Lawmakers set to return for 'brutal' sessions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TODAY’S TAKE: Lawmakers in 13 states return this week for legislative sessions that will be dominated by austere budgets and major elections in November.
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US: Living on nothing but food stamps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About six million Americans receiving food stamps report they have no other income, according to an analysis of state data collected by The New York Times.
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AK: Candidates rush to beat donation deadline
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Candidates for governor were scrambling furiously to raise campaign cash before 2009 came to a close.
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AK: Parnell wants delay in greenhouse gas rule
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell wants the Environmental Protection Agency to halt its effort to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act.
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AL: Gov. Bob Riley, industry officials use Tide title game to recruit businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bob Riley and Alabama industrial recruiters will use Thursday's national championship football game to try to score some economic development victories for the state.
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AL: Democrats -- $1B would help roads, employment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"They came up short last year, but Democrats in the Alabama Senate want to try again in 2010 to pass a bill that would take $100 million a year from the Alabama Trust Fund to improve roads and bridges in the state.
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AL: Predictions for 2010 -- Interest rates to go up; Alabama to lose millions due to census count
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the 29th consecutive year, the University of Alabama's Office of Media Relations offers predictions from faculty experts for the coming year.
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AL: McCalla railroad hub foes oppose federal stimulus funds request
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A group opposed to a planned railroad hub in McCalla wants to prevent federal stimulus money from going to the $112 million project.
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AL: King says politics not behind health care reform bill investigation by AGs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alabama Attorney General Troy King said today the investigation by 13 Republican attorneys general into a deal that allowed a Democrat-backed health care reform bill to pass the U.S. Senate is not motivated by politics.
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AR: Public input sought on proposed new hunting regs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Several states have banned the practice of baiting and feeding deer and other wildlife in recent years because of the spread of disease and danger from natural predators.
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AR: State economy rolled with punches in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arkansas' economy took some punches in 2009, a year that saw the state's highest unemployment rate in 21 years and its biggest slump in tax collections in at least 20 years.
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AR: Developer named in Arkansas lawsuit over runoff
From: feeds.stateline.org
"YELLVILLE, Ark. — State authorities say a Marion County developer is polluting the White River with runoff from construction work on a 20-acre subdivision on a steep hillside just downstream from Bull Shoals Dam on the White River.
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AR: 2009 donors to Clinton foundation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 2009 donors to the William J. Clinton Foundation who have given at least $1,000 to the former president's charity since its founding include:
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AR: Foreign govt's among Clinton donors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — Foreign countries including Norway and Oman contributed to former President Bill Clinton's charity, and donors including Donald Trump, multinational soft drink company Coca-Cola and singer Elton John's foundation also pitched in as Hillary Rodham Clinton served her first year as secretary of state.
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AR: Lottery exec misled panel, legislator says
From: www.arkansasonline.com
"A state senator said he believes a vice president for Arkansas' lottery misled a legislative committee in testimony last month.
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AR: Feds award $4.2 million to Arkansas homeless programs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Federal officials today announced renewal of $4.2 million in grants for 23 homeless assistance programs in Arkansas.
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AZ: San Carlos Lake faces drought crisis
From: feeds.stateline.org
"San Carlos Lake is nearly empty, the water levels behind Coolidge Dam so low that federal officials have shut off deliveries to downstream farmers in an attempt to avert massive fish deaths.
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AZ: Riordan Mansion future looks grim
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The decision by lawmakers last month to take funds from the state parks system means some will be shuttered later this year, the director of the agency said Thursday.
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AZ: Litchfield Park, Goodyear water rate increases proposed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Residents of Litchfield Park and parts of Goodyear are facing a massive water and wastewater rate increase, which if approved by the Arizona Corporation Commission would go into effect sometime this year.
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AZ: Widening projects on I-17 and I-10 ease snarl
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After nearly two years of construction, new lanes are easing congestion for commuters on Interstates 17 and 10.
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AZ: State Chamber focuses on Ariz. budget crisis
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry is focusing its agenda for the upcoming legislative session on balancing the budget.
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CA: Small-scale solar plan clashes with big energy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even though much of the environmental movement has rallied behind the construction of large wind farms and solar power plants, an undercurrent argues that they aren't necessary, or even desirable.
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CA: Schwarzenegger sets the bar high for his last year in office
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Republican governor still believes he can finish the job he promised in his final year.
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CA: Meg Whitman among Financial Times' 50 faces shaping decade
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A New Year's gift just landed for Republican gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman.
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CA: Judge orders Schwarzenegger to halt state worker furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Alameda County Superior Court judge Thursday ordered Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to halt thrice-monthly furloughs for tens of thousands of state workers, saying the administration overstepped its authority in approving the unpaid days off.
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CA: California ushers in new laws limiting trans fats, the paparazzi and more
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The new year rang in with hundreds of new state laws governing how Californians live and do business.
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CO: Taxpayers billed for photos, videos of Gov. Ritter
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bill Ritter does not have a staff photographer but he has billed taxpayers more than $200,000 to hire outside contractors and pay for photographs, videos and TV ads promoting his accomplishments since June 2008, including videos of him receiving a "Father of the Year" award and naming Michael Bennet to the U.S. Senate.
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CO: Gov. Ritter aimed high on health goals
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the last year of his term in office arrives, Gov. Bill Ritter can rightly claim to have done more to expand health coverage of the uninsured than any other governor in 40 years.
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CO: TABOR foes target 2011 for vote
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The name alone could cure insomnia: the Long-Term Fiscal Stability Commission.
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CT: Rell, Democrats disagree on federal funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democrats and Gov. M. Jodi Rell are feuding about how much money the state government ought to be getting from Uncle Sam.
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CT: State officials see 66-point plan as guide to prosperity
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW BRITAIN, Conn. -- State economic development officials have put together a 66-point plan they say should serve as a guide for policy-setting and decision-making.
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CT: State limits on-campus credit card marketing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For credit card marketers, getting the attention of students on many Connecticut campuses will soon be much harder than offering free pizza slices, T-shirts or baseball hats.
