagement of a college savings program were dismissed this morning in Clark County District Court.
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NV: State sets employer tax rate, expects hike in future
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An estimated 35,000 employers, or 59 percent of state businesses, will continue to pay reduced tax rates into the state's depleted jobless fund next year.
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NV: Nevada officials brief lawmakers on budget woes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State officials briefed legislative leaders Monday on the budget outlook, as Gov. Jim Gibbons eyed the possibility of calling a special session to deal with a projected shortfall.
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NY: State managers -- Where's our raise?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Unionized state workers who say they're being denied Gov. David Paterson's $20,000 buyout aren't the only ones who are unhappy. Their bosses are upset too.
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NY: Budget saves scores of jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"County property taxes will increase by 5.9 percent and more than 100 employees will not face layoffs under next year's operating budget passed Monday night by lawmakers.
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OH: Ohio State chief pushes for bid reform for construction projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bow-tied and bespectacled, Ohio State University President E. Gordon Gee made a sales pitch Monday, Dec. 7, that universities and other public agencies should be unshackled from restrictive, antiquated public bidding laws so that they can save millions of dollars in taxpayer money on construction projects.
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OK: Lawmakers quiz court on computer costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers quizzed court officials Monday about why putting the state's 77 district courts online in a unified system was taking so long and costing so much money.
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OK: Transportation Department ready to attack slick Oklahoma roads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With 17 counties under a winter weather advisory, state and local crews are ready to clear the roads if they start to turn slick.
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OK: Larry Jones accused of taking bribes by Feed The Children officials
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Feed The Children officials have made a new accusation against fired president Larry Jones — that he solicited kickbacks while at the charity.
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PA: Pa. House set to resume talks on adding table games
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After almost two months, the state House is scheduled to begin deliberation today on legislation to add table games at slot parlors and pump $200 million into the state budget.
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PA: Bill to ban tuition tax introduced in Pa. House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Bill 2155, a measure to prevent Pennsylvania counties, municipalities and other governmental entities from imposing a tax on higher-education tuition paid by students, was introduced into the General Assembly today by its prime sponsor, Rep. Paul Costa, D-Wilkins.
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PA: Another legislator will try to eliminate Turnpike Commission
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For years, critics have attacked the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, claiming there is too much political patronage at work there, with friends of politicians and commissioners getting jobs and legal and bond work.
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PA: Casino bill for resorts set for House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After weeks of negotiations behind the scenes, the state House today will debate a gambling-expansion bill that would add two more resort hotel casino licenses and greatly increase the odds that Fayette County's Nemacolin Woodlands would get one of them.
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PA: Witnesses take stand in first Bonusgate trial
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former Democratic Whip Mike Veon was so concerned about retaining control of the House in 2004 that he arranged for candidate Sean Ramaley to be put on state payroll so he could quit his job and dedicate himself to campaigning, Mike Manzo, the prosecutors' star witness, testified yesterday.
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RI: A desire named streetcar -- Providence seeks major transit overhaul
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State and local officials have put together a plan that would remake the metro area's transit system, increasing and improving bus service and adding a major and expensive new element, streetcars.
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SC: Argentina trip might be pivotal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mark Sanford's desire to spend time with his mistress this summer caused his political collapse, and falling for that same temptation a year earlier might make him the first chief executive in South Carolina's history to be impeached.
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SC: Panel has 2008 Sanford trip under scrutiny
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some South Carolina House lawmakers said Monday they think Gov. Mark Sanford scheduled a 2008 trade trip to Argentina to allow him to meet his lover.
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SD: Thune -- Pollution finding could sting S.D.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON - The Environmental Protection Agency on Monday declared carbon a danger to human health, opening the door for tighter regulation of emissions - and, Sen. John Thune fears, the eventual strangulation of key South Dakota industries.
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SD: Budget plan hits education
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Education funding will drop from 51 percent of the state's general fund to 49 percent under the proposed budget that Gov. Mike Rounds will unveil today.
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SD: SD corn harvest remains behind
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- Freezing weather is helping South Dakota farmers whose fields have been too wet to harvest.
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SD: Gov. Rounds says SD spending rising to help poor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Rounds said Monday he will propose a state budget that focuses nearly all spending increases on providing medical services to residents who have lost their jobs during the recession.
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TN: Financial hole deepens for UT system
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When federal stimulus money runs out in 2011, the University of Tennessee system will face a $112 million budgetary shortfall, more than one-fifth of its total state funding, UT Interim President Jan Simek said Monday.
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TN: Labor challenges VW over lack of 'local hire'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A group with organized labor ties asks today in a newspaper advertisement if Tennessee politicians are "selling out" the state's work force because they didn't insist that Volkswagen hire local contractors and workers to build its plant here.
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TN: Nashville mayor to create incubator for charter schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayor Karl Dean is forming a nonprofit to help increase the number of charter schools in Nashville by finding and training new leaders and offering upstart schools support as they prepare for opening day.
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TN: Tennessee lacks resources to fight animal abuse
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tennessee has relied on The Humane Society of the United States over the last two years for nine rescue missions — more times than the nonprofit has been called in to assist in any other state in the country
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TX: Combing Over Shami's Voting Record
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gubernatorial candidate Farouk Shami is counting on your votes to put him in office, but records show his own voting history is inconsistent. He doesn't cast ballots that often, and when he does, he doesn't vote as a Democrat.
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TX: Show Us the Money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Numerous elected officials and candidates have reported vague or inaccurate descriptions of their political expenditures in recent years — in some cases making it impossible for the public to track their activities.
