US: Governments bring munis to the market
From: online.wsj.com
"State and local governments, led by recently downgraded Illinois, are expected to sell more than $7 billion of debt this week, kicking off what some analysts expect to be a record year for municipal-bond issuance."
US: States braced to tighten 2010 belts amid $14.8B in shortfalls
From: www.usatoday.com
"States across the nation begin the year facing grim budget shortfalls that could mean a repeat of the service cuts, layoffs or furloughs and higher fees imposed in 2009, a USA TODAY survey shows."
AK: Legislators cost state thousands in travel
From: www.juneauempire.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Alaska legislators last year cost the state thousands of dollars in travel expenses with trips to South Africa, Saudi Arabia, England, China, Germany, Korea, France and Russia. "
AK: In a bad year for bankruptcies, Alaska among best-off states
From: www.adn.com
"While U.S. consumers and businesses filed for bankruptcy at a pace that made 2009 the seventh-worst year on record, Alaskans were tied with Nebraskans for having the nation's lowest increase in bankruptcies, an Associated Press tally showed Monday."
AK: Less oil may spell more problems for Alaska pipeline
From: www.juneauempire.com
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska - The declining flow of oil from Alaska's North Slope is creating anxiety among executives who run the trans-Alaska pipeline. "
AK: Stymied PFD donors to get a second chance
From: www.adn.com
"State officials said Monday they are working on a solution for people who couldn't donate a portion of their Alaska Permanent Fund dividend payment to charity when they applied online this weekend."
AL: No questionable spending in state lawmakers' nonprofits, say auditors
From: blog.al.com
"State examiners have found that two nonprofit organizations that went unaudited for three years after being created by state legislators have not spent most of the $800,000 they have received in Alabama tax revenue.
"
AL: Alabama extends freeze on merit raises for state workers
From: blog.al.com
"The state government's freeze on merit raises for state workers has been extended for one more year.
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AL: GOP gubernatorial candidate Bradley Byrne introduces economic plan for Alabama
From: blog.al.com
"Republican gubernatorial candidate Bradley Byrne today rolled out a campaign initiative that he said is designed to recharge the slumping Alabama economy and create jobs across the state. "
AL: Tax lawsuit hearing will go on as scheduled
From: blog.al.com
"The judge in the Jefferson County occupational tax case denied a request Monday by the county's new lawyers to delay Tuesday's hearing to set lawyer fees and determine who should pay the costs of a $50.3 million refund program the judge has ordered."
AR: Proposed hunting regulation changes
From: www.swtimes.com
"Here is a list of proposed hunting regulation changes up for discussion at public meetings to be held Tuesday around the state."
AR: Maumelle tops high-growth list
From: www.arkansasonline.com
"Maumelle was the highest-growth area in Arkansas last year, the second time it has achieved that distinction, a Little Rock-based demographic research firm said in a report released today.
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AR: Powerball winner still a mystery
From: arkansasnews.com
"MAYFLOWER, Ark. — The holder of a winning Powerball ticket sold in Mayflower had not shown up to collect the $25 million prize by late this afternoon, but the owners of the store where the ticket was sold were hoping someone would claim the money.
"
AR: AG rejects medical marijuana proposal
From: arkansasnews.com
"The state attorney general today rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would legalize marijuana for medical use."
AR: Governor declares 27 counties disaster areas
From: arkansasnews.com
"Gov. Mike Beebe declared 27 counties disaster areas today due to storms and flooding that rolled through the state just before Christmas.
"
AZ: Brewer aims to tap job-growing ideas of business leaders
From: www.azcentral.com
"Gov. Jan Brewer is bringing together some of Arizona's most prominent business leaders to offer recommendations on how the state can break out of its economic slump and begin growing new jobs."
AZ: Brewer appoints Colangelo, other business leaders to new council
From: azcapitoltimes.com
"Gov. Jan Brewer has appointed a new council focused on spurring economic development and growth in Arizona. "
AZ: Construction employment plummets in Valley
From: www.eastvalleytribune.com
"Arizona communities are losing construction jobs at levels that exceed much of the rest of the country, according to a new study."
CA: Air board, port truckers agree on upgrading
From: www.sfgate.com
"A last-minute deal between California air pollution regulators and Port of Oakland truckers Monday will allow hundreds of big rigs to operate at the port for two weeks while they work to meet stricter requirements on diesel emissions that officially took effect for the new year Friday.
"
CA: Tiny California office delaying stimulus projects, watchdog says
From: www.sacbee.com
"As Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger prepares to emphasize job creation as his top priority in his State of the State address, his watchdog for federal stimulus dollars says a tiny state office is delaying hundreds of projects that could employ out-of-work Californians.