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CT: Rell creates a panel to monitor health care overhaul efforts in Washington
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The governor of the state that's home to the city that's known as the insurance capital of the world is creating what she calls a "rapid review panel" to monitor the federal health care overhaul effort.
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CT: Tax break credited for soaring Connecticut home sales
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Connecticut's housing market showed further signed of improvement in November as the number of single-family house sales increased by 75 percent over November, 2008 and prices fell by barely more than 1 percent.
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DE: Jobs outlook offers no cheer
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the new year dawns, some signs raise hope that Delaware is leaving a forlorn year behind. Home sales are rising. The economy is growing again. But one cold statistic looks likely to be a laggard in the recovery.
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DE: Sussex to look at disputed retail project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The battle lines have been drawn over a proposed shopping center near Lewes for more than a year, with a victor finally expected to emerge later this month.
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DE: New Dover library at center of tax fracas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A City Council majority believes residents are being unfairly taxed twice for the same services and is pushing for a break from Kent County.
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FL: Crist begins decade fighting poll numbers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Charlie Crist's final year as governor begins like no other -- with perilous poll numbers, his optimism worn thin and his shell of political Teflon deeply scratched.
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FL: Laid-off workers struggling to keep COBRA benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI - Laid-off workers are struggling through a difficult maze to keep health insurance while insurers and former employers have no interest in helping them beyond what federal and state laws require.
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FL: I-95 express lanes coming to Broward
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FORT LAUDERDALE -- When Dina Pearlman commutes to Miami, she zips into the southbound Interstate 95 carpool lane in her Toyota Prius hybrid as soon as she enters the highway from Griffin Road. But Pearlman and others like her will have to adjust their driving habits when I-95's new express lanes expand north to Fort Lauderdale.
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FL: Court records reveal trouble at Turkey Point
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI -- When Coleen Ware walked into Turkey Point, she was shocked to see that the indicators showing control rod positions looked like something out of an early '70s sci-fi movie.
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GA: Officials wait for maglev funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Georgia Department of Transportation hasn't yet received matching funds needed soon to secure federal money for development of a high-speed rail system between Atlanta and Chattanooga.
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GA: Tax breaks lack accountability, audit says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Georgia is doling out millions of dollars in tax breaks designed to help create jobs, but officials don't have any proof it's paying off, state auditors say.
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GA: Perdue picks Cole as next Secretary of State
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sonny Perdue is expected to announce Monday that his floor leader, Rep. Jim Cole, will be Georgia's next Secretary of State.
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GA: State requiring more electronic tax payments
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More Georgia businesses and individuals will be required to pay their state taxes electronically under legislation that takes effect on New Year's Day.
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GA: Most top Ga. stocks saw gains in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"2009 was a roller coaster year for Georgia stocks that followed one of the toughest years ever in 2008.
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GA: Hospital 'bed tax' looming
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislation to impose new taxes on metro Atlanta hospitals will likely be a flash point in the upcoming General Assembly session as Georgia grapples with a ballooning Medicaid shortfall.
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HI: UH students' debt load rising
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Although student debt at the University of Hawaii remains low, the amount of money borrowed by recent UH graduates is increasing at three to four times the national average.
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HI: Budget cuts eliminate post of HIV advocate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The HIV prevention coordinator's position and a "major link" with the community on HIV/AIDS issues has been eliminated in state Health Department budget cuts.
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HI: School's out
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Newly retired schools Superintendent Pat Hamamoto said her decision to retire was a year in the making and had nothing to do with the governor's initial rejection of the Department of Education's proposal to end Furlough Fridays.
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HI: Hawaii will probably hold public hearings on Honolulu rail transit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Supporters, opponents and others with something to say about the city's plan to build a $5.5 billion elevated rail will have a new forum to voice their opinions soon.
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HI: Hawaii schools chief -- Resignation personal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pat Hamamoto said her decision to resign as chief of the Hawai'i school system was not influenced by drawn-out negotiations over teacher furloughs or cuts to the public education budget.
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IA: Budget deficit to dominate Iowa legislative session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's 2010 legislative session will be cut short, from the usual 100 days to 80, to save money for the cash-strapped state.
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IA: Tough decisions ahead for Iowa schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Students, teachers, school administrators and property owners likely will learn a tough arithmetic lesson once state lawmakers convene their 2010 session on Jan. 11.
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IA: Sales tax breaks on the rise in Iowa
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The cost of sales tax exemptions has roughly doubled in Iowa since 2001, reaching at least $2.4 billion in forgone revenue, according to a report by the state's revenue department.
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ID: A Capitol improvement -- Idaho State Capitol to reopen after 30-month restoration, expansion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Idaho State Capitol has a new look, and just in time for the 2010 legislative session.
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ID: 2 more wind farms proposed in southern Idaho
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TWIN FALLS, Idaho — The Twin Falls County Planning and Zoning Commission in south-central Idaho is scheduled to hear two conditional-use permit requests for new wind farms and permit changes for three others later this month.
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ID: Idaho tax revenue short of projections in November
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Division of Financial Management says tax revenue collected for the state general fund fell short of projections for the third consecutive month in November.
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IL: Illinois Asian carp -- New York attorney general to file brief in Supreme Court
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is joining the legal effort to keep Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes because the species could devastate the fishing industry and the environment.
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IL: Illinois race foils bid to balance books
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHICAGO -- Social-services agencies are worried about paying staff, and time is running short to address a huge budget deficit in Illinois amid a political fight between candidates in the race for governor.
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IL: Tax policy clearly divides Republicans, Democrats
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When it comes to state taxes, the Republicans and Democrats running for governor offer voters a clear distinction between the two parties.
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IL: Pension sweeteners cost city millions, study finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pension sweeteners enacted by the Illinois General Assembly for police and firefighters have cost Springfield taxpayers more than $5 million over five years, according to a recently released analysis.
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IN: Mayors -- 'We need to get Cline rebuilt'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Re-engineering the Cline Avenue bridge as a lower expanse and hiring a regional traffic consultant are highlights of a plan released Thursday by local government officials and business leaders.
