US: Rail stimulus funds to bypass Northeast
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The railroad tracks from Boston to Washington -- the busiest rail artery in the nation, and one that also carries America's only high-speed train, the Acela -- have been virtually shut out of $8 billion worth of federal stimulus money set aside for high-speed rail projects because of a strict environmental review required by the Obama administration.
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FL: State Farm will stay, Florida insurance regulators say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Farm has cut a deal with Florida regulators, reversing its plan to pull entirely out of the state's hurricane-prone property insurance market. Instead, the state's largest private homeowners insurer will drop 15 percent of that business, about 125,000 policies, and raise rates for the rest by 14.8 percent.
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AK: Pipeline chief -- Time to decide on Lower 48 line
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Gov. Sean Parnell's in-state gas pipeline chief said the tug-of-war among various gas line and hydropower proposals caused him much frustration but didn't prompt him to quit.
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AK: Group seeks more polar bear protections
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- To better safeguard threatened polar bears, the federal government should expand the size of its proposed critical habitat area in Alaska and curb oil and gas development there, the National Wildlife Federation said Wednesday.
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AK: Wanted -- PR firm to fight species listings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alaska Legislature is paying for a conference and public relations campaign to persuade Congress to limit the Endangered Species Act.
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AL: Scrushy's estate auction Monday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- Plans to sell the Birmingham-area estate of Richard Scrushy are moving ahead now that the Alabama Su?preme Court has turned down an appeal by the imprisoned Health?South Corp. founder.
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AL: Auburn University president questioned about athletic broadcast rights deal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A powerful state senator Tuesday asked the president of Auburn University to explain why the school was willing to accept $4 million less from Rep. Mike Hubbard's former company when it took bids on athletic broadcasting rights.
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AL: Alabama Democratic lawmakers propose $1 billion roads program for state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democrats in the Alabama Senate want to take $1 billion from a state savings account and spend it on road and bridge construction.
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AL: Barron issues bill prohibiting practice
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After Gov. Bob Riley's office criticized a bill proposed by Democrats in the Legislature that prohibited the governor's office from issuing no-bid con?tracts but exempted the legisla?tive branch, Sen. Lowell Barron introduced what he said was a corrected version Wednesday.
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AR: Beebe against revenue shift for highways
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The first recommendation on how to raise more money for highways - shifting $425 million annually from general revenue - ran into an immediate hurdle even before a blue-ribbon committee had a chance to consider it: Gov. Mike Beebe.
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AZ: Gilbert legislators expect no quick solution to budget mess
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A day before Arizona legislators were scheduled to gather for a special session on the state's budget woes, Gilbert's Republican Sen. Thayer Verschoor and Rep. Andy Biggs told a group of local business leaders not to expect a solution any time soon.
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AZ: Superior's huge mine gets a win in Congress
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A U.S. Senate committee gave two mining companies their first victory Wednesday in a four-year struggle to pull off a land exchange in central Arizona to clear the way for North America's largest copper mine.
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AZ: Sales tax vote won't make March ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican legislative leaders said Wednesday it makes no sense to push ahead with a special session Thursday on the tax hike referral since there is no legal way to put the measure on the ballot as the governor wanted on March 9.
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CA: Treasurer's Office blasts debt default warning as 'balderdash'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Treasurer's Office came down hard this afternoon on a prediction from California Lutheran University economists that the state could default on some of its debt, calling the warning "balderdash" that is "nothing more than irresponsible fear-mongering with no basis in reality, only roots in ignorance."
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CA: Bay Bridge metal failures still a mystery, Caltrans chief says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Emergency repairs to the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge this fall will cost $21.5 million after critical parts on the span cracked and snapped, but Caltrans officials still can't explain the metal failures, legislators heard Wednesday.
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CA: CalPERS board blasts delays as computer upgrade's cost rises
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A massive computer upgrade at CalPERS has run millions of dollars over its original budget and missed its completion deadline – and is in danger of falling further behind schedule.
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CA: CalPERS backs requiring agents to register as lobbyists
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The California Public Employees' Retirement System, saying it wanted to be more open and clear a cloud hanging over it, has backed proposed legislation to regulate outside investment managers' use of so-called placement agents to pitch huge private equity deals with the fund.
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CA: Schwarzenegger approval rating hits new low
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's approval rating has dropped to a new low as Californians continue to worry about the economy and the state's dismal finances, according to a new poll by the Public Policy Institute of California.
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CA: Panel votes to reconfirm head of California Public Utilities Commission
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state Senate committee voted unanimously Wednesday to confirm Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's choice to lead California's utility regulation agency through 2014.
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CA: A reality check for California's excessive borrowing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Treasurer Bill Lockyer is playing Scrooge, admonishing Capitol politicians that they can't have everything they want -- or even think they need. It's a sound message not just for the politicians, but also for the California public.
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CO: In Colorado, pregnancy makes men, children uninsurable, too
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When commercial pilot Matt Temme of Castle Rock was furloughed by his employer last June, he lost his health insurance.
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CO: Governor talks jobs, recovery in southern Colorado
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bill Ritter is touring southern Colorado to support a program helping veterans find construction jobs and to discuss economic recovery strategies.