"
CA: Bid to legalize pot is counter to U.S. trend
From: www.sfgate.com
"With Californians likely to vote in November on whether to legalize marijuana, some key swing voters - Democratic and independent women - are expressing a surprising reason why they would support the initiative.
"
CA: Trash to gas -- Landfill energy projects increasing
From: www.mercurynews.com
"LIVERMORE, Calif.—Hundreds of trash trucks across California are rumbling down city streets using clean fuel made from a dirty source: garbage. "
CA: Environmental license plates stuck in neutral; bad economy and small logos suspected
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Maybe it's the bad economy, or the dinky designs. But two state campaigns aimed at raising money to expand parks, restore creeks and build hiking trails in the Bay Area and the Sierra Nevada through the sale of new specialized license plates are failing to gain traction with motorists.
"
CA: Recycling centers fall victim to state's budget woes
From: www.mercurynews.com
"Alan Tetenbaum still remembers the golden age of collecting cans, back in the '70s when people were free and easy with their trash, and the streets were lined with aluminum."
CA: Meg Whitman raises $3.5 million in second half of 2009
From: www.sacbee.com
"Just minutes after Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Poizner released his fundraising figures for the last half of 2009, rival Meg Whitman's campaign said today that it had raised $3.5 million in that period and $10 million over 2009."
CO: Colorado law makes preventive health care more affordable
From: www.denverpost.com
"A new state law makes some forms of preventative health care more affordable to people who are insured in Colorado.
"
CO: Toro takes helm at Colorado Ethics Watch
From: coloradoindependent.com
"Who holds the lawmakers to the law? "
CO: Colorado officials dismiss conservative group's prediction of fiscal crisis
From: www.denverpost.com
"A conservative policy group says Colorado is one generation away from a California-type fiscal crisis, thanks to what it calls excessive taxation, uncontrollable spending and an environment hostile to job growth.
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CT: Job losses send state budget reeling
From: www.rep-am.com
"State Comptroller Nancy Wyman says job losses are wiping out any gains from higher income taxes on wealthier taxpayers.
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CT: Blumenthal asks DPUC to deny CL&P rate request
From: www.courant.com
"Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is asking the Department of Public Utility Control to deny Connecticut Light & Power's request to keep rates level, rather than let them fall, in 2011."
CT: More layoffs planned At AT & T
From: www.courant.com
"AT&T plans to eliminate at least 160 Connecticut jobs by mid-February, the union representing the workers said Monday night."
CT: State manufacturers see improvement, but know real security is still far off
From: www.courant.com
"BRISTOL, Conn. -- When the recession worsened in the fall of 2008, Bill Lathrop struggled to protect the workers at Colonial/Han-Dee Spring Ltd."
CT: More residents turning to state for food and medical care
From: www.courant.com
"An increasing number of cash-strapped citizens turned to the state for food and medical care last year, boosting enrollment in state safety-net programs by 18 percent and providing yet another sign of the struggling Connecticut economy."
DE: TV station proposal in Seaford met with industry skepticism
From: www.delawareonline.com
"There was a time not long ago when the possibility of a new VHF television station in Delaware would have been greeted with applause by eager bidders."
FL: Disaster-preparedness official quits
From: www.miamiherald.com
"The man in charge of disaster preparedness for the state abruptly resigned Monday amid allegations from his own employees that he discriminated against female staffers, overstated department travel savings and made improper purchases with his state taxpayer-funded credit card."
FL: Miami finance inquiry widens
From: www.miamiherald.com
"MIAMI -- Just weeks after launching a probe into Miami's troubled finances, federal investigators are demanding the city turn over records of a $65 million November bond deal that came two days after Miami leaders were blasted for shoddy and misleading budget practices."
FL: Farmers feel heat over cold
From: www.miamiherald.com
"From nursery growers in the Redland to strawberry farmers 250 miles north in Plant City, Florida's agricultural industry is suddenly engaged in a form of mass reverse-hibernation -- The colder it gets, the less they sleep."
GA: Catoosa's Project Hilltop clears key hurdle
From: www.timesfreepress.com
"State and federal officials met Monday to discuss right-of-way issues that are the last major hurdle for a Catoosa County development code-named Project Hilltop.
"
HI: Interim schools chief to enter fray
From: www.starbulletin.com
"The acting superintendent of Hawaii's public schools will step into the Furlough Fridays fray tomorrow in her first appearance with the Board of Education team trying to nudge Gov. Linda Lingle's administration to restore classroom days to the school calendar."