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IN: Study doesn't reflect green jobs in Indiana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Stimulus funding had created or saved just 45 "green jobs" in Indiana through September, according to a report by the Council of State Governments.
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IN: Indiana lawmakers wooing voters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an election year with a big reward – the potential to redraw political maps for the next decade – lawmakers are looking to impress voters.
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IN: State to post list of companies that are behind on sales taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Beginning today, tax-delinquent businesses will have a new incentive to pay their sales tax debts: public embarrassment.
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IN: Airports make the case they're worth the state funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An economic impact study recently made public by the Aviation Association of Indiana shows the 104 airports open to the public give a multibillion-dollar punch to the state's economy each year.
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KS: As legislative sessions loom, Kansas and Missouri agonize next moves on school funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Shriveling state revenues threaten to shipwreck government programs in Kansas and Missouri.
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KS: Child health coverage expands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As debate rages in Washington over health care reform, thousands of Kansas children will become eligible, starting today, for low-cost health insurance because of an expansion of the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
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KS: Vanity license plate law takes effect
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WICHITA, Kan. — A new law that goes into effect today will force thousands of Kansas residents to get new license plates.
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KS: State forecast gloomy for 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When the 2009 legislative session started last January, state officials knew the Kansas economy was falling, but they didn't know it would tank.
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KS: Kansas' White Christmas storm cleanup will be extra costly
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The White Christmas much of Kansas awoke to came with a big cost.
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KY: Tax breaks are budget loophole
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The money lost to tax breaks is rising about 7 percent a year as the General Assembly — often at lobbyists' urging — creates new loopholes in the tax laws without closing old ones.
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KY: Lawmakers split on how to deal with budget crisis
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The overriding challenge facing the 2010 Kentucky General Assembly is to resolve a financial crisis as bad as any the state has experienced in decades.
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KY: A citizens' guide to issues before the 2010 General Assembly
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $1.5 billion deficit in the next two-year state budget tops the 2010 Kentucky General Assembly's agenda, but dozens of other proposals, dealing with everything from child pornography to industrialized hemp, will compete for lawmakers' attention.
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KY: Unemployment fund -- Lawmakers to consider agreement to replenish anemic program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After eight months of thorny negotiations, Kentucky's business and labor leaders have agreed to a package of tax increases and benefit cuts to shore up the state's ailing unemployment trust fund.
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KY: Elections -- Campaign finance revisions on agenda
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the fourth time in as many years, the Kentucky General Assembly will consider changes to the state's campaign finance law aimed at providing greater transparency on donations to candidates.
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KY: Pensions -- Cities, counties to push for pension relief
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cities and counties likely will seek more relief on their pension obligations in the 2010 General Assembly, but they face a tough battle.
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KY: Gambling -- Slots bill appears headed for stalemate - again
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The chance of legislators approving an expansion of gambling this session looks like a 50-1 horse that is all but dismissed by oddsmakers.
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LA: Gov. Bobby Jindal plans targeted cuts to budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bobby Jindal said he plans to avoid most fee increases and across-the-board budget cuts as he crafts next year's budget proposal, rejecting two central recommendations from a streamlining panel that was charged with providing a road map to a leaner state government.
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LA: Expectations high for new La. business
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Louisiana economic development officials are pursuing $10 billion worth of business and industry prospects, with the odds for successful recruitment likely to rise in the second half of 2010, a state official said.
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MA: Anxious Mass. pushes census participation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Worried government officials and nonprofits are launching widespread campaigns urging every Massachusetts household to participate in the 2010 Census in the coming months, focusing on burgeoning immigrant communities that are fueling the state's population growth but are historically hard to count.
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MA: Cape's billion dollar wastewater problem
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CAPE COD, Mass. -- Bournes Pond, like many of the Cape's saltwater bays, is choking to death. Nitrogen, largely from septic systems, fuels explosive growth in the Falmouth bay's algae that then gobble up oxygen and block critical sunlight from eelgrass beds, the primary habitat for coastal shellfish and fish.
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MA: Coming to a Hill near you
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The six-week recess ends next week on Beacon Hill and lawmakers start the twenty-tens looking at education, expanded gambling and keeping the state afloat after the evaporation of rainy day and federal stimulus funds.
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MD: Lawmakers, others resist call to raise alcohol tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With state revenues in a deep, dark hole, some groups are pushing for an increase in taxes on a product no one truly needs, many would be better off without and which hasn't had a state tax increase in decades - alcohol.
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MD: Pay raises for state's leaders being considered
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In most workplaces, this is no time to be talking about pay raises. But Gov. Martin O'Malley and the General Assembly are expected to debate salary increases for themselves and other top elected officials when the legislative session opens this month.
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MD: Schools look for ways to cover costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A nonprofit program that teaches character-building and environment appreciation to thousands of Maryland sixth-graders each year has been forced to start charging students for their week on the Chesapeake Bay as a result of the state's budget cuts.
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MD: Push is on to speed phaseout of flame retardant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maryland advocates for a ban on a toxic flame retardant that accumulates in the environment and has been linked to cancer and brain development problems intend to pursue an earlier phaseout of the chemical than the timeline currently spelled out in a recent federal agreement.
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MD: Residents pay more for prescription drugs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Marylanders continue to spend more on prescription drugs compared to their national counterparts, despite the state's lower overall health care spending, according to an analysis of state and national health care expenditure data.
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ME: Appropriations panel to hear testimony on cuts Tuesday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers return to the Capitol on Wednesday to face a $438 million budget gap that could grow larger and dozens of bills on everything from rail service to firewood to high school graduation rates.
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ME: Gov. Baldacci defines goals for final year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As he enters his final year in office, Gov. John Baldacci said his top priorities will be continuing to streamline the size of state government amid the recession and positioning Maine to be a national leader on energy issues.
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ME: Police forces cooperate as budgets get squeezed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With police budgets across the state being cut and positions frozen to save money — but no shortage of accidents and crimes — law enforcement agencies say it can take longer to get a response even as they step up efforts to cooperate.
