State budgets: $28 billion short this year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TODAY'S TAKE: Thirty-six states face budget shortfalls totaling $28 billion in the fiscal year that began just five months ago, according to a new 50-state report. The assessment predicts another $56 billion in shortfalls across 35 states next fiscal year and $69 billion in shortfalls across 23 states the year after that.
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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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AK: President nominates Persily to natural gas pipeline office
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama has nominated Larry Persily, a former journalist and political aide, to serve as the federal coordinator for the Alaska natural gas pipeline project.
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AK: State to lose two more cruise ships in 2011
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With Alaska already facing big cuts in cruise-ship visits next summer, the state's two largest operators announced plans Wednesday to remove even more ships in 2011.
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AK: Parnell orders review of oil tax laws
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sean Parnell is reviewing whether to change state oil tax laws implemented under Sarah Palin, as oil companies blame the taxes for driving investment dollars from Alaska to other parts of the world.
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AL: State's revenue outlook gloomy, may require another proration, Knight says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even if the economy improves it probably won't improve quickly enough for the state to avoid another year of proration, according to the chairman of a state budget committee.
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AL: Bill would give break for hiring the unemployed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill has been pre-filed in the Alabama Legislature that would give businesses a tax incentive to hire unemployed workers.
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AL: Study -- Alabama 47th in spending to stop smoking
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new national report ranks Alabama 47th in funding programs to stop young people from smoking and getting adults to stop.
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AL: Alabama attorney general's office to check complaint against Riley
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Troy King's Office will conduct a preliminary investigation of a criminal complaint filed against Gov. Bob Riley by one of his former aides who hopes to have the governor's job in 2010.
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AR: State to study easing Cantrell Road crush
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, citing surging traffic counts and increased development, will study potential corridor improvements along Cantrell Road west of Interstate 430 in Little Rock.
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AR: Court -- Company not liable in fatal accident
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Texas timber company is not liable for a fatal accident in Arkansas involving an unlicensed, uncertified, one-armed, octogenarian driver who was hauling lumber for the company, a divided Arkansas Court of Appeals ruled today.
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AZ: UA freeze on hiring drains top program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After half the faculty left, students at a prestigious University of Arizona program are worried that the school won't replace their professors.
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AZ: Chicago Cubs pitched on moving spring training to Florida
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona officials are expected to pull out all the stops to keep the team from moving because the Cubs provide an economic boon to Mesa and the Phoenix area.
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AZ: Ariz. Federal Credit Union to close 8 branches
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona Federal Credit Union plans to close eight branches by the end of January and relocate displaced employees to other branches or departments.
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AZ: Goddard 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: Ariz. auto sales down after Cash for Clunkers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Motor vehicle sales in Arizona dropped by 34 percent a month after the federal Cash for Clunkers program ended.
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CA: Diesel pollution rules may be delayed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Stung by scandal and under intense pressure to retreat, the state Air Resources Board yesterday signaled an interest in delaying rules aimed at curbing toxic diesel soot from trucks.
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CA: More Bay Area and California residents stay local as out-of-state migration slows
From: feeds.stateline.org
"OAKLAND, Calif. — Their flight from the Bay Area and California to more affordable places was a cause for worry after the dot-com bust, but college graduates now are more likely to stay in the region, according to a population analysis released Wednesday by the Brookings Institution.
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CA: Disparities abound in federal stimulus awards
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The federal government has showered billions of stimulus dollars around the country this year to jump-start the economy and save jobs. But a Mercury News analysis of reported stimulus spending so far shows it has flowed unevenly, with wide gulfs between California's largest counties.
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CA: Assembly panel struggles with education bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Assembly Committee on Education pushed forward a bill Wednesday favored by unions and effectively shut down a bill supported by some education advocates and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
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CA: Do charges on pensions add up?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"True or false: "Many civil servants can retire at 50 or 55 years old with virtually full salary and health care benefits until the day they die."
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CA: Truckers ask California to delay diesel-emission rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Citing the poor economy, the trucking industry Wednesday asked California air regulators to delay the nation's toughest rules to reduce diesel emissions.
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CA: Why privatizing the University of California won't work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"University of California President Mark G. Yudof went to Sacramento this week in another valiant effort to convince legislators that they're playing with fire when they shortchange the state's higher-education system. In the course of his presentation, he gingerly mentioned the P-word.
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CA: California's bingo machine ban upheld
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A federal appeals court Wednesday gave the go-ahead for enforcement of a ban on electronic bingo machines in California while a group of charities continues a legal challenge to the law.
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CO: GOP foes of Pi on Canyon expansion balk at McInnis
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republicans opposed to the military's Pi on Canyon expansion project are disappointed that property rights weren't addressed when party leaders unveiled a new platform and rallied around gubernatorial candidate Scott McInnis.
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CO: Tri-State strikes deal with environmental group to close PUC investigation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Westminster-based Tri-State Generation and Transmission, the state's second largest power provider behind Xcel Energy, reached a deal with environmentalists Wednesday that prompted the Colorado Public Utilities Commission to close its case investigating stepped-up state oversight of the member-owned utility.
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CO: State regulators dismiss frack-fluid ID-tagging proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Environmental activists are calling on Colorado officials to require oil and gas companies to chemically tag the fluids used in hydraulic fracturing, an increasingly controversial natural gas drilling process.
