Economist Mark Zandi: On stimulus, jobs, state finances, inflation and the year ahead
From: feeds.stateline.org
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A leading economist agrees with President Obama's plea for additional money to help financially strapped state governments.
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What Obama jobs plan may look like
From: feeds.stateline.org
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TODAY'S TAKE: President Obama on Tuesday (Dec. 8) outlined what
The Wall Street Journal called "an expansion of his $787 billion stimulus plan," but the speech left many details -- including the cost and timing of his proposals -- up in the air.
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AK: Parnell backs Glacier Highway extension
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell is backing a $5 million project to extend Glacier Highway about three miles from Echo Cove to Cascade Point near a proposed dock for Kensington mine workers.
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AK: Samuels joins governor's race, says he'll eye oil taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former state House Majority Leader Ralph Samuels announced Tuesday he's running for governor next year.
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AK: Board of Fisheries stalled on Pebble letter to Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alaska Board of Fisheries members adjourned Tuesday without finalizing a letter they plan to send to the state Legislature asking it to determine if additional protection for Bristol Bay's fisheries are warranted.
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AL: Bellefonte's future spurs nuclear debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SCOTTSBORO, Ala. —Twenty-one years after TVA halted work on Alabama's biggest construction project, Jackson County officials say they want the federal utility to restart the nuclear plant work to help power the local economy and the Tennessee Valley electricity grid.
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AL: Officials clash over coal ash in Perry County
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Perry County Commis?sioner Albert Turner Jr. plans to tell a congressional hearing that his historically poor county is being trans?formed because of the money it is receiving from shipments of coal ash.
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AL: Alabama Democratic senators blast Gov. Bob Riley on no-bid contracts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Key Democratic senators today blasted Gov. Bob Riley as a hypocrite, saying state government has issued more than $2 billion in unbid contracts while he's been governor even though he campaigned against unbid contracts in 2002.
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AL: TVA board could decide in April whether to finish Bellefonte
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SCOTTSBORO, Ala. -- The Tennessee Valley Authority Board of Directors could decide in April The Huntsville TimesTVA's Bellefonte Nuclear Plant near Scottsboro whether to finish Bellefonte Nuclear Plant, build another one next to it or do nothing.
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AL: U.S. Rep. Artur Davis wants feds to clearly determine risks to Alabamians posed by coal ash
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Rep. Artur Davis of Birmingham has re-issued his call for the federal government to establish consistent standards to determine the "health and environmental risks" posed by coal ash, which is being shipped daily to a sprawling landfill in the Alabama Black Belt county of Perry.
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AL: GOP candidate Bill Johnson calls for probe of Gov. Bob Riley
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Republican candidate for governor, Bill Johnson, is asking the state attorney general and the Montgomery County district attorney to investigate his former boss, Republican Gov. Bob Riley.
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AL: Judge says electronic bingo still outlawed in Walker County
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge Robert S. Vance stood by his original decision that electronic bingo is not permissible in the county under a constitutional amendment.
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AR: State pension board raps 4 fire, police funds for investments
From: feeds.stateline.org
"At least four police and fire pension boards in Arkansas improperly invested more than $1.6 million in annuities in violation of state investment laws, officials said Tuesday at the Arkansas Fire and Police Pension Review Board meeting.
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AR: PSC postpones White Bluff hearing on environmental concerns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Because of issues raised by various federal agencies, the Arkansas Public Service Commission has suspended proceedings that had been underway regarding installation of "scrubbers" at Entergy Arkansas' White Bluff plant near Redfield.
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AR: Students Found With Reptiles in Dorm Room
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- Two University of Arkansas students who were allegedly selling reptiles -- including a rattlesnake and a baby alligator -- out of their dorm room have been put out of business.
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AR: Lottery ticket sales pass $100 million mark
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery's ticket sales passed the $100 million mark on Monday, 71 days after the Sept. 28 startup, lottery officials said today.
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AR: Securities Department fines host of financial advice programs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A brokerage firm owner and host of financial advice programs on radio and TV in Arkansas has been fined for what the Arkansas Securities Department alleges were deceptive trade practices.
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AR: Governor appoints 27 to boards and commissions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Beebe today announced 27 appointments to state boards and commissions.
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AZ: Experts doubt job stimulus will help Ariz. much
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Barack Obama's new job-creation proposal, sketched out briefly in a speech Tuesday, may not help Arizona's economy much more than the federal government's first stimulus effort.
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AZ: Jobless aid ends for 84,000 in state if Congress delays
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly 84,000 Arizonans will lose their extended unemployment benefits early next year unless Congress approves additional funding before it recesses for the holidays.
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AZ: Arizona debt delinquencies apt to rise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A slowly improving U.S. economy should ease credit-card and mortgage delinquencies in 2010, but the improvement won't show up in Arizona.
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AZ: IOUs instead of checks for state employees?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State and university employees could wind up with IOUs in their pay envelopes instead of checks in February if the planned sale of state buildings hits a snag, state Treasurer Dean Martin warned Monday.
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AZ: Cell phone makers back ban on drivers texting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some changes in the cellular phone industry could create the best climate ever to enact a ban on texting while driving in Arizona.
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CA: CalPERS axing investment managers over real estate losses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The value of real estate investments held by the nation's largest public pension fund has plummeted, and the California Public Employees' Retirement System is moving to terminate some of its investment managers as a result, new documents show.