HI: Acting Hawaii schools chief wants to stay on
From: www.honoluluadvertiser.com
"Acting Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi, an attorney and former executive director of the Hawaii Business Roundtable, said yesterday she hopes to become the permanent chief of Hawai'i's public school system."
IA: Community college loan default rate 16.7%
From: www.usatoday.com
"DES MOINES, Iowa -- Nearly 17% of Iowa community college students default on student loans within three years of graduating."
IA: Few turn out for budget hearing
From: www.qctimes.com
"West Des Moines resident Terry Wadle showed up for a state budget public hearing Monday to express his frustration with the way state resources are being managed."
IA: Iowa budget hearing draws 2 speakers, no governor
From: www.qctimes.com
"Iowa could have up to a $1 billion shortfall in the next fiscal year, but a state budget hearing Monday drew only two people, and the governor skipped the meeting to travel to Florida."
IA: Tax collections show positive note
From: www.qctimes.com
"State tax collections in December finished in the positive column for only the second time in 2009, officials said Monday."
IA: Labor leaders want progress on big issues in Iowa
From: www.qctimes.com
"After seeing their priorities thwarted in the Iowa Legislature in recent years, organized labor supporters are hoping their fortunes will change in 2010."
IA: Regulators approve new Alliant Energy rates
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"State regulators say Alliant Energy's electric rates won't be going up beyond the seven percent interim rate increase that took effect last year at -- least for a few more months."
IA: State food program given $1.15 million grant
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"A $1.15 million grant has been given to the state's Emergency Food and Shelter Program, Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Ia., said Monday."
IA: 2 critical of Culver at 2nd budget hearing
From: www.desmoinesregister.com
"A second public hearing on the state budget became a bit of a gripe session Monday."
ID: Idaho closes another wolf hunting area
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"State wildlife managers say another Idaho wolf hunting zone has been shut down after hunters bagged their limit of predators."
ID: You don't say -- Roseworth scandal still a mystery
From: www.magicvalley.com
"Was an Idaho governor responsible, indirectly at least, for one of the biggest land swindles in state history?"
IL: Trucking company says drivers consider safety before higher speed limit
From: www.pjstar.com
"PEORIA, Ill. -- Bigger, heavier and faster. That's the gist of three new truck laws that went into effect this week on Illinois highways."
IL: New Web site posts liquor license holder info
From: www.sj-r.com
"The Illinois Liquor Control Commission has begun posting liquor license information online through a license-validation system announced today, including the license status, business name and ownership."
IL: Selling tollway idea drives GOP skirmish
From: www.dailyherald.com
"Former Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan said Monday he would consider selling the tollway system to a private company, making him the second Republican candidate for governor to open that door."
IN: Toll Road truck use down, officials say
From: www.post-trib.com
"Fewer trucks are using the Indiana Toll Road following the closure of the Cline Avenue bridge, a Toll Road spokesman said Monday."
IN: Report -- Indiana electricity rates may rise 12 percent
From: www.ibj.com
"A state-funded research group is predicting that Indiana's electricity rates could rise 12 percent over the next four years."
IN: Legislative session begins
From: www.courierpress.com
"Whether the services offered by township government are worth the costs is a question the Indiana General Assembly will once again consider as it reconvenes at the Statehouse today for the opening of the 2010 legislative session."
IN: Race to the Top for Indiana?
From: www.southbendtribune.com
"SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- As local school districts try to swallow the recent 3.5 percent cut in state funding, their chiefs gathered Monday to learn how they might pull in millions of one-time dollars in the federal Race to the Top competition."
IN: Lawmakers have a lot to do, without much cash or time
From: www.indystar.com
"Indiana's lawmakers return to work today with less than three months to tackle issues ranging from property taxes to ethics reforms."
IN: Hoosiers in the grips of a recession state of mind
From: www.indystar.com
"Just before the holidays, Zionsville High School teacher Colleen Taber posed a pithy aside for her senior class of English students: "What can you not live without?""
IN: General Assembly convenes today
From: www.nwitimes.com
"The stone hallways and ornate chambers of the Indiana Statehouse will once again echo with politics and passion as legislators return to Indianapolis today to begin the 10-week 2010 session."
IN: Gov. Daniels to visit doomed bridge
From: www.nwitimes.com
"Gov. Mitch Daniels will stand near the condemned Cline Avenue bridge today and get briefed on what comes next for the 25-year-old span and surrounding roads."
KS: State transportation committee advances plan that would raise taxes to fund state transportation plan
From: www2.ljworld.com
"A legislative committee on Monday pushed forward two proposals that would increase taxes to fuel a new state transportation plan."
KS: Department of Revenue resolves tax disputes leading to $40 million in revenue
From: www2.ljworld.com
"The Kansas treasury will receive approximately $40 million as part of negotiations in disputed tax cases, Kansas Department of Revenue Secretary Joan Wagnon said Monday."