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ME: Budget is focus of new session for Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers return to the State House this week for an election-year session featuring considerably fewer bills but no shortage of financial challenges and other major issues likely to test legislators.
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ME: Mainers dig out from whopper storm
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A powerful three-day winter storm that walloped much of the state this weekend dumped more than a foot of snow in most places, canceled plans, contributed to accidents and caused minor coastal flooding before drifting out of the area Sunday evening.
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MI: Growth may be meager in 2010, but experts say West Michigan can anticipate employment gains
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After a tough year — and decade — that seemed to bring more job loss than gain, 2010 could be the beginning of a turnaround for the region.
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MI: State at risk of losing some road funding; many projects ahead in Saginaw County
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Our aging roads are in need of funding at a time when it's hardest to come by, says state Department of Transportation Spokeswoman Anita Richardson.
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MI: Lobbyists, PACs cutting back in tight times
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan's bad economy and a wait-and-see attitude toward the 2010 elections are cutting into the action for those who lobby lawmakers and donate to their political campaigns.
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MI: Film industry has boosted Michigan, but Legislature rethinks tax credits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Twenty-one months after the nation's leading tax incentives for film and TV producers went into effect, Michigan's efforts to build its version of Hollywood North are getting mixed reviews.
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MI: Yard clippings could head back to landfills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some large landfill operators are pushing for yard waste to be allowed back in -- state legislators instituted a ban in 1994 to save space -- in exchange for agreeing to capture at least 70% of the methane gas landfills produce and turning it into electricity or truck fuel.
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MI: New year brings challenges for schools, state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the post-holiday grind begins today, Gov. Jennifer Granholm and state lawmakers see a glimmer of hope beyond Michigan's economic maelstrom.
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MI: 4 dreamers have plan to energize state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GALESBURG, Mich. -- It might sound like a field of dreams, but Sam Field and his son Connor Field hope their new solar farm will soon bring a burst of sunshine-generated electricity to Michigan and a return on their million-dollar investment.
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MN: Minnesota schools fear state will slash funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A perfect storm of bad financial news could be brewing for Minnesota schools. With state funding for education already frozen through June 2011, schools must now face the distinct possibility of a cut during the 2010 legislative session to help erase a $1.2 billion state deficit.
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MN: 'Ink' becomes victim of recession
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Far above the skyways and the street-level crowds in downtown Minneapolis, Barry Rubin's upscale pen store, Ink, will soon become another victim of the Great Recession.
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MN: Ethanol giant shifts focus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GRANITE FALLS, MINN. - Welders at Fagen Inc. will kick off the new year by using their torches to fabricate parts destined for an ethanol plant in Hungary.
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MN: Census counting on surplus of workers, office space
From: feeds.stateline.org
"How profoundly has Minnesota changed in 10 years? Consider this -- A federal government that was begging for workers to help carry out Census 2000 has thousands of people stepping forward to join the Census 2010 effort.
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MN: Survey suggests frail Midwest recovery in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"OMAHA, Neb. — An Omaha economist says a December survey in nine Midwest and Plains states suggests that the region's economy will recovery weakly over 2010.
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MO: Curators' chair gets new chief
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite a tight budget year, Bo Fraser said he's proud of the University of Missouri System's accomplishments during his one-year term as chairman of the Board of Curators.
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MO: School choice movement pushes for open enrollment in Missouri
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The idea of opening enrollment across school district boundaries has some obvious supporters.
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MS: Budget hangups stretch for miles as session starts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislators will be staring at a stretch of budget problems as far as their eyes can see when the 2010 session opens Tuesday.
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MS: Tough times ahead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It may be a first, but state legislators from the Pine Belt area seem to all be in accord about one thing: Crafting this year's budget will be an arduous process filled with painstaking decisions and little, to no room, for spending.
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MS: Tax increases? (Probably) not this year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the state struggles with its budget shortfalls, House and Senate leaders of both parties, as well as Republican Gov. Haley Barbour, are turning a deaf ear to tax increases.
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MS: Chaney -- Funds will help stabilize pool premiums
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PASCAGOULA, Miss. — Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney says adding $19 million to the state-run insurer of last resort should help stabilize costs.
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MS: AP interview -- Barbour defends budget-cutting plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Haley Barbour says his legislative agenda is defined by his budget proposal. Beyond that, Barbour says he hasn't any big surprises for lawmakers when they return to the Capitol on Tuesday for the 2010 session.
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MS: DeLaughter to begin serving 18-month prison term in Ky.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bobby DeLaughter, who as a prosecutor and judge put thousands of people behind bars, is expected to report to prison Monday.
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MT: State officials hope for more accurate census
From: feeds.stateline.org
"KALISPELL, Mont. – Montana has lost about $43 million in federal funding over the past decade due to an undercount of its population, according to the bureau chief for the state Department of Commerce's Census & Economic Information Center.
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MT: Rehberg's stance on Montana wilderness bill pivotal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BILLINGS, Mont. - U.S. Sen. Jon Tester has drawn on a wide-ranging alliance of loggers and outfitters, environmentalists and business interests to push legislation creating Montana's first new wilderness in more than 25 years.
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MT: Montana food banks reported higher demand in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montana food banks reported a much higher demand for services in 2009, as the recession continued.
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NC: North Carolina sets curbs on smoking
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Carolina turns a new page at the start of 2010 in its long history as a tobacco-growing state as it implements a ban on smoking in bars and restaurants.
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NC: Smokers head out as ban kicks in
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Carolina's new smoking ban drew decidedly different but predictable reactions as patrons dined and drank in public restaurants and bars on the first smoke-free weekend.
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NC: Politics in '10 are likely to be unpredictable
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ask pretty much any political expert and they'll tell you that what happens in North Carolina's polling places next year will be tied to what happens in the state's marketplaces.
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NC: Electronic system to track N.C. purchases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers and other officials who monitor state spending will get an unprecedented level of detail from a new state purchasing system, which the State Auditor's office says has been plagued by cost and administrative problems.