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CA: Aging computer system holds up unemployment checks to 117,000 Californians
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An estimated 117,000 Californians haven't received their unemployment checks -- some for more than a month -- because of what state officials blame on an archaic computer system.
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CA: Enlarged marine sanctuaries lack funding for enforcement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The millions of dollars spent on a decade-long effort to create or enlarge coastal sanctuaries could fail to enhance protection for marine life because the state lacks funding to enforce or manage the project.
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CA: Researcher's lie could threaten diesel rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A sweeping California regulation aimed at cutting hazardous pollution from diesel engine exhaust could be derailed after a key state researcher on the project was caught in a lie about his academic credentials.
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CA: Senate plans to block governor's PUC appointee
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate will block confirmation of a Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger appointee to the Public Utilities Commission because Democratic leaders say she sides too often with the telecommunications industry, a spokesman for Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg said Tuesday.
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CA: California may toughen rules for elected officials to report gifts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Every year, to grease the wheels of government, lobbyists and businesses shower public officials with thousands of dollars in gifts — from casino trips to fancy meals to sports tickets.
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CA: Study finds upside in Calif. budget cut failures
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A University of California, Los Angeles, economic forecast says state officials' failure to enact spending reductions agreed to during this year's budget negotiations will put a drag on the state's economic recovery in the coming years.
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CA: PUC member's bid for second term rejected
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The leader of the state Senate on Tuesday rejected a controversial appointee of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger who had been bidding for a second term on the commission that regulates state utilities.
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CA: 30 percent of Cal households have inadequate incomes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thirty percent of California's households lack the income to cover "bare bones" living expenses, according to a new statistical study released by United Ways of California, a charitable fundraising consortium.
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CA: Heavy traffic linked to higher miscarriage rates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"African-American women are three times more likely to miscarry if they live near freeways or other heavily traveled roadways, a new state study has found.
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CA: Job growth in California is going green
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Green businesses are blooming in California, creating jobs at a faster pace than the broader economy, a new study has found.
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CA: California's jobless rate is peaking, experts say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California's jobless rate is close to peaking, but the recovery will be sluggish, with employers not expected to resume hiring until at least next spring, according to new forecasts by UCLA and other analysts.
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CO: Shortage of temporary shelters leaves homeless out in the cold
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Political leaders need to declare a state of emergency when temperatures sink, allowing temporary shelters to open for the homeless, just as they do during heavy snows and in the wake of damaging winds, a group of 20 regional caregivers said Tuesday morning.
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CO: Feds offer $40 million to battle pine beetle
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Forest Service will funnel an additional $40 million to Rocky Mountain states where the tiny pine bark beetle has killed more than 2 million acres of pine trees in what has been called one of the West's biggest natural disasters.
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CO: Newell, Ferrandino outline health reform proposals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In March 2008, state Sen. Linda Newell, D-Littleton, lost her job. So she extended her employer-based health insurance coverage through COBRA.
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CT: Blumenthal says Health Net hard drive was stolen
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A portable, external hard drive lost by Health Net, which contained customers' personal information, was not encoded and could be read by commercially available software, the state attorney general said Monday.
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CT: State seeks operator for stadium at Rentschler Field
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Connecticut is looking for an operator for the stadium at Rentschler Field, sending the contract for the facility out to bid instead of exercising an option to extend an existing contract through 2012.
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DE: Delaware River dredging: Judge says Del. dragged its feet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A federal judge Tuesday chided Delaware on its long postponement of a ruling on the Delaware River channel deepening and questioned whether the state was thwarting the will of Congress.
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FL: Rail funding plan approved
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With surprising ease, the Florida Senate ended a special lawmaking session a day early Tuesday by approving 27-10 a package of train legislation designed to bail out South Florida Tri-Rail, kick-start a troubled Central Florida rail project and win billions of dollars in federal bullet-train money.
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FL: South Florida fourth nationally in lost home values
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Homes in the South Florida metro area lost $45.9 billion in value during the first 11 months of 2009, down from $137.2 billion a year ago, Zillow.com says.
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FL: Rail bill passes in Fla. Senate, 27-10
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A deal with labor unions eased passage Tuesday of controversial rail legislation in the closely divided Florida Senate, clearing the last roadblock of special session.
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FL: Lawmakers push to deregulate insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers are again pushing to deregulate the state's property insurance market, a move that could increase rates for most policyholders.
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FL: Proposal to expand oversight of Florida's pension fund is blocked
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink's two-year push for broader oversight of Florida's investments was blocked Tuesday by two colleagues on the Cabinet who help her oversee the nation's fourth-largest public pension fund.
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GA: Toll tunnel under east Atlanta a top DOT proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The toll road tunnel proposal is for real.
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GA: Jekyll upscale redeveloper backs out of project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jekyll Island State Park's upscale redevelopment plans hit the skids Tuesday when the main developer pulled out of the project.
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HI: UH students rally for restoration of funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About a dozen to two dozen students at a time waved signs in front of the state Capitol yesterday afternoon, urging the Legislature to restore funds to the University of Hawaii.
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HI: Hawaii nonprofits reeling from cuts as they slash staff, services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A dwindling income has taken a toll on nonprofit groups in Hawai'i, forcing nearly six in 10 to lay off staff and more than a third to eliminate services to the needy, according to results of a November survey released yesterday.