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CO: 50 Coloradans wrongly sent demand for back taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado officials say they mistakenly told about 50 people with contested conservation easements to pay back taxes or the money would be taken from their wages.
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CT: Next step after tribe's default not yet certain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Without acknowledging it overtly, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe officially defaulted Wednesday on a $21.25 million bond-interest payment that was due in full a month earlier.
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CT: Seaside could be focus of legal fight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's planned sale of the former Seaside Regional Center in Waterford could soon wind up in court as the developer previously selected to buy the former hospital fights an effort to put it back on the market.
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CT: Many CL&P customers to see lower rates starting jan. 1
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The cost of electricity is set to decrease by 5.2 percent starting Jan. 1 for most of Connecticut Light & Power's 1.2 million customers, continuing a recent trend of moderating prices.
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CT: More people remaining unemployed longer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Today, we will find out if Connecticut's unemployment rate improved, like the national rate, when the state Department of Labor issues its report for November
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CT: UTC executives might testify about plant closings plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"United Technologies Corp. chief executive Louis Chenevert might be called to testify about his role in Pratt & Whitney's decision to cut more than 1,000 Connecticut engine repair jobs, according to new court documents.
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DE: Trash wars take high-tech turn
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On a Saturday in late November, Kennard Ringgold Sr. steered a huge dump truck into a state-run green landfill near Red Lion.
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DE: Biden campaigns for more tax credits for alternative energy projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Vice President Joe Biden on Wednesday announced administration support for a $5 billion expansion of a tax-credit program to encourage manufacture of wind, solar and other energy technology.
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FL: Florida governor signs bill to expand rail service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI — Gov. Charlie Crist signed a package of legislation into law on Wednesday that seeks to shore up commuter rail service in South Florida, add service in the state's center and win billions of dollars in federal money for a bullet train linking Tampa and Orlando.
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FL: Federal government wants to sell you a home
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON - Sales are brisk for South Florida homes hawked by the federal government in the wake of the Great Recession.
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FL: Voting-machine firm merger investigated
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum is conducting an anti-trust investigation of a voting-machine company merger that would create a near-monopoly over the levers of democracy in Florida and much of the United States.
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FL: Miami psychiatrist cited in letter blasting health services monitoring
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, has written a biting letter to top government officials using the example of a Miami psychiatrist who writes more than 100 prescriptions a day to raise questions about what federal officials are doing to monitor over-utilization of healthcare services.
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FL: Gov. Crist signs rail bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Charlie Crist signed a massive rail plan into law Wednesday, calling it a major leap forward in transportation that will produce thousands of jobs and help protect Florida's environment.
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FL: Open-records allegations taint Charlie Crist's high-speed rail bill-signings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The fallout from the use of ``pancake'' and ``French toast'' in state e-mails continued to simmer Wednesday, clouding Gov. Charlie Crist's celebratory four-city tour promoting sweeping new rail legislation.
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FL: State Farm to hike rates nearly 15 percent, drop some policies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI -- State Farm Florida Insurance will continue to cover homes in Florida but will raise rates by an average of 14.8 percent, under a deal announced Wednesday.
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GA: Ga. expects more gloomy unemployment news
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State labor officials will offer the latest glimpse at unemployment across Georgia later today — and it's not expected to be good.
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GA: IRS audited Perdue following land deal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sonny Perdue survived a "full-blown" IRS audit of his taxes in 2007 over a Florida land deal, the governor's former lawyer -- who is now running for speaker of the House -- said in a letter to House Republicans on Tuesday.
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HI: Teachers, Lingle administration at stalemate on furlough fixes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The teachers union and Gov. Linda Lingle's administration have hit a standstill in talks on reducing the number of Furlough Fridays at public schools, diminishing chances of a solution before early January.
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HI: Native Hawaiian bill moves ahead without revision that upset state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Native Hawaiian federal recognition bill moved forward in the House yesterday without the proposed changes that have drawn opposition from Gov. Linda Lingle.
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HI: No deal to end Hawaii teacher furloughs as negotiations collapse
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After two days of negotiations that initially appeared productive, talks between the teachers union and the governor's office collapsed with both sides unable to agree on how to end furloughs of public school teachers.
"
IA: Culver issues order to cut $128M next year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver put his government efficiency initiative in motion Wednesday with an executive order calling for as much as $128 million in savings in the next fiscal year.
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IA: Farmland prices' 9-year rise ends
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AMES, Iowa -- A drop in corn, soybean and livestock prices caused Iowa's farmland to fall in value by 2 percent this year, to $4,371 per acre, according to Iowa State University economist Michael Duffy.
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IA: Culver -- I-Jobs projects total more than $560 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver used a forum with Associated Press reporters and editors to tout the latest totals reached by the I-Jobs program.
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IA: Urbandale library crammed with tax credit groupies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's tax credit review has proven popular. Roughly 150 people have crammed into the Urbandale Public Library for a meeting that is just beginning.
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IA: Key lawmakers offer preview of next session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state government reorganization package that Iowa lawmakers intend to pass could amount to a quarter of a billion dollars in savings, Democrats said Wednesday.
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IA: Business climate of Iowa debated -- Is it good or bad?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Whether Iowa is a magnet or a turnoff for businesses became a hot topic for state lawmakers Wednesday.