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NC: Cunningham busy as 2009 ends
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Former state Sen. Cal Cunningham was the fourth most active fundraiser the last week of the year on the Democratic site ActBlue.
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NC: State gets tougher on adult-care ratings
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Families looking for an assisted-living home for a suddenly declining older relative often make that crucial decision in a hurry. This week, by setting up tougher standards, a state system that has given the top three-star rating to about 95 percent of adult-care centers will become more useful to people under the stress of that situation, officials said.
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ND: Coal ash issue worries N.D. power plants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Al Christianson feels like his company dodged a bullet, but the gun might still be loaded. Christianson heads up byproduct development for Great River Energy, which operates coal-fired power plants near Underwood and Stanton.
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ND: More reclaimed ND mine land going private
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakota regulators say more reclaimed coal mine land is going back into private hands.
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NE: Revenue report blesses the status quo on sales tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nebraska's sales tax system, with its numerous exemptions, is similar to those in most other states and does not need a major overhaul, according to a legislative sales tax study released in December.
"
NE: A Legislature with no money
From: feeds.stateline.org
""The word around here is that if your bill has a fiscal note (costs money or results in a loss of tax revenue), it's not going anywhere," said Lincoln Sen. Bill Avery, about the legislative session that begins Wednesday.
"
NE: Gas-tax hike likely for road funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Higher state gasoline taxes and a bond-issuing plan are among the ideas being pushed by some lawmakers to steer Nebraska out of its crisis in financing road maintenance and construction.
"
NE: CEOs drum up high-tech business
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tom Gallaway grew up in Nebraska's windswept Sand Hills, on a cattle ranch outside Bassett. But like many young people in the Cornhusker State, he moved away for the bright lights — and opportunities — of the big city.
"
NH: Legislature to focus on economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's the economy, stupid. That Bill Clinton campaign mantra could apply to the upcoming legislative session, as representatives on both sides of the aisle agree that taxes, spending and jobs will be the major issues.
"
NH: Big businesses must give notice
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Large New Hampshire companies face stiff penalties under a law taking effect with the new year if they fail to inform workers and the state before mass layoffs or plant closings.
"
NJ: Ex-lawmaker Hackett gains early release from prison
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A former assemblyman and mayor of Orange who began a five-year state prison term last January for falsifying expense receipts was released just before Christmas after serving less than a year.
"
NJ: Ensuring a clean handoff between governors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The groggy morning after Chris Christie was elected governor of New Jersey, his exhausted aides wondered what to do first.
"
NJ: Last call for lame ducks in Trenton
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers return to Trenton today to close out a lame-duck session with debate on bills to legalize medical marijuana, relax prison sentences for some drug offenders in school zones and allow towns to stave off property tax hikes by postponing pension payments.
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NJ: N.J. gaining a behind-the-scenes voice
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Chris Christie seemed to have lost all momentum in his race for the governorship.
"
NJ: Lawmaker wants to save ex-Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital site
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Efforts to preserve the former Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital site in northern New Jersey may soon get a boost from a high-ranking lawmaker.
"
NM: Adios, 2009! A look back at the year in state news
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As 2009 staggers into the history books, exhausted and a bit lighter in the pockets than when it first appeared on the scene, let's acknowledge this: the year gave us plenty to write about.
"
NM: State's economic recovery will take its sweet time in new year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Mexico's economy should start recovering in 2010, albeit slowly.
"
NM: A look back into state politics in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If you like scandal and drama with your state politics, 2009 was the year for you.
"
NM: Lawmakers question price tag of proposed building purchase
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A possible plan by the Department of Transportation to buy a new building on the southern edge of the city has two top lawmakers wondering if the department can afford it.
"
NM: Solano drops bid for state's No. 2 job
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Santa Fe County Sheriff Greg Solano dropped out of the Democratic race for lieutenant governor Sunday evening, citing fundraising difficulties.
"
NV: Pay and program cuts, layoffs -- All possible
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For governments statewide, 2010 will be a time to confront hard realities.
"
NV: Want to be governor? Plan to have a deficit plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the good times, campaign slogans and vague promises are usually enough to get candidates elected.
"
NV: The jobless -- Stories behind the statistics
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For many Nevadans, the year 2009, mercifully, is over.
"
NV: 2009 Year in Review -- Nevada hit hard by economic collapse
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After nearly two decades of unfettered population and construction growth, 2009 turned out to be the year when the go-go days of the boom finally went kaput in Nevada, making the recession and its effects the biggest story of the year.
"
NY: Authority seeks bids for partner on tower
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The central tower at ground zero, designed to rise to 105 stories, has been characterized by some as a symbol of New York's resilience, and reviled by others as a white elephant. Now it will pick up a new label: for sale.
"
NY: Red-ink stained
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Paterson trashed state lawmakers yesterday for ignoring the budget crisis as the state limped into the new year with an unprecedented $600 million deficit in its general fund.
"
NY: Gov grabs Aqueduct 'racino' reins
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Paterson yesterday promised to finally leave the starting gate and pick a vendor "in the next week or so" to bring a long-planned "racino" of video terminals to Aqueduct Race Track. The state is nearing a deadline that could cost it the $200 million up-front payment the governor and lawmakers are counting on to balance the budget.
"
NY: Coast Guard plan aims to prevent invasive species from entering nation's freshwater systems
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Twenty years after the pervasive zebra mussel was first detected in the Great Lakes, the U.S. Coast Guard is preparing rules to prevent new invasive species from infiltrating the nation's freshwater systems.
"
NY: Toxins 'no buy' list being weighed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New York is poised to create a list of 85 chemicals for state agencies to avoid buying, a measure short of a ban but which could still drive industry to produce fewer products with toxins and carcinogens.
"
OH: Retirees paying more for their health care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In 1974, the Ohio Police & Fire Pension Fund voluntarily started giving health care coverage to retired cops and firefighters. At the time, it was a bargain — $3 million. But fast forward 34 years and the cost has spiked to $153.4 million a year.