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HI: Lingle explores support for future special session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Linda Lingle's administration is starting to sound out legislative leaders about a possible special session to raid much of the state's $60 million rainy day fund to wipe out some of the public school teachers' furlough days.
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IA: Rest of Iowa corn harvest may wait until spring
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa farmers with corn still in the field will probably have to wait until spring to harvest it _ if it's still standing.
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IA: Iowa schools to get $60 million from Microsoft settlement, Conlin says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa schools are eligible for a share of $60 million in vouchers for computer technology money from the Microsoft class action lawsuit settlement, Des Moines lawyer Roxanne Conlin said today.
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IA: Should state employees come to work? Only if it's safe, Culver says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State offices will be open today, but employees should use their best judgement before deciding to come to work, Iowa Gov. Chet Culver advises.
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IA: Governor unveils ways to cut costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A consulting firm hired by Gov. Chet Culver says the state should urge more than 2,000 state workers to retire, close two mental health institutes, collect unpaid state taxes and fines, and sell surplus state properties to improve state government's finances.
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ID: Panel to investigate selling Idaho guv's mansion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After spending $310,000 in private donations to remodel and furnish the governor's mansion, a five-member panel is now investigating whether to unload the vacant hilltop home.
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ID: Idaho school board to meet in T.F.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Idaho State Board of Education will hold a public meeting at 8:30 a.m. Thursday in the Canyon Ridge High School auditorium to discuss various issues, including the fate of the University of Idaho's Research and Extension Center in Parma.
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ID: Stimulus cash to help homeless delayed in Idaho
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Advocates for the homeless say Idaho's most populated city is dragging its feet in distributing more than $1 million in homelessness prevention stimulus money, putting hundreds of families at risk.
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IL: State's creditworthiness downgraded
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A major financial ratings firm downgraded the state of Illinois' creditworthiness today, delivering bad news to Gov. Quinn's administration as it pushes for a new round of borrowing.
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IL: Supreme Court dismisses challenge to Illinois forfeiture law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The US Supreme Court on Tuesday handed a victory to the Cook County State's Attorney and the Chicago Police Department when the justices unanimously dismissed as moot a challenge to Illinois' controversial forfeiture law.
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IL: UI units to plan for shortfalls
From: feeds.stateline.org
"URBANA, Ill. -- Campus units at the University of Illinois must submit contingency plans for spending reductions of 7 percent, 10 percent and 15 percent, faculty members learned Monday.
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IL: State's creditworthiness downgraded
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A major financial ratings firm downgraded the state of Illinois' creditworthiness today, delivering bad news to Gov. Quinn's administration as it pushes for a new round of borrowing.
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IL: Orland Park latest to ban video gambling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The vote by village board members against the machines came despite opposition from local labor union officials, who argued not having the machines would cost jobs for local tradesman ready to work on a proposed $31 billion state capital improvement program that would be funded largely through gambling revenues generated from the machines.
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IL: Quinn, Hynes face off on courage and confidence
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Pat Quinn and Comptroller Dan Hynes sparred Tuesday over who could best lead Illinois out of its fiscal morass, accusing each other of spinning untruths about everything from cemetery oversight to tax proposals in an effort to win the Feb. 2 Democratic primary for governor.
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IN: Courts suggested to resolve casino dispute
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The best place for Gary and the owner of its casino boats to work out their differences over a local development agreement is in a courtroom, the executive director of the Indiana Gaming Commission said Tuesday.
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IN: Economy, Cline Avenue trouble trim region casino revenues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A continuing lethargic economy coupled with Cline Avenue construction has put a dent in revenues at the four casinos along that stretch in November.
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IN: State report suggests land-based Gary casino
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The consolidation of Gary's two bankrupt casino boats into one land-based location would be in Indiana's best interest, a state committee on gaming found in a report approved Tuesday.
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IN: Indiana House panel debates jobs bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"High-ranking Democratic lawmakers are advocating a bill that would require 80 percent of those employed on state public works projects to be Hoosiers.
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IN: Indiana's corn harvest is latest since 1972
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -- Indiana's farmers are facing their latest corn harvest in nearly 40 years because of a long stretch of bad weather that's kept them out of their fields.
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IN: City casino prospects dealt blow
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Prospects for casino gambling in Fort Wayne took a severe hit Tuesday when the legislative Gaming Study Committee came out against the expansion of gambling in new cities or counties.
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IN: Republic to add 300 jobs in Indy next year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republic Airways is planning to create 300 jobs in Indianapolis next year, with nearly half those posts transferred from the backroom operations of recently acquired Frontier Airlines in Denver.
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IN: Property tax-cap amendment will head to Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A drive to put property tax caps into the state constitution in 2010 passed its first legislative hurdle Tuesday, with the real battle still ahead.
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IN: Nearly 250 manufacturing jobs headed to Indiana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Today, Windsor Machine Group, a manufacturer of automotive components, said it will locate its newest manufacturing facility in Princeton, creating up to 130 new jobs by 2010.
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KS: Kansas tries to tap cow manure as a smelly source of electricity
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Meadow muffins, meet Reddy Kilowatt.
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KS: Parkinson wants to protect Kansas education funding in the next round of budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mark Parkinson said Tuesday that he would push to keep current levels of funding for education when lawmakers return to Topeka next month for another round of budget cuts.
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KS: Lawrence health department loses food inspection contract due to state budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department will no longer conduct food service inspections at 435 local restaurants.
