PA: Rendell's signature legalizes table games in Pennsylvania
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ed Rendell signed the table games bill today despite misgivings about it being "laden" with benefits for lawmakers' districts.
"
DE: Delaware's bet pays off in millions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WILMINGTON, Del. - - With the pro football playoffs approaching, Jim Nielsen could think of nothing more appealing than a drive to Delaware. No, his beloved Philadelphia Eagles had not moved across the state line. Nielsen and his son just wanted to add a little spice to their football watching, by betting on the games.
"
AK: Two lawmakers want PFD guaranteed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Two Democratic state lawmakers from Anchorage want to guarantee Permanent Fund dividend checks by enshrining the benefit in the state constitution.
"
AL: Holmes holds up state contracts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Alvin Holmes, D-Montgomery, held up millions of dollars in new state consult?ing contracts during a Thursday meeting of the Permanent Joint Legislative Contract Review Committee. Among the delayed contracts was one that is sup?posed to help Medicaid recoup money for the state.
"
AL: Riley lawyers ask Supreme Court to clear way for bingo hall raid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawyers for Gov. Bob Riley filed an emergency motion with the Alabama Supreme Court this afternoon asking justices to overturn a temporary restraining order that blocked the raid of a Houston County bingo casino early Wednesday.
"
AL: Stan Pate says he's behind banner ad urging Gov. Bob Riley's impeachment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tuscaloosa developer and Gov. Bob Riley nemesis Stan Pate said this afternoon he paid for a banner calling for Riley's impeachment that is currently flying in the skies of Pasadena, Calif, home of tonight's national college football championship.
"
AL: BCS football fans get taste of Alabama politics
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fans attending Thursday's Alabama-Texas national championship game in Southern California got a dose of Alabama politics to go along with their football. A banner saying "Impeach Corrupt Alabama Gov. Bob Riley" was towed through the air about four hours before the game.
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AL: Judge rules water wars negotations between Alabama, Georgia and Florida are confidential
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A judge has granted a request from Georgia, Florida and Alabama to keep their negotiations in the long-running regional legal fight over water rights confidential.
"
AL: Survey of state legislators shows no consensus on PACT
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Associated Press survey of Alabama legis?lators found there is no consensus yet on whether state government should bail out Alabama's fin?ancially ailing prepaid college tuition plan with millions of state dollars.
"
AL: Sections of two highways in Jackson County closed because of icy conditions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Alabama Department of Transportation has closed two sections of Alabama 117 and Alabama 40 in Jackson County due to icy conditions.
"
AR: State sees few problems from weather
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With few snow- or ice-related problems Thursday, people clambered to keep their homes, pets and farm animals safe from the dangerously cold weather that has settled over most of the state.
"
AR: Martin to run for secretary of state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican state Rep. Mark Martin of Prairie Grove said today he will seek the secretary of state's office this year.
"
AR: Panel disciplines lawyer over conduct in Walmart case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state panel that monitors the conduct of lawyers has reprimanded and fined a Mena lawyer for having a client's lawsuit against Walmart dismissed but telling her the case was still progressing.
"
AZ: NAU bracing for budget 'storm'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northern Arizona University is planning now for a "storm" that is coming in 2012. That's the end of the federal stimulus money, which has helped the college during the state budget crunch.
"
AZ: Delays in state aid worry regents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"University leaders on Thursday worried that they'll have to cut classes or delay paying employees if the state continues to be late on payments to the university system.
"
AZ: Arizona Chamber focuses on jobs, deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As the Legislature prepares to start its regular session Monday, the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry recommends two priorities: fixing the state deficit and adopting a friendlier business climate to spur more jobs.
"
AZ: 'Tea party' protesters target climate bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Executives from several large, publicly traded electric utilities were greeted in Scottsdale on Thursday by a group of "tea party" protesters demanding that the companies fight global-warming legislation.
"
AZ: Valley residents can voice thoughts on F-35s
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Valley residents can have their say next month on the potential impact of the F-35 if it comes to Luke Air Force Base.
"
AZ: Delays of funding trouble state universities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state in December delayed a $75 million payment to the university system as a way to free up cash flow because of the state's financial crisis.
"
CA: Schwarzenegger to seek permanent pay cuts to replace worker furloughs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will propose ending furloughs for state workers at the end of June but seek permanent pay cuts and higher employee retirement contributions in their place, administration officials said Thursday.