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CT: Hundreds protest Rell's budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hundreds of advocates for the elderly, poor and infirm flocked to the Legislative Office Building Wednesday to protest nearly $340 million in new spending cuts proposed by Gov. M. Jodi Rell to help close the growing shortfall in the fiscal 2010 budget.
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CT: Municipal leaders reject Rell's call for cuts in aid to towns, cities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Big-city mayors and small-town first selectmen who frequently fight among themselves joined in an emphatic message Wednesday to Gov. M. Jodi Rell: It's time to stop cutting municipal aid.
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CT: State Capitol -- 300 people speak against Rell's proposed budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"From nursing home operators to the mentally ill, more than 300 people spoke at the state Capitol complex on a snowy Wednesday to protest Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell's proposed budget cuts to a wide variety of services.
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DE: Wilmington cashes in on parking violations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One city official told Kavon Gray she owed $80 for a late parking ticket that originally was half that amount.
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DE: Court argues bailiffs not in a state agency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorneys for the state's Superior Court judges and Delaware's agency that regulates unions faced off Wednesday before the state Supreme Court on whether bailiffs can unionize.
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FL: With Vegas-style slots, tribe casinos on a roll
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI -- When Las Vegas-style slots and blackjack arrived at the Seminole Tribe's Florida casinos in 2008, the tribe's successful gambling empire was poised to become an even bigger powerhouse.
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FL: Florida has second-highest foreclosure rate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Florida had the nation's second-highest foreclosure rate in November, surpassing California, and housing market researchers fear the problem could deteriorate even more over the next two years.
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FL: Convergys contract renewed by DMS
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Secretary Linda South took over the Department of Management Services, she called ex-Gov. Jeb Bush's mammoth personnel outsourcing project "a big ugly pig."
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FL: Gretna plans bioenergy plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GRETNA, Fla. — A $250-million bioenergy plant is planned for a 100-acre site in the Gretna Industrial Park on State Road 12, Gadsden County and city of Gretna officials announced Wednesday afternoon.
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FL: Foreclosures down by 5 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI -- The number of homes in some stage of the foreclosure process in November dipped by 5.62 percent in Miami-Dade County compared to October, but was still up by double-digit percentages versus the same month last year, according to figures released Thursday by foreclosure data firm RealtyTrac.
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FL: FBI used paid informant in Josephus Eggelletion case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- An obscure Fort Lauderdale businessman with international connections and a history of helping the FBI was a paid informant in the U.S. government's case against suspended Broward Commissioner Josephus Eggelletion, court records show.
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FL: Negotiation, bluster needed to pass SunRail bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Inside his spacious Capitol office, Senate President Jeff Atwater lost his cool as he worked feverishly to save major rail projects and keep a special legislative session from becoming a political disaster.
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GA: H1NI shots now available to everyone in midstate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Just as the H1N1 vaccine was made available to everyone in Middle Georgia, Christmas shopping and balmy weather has kept people from worrying much about the so-called "swine flu" and spreading it indoors, officials said.
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GA: O'Neal to run for Speaker of the House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Larry O'Neal, R-Warner Robins, will run for speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives in the wake of a sex scandal that has rocked the House leadership.
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GA: State revenues plummet again in November
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sonny Perdue's office announced Wednesday that state revenues continued their free fall in November, with state tax collections falling by 16 percent over November 2008.
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HI: Foreclosures on neighbor isles continue to fuel statewide rate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Foreclosures in Hawaii rose again in November for the 29th straight year-over-year increase, as resort areas of the neighbor islands continue to push the statewide rate higher.
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HI: Lawmakers shed pomp for Opening Day
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Due to the recession and the state's projected $1 billion budget deficit through June 2011, state House and Senate leaders have canceled plans for the usual pomp on Opening Day in January.
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IA: Walcott receives Vision Iowa grant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WEST DES MOINES, Iowa -- The Vision Iowa Board voted Wednesday to award $220,000 to the city of Walcott for a recreational trail and nature park.
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IA: Business goes on ... just at a slower pace
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Snow, wind and treacherous roads Wednesday closed companies, halted truck deliveries and stopped production, but the disruption to Iowa businesses will unlikely dent the state's economy.
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IA: Foster families to feel pinch of slashed budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa foster parents will get about $35 less each month for expenses for the abused or neglected children they care for on behalf of the state.
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ID: Reforms could hurt Idaho hospitals, leader says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Congress is embroiled in the details of health care reform, and extending Medicare to people age 55 and older is one idea now under discussion.
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ID: Legislators to debate fate of soil commission today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A meeting today in Boise could determine the future of the Idaho State Soil Commission, which coordinates and funds conservation work by Idaho's 51 conservation districts.
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ID: Legislators to debate fate of soil commission today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A meeting today in Boise could determine the future of the Idaho State Soil Commission, which coordinates and funds conservation work by Idaho's 51 conservation districts.
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ID: AARP fights Idaho Power plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A national AARP campaign against a complex utility pricing plan suggests that Idaho Power would make customers who use less electricity pay more.
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IL: Illinois Finance Authority names new director
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Illinois Finance Authority has a new executive director, promoting Christopher Meister, the state bonding agency's general counsel and deputy director.