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KS: Education official -- Some school districts running out of cash
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some school districts are having difficulty making payroll because of budget cuts and delayed payments from the state, Deputy Education Commissioner Dale Dennis said Tuesday.
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KY: Coal executive not registered as lobbyist
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Alliance Coal executive connected to a state firing controversy has called, written and met with political appointees of Gov. Steve Beshear's administration on coal-related issues for at least the past year without registering as a lobbyist.
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KY: Republican wins election for E. Ky. House seat
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jill York beat Democrat Barry Webb in a special election Tuesday for the seat vacated by former state Rep. Robin Webb, a Democrat who won a special election for a state Senate seat in August.
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KY: Almost 18,000 get flu vaccine at schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 17,600 students and staff members at 65 area schools were vaccinated against swine flu during the first week of school-based H1N1 clinics.
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KY: GOP's Higdon captures Senate seat
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Jimmy Higdon stemmed Republican losses in the Kentucky Senate on Tuesday, beating former state Rep. Jodie Haydon in a special election for the 14th District seat that set back Democratic efforts to take over the chamber.
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LA: 'Race to the Top' plan revamped
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Louisiana's suddenly revamped bid for up to $300 million in federal prize money triggered questions Tuesday, including possible controversy over how public schoolteachers would be evaluated.
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LA: Lawmakers look at surplus of storm funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislators questioned Tuesday where money expected to be left over in the state's largest storm recovery program will go.
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LA: Education personnel's pay argued
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state Senate leader and state Superintendent of Education Paul Pastorek clashed Tuesday over salaries paid to Pastorek's employees.
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LA: State pay plan opposed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A proposed pay plan met protest Tuesday from a parade of state employees who said it lets cronyism, favoritism and budget issues decide pay raises rather than on-the-job performance.
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LA: Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corp. should be phased out, streamlining panel
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW ORLEANS, La. -- A cost-cutting commission proposed Tuesday that the state phase out its property insurer of last resort and go back to the system that existed before the 2003 creation of the Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corp.
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MD: Md. universities to buy electricity from renewable sources
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE -- In a major push for renewable energy in Maryland, the O'Malley administration is planning to buy nearly a quarter of the power needed by state offices and the state's university campuses from four new wind and solar farms, including one of the nation's largest photovoltaic facilities, to be built in Frederick County by Constellation Energy Group Inc.
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MD: Md. Medicaid overpaid up to $98 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE, Md. -- The state's Medicaid system overpaid health care providers or failed to obtain federal reimbursement for a potential loss of millions of dollars, according to auditors.
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MD: 4 counties sign pact on water emergencies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE, Md. -- When millions of gallons of water erupted in mid-September from a ruptured 72-inch water main flooding dozens of Dundalk homes, Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith got help quickly from state and local officials all over Central Maryland.
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ME: Weather tower may aid wind project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SEDGWICK, Maine — A grass-roots organization looking to develop a community wind power project that would bring low-cost, renewable power to the Blue Hill Peninsula has received an in-kind grant that will allow it to begin a study of wind power potential on Caterpillar Hill.
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ME: Bill targets sulfur in Maine heating fuels
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ACADIA NATIONAL PARK, Maine — A group of state legislators hopes to clear the air — literally.
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MI: State funds developments to spur investment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The old real estate adage "location, location, location" holds true in the economic development world, too.
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MI: 1,000 construction jobs expected as DTE Energy launches $600M emissions-control project at Monroe, Michigan coal plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DTE Energy Co. said Tuesday it plans to launch a $600 million project early next year to install emissions-reduction technology at its coal plant in Monroe.
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MI: Michigan smoking ban close but no cigar, for now
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the Michigan Senate decides when to cast a vote on a workplace smoking ban, bars and restaurants included, that's been sitting in the chamber since May, there are two possibilities in the five remaining days of session the Legislature has scheduled in 2009.
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MI: Gov. Jennifer Granholm backs battery tax credit, hopes manufacturer chooses Muskego
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FREMONT, Mich. -- Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm said she was "hopeful" and "supportive" of an advanced-battery tax credit moving through the Legislature that supports a manufacturing development in Muskegon Township.
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MI: Congress seeks compromise on GM and Chrysler dealers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- House and Senate leaders proposed a compromise plan Tuesday to give shuttered General Motors and Chrysler dealers an appeals process to keep their showrooms open.
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MI: Detroit barkeeps head to Lansing to bounce smoking ban
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Detroit bar owners whose establishments are close to the Detroit casinos trekked to the state Capitol today to oppose legislation that would ban smoking in public places but make exceptions for casinos.
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MN: Dick Day gives up Senate seat to rally for gambling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- One of the best prospects for a new Minnesota Vikings stadium may be tied to a leading senator's efforts to expand gambling in Minnesota.
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MN: Minnesota groups get $11 million for affordable housing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- The Minnesota Department of Human Services has distributed nearly $11 million of federal funds to 31 state organizations that help individuals, families and unaccompanied youth find and stay in affordable housing, the department said Tuesday.
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MN: Pawlenty: Aid to cities and counties safe — for now
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Tim Pawlenty will not cut state aid payments to Minnesota cities and counties this month.
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MO: Caseload rules of public defender system halted by Missouri Supreme Court
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Missouri Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected measures taken by the state's public defender system to ease its crushing caseload.
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MO: New pavement draws drivers at twice the rate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Highway 40 is attracting double the traffic and is handling it better than during the days before reconstruction, the project director said Tuesday.