"
CA: High-Speed Rail Authority head to retire in March
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After devoting more than a decade to bringing a bullet train to California, High-Speed Rail Authority Executive Director Mehdi Morshed is planning to retire.
"
CA: EPA's tougher proposed smog rules will affect California
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One result is that many parts of California will violate smog limits, even if their air quality is not any worse.
"
CO: Colorado jobless fund needs loan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado is borrowing hundreds of millions of dollars from the federal government to keep afloat its unemployment-insurance fund, which will go broke in two weeks without the cash infusion.
"
CO: Ritter roundtable works on job creation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bill Ritter hosted three dozen leaders in business, education and economic development on Thursday to discuss a top priority during his final year in office — job creation.
"
CO: Lawmakers crafting medical-pot bill struggle for middle ground
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state lawmakers drafting a major medical-marijuana regulation bill plan to meet with representatives from the state attorney general's office today to work on a compromise to include more law-and-order language in the bill.
"
FL: Don't let teachers unions kill $1 billion grant, state says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Florida school districts face what could be "the most brutal" budget year in memory in 2010, which is why they should sign on to a federal program that could bring millions to their coffers while encouraging reforms already on the state's agenda, Education Commissioner Eric Smith said Thursday.
"
FL: Plan could bring life to condo sales
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In a bid to jump-start sluggish Florida condo sales, Fannie Mae has launched a special project to identify stable, established condominium projects in the state where it is willing to lend.
"
FL: Juvenile justice secretary's travel expenses questioned
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Florida juvenile justice chief Frank Peterman's extensive travel at taxpayer expense includes thousands of dollars in extra charges because of missed flights as well as $2,300 in airport parking costs called ``excessive'' in an ongoing state review.
"
FL: Everglades Coalition conference to discuss restoration
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Progress, or the lack of it, on Everglades restoration is the focus of a major environmental conference this weekend in Palm Beach Gardens.
"
HI: Hotel occupancy falls in Hawaii in November
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new study shows occupancy at Hawaii hotels averaged 63.1 percent in November, down from 63.5 percent recorded in the same month last year.
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HI: Mayors seek to keep Hawaii hotel tax revenue share
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The mayors of Hawaii's four counties agree on one thing.
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HI: Housing authority chooses new leader
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The board of the state public housing agency selected a replacement yesterday for the agency's executive director in spite of some pleas from community members to keep the popular chief.
"
HI: UH cancer center, hospitals team up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With construction of a new 150,000-square-foot home expected to begin this summer, the University of Hawai'i's Cancer Research Center has sealed a monumental partnership with three major hospital groups in a move that will boost cancer research and care for Hawai'i residents.
"
HI: BOE chair refuses calls for resignation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Board of Education Chairman Garrett Toguchi last night refused to step down from his leadership post after several board members called for his resignation.
"
IA: Top Democrat not ruling out layoffs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 2010 legislative session is scheduled to start on Monday with lawmakers facing the prospect of cutting another half a billion dollars from next year's state spending plan.
"
IA: Tax credit panel to make recommendations Friday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Tax Credit Review Panel, which Culver formed in the wake of the film tax credit scandal, will vote on recommendations when it meets at 10 a.m. Friday in Room 116 of the Capitol in Des Moines.
"
IA: Lawmakers look to streamline state government
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Four-day work weeks for some state employees, scrapping unneeded boards and commissions and selling off parts of the state's real estate portfolio are just a few of the suggestions in front of lawmakers to cut costs this year.
"
IA: More require utility bill assistance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The number of Iowans receiving help in paying their utility bills has increased by 10 percent from a year ago, officials said.
"
IA: Odd but true -- Hospitals ask state to tax them
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The hospitals aren't just being good citizens in the state's time of budgetary need. Most of them expect to come out ahead on the deal.
"
IA: Iowa tax credit review panel to meet Friday at 10 a.m.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa officials who have been analyzing the benefits of state tax credits will release their recommendations tomorrow.
"
IA: Casino groups meet financing deadline
From: feeds.stateline.org
"All four applicants for Iowa casino licenses met Thursday's state-imposed deadline to show they have secured financing commitments for gambling complexes costing from $40 million to $120 million.
"
IA: Is this the year for 'fair share'?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver's chief of staff thinks there's "a legitimate chance" legislation will pass this year allowing public employee unions to charge nonunion employees for some expenses.
"
ID: Idaho pays out record in unemployment benefits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"POCATELLO, Idaho — Idaho borrowed $108 million in interest-free loans from the federal government in 2009 to help pay a record amount in unemployment insurance benefits to out-of-work residents, according to state records.