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IL: SIU's financial back against the wall
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CARBONDALE, Ill. -- If the state doesn't start honoring its obligations to Southern Illinois University, the school may have to take drastic measures, possibly even making layoffs or shutting down in the spring, President Glenn Poshard told the Board of Trustees on Wednesday.
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IL: High-speed rail agreement signed in Illinois
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State and local officials say they've removed a potentially troublesome roadblock in Illinois' bid for high-speed passenger rail service.
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IL: State, county, city sign pact for high-speed rail study
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials with the state, Sangamon County and Springfield this morning signed an agreement aimed at halting controversy over high speed rail in the city.
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IL: Dillard -- Cap spending but still upgrade service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican Kirk Dillard promised Wednesday to create more jobs if he's elected governor by capping spending while improving Illinois schools, upgrading the state's infrastructure and offering tax breaks to help businesses.
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IL: McKenna, Murphy put state deficit at $5 billion in balance plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In his political ads, Republican governor hopeful Andy McKenna refers to the state's crushing $11 billion budget deficit, but in his plan to balance state spending the candidate pegs that budget hole at less than half that amount.
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IL: State set to unload Abe Lincoln hotel
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 27-year-old hotel that indicted political power broker William Cellini helped build may finally be off the taxpayers' hands after an auction Monday.
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IN: Tax saddles state's poor, report says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For a family of four trying to stretch $16,000 over the course of a year, $200 is a big chunk of cash.
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IN: State seeks 2% savings in energy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, taking what it called a "firm stance" on conservation, told the state's electric utilities Wednesday that they must begin a decade of energy efficiency programs.
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IN: Property tax plan draws consensus of criticism
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers frustrated with the seemingly never-ending property tax escalation grappled Wednesday with yet another way to control bills: Capping how much a home or farm's assessed value can rise each year.
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KS: County to reconsider raises in wake of state budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Douglas County commissioners will take one more look tonight at their budget decision to give county employees a 1 percent cost-of-living raise for 2010.
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KS: Statehouse Live -- Memo outlines budget cuts to schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas public schools have lost $301 million in state funding through recent budget cuts, according to the state education agency.
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KY: $3 million in grants available to animal shelters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Roughly $3 million in state grants is available to animal shelters to help handle the 285,000 animals who become homeless in Kentucky each year, 85 percent of which probably are euthanized.
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KY: Task force proposes taxes, benefit cuts to fill unemployment fund
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state task force on Wednesday recommended higher payroll taxes for employers and lower unemployment compensation payouts starting in 2012 to shore up the state's insolvent unemployment trust fund.
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KY: Beshear says he'll keep pushing slots
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Steve Beshear said Wednesday that he will continue to push for slot machines at racetracks in next year's legislative session despite Tuesday's loss by the Democratic candidate in a special election for a vacant state Senate seat.
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KY: Horse industry at a loss after election
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kentucky's horse industry, which bet heavily on a Democratic win in Tuesday's special state Senate election, wasn't prepared for defeat and doesn't have a short-term plan to advance legislation that would allow slots at racetracks, industry leaders say.
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KY: Wind storms kill 2 in Kentucky; cold temperatures the new assault
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In Kentucky, the storm system claimed two lives. Some portions of the state were swamped with rain, and the body of a man who had been trying to rescue his wife from flash-flooding was found in Adair County.
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LA: Report targets mental health care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Louisiana's mental health system is "biased" toward expensive institutional care and does not have the capacity to treat many of those with mental illness, according to a new Public Affairs Research report.
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LA: Gov. Bobby Jindal dissatisfied with plan for distributing government workers' raises
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW ORLEANS, La. -- Gov. Bobby Jindal will reject the Civil Service Commission's plan to revamp the way pay raises are doled out to thousands of state government workers because it doesn't give agency chiefs enough flexibility, the governor's office said Wednesday.
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MA: Patrick hears Lawrence's bid for bailout
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LAWRENCE, Mass. -- On Election Day last month, throngs of celebrating supporters declared a "new day'' in Lawrence after William Lantigua, a Dominican-born Democrat, became the state's first elected Latino mayor.
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MA: Clinics receive $80m boost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Eight Massachusetts community health centers, which deliver care in some of the poorest neighborhoods in the state, are receiving $80 million in federal stimulus cash to help replace cramped buildings and upgrade technology, the Obama administration announced yesterday.
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MD: Md. could reap U.S. windfall in earmarks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE -- Nearly $100 million in spending earmarked by Maryland lawmakers appears headed to more than 70 projects in the state under a huge year-end spending measure that the House is expected to approve today.
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ME: Maine AG joins effort to stop bogus free credit report ads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Watch TV just about any time of day or night and you are almost certain to see one of those catchy ads with the young guy playing a guitar bemoaning his fate for not watching his credit by getting a free credit report.
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ME: Progress at Riverview Court master warns state not to let budget cuts harm treatment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers charged with cutting millions from the budget must keep in mind the needs of the mentally ill and work to preserve services where possible, the court master who monitors the state's mental health system said this week.
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ME: Senate OKs larger loads on interstate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — Republican Sen. Susan Collins proved herself to be a congressional heavy hitter late Tuesday night when she got a measure that would allow heavier trucks on stretches of interstate through Maine included in the 2010 Transportation Appropriations bill.