KS: Road projects keep moving in 2010
From: www2.ljworld.com
"The new year promises to bring more destruction, continued construction and plenty of obstructions to the Kansas Turnpike in Lawrence, but the guy in charge can promise drivers at least one thing: He's looking forward to the end, just like you."
KS: Kansas panel floats highway revenue ideas
From: www.kansascity.com
"A panel of Kansas lawmakers is floating two ideas to raise taxes to fund future transportation projects."
KY: General Assembly confronts a range of issues
From: www.kentucky.com
"Kentucky legislators will meet at noon Tuesday to begin a 60-day session in which they will consider issues including a financial crisis and expanded gambling.
"
KY: Gov. Beshear spares education from state budget cuts
From: www.courier-journal.com
"Gov. Steve Beshear used more federal stimulus funds, siphoned money from small state accounts and cut spending 3 percent for lower priority state agencies to fill a $108 million budget gap in the current state budget.
"
LA: Early pension checks for state retirees create tax problems
From: www.2theadvocate.com
"More than 30,000 retired state employees erroneously got their January pension checks in December, creating a big headache for them and the pension system."
MA: Governor Deval Patrick's power play
From: www.bostonherald.com
"Gov. Deval Patrick's cash-hungry re-election campaign took in thousands of dollars in contributions from National Grid's executives, lobbyists and their spouses at a private fund-raiser just days after the administration approved a massive rate increase and brokered a sweetheart deal with the utility."
MA: State sets zoning for ocean projects
From: www.capecodonline.com
"CAPE COD, Mass. -- Massachusetts officials unveiled a first-of-its-kind zoning plan yesterday for wind energy projects and other uses in state ocean waters."
MA: Wind farm faces new roadblock
From: www.capecodonline.com
"CAPE COD, Mass. -- The U.S. National Park Service announced yesterday that Nantucket Sound is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, a move that could sink the proposed Nantucket Sound wind farm."
MD: Pepco asks to raise electricity rates in Maryland
From: www.washingtonexaminer.com
"Maryland residents soon would be paying more for electricity if state regulators approve Pepco's new bid for higher rates."
MD: Biofuel startup to expand production in Baltimore
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"A biofuel startup with a Baltimore production plant is planning to expand and hire this year, as orders for its cleaner-burning fuel grow, according to the firm's chief executive officer."
MD: Anti-slots group to begin petition drive
From: www.baltimoresun.com
"The Anne Arundel County Board of Elections has certified a petition to overturn zoning for a proposed slots emporium near Arundel Mills mall, meaning slots opponents can begin gathering the 19,000 signatures necessary to put the issue before voters this fall."
MD: Mountain Road stimulus project riles somebody
From: www.hometownannapolis.com
"Not everyone is happy with a Mountain Road resurfacing project, and it's not because of traffic delays. It's the $5.2 million price tag, paid for with federal stimulus money."
ME: Domtar starts new year on positive note
From: www.bangordailynews.com
"BAILEYVILLE, Maine — What better way to start the new year than to begin training nine new employees?"
MI: Need a job? Census Bureau expects to hire more than 1,000 people by April
From: www.mlive.com
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- It's been more than a year since Terry Satchell set up a regional office for the U.S. Census Bureau."
MI: Meijer asks Michigan Supreme Court to overturn ruling allowing prosecutor to investigate alleged election tampering in Acme Township
From: www.mlive.com
"Meijer Inc. is asking the state Supreme Court to overturn an appellate court ruling that would allow the Grand Traverse County prosecutor to investigate whether the retailer criminally tampered with two failed special elections connected to a proposed Acme Township supercenter."
MN: Minnesota manufacturing -- Sparks of life
From: www.startribune.com
"The manufacturing sector, which sustained a severe body blow during the recession, is starting to gain strength in the nation and in Minnesota, but a slump in construction is restraining the recovery."
MN: Minnesota DFL downplays special session idea
From: www.twincities.com
"Minnesota schools are unlikely to find out until February, at the earliest, when and how they'll recover $1.7 billion in state aid that Gov. Tim Pawlenty delayed to help balance the budget. "
MN: As they seek a new home, Vikings could have a tough time followingTwins' stadium script
From: www.twincities.com
"The Twins officially moved into Target Field on Monday, a happy ending for a major league franchise that worked 10 years to move out of the Metrodome, which they shared with two other teams, and into a place of their own. "
MN: Pawlenty's offer for special session gets cool reception
From: www.twincities.com
"Two leading Minnesota lawmakers say its unlikely that the Legislature will return to the Capitol early to vote on Gov. Tim Pawlenty's plan for delaying school aid. "
MO: State leaders agree on budget figures
From: www.columbiatribune.com
"Gov. Jay Nixon and leaders of the legislature's budget process announced an agreement today on a key number that will be used to craft the state's spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1."