"
ID: Nampa charter school meets most concerns of state panel
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The mood was cordial Thursday as the fledgling Nampa Classical Academy presented its corrective action plans to the Idaho Public Charter School Commission.
"
ID: Higher education leaders say cuts hurt Idaho
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho's dwindling support for higher education is part of a pattern that threatens to make the U.S. a second-rate economy, say the presidents of Boise State University and the University of Idaho.
"
ID: Gov. Butch Otter warns cuts are coming to Idaho schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If Idaho public schools are asked to immediately cut spending this year, several local districts say they have the cash reserve to get through it.
"
ID: Idaho receives $64,000 in antitrust settlement
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho will be reimbursed $64,637.74 that the state paid for TriCor, a drug intended to reduce cholesterol.
"
IL: SIU -- No layoffs through June
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Any Southern Illinois University employees fearing layoffs or furloughs can rest easy for at least the remainder of the fiscal year, said SIU spokesman Dave Gross.
"
IL: Quinn plans deeper spending cuts for state budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Pat Quinn plans to seek "additional revenues and cost reductions" to address the state's estimated $5.6 billion deficit for the current fiscal year, according to documents accompanying plans for a $3.5 billion general obligation bond sale this week.
"
IL: Abbott Labs pays $22.5M to settle state lawsuits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State officials say drugmaker Abbott Laboratories will pay $22.5 million to settle allegations that it tried to block generic competition to a popular cholesterol medication.
"
IL: State bond sale nets $3.4 billion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Most of the money will be poured into the state's pension systems, which will free up about $843 million to help pay down the backlog of bills owed to universities, grade schools and medical providers, according to David Vaught, budget director for Gov. Pat Quinn.
"
IN: Northwest Indiana Forum wants waterways open
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Northwest Indiana Forum opposes Michigan's lawsuit to force Illinois to close Chicago-area locks to keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes.
"
IN: IU looks for ways to trim budget after state cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Indiana University is looking for ways to trim nearly $60 million from its budget to cope with state cuts in higher education spending.
"
IN: Ind. House advances property tax cap legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Indiana House rejected proposed changes Thursday to legislation aimed at adding caps on property tax bills to the state constitution, a measure supporters say will give people more certainty about how much they will be paying.
"
IN: Closing locks will hurt jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A nonprofit regional development organization in Northwest Indiana is opposing the lawsuit to close Chicago-area locks in an effort to stop Asian carp from invading the Great Lakes, citing the potential negative effect it could have on the local economy.
"
IN: IDEM commissioner looks to 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In response to the reduced Indiana state budget, the head of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management said the agency has reduced and eliminated grants and contracts, will cancel or renegotiate a number of service contracts and has returned its staffing to 2004 levels through attrition.
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IN: Property tax cap amendment closer to the ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A plan to write property tax limits into the state constitution was poised to proceed to the November ballot after state lawmakers debated it Thursday.
"
KS: Cuts hurting Kansans, groups say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Leaders of organizations that provide a social safety net for thousands of people said Wednesday that recent state budget cuts will have a devastating effect.
"
KS: Kansas school district group decides to ask court to re-open school funding lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A legal dispute over the funding of Kansas public schools is heading back to court, challenging recent cuts in education spending by the state.
"
KS: New Kansas coalition to lobby on tax policy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new coalition in Kansas says it will lobby legislators this year on tax policy.
"
KY: Ky., Ind. counties would violate new ozone standard
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new, tougher smog standard is coming, and Louisville-area counties are among 52 in Kentucky and Indiana that may have to find ways to avoid violating it, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced on Thursday.
"
KY: State signs off on new rules to regulate streams buried by surface mining
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Far fewer stream areas in Eastern Kentucky would be buried by surface mining under new guidelines the state has adopted.
"
KY: Campaign donor gets $3.9 million earmark in defense bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Sen. Jim Bunning and U.S. Rep. Geoff Davis earmarked $3.92 million in the defense spending bill signed into law Dec. 19 for American Freedom Fuels, a Lexington company owned by Robert Addington, who is also a major campaign donor.
"
KY: Stumbo delays filing slots bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Speaker Greg Stumbo said Thursday that he probably won't file a bill that would allow expanded gambling at racetracks until after Gov. Steve Beshear delivers his budget proposal on Jan. 19.