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MI: Report -- Foreclosures slowing in region
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The latest numbers from a national foreclosure tracker shows the pace of foreclosure activity in mid-Michigan is slowing.
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MI: Backers lobby lawmakers to keep Michigan film incentive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While the public debate has quieted, backers of Michigan's fledgling film industry continue lobbying Lansing lawmakers to retain special tax incentives intended to lure them to the state.
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MI: Michigan lawmakers' budget talks edge toward holiday break
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the Legislature's holiday recess draws near, leaders traded slams Wednesday over whether a revenue proposal sent to the House by Senate Republicans helps to resolve the state's budget mess.
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MI: 2 Michigan health care systems to get federal funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two community health care systems are among 85 getting federal stimulus money for major construction and renovation and for adopting new technology.
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MI: 2 Michigan health care systems to get federal funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two community health care systems are among 85 getting federal stimulus money for major construction and renovation and for adopting new technology.
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MI: Meijer will settle pharmacy case for $3M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Meijer Inc. will pay $3 million after the Midwest retail chain discovered it had employed four pharmacists who were barred from federal health programs, the government said Tuesday.
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MI: 5 companies to get alternative-power grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm announced Wednesday $15.5 million in federal grants for five Michigan companies that manufacture alternative energy products, such as wind turbine blades and shingle-thin solar panels for homes.
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MI: Detroit's bond request clears hurdles, heads for vote
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Detroit Mayor Dave Bing's quest for state approval to issue up to $250 million in deficit-reduction bonds to balance the city's budget picked up momentum at the state Capitol on Wednesday, as Gov. Jennifer Granholm and at least some Republican lawmakers endorsed the plan.
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MI: Merging of schools is gaining support
From: feeds.stateline.org
"School districts used to brush off the notion of consolidating without a second thought -- citing lost programs and school identity -- but these days, the idea is gaining steam in Lansing.
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MI: Bobb to Michigan lawmakers -- Let me take over Detroit Public Schools academics
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Detroit schools Emergency Financial Manager Robert Bobb urged lawmakers Wednesday to give him authority over the troubled district's academics, as well as its money.
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MN: Tax on Minnesota lake cabins going up in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A change in state law means thousands of Minnesota property owners will face big property tax increases next year and cabin owners will be among the hardest hit.
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MN: Minnesota's revolving door spins particularly fast
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- The legendary revolving door between politics and business seldom spins faster than it did when Sen. Dick Day walked through it this week.
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MN: First-time Minnesota home buyers holler -- 'Show me the money!'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- Mike McIlheran had a plan for his $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit.
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MO: Budget bosses dismiss tax talk
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Key leaders of the state's budgeting process say there's no chance for raising tax revenue to pull Missouri state government out of its money woes.
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MO: More lawyers requested in budget plea
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri's public defender system needs 208 additional lawyers to keep up with its criminal caseload and to comply with constitutional requirements that all defendants, including the poor, receive legal representation.
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MS: Northeast Mississippi busy with stimulus-funded projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"National political leaders are arguing about whether the $159 billion economic stimulus is being put to good use or not. But reports show, as of Oct. 30, Northeast Mississippi projects range from city road resurfacing to a new fire station, and officials are pleased with the results.
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MS: Jackson health center gets $3.9M in stimulus money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Central Mississippi Civic Improvement Center will get nearly $3.9 million grant from stimulus funds for renovations and upgrades.
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MS: Hinds residents oppose landfill permit renewal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mount Trashmore. Stinky Hill. The dump. Those are popular nicknames for Faircloth Rubbish Landfill, said Mary Ann Benton, a resident of the nearby Shadow Lake subdivision in western Hinds County.
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MS: Illegals raid nets guilty plea
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HATTIESBURG, Miss. — The only company executive indicted in the nation's largest workplace raid on illegal immigrants pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of conspiracy.
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MT: Cobell deal translates to $27M in Montana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"American Indians living in Montana stand to receive about $27 million from the proposed settlement of a class action lawsuit that charged the federal government with mismanaging Indian trust accounts.
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NC: Hydroelectric plant under investigation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RANDLEMAN, N.C. — Federal officials are investigating one of seven small hydroelectric plants that have sued the Piedmont Triad Regional Water Authority for millions of dollars in allegedly lost revenue.
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NC: Pro-business Hoyle to leave N.C. Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wednesday's decision by David Hoyle not to seek another term signals the loss of one of business's strongest legislative allies and the continued shakeup of Democratic leadership in the state Senate.
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NC: Full review sought on cement plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Environmental groups on Wednesday asked the courts to decide whether a controversial cement plant planned for the North Carolina coast should have a full review of how it will affect air, land and water before the state awards it permits.
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NE: Foley weighs in on colleges' spat
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state auditor has weighed in on the dispute involving Nebraska's six community colleges.
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NE: Neb. 23rd in smoking prevention
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — A coalition of public health programs has ranked Nebraska 23rd in the nation in funding programs to prevent kids from smoking and help smokers quit.
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NE: Wind stymies York, Seward counties' rural snow removal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Highway Superintendents Russ Daehling in Seward County and Don Robb in York County said their crews were pushing hard on that front Wednesday morning. But the wind was undoing what they were doing -- especially on east-west routes.