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TX: EPA plan to regulate greenhouse gases gets criticism, cheers in Texas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON – The Environmental Protection Agency said Monday that greenhouse gases spewed by power plants, oil refineries and vehicles constitute a public health threat, a verdict that positions the government to set new limits on global-warming emissions.
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TX: Republican Medina officially jumps into governor's race
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wharton businesswoman Debra Medina, a Republican, filed today as a candidate for governor.
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TX: Trips to the airport could get easier
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Texas Transportation Commission next week is likely to consider approval of $43 million to extend the Texas 71 freeway under a Riverside Drive overpass, eliminating a bottleneck that has confounded drivers since the Texas Department of Transportation ended a freeway project just short of Riverside three years ago.
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US: AP analysis -- ND still least-stressed state economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Now that the Great Recession appears over, the economy looks to be entering a Rocky Recovery, in which much of the nation will continue to struggle well into 2010.
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US: Entering an election year, Democrats sharpen focus on jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Obama's renewed focus on the economy underscores an elemental truth of politics. For all the attention the White House and Congress have given to health care and Afghanistan this fall, no problem poses a greater political threat to the Democrats in 2010 than joblessness and slow economic growth.
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US: Use of cash from TARP hits hurdle
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- White House officials have concluded that their ability to use Wall Street bailout funds for a new job-creation initiative will be strictly limited by budget rules and the terms of the original bailout legislation, administration and congressional officials said Monday.
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US: Campaign-finance ruling looms
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montana voters, fed up with the grip of out-of-state mining interests on local politicians, passed an initiative in 1912 banning corporate spending on candidates for state office. As soon as Tuesday, that law -- and similar ones in nearly half the states -- could be struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court for infringing corporations' free-speech rights.
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US: EPA is preparing to regulate emissions in Congress's stead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Obama administration moved closer Monday to issuing regulations on greenhouse gases, a step that would enable it to limit emissions across the economy even if Congress does not pass climate legislation.
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US: Obama preparing new push to add jobs, tackle deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Obama plans to outline Tuesday a major push to tackle one of the biggest threats to the economy and to his administration: the soaring unemployment rate.
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US: An effort to spread green power to coasts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — For 40 years, the North American electric system has operated as three loosely linked grids, but a new transmission company is aiming to unite them. That union, if consummated, could have strong implications for renewable energy.
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US: A plea to Congress on jobless benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — State labor officials and worker advocates appealed on Monday for quick Congressional action to extend emergency jobless benefits and to renew health insurance subsidies for the long-term jobless.
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UT: Utah has fourth strongest charter laws in nation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Utah has the nation's fourth strongest system of charter school laws, according to a report released today by The Center for Education Reform.
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UT: Bill offers incentives to prevent another canal collapse
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If an irrigation canal company wants state money for improvements and repairs, the canal's owners will have to document its potential dangers, according to a bill unveiled Monday.
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UT: Most Utahns don't want to revive food tax to help state budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FRUIT HEIGHTS, Utah — On Monday afternoon, the smell of fresh-baked bread filled the air at the Sadler home in this sleepy Davis County bedroom community.
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VA: AOL turns back the clock, separates from Time Warner
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AOL is shaking loose from Time Warner Inc. and heading into the next decade the way it began this one, as an independent company.
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VA: AOL turns back the clock, separates from Time Warner
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AOL is shaking loose from Time Warner Inc. and heading into the next decade the way it began this one, as an independent company."
VT: Gift programs dispel rumors of demise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two holiday giving programs run by Burlington-area charities are alive and well, contrary to rumors spread around town last week that both had been shut down and that people seeking help were being turned away.
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VT: Vermont fundraisers take big cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Professional fundraisers working on behalf of nonprofits and charities take a big bite when Vermont donors open their checkbooks and wallets, with a consumer advocacy group giving more than half the money from a 2007 campaign to a telemarketing company, a state review found.
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WA: Boeing to duplicate Puget Sound work for 787
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Boeing plans to make all the parts for the 787 Dreamliner currently produced in the Puget Sound region at a second location so that the second final assembly line being set up in North Charleston, S.C., can operate independently.
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WA: Gregoire's budget likely to be all cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After talking for weeks about the need to raise taxes to blunt the impacts of a $2.6 billion budget deficit, Olympia insiders now say the spending plan Gov. Chris Gregoire will release Wednesday will probably contain no new revenue sources but instead detail huge cuts in state spending.
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WV: Study says health costs will soar
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Health insurance costs in West Virginia will nearly double in the next decade, but there is a lot the state can do to control them, according to a new study.
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WV: Report -- State could save billions a year with Medicaid expansion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"West Virginia's health-care system could save up to $2.2 billion a year beginning in 2014 with an aggressive expansion of Medicaid and other health reforms, according to an actuarial report presented to state legislators Monday.
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WV: UC hosts cap-and-trade debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An environmentalist and a global warming skeptic discussed climate change, cap-and-trade legislation and the future of the coal industry Monday evening -- all without yelling and calling each other names.
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WY: Gov keeps focus on school building
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The best buy for the state at this stage in the economic downturn is construction of buildings, particularly schools, Gov. Dave Freudenthal said Monday.
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WY: Governor urges legislative budget committee to not dip into budget reserves
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some of the legislature's constituents will ask them to dip into reserve accounts to fund programs in the 2011-12 state budget, Gov. Dave Freudenthal told the legislature's Joint Interim Appropriations Committee, but that is an idea that should be resisted, he said.
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WY: Numbers crunch
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state of Wyoming would just as well not want people to know that it helped Daniel Gallegos graduate from Casper College in May.
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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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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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From: feeds.stateline.org
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