"
IA: Business climate of Iowa debated: Is it good or bad?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Whether Iowa is a magnet or a turnoff for businesses became a hot topic for state lawmakers Wednesday."
IA: Culver orders $128 million in savings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Dozens of money-saving measures or revenue enhancements that include massive technological consolidations to state e-mail and Internet systems, enhanced state debt collection and reductions to human resource staff were put in motion today in an executive order signed by Gov. Chet Culver.
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IA: Culver tells state to enact 39 money-saving ideas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa will dodge some of the most painful budget cuts that threaten state government next year by implementing deep saving proposals, Gov. Chet Culver said Wednesday as he ordered state departments to follow ideas proposed by a private consultant.
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ID: Some Idaho kids received recalled H1N1 shots
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The H1N1 vaccines have lost some germ-fighting power, but they aren't dangerous, officials say.
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ID: In Idaho poll, 56% oppose health care reform efforts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Idaho poll came up with results similar to a new national poll showing Americans in general are afraid of proposed changes in the way they receive health care.
"
ID: Higher education bracing for cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the world of higher education, there's a difference between state institutions and the College of Southern Idaho that influences preparations for state budget cuts.
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ID: More cuts at the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation could mean fewer parks and higher user fees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While state recreational facilities are seeing a 14 percent increase in visitors - to more than 4.2 million a year - the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation has reduced its workers by 10 percent and grappled with double-digit budget cuts.
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IL: Ill. high court could rule on medical malpractice
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Illinois Supreme Court is announcing it will release a decision on whether the state's medical malpractice law is constitutional.
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IL: Quinn gives green light to port status
From: feeds.stateline.org
"METROPOLIS, Ill. -- New economic opportunities may be on the horizon for the people of Metropolis and other Massac County communities, as Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn signed a bill Wednesday to create a Massac-Metropolis Port District.
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IL: Governor candidates all over map on how to fix Illinois' economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There may be no issue talked about more in the primary race for governor than jobs and the economy.
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IL: Treasurer candidate -- Private funds would help development
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Justin Oberman of Chicago, a Democratic candidate for state treasurer, said Wednesday he would want to use targeted loans of funds held by that office to lure private dollars that could go toward economic development.
"
IL: Mold latest challenge at state-owned resort
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A resort and golf course that opened two decades ago with the aid of $4.5 million in state incentives has been closed for the past six months by mold in some guest rooms and a swimming pool area.
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IL: So what happens to gaming operators caught breaking law?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's one of Illinois' worst-kept secrets: Tens of thousands of video-gaming machines installed for entertainment-only purposes at taverns and other venues often are actually used for illegal gambling.
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IL: Suit -- Landscaper didn't perform contracted work
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A La Grange Park landscaping company that allegedly did not refund deposits after failing to perform contracted work was accused today of violating the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Home Repair and Remodeling Acts.
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IN: Schools brace for more cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mitch Daniels' plan to cut $300 million from K-12 education has local school districts searching their budgets for ways to meet the shortfall without cutting teachers or programs.
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IN: Governor says Gary should consider merger
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mitch Daniels said a Hoosier city that runs out of revenue because of Indiana's new property tax caps could be placed into receivership, but he said his administration hasn't been preparing for that possibility.
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IN: State education board meets to consider budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Indiana Board of Education plans to meet Thursday to consider how to cut $300 million from public schools without laying off teachers.
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IN: Higher taxes not the solution for budget crunch
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Managing costs in state government is the key to economic recovery in Indiana, Gov. Mitch Daniels said during a conference call Wednesday.
"
KS: New report shows 228,000 Kansans would gain health coverage by 2019 under Senate bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 228,000 Kansans would gain health coverage by 2019 under the Senate reform bill being debated in Congress.
"
KS: Democrat Tom Wiggans exits race for Kansas governor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas Democrats found themselves scrambling for a major candidate for governor — again — after political newcomer Tom Wiggans abruptly exited the race Wednesday.
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KS: Statehouse Live -- Kansas anti-cockfighting law wins praise; State Library of Kansas moving
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas received national recognition on Wednesday from the Humane Society of the United States.
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KS: Support for Kansas higher education found in business and industry, but long-term initiative sought
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansas higher education found strong support from those who attended recent meetings held by the Kansas Board of Regents that were aimed at connecting with business and industry leaders.
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KY: Auditor to release report on League of Cities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Auditor Crit Luallen is planning the public release of findings from a financial review of the Kentucky League of Cities.
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MA: Facing loss of Tobin tolls, Massport plans to lay off 25
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Massachusetts Port Authority, which will lose possession of the Tobin Bridge, plans to shed about 25 workers to make up for the lost toll revenue, authority managers said.
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MA: State tax revenue on the rebound, officials now say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State tax revenues appear to be bouncing back and will begin to grow next year, providing a long-awaited glimmer of good news after two years of falling tax collections, according to state officials and economic specialists.
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MA: Plan to tax students not likely in Boston
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The mayor of Pittsburgh is eyeballing student tuitions for a new tax to ease the Steel City's financial woes, but Mayor Thomas M. Menino says Boston isn't interested in dunning the thousands of college kids who come here to better themselves.