MO: High court denies appeal of gun club
From: www.columbiatribune.com
"The Missouri Supreme Court has refused to hear an appeal in a lawsuit against the Cedar Creek Rod and Gun Club, upholding a $700,000 judgment in the case, which has been sent back to Boone County Circuit Court. "
MO: Lawmaker to try again on payday loan reform
From: www.columbiatribune.com
"Usury, the practice of lending money at excessive interest rates, was once illegal in Missouri. "
MO: Jay Nixon to cut roughly $200 million more from Mo. budget
From: www.stltoday.com
"Missouri tax revenue is declining more than expected and that means one thing for Gov. Jay Nixon: more budget cuts."
MO: Missouri lawmaker was paid to run colleague's race for lieutenant governor, records show
From: www.kansascity.com
"A business run by a Missouri Democratic lawmaker was paid thousands of dollars to manage a Democratic colleague's unsuccessful 2008 campaign for lieutenant governor."
MO: Missouri's lieutenant governor gives $100,000 to state auditor candidate Schweich
From: www.kansascity.com
"A Republican candidate for Missouri auditor is getting big help from Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder."
MS: Miss. governor announces pipe making plant
From: nems360.com
"Gov. Haley Barbour said Monday that a German company will build a $300 million plant to manufacture stainless steel pipes in northwestern Mississippi.
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MS: State budget focus of 2010
From: www.sunherald.com
"Before the 2010 Mississippi Legislature's kickoff today, a key lawmaker was already predicting the outcome: job losses, fee increases and reduced state services.
"
MT: Where's the Montana Millionaire? Three claim lower-tier prizes, but no sign of big winner
From: www.missoulian.com
"Montana Lottery officials say three of the lower-tier Montana Millionaire prizes have been claimed."
MT: Governor says money to be saved on tax books
From: billingsgazette.com
"Gov. Brian Schweitzer says the state is going to save some money by cutting back on the way the tax booklets are prepared, printed and distributed."
MT: Sen. Tester's forest bill stirs dissent from ranchers
From: www.bozemandailychronicle.com
"ENNIS, Mont. -- Rick Sandru fears voices like his aren't being heard in Montana's latest debate about wilderness and logging."
NC: 1st superintendent for N.C. park has local ties
From: www.news-record.com
"The first superintendent of a state park tied to a famous North Carolina tourist stop already has experience getting a new Triad area park off the ground.
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ND: New rail facility moving ND oil to Okla.
From: www.bismarcktribune.com
"A Texas company that's the No. 1 producer in North Dakota's oil patch has begun shipping rich Bakken crude to Oklahoma by rail."
NE: Economic uncertainty clouds session
From: www.omaha.com
"Gov. Dave Heineman says he enters 2010 hoping that the economy has hit rock bottom and that another special session to cut the budget won't be necessary.
"
NE: Lincoln woman who fought for Medicaid coverage on Fox News tonight
From: www.journalstar.com
"The Republican wing of Jennifer Meints' family applauded her expected appearance on a national Fox News program to speak of problems with Nebraska Medicaid.
"
NE: NRDs still looking beyond state's Republican River options
From: www.journalstar.com
"Faced with three state options that would either impose much tighter water allocation rules on all their irrigators or shut off wells serving thousands of acres in dry years, three Republican River natural resources districts are hard at work on Option 4.
"
NH: Flynn's Oil -- State seeks $2 million
From: www.theunionleader.com
"BRENTWOOD, N.H. – The state is seeking more than $2 million from an Exeter-based home heating oil company, claiming it entered into dozens of contracts with customers and couldn't fulfill them by delivering oil as promised."
NH: Schools look to mentoring
From: www.concordmonitor.com
"The Concord School District has proposed an intensified mentoring program as the state applies for a stimulus-funded grant competition. "
NJ: N.J. Assembly committee OKs bill to allow undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition
From: www.northjersey.com
"A bill that would allow illegal immigrants who are New Jersey residents to pay in-state tuition was Monday moved out of an Assembly committee after hours of emotional testimony."
NJ: N.J. lawmakers focus on urban education
From: www.northjersey.com
"Education experts say New Jersey's failing urban public schools can be improved by pairing more experienced teachers with disadvantaged students, downsizing schools and insisting that high academic standards be met."