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NE: Nebraska's biodiesel absence has a plus side
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska is the nation's fifth-leading soybean state and the only state in the top five without a single plant producing biodiesel fuel at commercial scale.
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NE: Nebraska tax commissioner: Don't forget sales tax on Internet, catalog purchase
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tax Commissioner Doug Ewald has a message for Nebraskans doing their Christmas shopping over the Internet: You owe the state its 5.5 percent sales tax.
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NH: On Jan. 1, a halt to pay raises for state brass
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. John Lynch said yesterday he is freezing pay raises for the state's highest-paid officials starting Jan. 1.
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NH: NH releases $12M for energy efficiency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Hampshire officials say $12 million in federal stimulus money is available as grants and loans for energy efficiency projects.
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NH: FairPoint delays bankruptcy filing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FairPoint Communications wants more time to file its bankruptcy reorganization plan.
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NH: Is bank of America or N.H.?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Is it appropriate to demand a fingerprint from a person trying to cash a check? Can a bank charge a worker for cashing a payroll check? Bank of America says yes to both questions. A number of state legislators say no.
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NJ: N.J. freezes grants to cultural groups
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey froze its grants to cultural organizations this week, endangering concerts, artist-in-residence programs, and exhibits during the rest of the 2009-10 season, according to arts advocates.
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NJ: N.J. bill would list calories at chain restaurants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Visitors to New Jersey chain restaurants may soon have more information when deciding whether to add fries and a shake to their order. A bill in the Legislature would require chains to post calorie counts for all items on menus inside the restaurant and at drive-up windows.
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NJ: E-mail -- Christie team had urged delay on application for $400M in education funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor-elect Chris Christie's transition team urged the outgoing Corzine administration to delay applying for up to $400 million in federal education aid nearly two weeks before Christie's spokeswoman faulted the governor for not seeking the money.
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NJ: N.J. approves $1.2B in transportation borrowing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor-elect Christie will now borrow more than $1 billion to pay for highway improvements and public transit projects, agreeing Wednesday to expand a scheduled bond deal by six times over.
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NJ: N.J. swine flu death toll reaches 34
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Swine flu continues to spread throughout the state, with three more men dying in late November and demand for vaccinations remaining high, state officials said yesterday.
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NJ: N.J. 'falls short' on kids smoking, group reports
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An anti-tobacco group yesterday released a report calling New Jersey's commitment to deter kids from smoking "disappointing" because the state spends less than 10 percent of what a federal agency recommends to keep kids smoke-free.
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NM: New Mexico kicks in $10 million to build Santa Fe movie and TV studio
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Much to the chagrin of California, New Mexico has emerged as a major draw for movies and TV shows in recent years. Credit a generous 25% film production rebate, favorable climate and an aggressive film office.
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NM: Snags continue to plague Motor Vehicle Division
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Although the state Motor Vehicle Division has pushed to make customer-service improvements in recent months, problems and complaints remain.
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NM: State lawmakers near decision on whether to sue the governor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers are nearing a decision on whether they will drag Gov. Bill Richardson into court over what some interpret as his constitutional power grab last month.
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NV: Foreclosures drop sharply for second straight month
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Foreclosures filings plummeted in November in Las Vegas and the rest of Nevada, but analysts are unsure if this marks a trend.
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NV: Judge dismisses charges against Lt. Gov. Krolicki
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LAS VEGAS — A judge has dismissed charges against Nevada Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki and an aide who were accused of misappropriating funds from a college savings program.
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NV: Marijuana backers eye 2012 NV ballot measure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Backers of a proposal to tax and regulate marijuana are hoping the third time's the charm to get an initiative passed in Nevada.
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NV: Nevada Board of Examiners approves furlough exemption for consumer advocate staff
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the reluctant support of Gov. Jim Gibbons, the Board of Examiners on Tuesday approved a six-month exemption from furloughs for the staff of the Consumer Advocate's Bureau of Consumer Protection.
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NV: DOE -- Nevada not an option for Utah-bound depleted uranium
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A U.S. Department of Energy spokeswoman says Nevada has been ruled out as an alternative disposal site for nearly 15,000 drums of depleted uranium from South Carolina currently scheduled to come to Utah.
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NY: State sues administrator of workers' compensation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A New York State agency filed a lawsuit on Wednesday alleging fraud and seeking $405 million in damages from a company that has long helped administer workers' compensation insurance for companies.
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NY: Paterson goes to Wall St. with words of thanks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. David A. Paterson went to Wall Street on Wednesday, not to pillory financiers, as perhaps many of his constituents would have liked, but to praise them and defend the hefty year-end bonuses that have provoked intense furor.
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NY: Paterson holds fast on local aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If lawmakers, particularly in the state Senate, want to sue the governor over his plans to hold back local aid payments due to the fiscal crisis, so be it, Gov. David Paterson said Wednesday.
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OH: Ohio attorney general files on behalf of Delphi retirees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray is backing an injunction against the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. (PBGC) on behalf of Delphi salaried retirees who fear the PBGC will drastically slash their pensions.
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OH: FDIC sends COBRA notices to AmTrust Bank employees as the bank's new owners sort out who may lose their jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLEVELAND, Ohio -- AmTrust Bank's employees were warned Wednesday that they may have to pay up to $1,200 a month to continue health care coverage if they lose their jobs.