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MA: County seeks more control over offshore development
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BARNSTABLE, Mass. — County officials are pushing for more local control over wind energy projects in state ocean waters.
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MD: Md. urges more U.S. aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE -- Even as the fiscal picture in Maryland brightens, Gov. Martin O'Malley called on the federal government Wednesday to provide more help to states that are laboring to keep their budgets balanced. (Also see: US: Second stimulus? US House passes $154 billion jobs bill )
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MD: State revenue decline eases in Maryland
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With luck, Maryland will someday look back at Wednesday as The Bottom.
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MD: Private firm wins lease to manage port of Baltimore
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE -- The state Board of Public Works approved Wednesday a 50-year lease that will allow a private company to manage operations at the port of Baltimore. Officials say the deal will generate at least $1.3 billion and 5,700 new jobs.
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MD: City slots group might have backer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE -- A group seeking to build a slots casino in Baltimore may have jump-started the stalled project by securing a promise of $50 million from a multibillion-dollar investment group Wednesday evening, according to a source familiar with the deal.
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MD: Should state lawmakers get a raise?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ADELPHI, Md. - Few companies will probably even bother considering hiking employee salaries during a lingering recession, but a state panel must decide whether state lawmakers should get a raise.
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ME: Taxation Committee mulls tax exemptions with eye to change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers serving on the Taxation Committee explored business tax exemptions Wednesday as a potential source of income to help cope with the state budget shortfall.
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ME: Planned special-ed rules changes challenged
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maine's Department of Education wants to reduce the cost of delivering special-education services to the students who need them.
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ME: CMP continues push for full system upgrade
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Central Maine Power Co. is renewing its push to win approval for a controversial, $1.5 billion upgrade to its transmission system, arguing that failure to move ahead soon will cost Maine jobs and money, and make the state more vulnerable to blackouts.
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ME: Racino halts bid for new slots
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BANGOR, Maine — Hollywood Slots has withdrawn its request to offer up a new type of slot machine for its customers.
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ME: Rural Maine broadband access to grow
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ORONO, Maine — A member of President Barack Obama's Cabinet will visit the University of Maine today to announce an investment of more than $25 million in federal stimulus money to improve broadband Internet access to rural Maine.
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ME: Maine investigates lobster dealers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PORTLAND, Maine — Maine's attorney general, responding to complaints by lobstermen suffering under rock-bottom prices, has opened an investigation into allegations of price-fixing among some lobster dealers.
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MI: GM transfers could boost economy; may be eligible for $30K in relocation costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The representatives from real estate agents, movers and apartment rental companies will be on hand today in Spring Hill, Tenn., for a job relocation fair for the approximately 425 GM workers who are transferring to the Lansing Delta Township assembly plant as early as Jan. 11, 2010.
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MI: With posters, Let's Save Michigan seeks to inspire residents to revive the state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DETROIT -- The Detroit Institute of Arts and the organizer of a public outreach effort called Let's Save Michigan think the economically battered state needs a little inspiration.
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MI: Gov. Jennifer Granholm stresses need for workers to retrain in visit to Kalamazoo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- Gov. Jennifer Granholm heard first-hand Wednesday how federal stimulus money helped four local families avoid homelessness when life and the economy delivered them a one-two punch.
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MI: Freight traffic wanes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Slow shipping season sees fewer vessels on Great Lakes as demand for goods grows cold.
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MI: University of Michigan bond would help complete hospitals, refinance debt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Michigan plans to raise around $365 million by selling new bonds to help fund the completion of two university hospital projects and refinance existing debt.
"
MI: State House OKs bills revamping car insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Urban residents would no longer be charged more for car insurance under a package of bills that passed the state House of Representatives this afternoon.
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MI: Senate, House differ on education reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers and school officials are lined up behind competing education reform legislation on the eve of an expected vote today.
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MI: Wagoner's ouster shocks GM; task force readies bankruptcy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As skies darkened over Washington on March 27, General Motors Chairman Rick Wagoner slipped into a meeting room at the U.S. Treasury where GM President Fritz Henderson and Chief Financial Officer Ray Young had been cooling their heels and made an announcement: The Obama administration, via auto task force chief Steven Rattner, had told him to step aside, effective immediately.
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MI: Bill may keep Secretary of State branches open
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would save East Lansing's Secretary of State branch from the chopping block has passed a key hurdle.
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MI: Michigan jobless rate falls to 14.7 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan's jobless rate fell slightly in November, offering a little holiday hope amid a weak economy.
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MN: Pawlenty calls for balanced budget amendment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CONCORD, N.H. — Excessive federal spending amounts to a "Ponzi scheme on the Potomac" and should be stopped with a constitutional amendment requiring balanced budgets, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty told New Hampshire Republicans on Wednesday.
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MN: Stimulus funding a shot in the dark
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- Insulation, turkey breasts, wind turbines, buses, crime labs, unemployment checks. ... In the mountain of goods and services being funded by the $4.7 billion-plus American Recovery and Reinvestment Act dollars flowing into Minnesota, one project stands out: $40 million to build a laboratory near the Canadian border to catch ghostly neutrinos fired at Minnesota from Illinois.