NJ: Christie has options to erase $10B deficit
From: www.northjersey.com
"Governor-elect Chris Christie believes New Jersey will have a structural budget deficit of nearly $10 billion by the middle of 2010, but that doesn't mean state government is on the verge of collapse."
NJ: Federal report to assess N.J.'s child-welfare reforms
From: www.northjersey.com
"A federal monitor's report to be released this week will be the first to examine whether a $1 billion-plus initiative to reform the state's child-welfare system has actually benefited the kids it is supposed to help."
NM: Panel pitches pay cuts to trim state budget
From: www.santafenewmexican.com
"Salaries of state workers and educators would be reduced by 2 percent next year under a budget proposal that also could require $200 million in tax increases or further spending cuts. "
NM: State lawmakers' budget proposal would eliminate jobs, cut salaries
From: newmexicoindependent.com
"New Mexico would eliminate more than 900 jobs and reduce state workers' salaries by 2 percent to balance the state's out-of-whack budget, if it followed a proposal released Monday by the Legislature's budget committee."
NV: Inquiry backs horror story of pregnant woman neglected in UMC's ER
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"State health inspectors have verified that University Medical Center emergency room employees neglected to provide care to a pregnant woman who was in labor, which may have contributed to the death of her premature baby."
NV: Rory Reid's county rescue plan serves to deflect political opponents' jabs
From: www.lasvegassun.com
"Clark County Commission Chairman Rory Reid opened the year in politics Monday with a five-point plan to solve Clark County's fiscal troubles and put government and public services on a path to long-term stability."
NY: School boards group to challenge governor's closed purse strings for schools
From: www.democratandchronicle.com
"Let the lawsuits begin! At least that's how things are starting to look now that Gov. David Paterson has closed the purse strings for school districts and agencies across the state."
NY: Ideas for budget savings listed
From: www.timesunion.com
"Canceling millions of dollars in unused pork-barrel spending and freezing teacher salaries are among steps that could save New York $30 billion over three years, a fiscally conservative think tank said Monday.
"
NY: Cash in, and then what?
From: www.timesunion.com
"How well can New York account for the billions of dollars in education stimulus funding coming to the state from Washington, D.C.?
"
NY: Judge says 'man cave' sullied workers' image
From: www.timesunion.com
"A former state janitor convicted in the infamous "man cave" case was sentenced Monday to one year in jail as a judge blamed him for damaging the reputation of fellow state workers.
"
NY: Agency seeks investor for ground zero tower
From: www.timesunion.com
"NEW YORK -- The agency building a skyscraper at ground zero is searching for investors to help market it in a flat real estate market.
"
OH: 2009 personal bankruptcy filings soar 26% in Toledo area
From: www.toledoblade.com
"Personal bankruptcies in northwest Ohio ballooned by 26 percent in 2009 as recession, high unemployment, and a sluggish real estate market combined to push more debtors over the edge."
OH: Miami, Ohio State rated 'top value'
From: news.cincinnati.com
"Miami University and Ohio State University have been ranked among the top values for public colleges nationwide by Kiplinger's Personal Finance."
OH: Ohio unveils Hospital Compare Web site that lets consumers see how hospitals stack up against each other
From: www.cleveland.com
"Ohio consumers for the first time can visit a state Web site to see how hospitals statewide compare in more than 100 areas, including heart and surgical care, infection rates and patient satisfaction."
OK: Oklahoma Corporation Commission OKs area code, considers toll-free plan
From: newsok.com
"State regulators are considering making all in-state telephone calls toll free.
"
OK: A budget-only session?
From: blog.newsok.com
"That's the idea that Lt. Gov. Jari Askins is proposing. She's among the candidates running for governor this year. "
OK: Fourteen Oklahoma school districts cancel Tuesday classes
From: newsok.com
"MIAMI, Okla. — Fourteen school districts in Delaware, Ottawa, Craig, Nowata and Rogers County announced by 5 p.m. today that classes will be canceled Tuesday. Bartlesville Public Schools will run snow bus routes only. More closings are expected to be announced overnight.
"
OK: Broken Arrow now Oklahoma's fourth-largest city
From: newsok.com
"To understand just how much Broken Arrow has grown since 2000, imagine the entire population of Sand Springs, about 18,500 people. Now imagine moving all of them to Broken Arrow.
"
OK: Democrat taking aim at cabin rental law
From: www.tulsaworld.com
"A state lawmaker says he wants to amend a new law that could cause cabin rental fees in Oklahoma to rise. "
OR: State may revoke licenses of Albany investment firm and advisers
From: www.statesmanjournal.com
"The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Service is proposing to revoke the license of Zurcrowner, an Albany investment firm, state officials said."