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MS: Pirates beware -- AG's Web cops cracking down
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Those behind the sophisticated computer software in Mississippi and elsewhere that tracks down child predators on the Internet are now targeting people who illegally download music and movies.
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MS: Big Bay lawsuit shifted to Gulf Coast
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PURVIS, Miss. — The multimillion civil suit filed over the damage caused by the 2004 collapse of the Big Bay Lake dam in Lamar County has been shifted to the Gulf Coast to be heard this spring.
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MT: UM's Running meets with Land Board
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Steve Running, the University of Montana climate change specialist who shared in the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize, didn't mince words Tuesday in describing the importance of the decision whether to lease millions of tons of state coal for possible development.
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MT: Montana Supreme Court upholds fine against former broker
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Montana Supreme Court has reinstated a $20,000 fine against a Great Falls insurance salesman and former securities stockbroker for violating the Montana Securities Act.
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MT: DEQ to set rules to implement federal CO2 limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Board of Environmental Review plans to meet Friday to set Montana rules to match proposed Environmental Protection Agency regulations on carbon dioxide emissions.
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NC: State digs into wetlands program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State leaders said Tuesday that they have ordered reviews of an environmental program that critics say allows double dipping from funds to replace wetlands and streams damaged by development.
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NC: Duke's N.C. rates going up 8%
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Duke Energy won approval Tuesday for its first N.C. rate increase since 1991, stirring outrage over raising power bills in the depths of a recession and anger over Duke's growing investment in coal power.
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NC: Foxx expects plan for I-485 will proceed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx and two top state officials said Tuesday they don't expect questions about financing to detour the start of work on the last stretch of Interstate 485.
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NC: Tippetts on two sides of LEA
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Last week's annual shareholders meeting of Law Enforcement Associates was quite the Tippett family affair.
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NC: Hagan -- NC tools prevent fraud, waste
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan says a North Carolina initiative and software sold by a Cary company could save billions in wasted and fraudulent health care expenses.
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NC: DOT explains its plan for Beltline bridge fence
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Readers have raised questions about DOT's $50,000 plan to put a second safety fence on a pair of I-440 Beltline bridges over Crabtree Creek, where two people have fallen through a narrow gap to their deaths since 2005.
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NC: State high-risk pool opens enrollment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Inclusive Health, the state's insurance pool that covers low-income people who have pre-existing medical conditions, is holding an enrollment session Thursday in Rocky Mount.
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ND: Commodity groups discuss marketing ideas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Representatives from a dozen commodity groups are scheduled to meet Tuesday in Bismarck to discuss marketing ideas. It's believed to be the first meeting of its kind.
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NE: 'Epic' storm takes toll
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Emergency officials had been counting their blessings Tuesday at the lack of serious accidents, given road conditions. No longer. Their lingering hope, now, is that people stay safe in the bitter cold and wind.
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NE: Court -- Illegal immigrant entitled to benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An illegal immigrant injured on the job is entitled to state worker compensation benefits, according to a Nebraska Court of Appeals decision released Tuesday.
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NE: Farm Bureau, state pressing for Republican River answers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's largest farm organization went on record Tuesday as expecting financial contributions from the state and local level to resolve a dispute with Kansas over the Republican River Compact.
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NE: Some Health and Human Services offices to have only part-time economic assistance staff
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four of the 16 Health and Human Services offices in Southeast Nebraska will have only part-time economic assistance staff when the Nebraska switches to statewide call centers.
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NE: Snow in northeast Nebraska too heavy for even the plows
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northeast Nebraska's roads are under such an attack from the weather that plows were being pulled off some roads starting at 7 p.m.
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NH: Shuttered mortgage firm was already on regulators' radar
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the days before it abruptly shut its doors, Financial Resources Mortgage Inc. was hearing from state securities regulators that marketing on its Web site was potentially a violation of the law.
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NH: Regulators -- Utilities must plan for storms
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Utilities are to be commended for their hard work to restore power after a December 2008 ice storm, but they would benefit from routine review of their emergency plans and better communication with customers, state regulators said yesterday.
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NJ: N.J. to make it easier to become a barber
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Anthony Fiore wanted to go into the family barbering business, he had to learn not just to cut hair, but also how to perform manicures, pedicures, and other services he never planned to offer to his nearly all-male clientele.
"
NJ: State freezes $10M promised to the arts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Peters Valley Craft Center is furloughing staff because it can't secure a loan to cover expenses.
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NJ: Former N.J. AGs back drug sentencing bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Eight former attorneys general in New Jersey have put their names behind an effort to repeal mandatory minimum prison sentences in nonviolent drug cases.
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NJ: N.J. anti-poverty groups pay tribute to outgoing Gov. Corzine
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the economy still listless and a governor-elect who promises to slash spending, the people who attended an Anti-Poverty Network meeting Tuesday could have turned their annual gathering into a pity party.
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NJ: Lesniak -- Gas tax hike inevitable
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Sen. Ray Lesniak yesterday said he will push for a hike in New Jersey's relatively low gas tax -- calling it the best way to pay for transportation projects -- and he is looking for support from the incoming governor.
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NM: AG -- Keep Qwest rates even, increase service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Gary King asked the Public Regulation Commission on Tuesday to keep Qwest rates the same and require the company to increase Internet access in rural areas.