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MN: Better health? State is offering a ... carrot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Improving school meals, opening farmers markets and creating biking and walking routes are the most popular choices among Minnesota counties looking to spend $47 million in state health-improvement grants.
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MN: State bills defunct Metro Gang Strike Force for $300,000
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota's public safety commissioner gave the Metro Gang Strike Force a bill for nearly $300,000 earlier this month "for extraordinary costs incurred by the state" to dismantle the task force.
"
MO: Senator -- Lake needs cleanup plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The head of the committee that investigated the state's failure to report high levels of bacteria at Lake of the Ozarks said he hopes to recommend a long-term, comprehensive plan to protect a valuable tourist asset.
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MO: Taxpayers bear load of failure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The financial collapse of a prepaid funeral business will cost Missouri taxpayers $18 million under a program that allows insurance companies to write off assessments paid to cover an insurer's bankruptcy.
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MO: Missouri governor touts initiative to spur biotech research
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jay Nixon says it's time for Missouri to "get a little skin in the game" in the exploding biotech industry.
"
MS: Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant says he'll work to get cut-and-sew tax credits bill approved
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ECRU, Miss. –- Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant told furniture industry officials Wednesday that he would support legislation to provide tax credits aimed at saving or bringing back cut-and-sew jobs.
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MS: Hosemann opposes change in use of 16th section funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GULFPORT, Miss. — Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann will push a host of business and election law reforms during the 2010 legislative session, which begins next month.
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MS: Lawmakers -- Fees may spike, not taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Key lawmakers say raising taxes is not the way to solve the state's budget crisis, but the budget blueprint they adopted this week would lead to additional fees and other costs for Mississippians.
"
MT: MSU seeks dismissal of lawsuit by former football coach Mike Kramer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montana State University is asking a District Court judge to dismiss former football coach Mike Kramer's wrongful termination lawsuit against the university.
"
MT: Schweitzer backs Tester's wilderness bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The governor says he is backing U.S. Sen. Jon Tester's plan to both create more wilderness and mandate more logging.
"
NC: Easley aide shepherded permit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A top aide to then-Gov. Mike Easley contacted a top state regulator about a permit for the Cannonsgate residential development where Easley bought a waterfront lot at a special price, according to interviews and documents.
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NC: N.C. tax collections remain weak
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Carolina continues to collect less tax money than legislators expected when they crafted this year's budget.
"
NC: Stores may get lottery perks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lottery officials want to give convenience store clerks more incentive to suggest a lottery ticket to go with that tank of gas and diet soda.
"
NC: Rand has a second accuser
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A former board member at Law Enforcement Associates says state Sen. Tony Rand tried to recruit him this year to participate in an insider trading swindle.
"
ND: North Dakota Horse Park under review
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the park facing a $200,000 deficit, the North Dakota Racing Commission voted Tuesday to conduct a financial review of the track that has sponsored races since 2003.
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ND: Hiring freeze put in place at NDSU
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FARGO, N.D. -- The interim president at North Dakota State University said Wednesday that the school has imposed a hiring freeze to help deal with a $1.8 million budget shortfall.
"
NE: UNL now owner of State Fair Park
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Nebraska-Lincoln will take possession of its newest real estate acquisition — State Fair Park — today. The 251-acre parcel had been owned by state government and had been home to the Nebraska State Fair since 1901.
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NE: Nebraska gas tax to rise by almost half a cent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska's total gas tax will rise by almost a half-cent per gallon Jan. 1, to 26.8 cents per gallon for highway related funding.
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NE: Nebraskans tell senators to raise taxes, fees to pay for highways
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state should get the additional money needed for state and local highway programs through higher taxes and fees, Nebraskans told senators during a statewide series of hearings on highway funding.
"
NE: Disaster declared for several Southeast Nebraska counties
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster in seven Southeast Nebraska counties hit by a severe wintry storm last month.
"
NH: LGC turns over records to investigators
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two days after a superior court judge ruled that the Local Government Center could not block investigators' efforts to examine its financial records, the center said it would hand over its files to state regulators, who then rejected the LGC's request that a judge maintain jurisdiction over them.
"
NH: Crowd protests LLC tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 200 people turned out yesterday at a Department of Revenue Administration hearing to protest a new tax on interest and dividends paid out by limited liability companies.
"
NH: Bill will help poor pay utility
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Disabled and newly widowed, Irene Pingree says assistance in paying her electric bill under a soon-to-be expanded state program can't come soon enough.
"
NJ: Audit finds much of Camden's water supply missing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Much of Camden's water supply cannot be accounted for by the company that runs the system, a state audit has found. The company also has collected millions in unapproved tax dollars and failed to protect the water from contamination, the state comptroller said.
"
NJ: New Jersey digs into transportation fund for $70M bailout on road fixes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey can't afford to inspect bridges, fix drainage systems or even fill potholes so it's pushing off nearly $70 million in routine repairs onto a trust fund that is nearly bankrupt.
"
NM: Guv rejects reporter's request for info on outgoing appointees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Days after a spokesman for Gov. Bill Richardson told a TV reporter that it was "not appropriate or dignified" to identify the 59 political appointees who are losing their jobs, Richardson's office has formally denied a newspaper reporter's request for that information.