OR: 2010 Census -- Send in survey or expect knock on the door
From: www.oregonlive.com
"The stakes for Oregon this year are higher than usual: the possible addition of a seat in the House of Representatives and a bigger share of the $400 billion pie of federal money that is divided every year largely by census data."
OR: Energy regulators up timeline for liquid gas terminal
From: www.oregonlive.com
"The molasses-slow regulatory process governing proposed liquefied natural gas projects in Oregon moves to the high burner this week after federal energy regulators told their fisheries counterparts to get on with their analysis of whether the Bradwood Landing LNG terminal and pipeline would jeopardize endangered species. "
PA: More participate in food stamp program
From: www.post-gazette.com
"The economic downturn and relaxed eligibility requirements are increasing participation in Pennsylvania's food stamp program.
"
PA: Pa. probing for-profit school that closed fast
From: www.post-gazette.com
"Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett and other state officials are investigating the abrupt closure of a for-profit computer training school that enrolled up to 400 students at four locations statewide, including one near Pittsburgh.
"
PA: Election year could motivate 'dysfunctional' General Assembly
From: www.pittsburghlive.com
"Pennsylvania's $327 million General Assembly returns to session today, facing a question of whether it can become a functional Legislature again, political analysts say. "
PA: Deal close on Pa. table games bill
From: www.post-gazette.com
"State legislative leaders will return to session today with what appears to the basis for a long-sought agreement on a bill to legalize table games, the final piece of revenue needed to balance the governor's 2009-10 budget.
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PA: Pa. table-games deal faces Friday deadline
From: www.philly.com
"Lawmakers return to work today with a seemingly simple goal: delivering a table-games bill to the governor's desk by Friday."
RI: R.I. jobless benefits are generous
From: www.projo.com
"Rhode Island offers some of the most generous unemployment benefits of any state in the nation, according to federal and state figures."
RI: R.I. one of many states struggling to pay unemployed
From: www.projo.com
"Rhode Island is not the only state facing problems with its unemployment insurance system amid the recession."
RI: R.I. unemployment insurance tax climbs as debt deepens
From: www.projo.com
"SMITHFIELD, N.H. — When Roland Benjamin's manufacturing company sought to establish a satellite location about a year ago, the firm decided against locating it in Rhode Island."
SC: 8-month shutdown of 15 miles of I-385 in SC begins
From: www.thestate.com
"Anyone trying to find the fastest way to Greenville from Columbia or Charleston is going to need a map.
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SD: SD lawmakers oppose sales tax boost to fix budget
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"South Dakota lawmakers have no interest in increasing the state sales tax to fix the state's budget problems, according to a survey by The Associated Press."
SD: Pine beetle infestation heading for Rushmore
From: www.rapidcityjournal.com
"The army of mountain pine beetles that has killed most of the trees in the Black Elk Wilderness is marching toward nearby Mount Rushmore National Memorial."
SD: 7 percent of S.D. corn unharvested
From: www.siouxcityjournal.com
"SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- A year-end report shows that 7 percent of South Dakota's 2009 corn crop is still in the field and will likely stay there until spring because of a Christmas snowstorm."
SD: Downturn hits S.D. industry hard
From: www.argusleader.com
"South Dakota's industrial employment fell 5.4 percent during the past year, and that contraction cost the state 2,809 industrial jobs and 74 manufacturing companies from October 2008 to October 2009, a new survey reports."
SD: Disaster relief assistance available for SD producers
From: www.capjournal.com
"WASHINGTON -- Sen. John Thune announced Monday South Dakota agricultural producers can now sign up for the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments (SURE) Program."
TN: Bredesen urges business leaders to back controversial teacher evaluation changes
From: www.commercialappeal.com
"Gov. Phil Bredesen launched a statewide speaking tour Monday to urge business leaders to back the education reforms he will take to a special session of the state legislature next week.
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TN: Gov. Bredesen asks for help to push TN education bills
From: www.tennessean.com
"Gov. Phil Bredesen is enlisting the state's business leaders in his effort to change Tennessee's education laws, urging them to contact legislators and ask them to pass his proposals before a Jan. 19 deadline."
TN: Teachers oppose Bredesen plan to use student test scores in evaluations
From: www.commercialappeal.com
"Gov. Phil Bredesen can expect a warm response from local Rotary members today, but if he crosses paths with teachers, his reception will likely be chilly."
TN: Black men in TN have hard time finding jobs
From: www.tennessean.com
"Black men in Tennessee are unemployed at a rate nearly three times higher than the state's overall working population."
TX: No country for health care, part 2 -- The trauma hole
From: www.texastribune.org
"PRESIDIO, Texas — There's a saying down in Presidio: If you're going to have a heart attack, you better be first.