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NM: Budget Balancing Task Force meetings to be webcast
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Secretary Rick Homans announced today that the final two Budget Balancing Task Force meetings will be webcast live.
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NM: Dem Auditor Balderas earns praise from GOP—and no election challenger
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 2010 election is in full swing, and the governor's race has already degraded into the usual partisan, nasty mess.
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NV: NV receives $11.8 million for energy assistance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nevada has received $11.8 million from the federal government to help low-income families pay for energy costs.
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NV: Gov. Gibbons calls Economic Forum to help with budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons on Tuesday ordered a special meeting of the Economic Forum to help resolve the state's ongoing budget crisis.
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NV: Echoes of Rogers in letter to governor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The pugnacious spirit of Jim Rogers lives on in the Nevada System of Higher Education — and though it gives the colleges and universities a strong voice against further budget cuts, it bodes ill for the relationship between the system and Gov. Jim Gibbons.
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NV: Gibbons -- Layoffs in next round of budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons said today that layoffs will be part of the next round of budget cuts if state tax revenues continue to fall below projections.
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NY: State sees a big gift in your wallet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Yorkers who don't redeem their cards within five years will find that their unused gift has been taken by someone the giver never intended to benefit -- the state.
"
NY: Funding plan OK'd for future shutdown of Ginna nuclear plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ROCHESRTER, N.Y. -- Wall Street's improving performance means Constellation Energy Nuclear Group LLC will be able to shut down and clean up the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power plant at some point in the future after all.
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NY: Bruno out as CMA chief
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With a pending $159 million Department of Health contract at stake and tens of millions of dollars in other state business on the line, CMA Consulting Services on Tuesday bid goodbye to ex-Sen. Joseph L. Bruno. His exit came less than 24 hours after his conviction on two felony fraud counts.
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OH: Ohio OKs loans for 2 companies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Ohio Development Financing Advisory Council has awarded loans to two area expansion projects.
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OH: Cleveland's University Hospitals to add more than 550 jobs, restructure management
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an effort to keep pace with a $1.2 billion expansion and growing number of patients, University Hospitals said Tuesday that it will add more than 550 jobs in the coming year and announced a new management structure.
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OH: Justices to revisit attempt to ban skill-game prizes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio's highest court has agreed to consider whether state officials overstepped their authority when they outlawed prizes worth more than $10 from so-called games of skill such as Tic Tac Fruit.
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OH: House OKs bills on autism, diabetes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Many health-insurance plans could no longer exclude coverage for diabetes or autism under bills that passed the Ohio House yesterday over objections of most Republicans.
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OK: Feds not funding Oklahoma City's sidewalks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oklahoma City officials said 40 miles of arterial street projects paid for by the federal stimulus funds include the curb cuts because of federal regulations. That doesn t mean there is federal money to build the sidewalks.
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OR: Blackwell will close in Lake Oswego, eliminating 139 jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A day after completing its acquisition of Blackwell North America, Charlotte-based book and multimedia distributor Baker & Taylor Inc. said it will shut Blackwell's customer service and sales operation in Lake Oswego and eventually eliminate 139 jobs.
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PA: House vote on table games at slots parlors delayed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Democratic leaders yesterday delayed a scheduled vote to legalize table games at slots parlors while they tried to round up support for the bill.
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PA: Control of Citizens' Alliance goes to Levy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Control of the South Philadelphia nonprofit that former State Sen. Vincent J. Fumo described as "my baby" has been turned over to a conservator under an agreement with state authorities.
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PA: Dredging battle goes to court
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the battle over a proposal to deepen Delaware River shipping lanes went to federal court yesterday, Gov. Rendell reaffirmed Pennsylvania's commitment to take any unwanted muck dredged from the river.
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PA: State House postpones vote on table games bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bowing to members who said they hadn't had time to read the 182-page document to expand gambling, state House Democratic leaders yesterday agreed to put off a vote on the bill.
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PA: Gubernatorial candidates call for natural gas production tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two Democratic candidates for governor issued calls yesterday for a tax on the burgeoning natural gas production anticipated in the state over the next few years.
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PA: Defense witnesses take their turn in Bonusgate trial
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A series of defense witnesses yesterday in the public corruption trial of former state Rep. Sean Ramaley painted a picture of a mom-and-pop campaign operation run out of a makeshift basement office next to a laundry room in a Beaver County home.
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RI: House committee set to tackle deficit-reduction plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The official start of the 2010 legislative session is still a month away, but House budget writers will hold the first of a series of hearings next week on Governor Carcieri's as-yet-unseen plan for plugging the state's $219-million budget hole.
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RI: Sharing municipal service not always a money saver, Senate panel told
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The idea is to save money by "sharing services," but union leaders and public safety officials Tuesday urged extreme caution as a Senate commission asked for public input on just where the savings might be found.
"
RI: New chief hired for Rhode Island's EDC with salary of $250,000
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rhode Island's Economic Development Corporation board, led by Governor Carcieri, voted unanimously Tuesday to hire Ioanna T. Morfessis of Arizona as the state's next economic-development chief, paying her $250,000 annually for three years.
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SC: Impeachment proposal vote likely today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Members of the seven-member panel say the vote will likely set a precedent for judging future governors' conduct.
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SC: Boeing -- Thousands turn out to hear construction needs for new plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jeffrey Pierce heard about Boeing's informational meeting for local construction workers and immediately called his out-of-work colleagues, eager to spread the good news.