"
LA: State prepares cuts for disabled
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Monique Renee Michel can't speak, has difficulty walking and needs help with just about every aspect of daily living.
"
LA: Ag Department plans budget cuts without layoffs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Agriculture Department plans to make $1.5 million in budget cuts without layoffs or furloughs.
"
LA: State ends mailing income tax booklet
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state is trying to save money by discontinuing the mailing of income tax booklets.
"
LA: State Farm seeks to up average premiums 19.1%
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 295,000 Louisiana homeowners could see their premiums jump if the state Department of Insurance grants State Farm Fire & Casualty Co.'s request to raise rates an average of 19.1 percent.
"
LA: DHH to plug funds shortfall
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's health agency is using $66 million in "one-time money" to help close a midyear funding shortfall, money planned for use next budget year when the fiscal situation is expected to worsen, state health chief Alan Levine said Thursday.
"
LA: State's roads among nation's worst
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Louisiana ranks 43rd among the states in overall highway and bridge conditions, congestion and money spent on roads and bridges, according to a study released by a California think tank.
"
MA: Executives snub hearing on rising health care costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With rising health care costs burdening the country, Governor Deval Patrick's attempt to find out what can be done about them is being met with resounding silence from many of the state's health care executives.
"
MA: NHL passes on Winter Classic request
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The National Hockey League yesterday shot down House Speaker Robert DeLeo's lobbying efforts to make Boston the permanent host of the league's annual outdoor Winter Classic.
"
MD: Rawlings-Blake orders review, stresses public safety
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BALTIMORE -- City Council President Stephanie C. Rawlings-Blake ordered Thursday a comprehensive review of all city agencies and pledged to keep key public safety leaders in place as she began taking the reins of the city's highest office in the wake of Mayor Sheila Dixon's resignation.
"
MD: Lawmakers target plastic, paper bags
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Plastic bags just don't seem to go away.
"
ME: Anthem requests 22.9% rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PORTLAND, Maine — Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Maine drew fire Thursday from health care reform advocates and a member of the state's congressional delegation for proposing a rate increase of more than 20 percent for its Luminos and HealthChoice health insurance plans while its appeal in an earlier case seeking a higher operating margin remains unsettled.
"
ME: Advocates for mentally ill fight budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Advocates for the mentally ill in Maine were sharply critical Thursday of proposed cuts in spending for a wide range of services, and proposed alternatives.
"
MI: From Rust Belt to Green Belt -- Gov. Jennifer Granholm calls Chevy Volt battery production 'beginning of new Michigan'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"General Motors is set to begin production today on battery packs for its upcoming Chevy Volt, a development Gov. Jennifer Granholm calls "the beginning of this new Michigan we're trying to create."
"
MI: EPA's smog regulations could cost Michigan millions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New federal standards proposed for regulating smog could put as many as 21 Michigan counties in noncompliance and cost businesses and residents millions of dollars to improve air quality.
"
MN: Union -- Cut Pawlenty appointees to ease budget crunch
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Minnesota's largest state employee union called on Gov. Tim Pawlenty to reduce political appointees as a way to ease the state's budget crisis.
"
MN: Pawlenty, top Democratic lawmakers meet to talk about budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Tim Pawlenty and top legislative Democrats are meeting today to talk about the state's budget problems.
"
MN: Minnesota Vikings say their future might be in 'burbs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Vikings once considered the Metrodome site their best option for a new stadium. Now they seem to be walking away from it.
"
MO: Budget, ethics in spotlight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri lawmakers convened their 2010 session yesterday besieged by budget woes and perceptions of corruption.
"
MO: MU expands on-campus job options for students
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Missouri created 242 new jobs for students last semester as part of a pilot program administrators are hailing as a success.
"
MO: Schools plan to cut budget by $6 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Superintendent Chris Belcher has proposed slashing almost $6 million from Columbia Public Schools' operating budget to combat an expected decrease in state funding.
"
MS: Barbour to business -- I like your style
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Haley Barbour and legislative leaders found themselves preaching to the choir Thursday when they talked to the state's business leaders about spending cuts and job creation.
"
MS: Economy focus of roundtable
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With the economy continuing to deplete tax revenues, Gov. Haley Barbour said the state is considering some kind of credit assistance that would help small businesses without duplicating programs offered by banks and other agencies.
"
MS: Mississippi denies Allstate rate increase
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mississippi officials have rejected a request from AllState Property and Casualty Insurance Co. to more than double insurance rates for 51,000 homes statewide.