"
OH: Pension reform fight has makings of a war
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Like it or not, lawmakers will be asked this year to overhaul the state's public pension systems that serve 1.7 million Ohioans and cost local governments more than $4 billion a year.
"
OH: Welcome to the decade of the Super Region -- Cleveland's future entwined with Youngstown's
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLEVELAND -- American cities are joining within their larger metropolitan areas to form huge economic, social and urban systems.
"
OH: Ohio lawmakers to return after contentious year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers will flock back to Columbus this month from winter break after wrapping up a 2009 marked by an extended budget brouhaha and legislative gridlock between warring chambers.
"
OH: Cities quaking at prospect of paying more for pensions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Columbus already is struggling to cut its public-employee pension costs. So when the Ohio Police & Fire Pension Fund recommended that the state require cities to make pension payments equal to 25 percent of each police officer's salary by 2013 -- up from 19.5 percent -- those who watch the city's budget cringed.
"
OH: Wine law untested in early going
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As laws go, Ohio's limit on wine purchases appears to be simple: "No family household shall purchase more than 24 cases of 12 bottles of 750 milliliters of wine in one year."
"
OH: Taxpayers asked to cover rising pension costs for government employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"At a time when budget cuts are forcing Ohio schools to lay off teachers and cities to raise taxes, eliminate jobs or both, one expense government leaders have not cut is pensions for their workers.
"
OH: Retirement system has new investment director
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Ohio Public Employees Retirement System has hired a new director of investments.
"
OH: Ohio caps health-coverage cost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"People who pay dearly for health insurance -- as much as $1,000 a month -- because they have diabetes, cancer, kidney failure or other medical conditions soon will be able to save money.
"
OK: Lawmakers busy filing early bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers are filing a wide range of bills for consideration in the legislative session starting February.
"
OK: Decade could see big changes in energy, schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cars that run on algae. State politics increasingly dominated by suburban Republicans. An education system that blurs the lines today distinguishing high school, college and technical training.
"
OK: Decade could see big changes in energy, schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cars that run on algae. State politics increasingly dominated by suburban Republicans. An education system that blurs the lines today distinguishing high school, college and technical training."
OK: State's lakes losing oxygen, study reports
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — An unprecedented national study that is expected to help set a course for Oklahoma and its water for this century provides a troubling picture for state lakes, a key official said this week.
"
OR: Oregon stocks recover a bit of losses in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon companies licked their wounds in 2009, climbing back as the economy hit bottom and investors began anticipating a recovery.
"
OR: Moratorium on drilling in Oregon waters expires today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A three-year moratorium on oil and gas drilling in Oregon's territorial sea expires today, and environmentalists are pushing the Legislature to adopt a permanent ban when it convenes in February.
"
OR: Oregon unemployment one of worst in nation during 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon lost 77,900 payroll jobs during the first 11 months of 2009, a toll that casts a long shadow on prospects for economic recovery in 2010.
"
OR: Adelante Mujeres receives $300,000 federal grant to expand organic agriculture program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $300,000 federal grant will allow a Forest Grove nonprofit to expand its organic agriculture project and train Latino farmers from throughout Washington and Yamhill counties.
"
OR: Oregon law may stymie theft of metal here Scrap no longer translates to fast, easy cash
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here's bad news for sneaky crooks who've been stealing copper wiring from local baseball and soccer fields — and even taking bronze funeral vases from gravesites — and hauling it all off to scrap-metal buyers in Portland for quick cash.
"
PA: Drivers who get tickets in Pennsylvania pay much more than fines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sometimes, a fine isn't just a fine.
"
PA: Pa. sentencing guidelines eyed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Faced with a serious overpopulation of its prisons and now the need to ship inmates to other states, state legislators may consider easing some harsh sentencing guidelines so that nonviolent offenders aren't automatically sent to prison for lengthy terms.
"
PA: Pennsylvania Capitol cafeteria to reopen after cleanup
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The cafeteria in the Pennsylvania Capitol is set to reopen more than two weeks after being shut down over health problems.
"
PA: Revenue generated by table games could benefit pet projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would deliver poker, craps and other table games to Pennsylvania's casinos is the latest method for state lawmakers to deliver on their pet projects.
"
PA: Another tight budget, Republican governor could be in offing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In 2010, Pennsylvania residents can expect another tight state budget, more criminal corruption charges tied to the Legislature and, possibly, a repeat of the state's eight-year "cycle" that puts a different party into the governor's mansion.
"
PA: Former state House staffer set to plead guilty
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The former personnel director for Pennsylvania's House Democrats is set to plead guilty in a wide-ranging probe involving legislative bonuses.
"
PA: State of the state in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Things went so poorly at the state Capitol in 2009 that it's hard to imagine they might get worse in 2010.
"
PA: Some think live table games are a bad hand
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For Rich Orlando, the dawn of table games in Pennsylvania would be no winning hand.
"
PA: Gubernatorial campaigns gear up with financial reports, endorsements
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Largely below the public radar, the campaigns for governor have been competing for much of the past year, in some cases longer.
"
RI: R.I. Assembly faces deficit, taxes as session begins
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Carcieri's attempt to slash $125 million in local aid in mid-budget year has set the stage for a fierce election-year battle at the State House over taxes, spending and how Rhode Island's 39 cities and towns provide services with less state money to help them.
"
RI: R.I. House leaders have limits when it comes to pension change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Speaker William J. Murphy and House Majority Leader Gordon D. Fox say they will be working on many fronts to try to close the state budget deficit and restore the state's ailing economy during the 2010 legislative session, which opens Tuesday.
"
RI: R.I. lawmakers will face recession politics
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- For a fourth year, Rhode Island lawmakers will start their annual session tomorrow grappling with one of the worst recessions since the Great Depression -- though their leaders have few sweeping ideas for stemming a crisis that has left 12.7 percent of residents unemployed.
"
SC: Sanford affair shows records not always preserved
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Records of S.C. officials and agencies are available to the public, right? Maybe.
"
SC: 8-month detour
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The eight-month shutdown of Interstate 385 -- and the ripple effects that could cost businesses millions and snarl alternate roads -- caught flat-footed even the Upstate Caucus of legislators created nine months ago to fight for regional economic causes.