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SC: Is Halley luncheon appropriate?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State employment agency officials could cut short a crucial meeting today to celebrate the retirement of executive director Roosevelt "Ted" Halley, who decided to leave early as news broke that he failed to tell state lawmakers about a key law change.
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SD: Tribes get billions in lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The U.S. government will pay up to $3.4 billion and institute reforms to settle a long- running class-action lawsuit brought by Native American tribes who claimed federal mismanagement of billions of dollars in mineral and grazing rights from their lands dating to the 19th century.
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SD: Tribes get billions in lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The U.S. government will pay up to $3.4 billion and institute reforms to settle a long- running class-action lawsuit brought by Native American tribes who claimed federal mismanagement of billions of dollars in mineral and grazing rights from their lands dating to the 19th century.
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SD: Lawmakers lament state wage freeze
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Local legislators said Gov. Mike Rounds' budget proposal is a good starting point, but they're disappointed state workers won't get a raise for the second year in a row.
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TN: Study predicts dire teacher shortage in all grade levels in Tenn.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If nothing changes by the fall of 2013, University of Tennessee researchers say the state can expect a teacher shortage so severe 40 percent of the current positions could be open.
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TN: TDOT listens to Henley Bridge concerns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"South Knoxville residents showed up for a fact-finding mission Tuesday night and also voiced their concerns about the impact that the planned closure of the 79-year-old Henley Bridge could have on area traffic, commerce and quality of life.
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TN: Attorney general seeks to intervene in gas rate case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tennessee Attorney General Bob Cooper on Tuesday asked state regulators for permission to challenge Chattanooga Gas Co.'s request for a customer rate increase and changes to the utility's rate structure.
"
TN: TVA ash spill in TN exceeded year of U.S. river waste
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New data from the Environmental Protection Agency shows the coal-ash spill at TVA's Kingston power plant last year carried more toxic metals, including arsenic, mercury and barium, into the Emory River than released to waterways by the entire U.S. power industry in the previous year.
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TN: TN gets $30M in homeland security grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Law enforcement agencies and first responders will receive more than $30 million in homeland security grants, the Department of Safety said Tuesday.
"
TX: French refiner Total tops Texas' list of fines for pollution
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In one industrial accident alone, Total Petrochemical's sprawling oil refinery in southeast Texas sprayed tons of sulfuric acid and carbon monoxide into the sky.
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TX: State environmental agency to face whooping crane lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an effort it says will protect the endangered whopping crane, an alliance of Gulf Coast environmental and business groups, led by a prominent South Texas family, announced Tuesday that it will sue Texas' environmental agency over its water management.
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TX: Texas firms face tax hike to cover jobless benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two-thirds of Texas businesses will pay nearly triple the unemployment-benefits tax next year than they paid this year, the Texas Workforce Commission announced Tuesday.
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TX: Shami ready to tangle with White in governor's race
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the seven weeks since Houston hair-care mogul Farouk Shami made his first San Antonio campaign stop, the Democratic race for governor has turned upside down.
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TX: Rick Perry Gets Personal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Rick Perry's campaign married politics with personalized marketing this fall when it sent out thousands of customized videos to supporters.
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TX: Caven's Quest, Part Two
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It had been four years since Scotty Caven died in a horrendous rollover crash. His father, Scott Caven Jr., had fought in court to prove that faulty brake work — not his son's inattention and speed — caused the crash. Now the quest to clear his son's name would put Caven face-to-face with one of the state's oldest and largest agencies: the Texas Department of Public Safety.
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US: Obama pushes new job stimulus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Barack Obama pressed forward with an expansion of his $787 billion stimulus plan Tuesday, unveiling job-creation proposals that largely build on the initial package, including a hiring tax credit that his own party jettisoned as unworkable and some business owners deemed ineffective.
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US: Obama sketches a plan for job creation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LOS ANGELES and WASHINGTON -- President Obama's latest proposals to create jobs in a stagnant economy left the hard work up to Congress -- and that means any package is unlikely to get approved until early next year.
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US: Action on job proposals may wait till next year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The packed congressional schedule means action on the bulk of President Obama's job-creation proposals might be deferred to 2010, as the House and Senate race to complete a host of key bills by year's end.
"
US: Obama lays out strategy for jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Obama outlined a response to the nation's intensifying job crisis Tuesday that encourages businesses to hire new workers by easing the flow of credit and implementing a series of tax cuts, but leaves important details -- including the cost of the plan -- to be hashed out by Congress.
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US: Obama offers help for small businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — President Obama and Congress are ending the year as they began it, at work on an economic stimulus package of tax cuts and spending, with the latest effort likely to raise the total cost of antirecession measures to the $1 trillion level that some economists had urged last winter.
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UT: Rocky Mountain Power asks customers to conserve
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rocky Mountain Power is urging all customers to limit electricity use while cold temperatures persist.
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UT: State launches new Utah Commission on Volunteers Web site
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state has launched a new Web site listing volunteer opportunities.
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UT: Utah Capitol renovation director quits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"David Hart, who oversaw the $250 million renovation of the Utah Capitol during his decade with the state, announced his resignation Tuesday.
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VA: Report -- Homeless population in Norfolk increasing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NORFOLK, Va. -- After Robert lost his retail job in May, he spent his meager savings fast.
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VA: Developers dial back their plans for new homes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- Builders in Hampton Roads continued to cut back in new-home construction during the past three months despite a tax credit for first time homebuyers, according to a recently released report.