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OK: Oklahoma's legislative priorities may depend on funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Top legislative leaders say state government will have to focus on its priorities to weather the tight budget year ahead.
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OK: Opinion on birth records clarified
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson has issued a clarification after a formal opinion issued last week caused confusion over whether public agencies should release birth dates of their employees.
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OK: Gambling pays off for tribes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oklahoma ranks second, just behind California, in revenue generated from tribes' gaming enterprises, according to the Indian Gaming Industry Report for 2009-2010. The state surpassed Connecticut in 2008, the latest year for which numbers were available.
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OR: State reducing student aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Financial aid checks for many Oregon college students will be cut next year because unprecedented enrollment and increased need has outstripped the money available for state grants.
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OR: Food stamp numbers soaring
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The number of Oregonians receiving food stamps has risen 36 percent over the past year and is expected to climb through 2010 as the state continues to contend with high unemployment, according to figures released Wednesday.
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OR: Governor presses feds to stick with Newport as new NOAA site
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ted Kulongoski sent a letter to federal officials Wednesday, urging them to keep Newport as the future site for the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration's Pacific Fleet.
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OR: Ore. food stamp climbs 36 percent since mid-2008
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The number of Oregonians receiving food stamps has risen 36 percent over the past year and is expected to climb through 2010 as the state contends with high levels of unemployment, according to figures released Wednesday.
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OR: Study tallies the economic contribution of private forests in Oregon
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite the downturn in the timber market, private forest logging is still responsible for more than 120,000 jobs in Oregon, according to a study from a national timber group.
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OR: Kroger announces Oregon's sketchy charities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General John Kroger announced today a list of charities doing business in Oregon that don't meet the Better Business Bureau's standards for their charitable giving.
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OR: Oregon proposes big penalty for small Bandon fish processor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon environmental regulators are proposing a $208,000 fine, the 11th largest in the agency's history, for a small-scale Bandon fish processor, saying the operation improperly disposed of fish wastes and failed to monitor its wastewater for more than six years.
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PA: Proposal to let casinos extend credit draws fire
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A 30-second radio ad that began airing this week on Philadelphia stations warns: "Banks can't serve drinks. Casinos shouldn't make loans." The message, sponsored by an antigaming coalition, attacks a measure in the legislature that would allow Pennsylvania casinos to extend lines of credit to gamblers.
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PA: Pa. House takes up table-games debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House spent 3 1/2 hours debating a bill that would legalize table games in Pennsylvania, but adjourned at 11 p.m. without a vote.
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PA: Pennsylvania welfare chief steps down to join HUD
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pennsylvania Public Welfare Secretary Estelle B. Richman will leave the job at the end of the month to become chief operating officer at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Gov. Ed Rendell said today.
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PA: Legislative corruption inquiry turns to DeWeese
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Investigators from the state Attorney General's Office interviewed House Majority Whip Bill DeWeese this week as the office continues its probe into corruption in the General Assembly.
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PA: Former Beaver County legislator doesn't testify
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jurors will not hear from a former two-term Beaver County lawmaker before they decide whether he used a taxpayer-paid, no-work job to campaign for office.
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PA: State slashed tobacco prevention funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pennsylvania slashed funding for tobacco prevention programs by 45 percent over the past year while diverting tobacco-settlement funds to help solve budget problems, national and local experts said yesterday.
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PA: Debate on table games bill drags on
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As debate on a bill legalizing casino table games dragged on in the state House last night, Gov. Ed Rendell warned that if the Legislature doesn't approve expanded gambling by January, more state employees could face layoffs.
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RI: Group proposes reviving horse racing at Twin River
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With dog racing headed for likely extinction in Rhode Island, a group made up of race horse owners and enthusiasts — and former Harrah's casino boosters — is trying to kindle interest in the revival of thoroughbred horse racing at the Twin River slot parlor still known to old-time racing enthusiasts as Lincoln Downs.
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RI: R.I. poor face 20% increase in electric rates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rhode Island's poorest families will be hit with a 20-percent hike in their electric bills next year, far more than the 11.2-percent increase the rest of us will have to pay if the Public Utilities Commission gives National Grid the rate hike it has requested.
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RI: R.I. to close jobless benefits call center some days to catch up on claims
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Labor and Training will close its unemployment call center to incoming phone calls on Friday — and on certain other days this month — as the agency works to reduce a backlog of claims for jobless benefits.
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SC: Impeachment resolution may go to full House floor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some House Democrats plan to help a Republican push impeachment to the House floor, despite a subcommittee vote Wednesday to censure Gov. Mark Sanford for his trips to Argentina to see his mistress.
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SC: Panel votes to censure Sanford, but against impeachment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House lawmakers Wednesday rejected a measure to impeach Gov. Mark Sanford, making it unlikely the governor will be removed from office.
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SC: 2 named to sesquicentennial board
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two Lowcountry historians have been added to South Carolina's Civil War Sesquicentennial Advisory Board, lawyer and author Robert Rosen and National Park Service Gullah/Geechee Coordinator Michael Allen.
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SC: Jenny Sanford sees 'hurdles' for marriage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"First lady Jenny Sanford said it hurt when her husband, Gov. Mark Sanford, called his Argentine lover his "soul mate" during a news interview and that she is unsure whether her marriage will survive.