"
MT: Montana Supreme Court orders PSC to set rates for wind project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Montana Supreme Court has ordered the Public Service Commission to set rates at which a proposed wind-power project near Whitehall could sell its electricity to NorthWestern Energy.
"
MT: Day treatment programs for Montanans with mental illness to lose state funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GREAT FALLS, Mont. -- Day treatment programs for Montana residents with mental illness will lose state funding in July, and at least one of the centers is closing the program as a result.
"
MT: Otter Creek coal owner says minimum price for state tracts too high
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The head of the company that owns more than half the coal in southeastern Montana's Otter Creek Valley said this week he'll be surprised if anyone bids on state-owned coal there, because the Land Board probably set the minimum price too high.
"
NC: Yard equipment maker Husqvarna gets state funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials with forest and lawn equipment producer Husqvarna say the company will follow through with its earlier decision to consolidate its North American headquarters in Charlotte, thanks in part to sweeteners from North Carolina taxpayers.
"
NC: State looks at wining, dining of ABC execs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission has widened a probe into possible violations of liquor laws across North Carolina in the wake of a company's lavish holiday dinner for the Mecklenburg County ABC Board.
"
NC: Smog limit challenges state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public officials across the state will soon be devising ways to cajole residents and require businesses to cut smog. The reason: Much of North Carolina would flunk the federal pollution standards in a nationwide proposal Thursday to require tougher limits on smog.
"
NC: Collier to lead N.C. Board of Transportation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Robert A. Collier Jr. of Statesville, a businessman and retired judge appointed to the N.C. Board of Transportation six years ago, was elected chairman of the 19-member board Thursday.
"
NE: Fremont immigration case focuses on judge's role in elections
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the eyes of those who want to crack down on illegal immigrants, a Fremont case heard by the Nebraska Supreme Court on Thursday is all about banning employers and landlords from hiring and renting to undocumented residents.
"
NE: Bill would end 'archaic' Nebraska mixed alcohol ban
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill that would end the state ban against Irish car bombs and boilermakers is being called "the needles beer bill."
"
NE: Bill seeks to eliminate alcohol-free buffer zone around college campuses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 300-foot alcohol-free buffer zone that has been carved around Nebraska college campuses for decades would disappear under a bill introduced by General Affairs Committee Chairman Russ Karpisek.
"
NE: Bill to boost funds for arena debt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A sweeping tax bill introduced Thursday would not only double the amount of sales tax revenue available to pay off the debt on the Qwest Center Omaha, but also would sweeten the pot for future arena projects — and even amusement parks — across the state.
"
NH: Businesspeople by the busload blast LLC tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PLYMOUTH, N.H. – Arriving by the busload, southern New Hampshire business leaders spoke against a new 5 percent interest and dividends state tax on limited liability companies and partnerships last night.
"
NH: Legislation would close tax loophole
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Second District Congressman Paul W. Hodes, D-N.H., plans to introduce legislation next week barring the kind of transaction that let Verizon Communications spin off its northern New England landlines to FairPoint Communications Inc. tax-free.
"
NJ: N.J. Senate puts off vote on college fees for illegal immigrants until Monday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Senate has postponed a vote to Monday on whether illegal immigrants, who must pay out-of-state tuition to attend New Jersey public colleges, will be allowed to pay just the much lower in-state rates.
"
NJ: State's foster care reforms receive good marks in federal evaluation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Children in New Jersey's child welfare system are safer than they were a year ago and more are kept with siblings when they enter foster care, according to a federal report issued yesterday.
"
NJ: DEP -- Nuclear plant needs cooling towers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey environmental officials are requiring the Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station in Ocean County, the nation's oldest nuclear plant, to install cooling towers -- an environmentally friendly yet costly design change that plant operators say will force them to shut down.
"
NJ: Christie taps NYC finance official to head state prisons
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov.-elect Chris Christie announced yesterday he will nominate Gary Lanigan, a former New York City prison official and current fiscal officer for the city's transportation authority, as leader of the state's prison system.
"
NM: Amid strife, first Whites Peak land swap closes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Angry hunters and skeptical public officials Thursday grilled state Land Commissioner Pat Lyons over a controversial package of state trust-land trades around Whites Peak.
"
NM: S.F. legislators hear ideas on taxes, pay cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some Santa Fe residents at a town hall meeting Thursday encouraged local legislators to roll back personal income tax cuts for the wealthy and to make sure multi-state corporations pay state taxes.