"
SC: Utilities see more pleas for help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The winter months bring darker days, colder weather and bigger heating bills, which many people are finding tough to pay.
"
SC: 10 things you should know about Census 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In 2000, South Carolina had the country's second-worst response rate to mailing back census forms.
"
SD: Lawmakers praise, question governor's proposal for FTE cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's a bit like the capital days of old, when former Gov. Bill Janklow swung a sharp budget ax in eliminating hundreds of state-government jobs.
"
SD: Regents, human services, transportation to take biggest staffing hits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The South Dakota Board of Regents and the state departments of Human Services and Transportation will take the biggest staffing hits if state lawmakers approve a recommendation by Gov. Mike Rounds to cut 102 full-time job equivalents from the state work force.
"
SD: SD Republicans, Democrats divided on school aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic state lawmakers want to boost financial aid to South Dakota school districts, but Republican legislators are less certain the state can afford to spend more on education in a tight budget year, according to a survey by The Associated Press.
"
SD: Rural SD hospitals get grants for technology
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Health Department is distributing $244,376 in federal grants to help 16 rural hospitals in South Dakota upgrade their technology.
"
TN: TDOT moves along with Highway 27 widening
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state could start buying property to widen and straighten U.S. Highway 27 from Interstate 24 to the Olgiati Bridge at the end of this year, but the actual construction could be years off, officials say.
"
TN: Natural gas fight looms for TVA
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TVA chief executive Tom Kilgore says the federal power producer is ready to start using more natural gas as it gets away from burning so much carbon-producing coal to make electricity.
"
TN: Guns-in-bars supporters not discouraged by poll
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tennessee voters overwhelmingly think a law that allows guns in bars and restaurants is a bad idea, according to a new poll commissioned by a hospitality trade group, but state lawmakers say they will forge ahead with the policy in the coming year.
"
TN: TN businesses get tax amnesty
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tens of thousands of businesses that have not been paying taxes could receive amnesty under a plan meant to get them onto the state's books.
"
TX: Texas schools see more minority, poor kids
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HOUSTON — Almost six in 10 Texas public schoolchildren are from low-income families, marking a troubling spike in poverty over the past decade, a state report shows.
"
TX: Texas candidates pay top dollar for ammo about the opposition
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Derek Ryan makes his living foraging for information. Some would call it digging for dirt.
"
TX: Should drivers be taxed by the mile?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If you don't like gasoline taxes, here's an alternative: a tax on the number of miles you drive in a year.
"
TX: No country for health care, part 1: Far from care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"VAN HORN, Texas -- No matter what lawmakers in Washington do to expand access to health care, 10-year-old "Little Mo" Badillo will spend his childhood far away from it.
"
US: State oil and gas regulators are spread too thin to do their jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ething was wrong as soon as he wheeled his state-owned pickup off the West Virginia highway and onto the rocky fieldwhere the natural gas well was supposed to be. Oak trees 18 inches in diameter looked dead as boards, and brush as brown as kindling stretched across a piece of farmland the size of a football field.
"
US: Republicans question value of latest jobs bill in Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- When the Senate takes up a jobs bill later this month or early in February, the debate will center on whether it really will create jobs and be worth plunging the government tens of billions of dollars further into debt.
"
US: Economy subdues inaugurations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Newly elected governors and mayors are swearing off fancy festivities at the swearing-in: Inaugural events across the nation have been scaled back this year to avoid appearing lavish in lean economic times.
"
US: Use of potentially harmful chemicals kept secret under law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Of the 84,000 chemicals in commercial use in the United States -- from flame retardants in furniture to household cleaners -- nearly 20 percent are secret, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, their names and physical properties guarded from consumers and virtually all public officials under a little-known federal provision.
"
US: State budget pictures bleak as lawmakers head back
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ATLANTA -- If you thought state budgets were in bad shape last year, just wait: 2010 promises to be brutal for lawmakers — many facing re-election — as they scramble to find enough money to keep their states running without raising taxes.
"
UT: 2000s -- The First Decade — 10 years of heavy traffic
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Trapped in gridlock, the pace is stop-and-slow.
"
UT: Radioactive waste soon to find home in Utah
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's not really a question whether Utah will be the disposal site for three trainloads of depleted uranium from a government atomic-weapons complex cleanup in South Carolina.
"
UT: McEntee -- Let legislators steam -- Utahns need to vent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On its face, the Legislature's once-a-decade task of drawing new legislative and congressional boundaries in Utah has come down to three essentials: math, geography and politics.
"
VA: Fledgling group ministers to Muslims behind bars
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A seven-year-old prison chaplain group recently was awarded a one-of-its-kind, $25,000 state subcontract to minister to a rapidly growing faith behind bars -- Islam.
"
VA: Local governments to pitch agenda at session Wednesday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Representatives of the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission on Wednesday will present their legislative agenda to lawmakers a week ahead of the General Assembly session.
"
VA: Kaine had wins but took some lumps as governor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's just before 7:30 a.m. on a December Monday, and the fog in Richmond is so thick that the twin-engine plane in which Gov. Timothy M. Kaine planned to crisscross the state to christen a series of employment centers is grounded. No matter, Kaine said. We'll just drive.
"
VA: Hampton Roads economy among nation's strongest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- Facing the worst downturn in more than a half-century, some Hampton Roads businesses scrapped or postponed projects. Some laid off employees. The region, however, has weathered the recession better than many parts of the country did.
"
VA: Va. touts gains in money for minority businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HAMPTON ROADS, Va. -- The value of state contracts awarded to minority-owned businesses rose to 5.4 percent from 2.3 percent of the total during Gov. Timothy M. Kaine's tenure, Virginia records show.
"
VA: Year-old warning gets new attention as project's costs exceed budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NORFOLK, Va. -- She isn't quite saying I told you so, but Del. Paula Miller says she warned city officials a year ago about "the runaway costs of light rail." That alarm, she says, should still be heeded.