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NM: Public defenders struggle with furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In November, Gov. Bill Richardson announced that, due to the state's budget crisis, he would order 20,000 state workers in the executive branch to take five days off work without pay.
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NM: Administration stays mum on laid-off exempts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Governor's Office refuses to identify the 59 exempt state employees whose jobs will be eliminated early next year.
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NM: State budget crisis -- Panel wraps up study on tax hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Should Gov. Bill Richardson push for higher personal or corporate income taxes?
"
NV: Murphy suing state for malicious prosecution in Binion case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sandra Murphy, known for her conviction and eventual acquittal in the death of her boyfriend and Las Vegas casino executive Ted Binion, is suing the state for false imprisonment and malicious prosecution.
"
NV: Nevadans in the recession -- Their stories
From: feeds.stateline.org
"How are Nevadans coping in the recession?
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NV: Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki says he'll seek re-election
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nevada Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki says he plans to seek re-election next year.
"
NV: Defection in the Gibbons camp
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A key fundraiser and close ally of Gov. Jim Gibbons has shifted his support to the governor's leading Republican rival, Brian Sandoval.
"
NY: Strains felt in health coverage for jobless
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While lawmakers in Washington continue to debate how to make health care affordable for more Americans, thousands of unemployed New Yorkers like Rhonda R. Baumser are suddenly struggling to hang onto their health coverage.
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NY: Gov. David Paterson sued by education groups
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Education groups filed a lawsuit in New York Supreme Court Wednesday against Gov. David Paterson because he is withholding $582 million in state aid to school districts.
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NY: House passes jobs bill that will benefit New York
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — New York state government, school districts and local governments would receive additional federal aid early next year under a $174 billion jobs bill the House approved Wednesday on a vote of 217-212.
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NY: Added duties cause worry
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's been almost nine months since a fire at a home for the disabled in the Adirondack community of Wells killed four people.
"
OH: Recession hitting Ohio's former steel towns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WARREN, Ohio -- All day long the front door buzzes at Uptown Gems & Jewels. The people come in with their trinkets wrapped in tissue or velvet boxes. They say their hours have been cut or they've been laid off. Some have their first names stitched in cursive on their uniforms, others wear safety-toe boots.
"
OH: Ohio AG sues mortgage company
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DAYTON, Ohio -- Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray has filed a lawsuit against a New York-based company he alleges issued unfair loan-modification agreements and provided inadequate customer service to borrowers faced with foreclosure.
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OH: Strickland hints at special session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For Christmas, Gov. Ted Strickland wants a two-year delay of this year's income-tax cut wrapped with a bow.
"
OH: Courts tackling tricky issue of cell phone privacy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cell phones aren't just for talking anymore. People use them for everything from texting and sending intimate photographs to handling work e-mail and accessing the Internet to pay their bills.
"
OH: AmTrust's new owner may need to keep fewer workers; many face 'payless payday' on Friday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLEVELAND -- Two weeks after AmTrust Bank failed and was bought by New York Community Bank, the jobs picture isn't as bright as it seemed for the bank's 1,450 employees in Northeast Ohio.
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OH: Slots foes finishing signature effort
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Opponents of slot machines at Ohio racetracks will submit signatures to the secretary of state on Sunday in hope of placing the issue on the November 2010 ballot.
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OH: Plan may include tax delay, construction-law pilot projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The long impasse over how to fix an $851 million hole in the state budget is expected to end today.
"
OK: Poultry industry opens its defense
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The poultry industry began its defense in a pollution trial Wednesday by calling an expert witness who said poultry litter is not a significant source of phosphorus and algae growth in the Illinois River watershed.
"
OR: Wyden introduces bill to restore jobs and forests
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Longtime adversaries in the bitter battle over Northwest logging have come together to support legislation to restore timber jobs and protect old growth in Eastern Oregon's six national forests.
"
OR: Washington senator wants hearings on NOAA's planned move to Newport
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEWPORT, Ore. -- U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., raised the stakes today in her efforts to keep the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Pacific Fleet based in Washington, threatening to call for congressional hearings into the agency's decision to move the fleet to Newport.
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OR: Valley's Suntron will lay off 190 at Oregon plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Phoenix-based Suntron Corp. will lay off about 190 employees at its Oregon manufacturing facility.
"
PA: Pittsburgh delays vote to tax tuition
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a sudden change of course, Pittsburgh's mayor asked the City Council Wednesday to postpone a vote on the nation's first tuition tax on college students, holding out hope that the city's 10 colleges and universities will agree to provide economic help voluntarily.
"
PA: Gaming board blasts Foxwoods over a deadline
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawyers for the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board yesterday slammed the Foxwoods Casino developers for missing a Dec. 1 deadline to submit architectural renderings of its stalled South Philadelphia slots parlor, and advised against an extension to March 1.
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PA: Pa. Senate confirms new agriculture secretary
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate yesterday confirmed Russell Redding to replace Dennis Wolff as state agriculture secretary. Wolff stepped down in August after 6 1/2 years in the job.