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VA: Lawmakers disagree on possible use of new taxes to balance next Va. budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Budget writers are divided over whether departing Gov. Timothy M. Kaine's farewell spending plan should be balanced with new taxes.
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VA: GOP -- Bid to end car-tax break would be dead on arrival
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND, Va. -- Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell reiterated his opposition Tuesday to new taxes as a means to offset a state revenue shortfall estimated at roughly $3 billion.
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VA: State agency slows SPSA's plan to sell plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SPSA was hoping to get a state lending agency's blessing Tuesday on a $150 million deal to sell a trash-burning power plant.
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VA: McDonnell doesn't want any tax hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND, Va. -- Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell and a leading House Republican budget writer both told reporters yesterday that any tax increases Gov. Tim Kaine puts in his outgoing budget are dead on arrival.
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VT: Vermont sees rising need for free school lunches
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's not uncommon for a child to ask Teresa Felix for a second serving of breakfast on a Monday morning. Especially if that child has not eaten since lunchtime on Friday.
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VT: UVM Institute suggests radical overhaul of Vt. taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If necessity is the mother of invention, then supporters of a tax-code overhaul hope this year's state budget problems will prompt a revolution in the collection of state revenues.
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VT: Burlington's retail sales slide
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Burlington's share of retail sales, compared with other Chittenden County towns, has fallen during the past six years, causing concern about the performance of the city's shopping district.
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VT: Vermont drivers rush for snow tires
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If the latest first snow on record proves anything, its that people — Vermont drivers, anyway — are procrastinators.
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WA: Washington state budget-cut options at a glance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire's proposed budget, scheduled to be released Wednesday morning, could mean deep cuts in areas including health care, welfare and education.
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WA: Lobbyist -- No new revenue for cities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Though she faces a $2.6 billion budget deficit, Gov. Chris Gregoire won't try to balance the state's books on the backs of Washington's cities, Vancouver's lobbyist told the city council Monday.
"
WA: Lobbyist: No new revenue for cities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Though she faces a $2.6 billion budget deficit, Gov. Chris Gregoire won't try to balance the state's books on the backs of Washington's cities, Vancouver's lobbyist told the city council Monday.
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WA: All sides brace for slashed budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire is set to release her cuts-only budget at 9 this morning in an attempt to bridge a projected $2.6 billion shortfall that keeps growing.
"
WI: We Energies explores sale of Sheboygan coal plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the first of its two new coal-fired power plants in Oak Creek nears completion, We Energies is exploring the sale of its stake in a Sheboygan coal-fired plant, the company said in a regulatory filing.
"
WI: Bad recipe for corn -- A late, wet harvest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"By now, Walworth County farmer David Adams should have put away his grain harvesting machinery. Not this year, however, as Adams and hundreds of other Wisconsin farmers struggle to harvest a wet, late corn crop.
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WV: Audit counts thousands of wrecks in state vehicles
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State employees have had more than 5,000 accidents in state vehicles over the past five years, costing the state nearly $23 million in insurance claims and deductibles, a legislative audit released Tuesday shows.
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WV: $2.6M Grant For East Wheeling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WHEELING, W.Va. - City leaders want to make East Wheeling an even better place to live, and a $2.6 million grant from the West Virginia Development Office should help them do that.
"
WV: West Virginia eligible to receive $14M in federal funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- West Virginia is eligible to receive more than $14 million in federal Homeland Security funding for on-going efforts to protect its citizens and infrastructure, according to a release Tuesday from Sen. Robert C. Byrd, D-W.Va.
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WV: Steve Miller named W.Va. assistant ag commissioner
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Steve B. Miller has been named assistant commissioner of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.
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WV: Parkersburg gets $1M to rehab vacant properties
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The city received a $1.35 million from the state to stabilize a neighborhood north of downtown and increase owner occupancy.
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WV: Study aims to improve RESAs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Though some lawmakers have suggested they're out of date, West Virginia's eight Regional Education Service Agencies are working through recommendations to prove their efficacy.
"
WV: Swine flu vaccine available to public
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Swine flu vaccinations now will be offered to all Kanawha County residents - not just those in high-risk groups - in four clinics to be held over the next two weeks.
"
WV: Forbes ad features West Virginia alternative energy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Commerce spent $15,000 to place an ad in the special section of the magazine's year-end investors guide.
"
WV: Lawmakers again discussing cigarette tax hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Kanawha County state senator who has pushed for raising cigarette taxes to cut smoking says the state's projected budget shortfall could help his cause next year.
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WY: Wyoming budget committee asks for report on contract employee use in state government
From: feeds.stateline.org
"During presentation of his budget to the legislature's Joint Interim Appropriations Committee, Gov. Dave Freudenthal alluded to the fact that the use of what are called At Will Employee Contract, or AWEC, employees has grown in the past few years, a practice he tried to stop when he came into office almost seven years ago.
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WY: New help for beetle fight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An infusion of $40 million to combat the effects of widespread beetle infestations in the Rocky Mountains might allow the U.S. Forest Service to avoid closing some campgrounds in Wyoming next summer, officials said.
"
WY: Wyoming Republicans will elect new national committeeman
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Republican Party's National Committeeman for the past seven years, Diemer True of Casper, stepped down from his position on Dec. 1, the party has announced.
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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.
"
After furloughs, states mull permanent cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"
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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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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