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SD: Part of US corn crop remains in the field
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Millions of bushels of corn are still waiting to be harvested because wet fall weather and other delays have kept farmers in the Great Plains from bringing in their crop.
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SD: Rounds -- Basic budget brings cuts to education, hold on spending
From: feeds.stateline.org
"South Dakota cannot afford to boost aid to school districts or give state employees a pay raise next year because it is facing a budget crunch caused by declining tax revenues and higher costs in programs that help those hurt by the recession, Gov. Mike Rounds said Tuesday.
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SD: Interesting math generates Rounds' forecast of $176 M budget deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Remember just weeks ago when Gov. Mike Rounds was traveling across South Dakota and warning that state government could be facing a deficit for the coming budget year of possibly $176 million?
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SD: Candidates weigh in on budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Rounds had just finished his budget address to a joint session of the Legislature on Tuesday, and those seeking to succeed him were already taking positions on the plan — ranging from full support to harsh criticism.
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TN: Gas companies' strategy on 'decoupling' shifts to regulators
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After getting blocked in the Legislature this spring, Chattanooga Gas Co. and Piedmont Natural Gas have shifted their sights to the Tennessee Regulatory Authority in their ongoing efforts to implement a change to their rate design.
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TN: TVA says safety improvements at coal-ash storage sites will cost $1B
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — Making safety improvements to the coal-ash storage sites at 10 of the Tennessee Valley Authority's coal-fired utility plants will cost at least $1 billion, TVA President Tom Kilgore testified Wednesday.
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TN: Winds flatten state Christmas tree
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Christmas tree at the state Capitol will be replaced after being toppled by high winds overnight.
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TN: Miss. prison owner denies liability in shooting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Private prison operator Corrections Corporation of America is denying responsibility in the shooting of a Nashville police officer, allegedly by an escaped inmate.
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TX: Gambling seems to be paying off for veterans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sales of the new Veterans Cash scratch-off ticket have exceeded $5.3 million since the game was launched a month ago, according to lawmakers who craeted it.
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TX: The charter school waiting game
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 40,000 families signed up on charter school waiting lists across the state last year, the bulk in big cities with ailing public school systems. Such demand, advocates say, argues for expanding charter schools, which currently serve just two percent of state students.
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TX: Letting Farouk be Farouk
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Houston haircare mogul Farouk Shami made his first campaign stop in Austin on Wednesday and offered his take on a variety of issues facing Texas.
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US: Staff shortages stymie effort to spend stimulus funds on energy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The Department of Energy's inspector general on Wednesday warned that staffing shortages and other internal weaknesses increased the risk of fraud and could delay the agency's efforts to spend about $37 billion in economic-stimulus funds.
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US: Downturn keeping Americans' wanderlust in check
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The wanderlust that helped define the American character has been reined in by the recession and the collapse in housing prices, according to a new study showing fewer Americans changing residences than at any time since World War II.
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US: A testy exchange at White House over jobs proposals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — As diplomats might say of a meeting between rivals that is just short of undiplomatic, President Obama and Congressional Republican leaders had a full and frank discussion at the White House on Wednesday when they met to discuss how to create more jobs.
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US: College dropouts cite low money and high stress
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Most dropouts leave college because they have trouble going to school while working to support themselves, according to a report released Wednesday by Public Agenda, a nonpartisan research group.
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US: States spending less to fight smoking
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State governments are collecting record revenues from tobacco companies but spending less and less of it on antismoking programs, especially in New York, a group of health and advocacy organizations said in a report released Wednesday.
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UT: Census workers begin Utah effort
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the 2010 Census still four months away, census workers are ramping up their efforts across Utah in hopes of counting each and every resident in the state.
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UT: Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah's Democracy recommendations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Campaign donors must list employer, occupation and address.
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UT: Guv likes panel's ethics proposals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Gary Herbert accepted strong advice Wednesday -- in the form of eight recommendations -- from the 19-member panel appointed by his predecessor to breathe new life into the state's electorate.
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UT: Utah brings affordability to housing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Standing outside in the bone-chilling cold of a northern Utah December morning, one is easily reminded of how important it is to have a warm place to call home.
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VA: Group urges state to dump bottled water
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rep. Jim McCullough, D-Williston, joined a Boston-based corporate-accountability organization Wednesday in calling for Vermont state government to give up bottled water in favor of drinking what flows from taps.
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VA: Log Cabin Republicans back Va. benefits change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While a proposal by Gov. Timothy M. Kaine to let insured state workers add dependent adults in their households to their health benefit plans has its share of conservative critics, the idea gained support Wednesday from one Republican organization -- the Virginia Log Cabin Republicans, a gay and lesbian political group.
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VA: Local schools expect to lose millions in funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- With millions of dollars in state funding in jeopardy, public schools across South Hampton Roads are bracing for even tighter budgets the next two school years.
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VA: Hampton Roads home sales soared while prices slid last month
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- Home sales in South Hampton Roads soared as prices slid during November as first-time buyers rushed to beat the now-extended deadline for a federal tax credit, according to a report released Wednesday.
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VA: Push is on to force lawmakers to reveal government income
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Virginia lawmakers would have to disclose income that they and their immediate families receive from state and local government agencies under legislation designed to strengthen the General Assembly's Conflicts of Interests Act.