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PA: Pa. table-games issue still unresolved
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The long-disputed table-games bill may have to wait until January. Legislation to allow poker, roulette, and other games at Pennsylvania casinos fell victim last night to one more round of disagreement between the Democratic-controlled state House and the Republican-controlled Senate.
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PA: Pennsylvania bill would alter teachers' pension plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Faced with the prospect of soaring school district contributions to the state's school pension fund, the Pennsylvania School Boards Association Wednesday joined forces with a pair of Republican lawmakers to introduce a bill to reduce pension benefits and provide individual retirement accounts for school employees hired after July 1, 2010.
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PA: DeWeese, 2 others post bonds of $50,000 each
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic Rep. Bill DeWeese was in a familiar setting: he was the center of attention surrounded by TV cameras and a horde of reporters.
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PA: Senate OKs table games, trouble looms in House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Any casino gambler will tell you that the odds are in the house's favor.
"
RI: R.I. Senate leaders say tax increases are possible
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Calling the magnitude of the local-aid cuts in Governor Carcieri's deficit-elimination plan an "extraordinary disappointment," Senate Democratic leaders on Wednesday said they "cannot rule out" tax increases as an alternative.
"
RI: More 2-parent families moving into Providence shelter
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Walik Morrison and Christina Vaccaro met on a bus in Providence seven years ago. It's been a bumpy ride ever since.
"
RI: Waiting times high as jobless claims stagger R.I.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Out-of-work Rhode Islanders who phone the state's unemployment insurance call center wind up on hold for more than an hour on average before reaching the center's staff, state Department of Labor and Training officials acknowledged in a State House hearing Wednesday.
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RI: Poll -- R.I. residents have gloomy outlook on economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three-quarters of Rhode Islanders have a friend or family member who recently lost a job, and only a third believe the $787-billion federal stimulus package is doing much to help the economy, according to a new Brown University poll.
"
SC: Legislature could enter fray over annexation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill being floated in the Tennessee Legislature to try to change how cities conduct annexation could face considerable opposition before any vote is ever taken, officials said Wednesday.
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SC: Sanford censure could happen early next year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A formal admonishment of Gov. Mark Sanford by lawmakers is likely early next year, legislators say, leaving his divorce, a hearing on state ethics charges and any possible prosecution by state Attorney General Henry McMaster as the remaining fallout from his one-year affair with an Argentine woman.
"
SD: Railroad bill may benefit farmers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill making its way through the Senate could give shippers more leverage against railroads and benefit South Dakota farmers whose grain and ethanol largely leaves the state by rail.
"
TN: Geologist assesses damage from Lookout rock slide
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While workers were busy rebuilding the side of Signal Mountain where a rock slide created a road crater last week, a state geologist was across town assessing damage from a Saturday rock slide on Lookout Mountain.
"
TN: Tennesseans weigh in at Copenhagen climate conference
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Representing an array of viewpoints and agendas, Middle Tennessee leaders and advocacy groups have made their presence felt at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, which concludes on Friday.
"
TX: Labor leader seriously weighs run for lieutenant governor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Linda Chavez-Thompson, a former executive vice president of the AFL-CIO, is leaning toward running for lieutenant governor as a Democrat, according to multiple sources familiar with her plans.
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TX: Does Kinky qualify for agriculture commission job?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kinky Friedman's got the big black cowboy hat and the Texas twang. But the question is whether he has the credentials needed under state law to run for Agriculture Commissioner.
"
TX: Outbound brains
From: feeds.stateline.org
""Laredo has a book store?" That message was recently posted on Facebook after the launch of a campaign to raise awareness that B.Dalton Bookseller decided to shut down its operations in the border town.
"
TX: Same diagnosis, different prescription
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the political posturing over federal health care reform, the physician fraternity stands divided.
"
TX: Kinky Friedman says he meets agriculture requirements needed to run for commissioner
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Author-entertainer Kinky Friedman isn't all hat. He's some cattle, too. And don't forget the hay and deer.
"
TX: Texas advocate seeks ban on insurers' blanket clauses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's insurance consumer advocate is seeking to eliminate the blanket authority of health and disability insurers to decide what their policies cover, a shift that could have a major impact on health insurance in Texas.
"
US: Stimulus Phase 2 -- Infrastructure and jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The largest stimulus program in the nation's history is starting to move into a new phase: Out with the rescue, in with new spending to create jobs.
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US: Second stimulus? US House passes $154 billion jobs bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With America's unemployment rate in double digits, the US House on Wednesday narrowly passed a $154 billion jobs bill. The vote was 217 to 212.
"
UT: H1N1 shots -- Plenty for everyone
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Once there was famine. Now it's feast time for the H1N1 vaccine.
"
UT: UTA debating where to cut funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"UTA is sharpening the budget ax but hasn't decided yet where it will fall.
"
UT: Uranium to arrive in Utah this month for disposal at EnergySolutions facility
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite Gov. Gary Herbert's 11th-hour plea to stop it, the first shipment of depleted uranium is expected to arrive in Utah before the end of December.
"
VA: Somber Va. roads panel readies $893 million cut
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Virginia transportation officials vote Thursday on $893 million in cuts its six-year master plan for road building and maintenance, the fifth time spending has been slashed since June 2008.