"
VT: Vermont Yankee in legislative spotlight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"This afternoon, less than 24 hours before legislators convene for the 2010 session, a group of construction unions will gather in the Statehouse to urge lawmakers to keep open the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant. At the same time, a group of anti-nuclear activists will be walking their way from Brattleboro toward Montpelier. When they arrive, they plan to call on lawmakers to shut down the plant.
"
VT: Bridge is gone; cold, hard work begins
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CROWN POINT, N.Y. — Like many public spectacles, the Lake Champlain Bridge implosion produced an ungainly aftermath that just about no one came to see. Less than an hour after the climactic event Monday, as the spectators headed home and the camera crews packed up, salvage crews got to work. Their job was to clean up the mess.
"
VT: Vermont governor begins final term
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When the Legislature reconvenes for the 2010 session, Gov. Jim Douglas will ask lawmakers to put constraints on how much local school districts can spend. If that sounds like a familiar idea, it is.
"
VT: Vermont snowstorm breaks record
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Burlington's largest ever recorded snowstorm buried Vermont's Champlain Valley region over the weekend.
"
WA: Texas firm to manage Tacoma bridge tolls
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TACOMA, Wash. -- A Texas-based company has been hired by Washington's Department of Transportation to manage electronic toll accounts and customer service for the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and two other projects.
"
WA: Bill targets zone change notifications
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PORT ORCHARD, Wash. -- State Rep. Jan Angel, R-Port Orchard, is proposing a bill that would require cities and counties to notify property owners when their properties will be considered for rezoning.
"
WA: Lenders say law threatens industry
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As a new law imposing stricter regulations on the payday lending industry takes effect today, Ken Weaver is not optimistic his two check-cashing stores in Eastern Washington will remain open.
"
WA: Unemployment claims one of few growing industries
From: feeds.stateline.org
"During a year of layoffs, one of the few places hiring in Washington in 2009 was the state's unemployment offices.
"
WA: State funds awarded for housing projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Washington State Department of Commerce has awarded $22,490,000 from the Housing Trust Fund to 11 multifamily affordable housing projects in seven counties.
"
WA: Education key issue in session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SEATTLE -- Unlike most education advocates, Washington schools chief Randy Dorn doesn't get depressed thinking about the 2010 legislative session.
"
WA: Lawmakers look for revenue options
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Washington's ruling Democrats are set on raising taxes to avoid deep cuts in state spending.
"
WA: Health costs -- No relief in sight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State employees are in for another health care rate hit in 2011, on top of out-of-pocket and premium increases for 2010 that took effect three days ago.
"
WI: Deficit in Wisconsin up 8.4% from year before
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wisconsin ended its fiscal year in June with a $2.71 billion budget deficit, a state report shows.
"
WI: US Census needs 48,000 in Wis. for 2010 count
From: feeds.stateline.org
"he U.S. Census Bureau wants to hire about 48,000 people across Wisconsin to help with the 2010 count.
"
WI: Wis. Legislature to focus on economy again in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wisconsin's economy hit rock bottom in 2009, with unemployment reaching 26-year highs and the state budget facing its deepest hole ever. There are signs that 2010 won't be as bad.
"
WI: Dearth of deer felt across industries
From: feeds.stateline.org
"From body shops to butchers, auto insurance companies to a tannery, farmers and taxidermists to loggers, businesses across Wisconsin say they are feeling the impact of a smaller deer herd.
"
WI: 2009 foreclosures set another record in Wisconsin
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wisconsin posted its second consecutive year of record foreclosure filings in 2009 as job cuts made it difficult for more homeowners to keep up with their monthly mortgage payments.
"
WI: Many potential recipients aren't getting W-2 benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"housands of families with no income are not applying for cash benefits from Wisconsin Works, often because they don't know about the program, a new state report shows.
"
WI: State lagging in race for education funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Gov. Jim Doyle's office prepares to put the final touches on Wisconsin's application for a slice of $4 billion in federal school grants, state legislators will hold a public hearing in Milwaukee Tuesday on two bills that could make or break Wisconsin's chances of winning the nationwide competition.
"
WI: Suits filed over Aurora's use of medical data in bankruptcy cases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The suits, in federal and state court, claim Aurora violated Wisconsin's privacy law when it routinely filed proofs of claim against debtors that include patients' specific medical information as part of the billing records.
"
WV: Delegate wants to ban gender factor in health insurance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About four decades ago, insurance companies stopped using race as a factor in setting rates. But state law still allows them to use gender to determine insurance costs.
"
WV: Despite stimulus, W.Va. budget cuts loom
From: feeds.stateline.org
"West Virginia is again counting on federal stimulus dollars to avoid painful cuts to state spending, but the coming weeks will show whether those funds are only delaying the inevitable.
"
WV: Two-state power line is put off
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Plans by two big utilities to build a $1.8 billion transmission line from West Virginia to Maryland stumbled this past week when officials said it might not be needed as soon as once expected because of less-robust electricity demand.
"
WY: Observers say Wyoming's energy industry may be stabilizing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Observers say Wyoming's energy industry appears to be stabilizing after shedding roughly a third of its workers in the past 14 months.
"
WY: Wyoming's economy likely to wilt a bit in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wyoming's economy could be in for a choppy ride in 2010.
"
Weekly wrap: New year brings new laws
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New state laws that take effect across the country on New Year’s Day range from affecting the way residents drive to whether they can marry or profit from snapping a celebrity’s photograph. (See also:US: State lawmakers, lacking money, took up bad-behavior bans in '09 and US: New 2010 laws -- Cooking to texting)
"
Govs ready speeches as fiscal woes persist
From: feeds.stateline.org
"
As governors prepare their 2010 state of the state addresses, at least 36 of them are still struggling to close budget deficits for the current fiscal year, while worrying about new gaps looming in their 2011 spending plans.
"
State budget gaps linger at year's end
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Over the past few months, state legislators around the country have been confronted with unfinished fiscal business tugging at them like a bad dream. Mid-year budget gaps have opened in dozens of states, brought on, in part, by overly hopeful revenue projections.
"
Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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