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VT: Lake Champlain, not 'great' again?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lake Champlain. Dissed again.
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VT: Champlain Bridge comments sought
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Vermont and New York residents are invited to Ticonderoga, N.Y., on Saturday to play the role of architecture critics.
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VT: Vermont interstate weight limits going up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A pilot program designed to solve a problem that sends heavy trucks through Vermont cities and villages instead of on the interstates won initial approval late Tuesday in a federal transportation bill.
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WA: Gregoire disowns budget plan; favors raising taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here's the question for the day, and probably the next few months: Which taxes will state Democratic lawmakers propose increasing, and by how much?
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WA: State budget cuts could take another $3 million from CWU
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ELLENSBURG, Wash. -- Central Washington University stands to lose $3 million in state funding under Gov. Chris Gregoire's budget proposal, which is on top of an $18 million cut last spring.
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WA: Valley schools face possible loss of state equalization funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"YAKIMA, Wash. -- Yakima Valley school officials are waiting to see if Gov. Chris Gregoire's proposal to suspend levy equalization funds actually takes place.
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WA: Governor's budget would shut Ahtanum View Corrections Center
From: feeds.stateline.org
"YAKIMA, Wash. -- Gov. Chris Gregoire unveiled a cut-to-the bone budget Wednesday that would close the 130-bed Ahtanum View Corrections Center in Yakima's West Valley — a move that appears more likely to win legislative approval than the deep cuts outlined for health care and other safety-net programs.
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WA: Gregoire releases all-cuts budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Declaring "I do not support this budget," Gov. Chris Gregoire Wednesday presented a spending plan that would close a $2.6 billion budget gap by shredding the state's safety net of social and health services for the poor and elderly, eliminating early childhood education for 3-year-olds and slashing grants to needy college students.
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WA: Gregoire -- Tax hikes are needed to save state programs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Making her case for tax increases, Gov. Chris Gregoire on Wednesday presented a bleak plan to balance the state budget by wiping out spending for health care, welfare and education programs — but vowed to restore that money in January.
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WA: Millions in federal funds for state projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- A sweeping spending bill unveiled Wednesday on Capitol Hill includes hundreds of millions of dollars for Washington state for everything from military construction at Fort Lewis to new ferries, security along the Canadian border and repairing a landslide-damaged road.
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WA: Outcry begins immediately after Gregoire unveils budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire presented a budget proposal to cut $1.7 billion more in programs today, calling it an unjust plan that she wants to rewrite in January with as much as $700 million in new tax revenue.
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WI: Wis. emergency responders get free estate planning
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The State Bar of Wisconsin is offering free estate planning for police officers, firefighters and other emergency personnel.
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WI: Menasha rescue in works
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WPPI Energy of Sun Prairie would pay $18.2 million, and Menasha residents would pay $24 a year more on their electric bills, under a plan designed to keep the City of Menasha from going bankrupt.
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WI: UWM water school plans move ahead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's preliminary $50 million plan to develop its new School of Freshwater Sciences now calls for a three-story addition to UWM's Great Lakes WATER Institute, on the city's south side lakefront.
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WI: Grit and bear it -- Brutal cold's here
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Milwaukee dodged the pounding that the season's first major snowstorm inflicted on much of Wisconsin but not the ice-tipped bullet that's blasting the state into a deep freeze.
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WV: More than 50,000 without power due to winds in southern W.Va.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 50,000 people were without power in southern West Virginia after Wednesday's high winds, and some of them might not have power restored until the weekend, power company officials said.
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WV: W.Va. tax project proposes legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Property taxes on business inventory and equipment are the biggest obstacle to attracting new companies to West Virginia, members of a tax research group said Wednesday. But they stopped short of recommending any changes.
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WV: Holly Grove can't host social events at Capitol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The historic Holly Grove mansion shouldn't be converted into a facility to host receptions, parties or dinners on the state Capitol grounds, the Capitol Building Commission was advised Wednesday.
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WV: Economist -- W.Va. may need local help with roads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Great Depression helped force West Virginia to take over most roads within its borders from cash-strapped counties. State lawmakers were advised Wednesday to consider changing course amid chronic funding problems made worse by The Great Recession.
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WV: Court constricts W.Va. wind farm to protect bats
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a rare green vs. green court case, a federal judge in Maryland has halted expansion of a West Virginia wind farm, saying its massive turbines would kill endangered Indiana bats.
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WY: New Torrington prison accepted by state, to offer tours
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Department of Corrections has accepted official possession of the Wyoming Medium Correctional Institution in Torrington from Layton Construction, the builders of the $128 million facility.
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WY: H1N1 vaccine available to almost everyone
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Vaccines for swine flu are no longer restricted to at-risk populations.
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WY: Wyoming State Parks offers gift certificates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While it's not exactly camping weather in Wyoming these days, the Wyoming State Parks is offering gift certificates that can be used to purchase annual daily use and overnight camping permits.
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WY: Wyoming slides backward in protecting kids from tobacco
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON – Wyoming ranks 5th in the nation in funding programs to prevent kids from smoking and help smokers quit, a drop of two places from last year, according to a national report released today by a coalition of public health organizations.
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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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