"
VA: Kaine may renew Virginia's car tax debate amid budget gap
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than a decade after once-common "Ax the Tax" bumper stickers have disappeared from cars in Virginia and the political potency of a Republican promise to eliminate the state's car tax has seemingly waned, what to do about the annual levy has hardened into one of Virginia's most intractable political dilemmas.
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VA: McDonnell hints at job cuts for state employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell is warning state employees of tough times ahead, hinting that budget-balancing could cost some of them their jobs.
"
VA: Region's legislators say there's little money in state budget for spending on priorities group has established
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FREDERICKSBURG, Va. -- State legislators warned area Chamber of Commerce members that there is little money in the state budget for some of the business group's priorities.
"
VA: Audit -- Dominion Power overcharged customers $524M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- Dominion and the state attorney general presented a plan to give customers an average of nearly $100 in refunds and bill reductions.
"
VT: Homeless shelters run low on beds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BARRE, Vt. – Central Vermont's only homeless shelter is running out of bed space as frigid temperatures threaten the scores of local citizens without a roof.
"
VT: Lake Champlain Bridge design chosen
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ALBANY, N.Y. -- An advisory committee has recommended a last-minute design as the replacement for the closed Lake Champlain Bridge, set to be demolished in the coming weeks.
"
VT: Administration requests $16.4 million in Vermont budget adjustments
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Douglas administration has proposed $16.4 million in changes to the budget that governs current state spending -- a midcourse correction without any controversial policy changes embedded in the numbers, officials said.
"
VT: AT&T expands 3G in Vermont
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AT&T's third generation mobile broadband network, commonly known as 3G, is being launched on a rolling basis in Vermont this week, relieving some customers who have been frustrated with the speed of data service.
"
VT: Nuclear power price expected Friday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Come Friday, Vermonters might know more about the price Vermont Yankee is offering to charge the state's largest utilities for power under a new contract. It's a move that some think could break a logjam on deciding the nuclear power plant's future.
"
WA: Cantwell threatens NOAA with hearings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an attempt to stop the move of oceanic research from Seattle to Newport, Ore., Washington leaders are pressing the case on behalf of Bellingham.
"
WI: WHEDA employees enjoy $10,000 party
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wisconsin agency that temporarily suspended its low interest home loans because of the recession has thrown a $10,000 party to show its employees they're appreciated.
"
WI: UW gets $10 million grant to research nanotechnology in metal castings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Wisconsin-Madison has landed a $10.1 million, five-year grant for research into use of nanotechnology in metal castings, the university said Wednesday.
"
WI: Doyle calls for 15-year phase-in on carbon emission limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Doyle said that the United States should move forward with federal cap-and-trade legislation if international climate negotiators meeting in Denmark are unable to reach agreement on it.
"
WI: Judge dismisses Fox River cleanup lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On the verge of trial, a federal judge in Green Bay has dismissed a lawsuit that sought contributions from 20 companies and governments toward the cost of a $875 million clean up of the lower Fox River.
"
WV: W.Va. study pitches biz property tax amendment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Joe Manchin's ongoing bid to overhaul West Virginia's tax system recommended Wednesday that voters allow the Legislature to tinker with taxes on business machinery and inventory.
"
WV: W.Va. road upkeep could be in trouble
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fewer sales and more fuel efficient vehicles, combined with a rapidly deteriorating highway system and a trend that finds teenagers disinclined to get a license, add up to one thing — big trouble for road upkeep in West Virginia.
"
WV: PEIA board approves premium increase
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public Employees Insurance Agency Finance Board members Wednesday approved an average 4 percent premium increase for insurees -- but rejected a proposal to instead have a flat $6- to $8-a-month increase in employee premiums.
"
WY: Over $2.2 million in Wyo renewable energy grants obligated in 10 days
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In less than 10 days, the Wyoming State Energy Office has obligated all federal stimulus funding designated for the residential renewable energy program, and has created a waiting list for those still interested in the program.
"
WY: Wyoming state retirees getting "double retirement"
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the legislature's Joint Interim Appropriations Committee grapples with how to fund a shrunken retirement fund for state employees and others which lost $2 billion in last year's economic meltdown, they are also questioning how involved those employees are with their own retirement, given that they currently contribute nothing.
"
WY: Wyoming lags nation in use of food stamps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than half the people in Wyoming who are eligible for food stamps are not receiving them, according to a report on food stamp enrollment recently released by the United States Department of Agriculture.
"
Nightmare scenarios haunt states
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One question keeps coming up as governors and legislators grapple with a seemingly never-ending stream of gloomy budget news that keeps getting worse: How bad can it get? The answer, according to experts and a look through history, is probably that it could get worse than it has been in a generation — maybe even a lifetime — but not catastrophic.
"
Weekly wrap: States, locals have spent a quarter of stimulus funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new federal report shows states and localities spent a quarter of their federal stimulus dollars. A budget-cutting to release prisoners in Oregon questioned. And credit-rating agencies draw harsh criticism from states but may escape new federal regulations.
"
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.
"
Economist Mark Zandi: On stimulus, jobs, state finances, inflation and the year ahead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"
A leading economist agrees with President Obama's plea for additional money to help financially strapped state governments.
"
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.
"
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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