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TX: Hutchison hits Perry on corridor in new TV spot
From: www.statesman.com
"U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison is releasing a new TV spot today. Watch it here. Nobody speaks in the ad — instead, it is simply a flashing road sign that criticizes Gov. Rick Perry on toll roads, eminent domain and the Trans-Texas Corridor.
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US: Divergent views on signs of life in the economy
From: www.nytimes.com
"Signs of revival on the factory floor emerged in the United States and Asia on Monday, fueling exultant buying on Wall Street and reinforcing a sense that genuine economic recovery was unfolding."
VA: McDonnell, Cabinet to take unspecified pay cuts
From: www2.timesdispatch.com
"Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell said yesterday that he will cut the salaries of all Cabinet secretaries, and his own, for a period of time as a cost-saving measure."
VA: Six Va. schools make list of the 100 Best Values
From: hamptonroads.com
"Six Virginia schools have made Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine's list of the 100 Best Values in Public Colleges for 2009-10."
VA: McDonnell OK with secretary on boards
From: hamptonroads.com
"Republican Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell said Monday that his designee for secretary of commerce and trade can remain on corporate boards while serving in state government and that the arrangement "will not pose any conflict.""
VA: Additional layoffs are under way at VDOT
From: fredericksburg.com
"Layoff notices will be given to 678 Virginia Department of Transportation employees this week, warning them that they could lose their jobs by April. "
VT: Welch seeks extension of interest-free unemployment loans
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"Federal and state officials, business organizations and a labor union representative all agreed -- It would be great if the federal government would continue to lend the state money interest-free for two more years to keep its unemployment fund in the black."
VT: Central Vermont Public Service Corp. rate increase takes effect
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"Customers of Vermont's largest electric utility are going to see their bills go up this month."
VT: Vermonters discuss Champlain Bridge
From: www.burlingtonfreepress.com
"VERGENNES, Vt. — With the Lake Champlain Bridge reduced to rubble a week ago, transportation officials and engineers met Monday with dozens of Vermonters and a few New Yorkers to seek public comments before building a new bridge between the two states.
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WA: Big year for bankruptcies -- up 32% in U.S., up 45% in Washington state
From: seattletimes.nwsource.com
"RALEIGH, N.C. — U.S. consumers and businesses are filing for bankruptcy at a pace that made 2009 the seventh-worst year on record, with more than 1.4 million petitions submitted, an Associated Press tally showed Monday."
WA: Governor works on jobs proposal
From: www.theolympian.com
"Gov. Chris Gregoire plans to unveil a job-creation proposal next week that could include four or five tax incentives for businesses to help hard-hit areas of the state. "
WI: Bankruptcy filings rise as job losses, debt, medical bills mount
From: www.greenbaypressgazette.com
"As the economy continues to struggle, Northeastern Wisconsin residents facing job loss, credit card debt and mounting medical bills increasingly are filing for bankruptcy."
WI: 'Cash for appliances' begins
From: www.jsonline.com
"Consumers and retailers shouldn't expect a repeat of "cash for clunkers" madness now that the taxpayer-funded energy-efficient appliance rebate program has begun."
WV: Manchin to share insight on health care reforms
From: www.wvgazette.com
"Business and nonprofit leaders from across the country will get a chance to learn more about how West Virginia improved its health care system.
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WY: Wyo Transportation Director -- State Needs Primary Seat Belt Law
From: thewyonews.net
"In discussions with the legislature's Joint Interim Appropriations Committee regarding money for fines connected to traffic violations, Wyoming Department of Transportation Director John Cox suggested it is time for the state to adopt a mandatory seat belt law."
WY: Legislature's budget committee back at work in New Year
From: thewyonews.net
"After taking a break for the holidays, the legislature's Joint Interim Appropriations Committee is back at work on the state's 2010-11 budget, continuing hearings from state agencies on their budgets."
WY: Gov would cut Even Start funding
From: www.trib.com
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal is recommending that lawmakers cut an academic program that teaches low-income families in an effort to break the cycle of poverty."
WY: Gov. advises no funding for academic program aimed at low-income families
From: www.wyomingnews.com
"A program that teaches parents and children across Wyoming is recommended for the chopping block."
WY: BLM picks study routes for Wyo.-Idaho power line
From: www.idahostatesman.com
"The U.S. Bureau of Land Management on Monday announced the routes it will analyze for a proposed power line from eastern Wyoming to western Idaho, setting aside some of the most contentious proposals."
Govs ready speeches as fiscal woes persist
From: www.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."
Weekly wrap: New year brings new laws
From: www.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)"
State budget gaps linger at year's end
From: www.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: www.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."
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