"
NM: Governor's Office mum as job ax falls
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The largest layoff of state employees in recent history happens today, yet the public still knows little about what jobs are being eliminated.
"
NM: GOP gubernatorial candidate posts campaign contributors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Janice Arnold-Jones on Thursday became the first Republican gubernatorial candidate to post her campaign contributors on a Web site.
"
NM: Optum will pay $1.5M in lieu of penalty
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hundreds of behavioral health providers soon will be able to tap into a $1 million fund to help them recover financially from a crisis last year in the state's behavioral health system, a state agency announced Thursday.
"
NM: Construction jobs on the rise in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The job picture for real estate and construction in 2010 in New Mexico appears slightly brighter than 2009.
"
NM: Want a paycheck? Try health care, schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The job market has opened up somewhat in the education field, as the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque Public Schools and Central New Mexico Community College are hiring.
"
NV: Gibbons -- Nevada will sue if health care bill becomes law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Gibbons continued to attack Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and the health care reform being debated in Congress, promising to sue the federal government if the health care legislation becomes law.
"
NV: SAGE commission issues final report
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Spending and Government Efficiency Commission appointed by Gov. Jim Gibbons issued its sixth and final report Thursday on ways to improve efficiency and reduce spending by state government.
"
NY: Summary of the New York state of the state address
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. David Paterson (D), facing what could be a difficult primary campaign this year, proposed a plan Jan. 6 that he said would fix New York’s shattered finances, rejuvenate its slumping economy and restore trust in government through a series of major ethics reforms.
"
NY: State retirees' lost checks are found
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The checks were in the mail — really. Thousands of checks for state retirees, lost in the mail for a week, were found late Wednesday for the Rochester and Buffalo areas, which were hardest hit by the mishap.
"
NY: Chief judge -- Poor need help
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New York's top judge wants to tap into the state budget to help overhaul the way legal services are funded for the poor in civil cases.
"
OH: American Greetings may pull its world headquarters out of Brooklyn, Ohio
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BROOKLYN, Ohio -- American Greetings Corp., the nation's largest publicly held greeting card manufacturer, is exploring moving its global headquarters from Brooklyn to another community - maybe even out of state - with lower taxes.
"
OH: FDIC investigating $2 billion claim against AmTrust parent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The federal government might take six months to decide whether to go after AmTrust Bank's parent for $2 billion.
"
OH: New federal smog standards would put Ohio out of compliance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tighter new standards for smog proposed by federal authorities Thursday will knock Northeast Ohio -- and the rest of the state -- out of compliance with clean air standards, likely leading to more pollution-cutting controls.
"
OH: Franklin Township wary of casino deal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Fearing that more of their land will get gobbled up by Columbus, trustees in Franklin Township voted last night against inviting a casino to Westland Mall or the former Delphi auto-parts plant.
"
OH: State panel confronts school funding question
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With a budget cloud hanging overhead, a new state council sat down for the first time yesterday to consider ongoing changes to Ohio's school-funding system.
"
OK: Tax Commission to furlough employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oklahoma Tax Commission employees will serve one-day furloughs in January and February as a result of budget cuts, the agency said Thursday.
"
OK: EPA plan a concern in state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — More than a dozen Oklahoma counties could end up in violation of the Obama administration's newly proposed smog standard, a move designed to help Americans breathe easier and live healthier.
"
OK: Clinton officials show interest in building next juvenile facility
From: feeds.stateline.org
"City officials in Clinton said they're interested in helping the Office of Juvenile Affairs build a new maximum-security juvenile facility.
"
OR: Campaigns spend with gusto -- The "yes" and "no" sides of Measures 66 and 67 each have raised millions to sway voters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Organized labor, especially unions for teachers and state government employees, are ponying up 90 percent of the money that's paying for TV and radio ads and other expenses of the campaign to pass Measure 66 and Measure 67.
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OR: Yes no Measure 66/67 -- A small price for a large payoff
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Raising taxes is a small price for Oregon's highest-income households and businesses to pay to shore up state support for Oregon schools, human services and public safety, advocates of Measures 66 and 67 on the Jan. 26 ballot argue.
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OR: No on Measure 66/67 -- 'Makes a flawed system worse'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Business advocates say that Measures 66 and 67 would be bad for Oregon now and in the future if voters approve them Jan. 26.
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OR: U.S. wants to toughen smog standards, putting clamp on Oregon cities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wants to set tougher health standards for smog that could push the Portland, Salem, Eugene and Medford areas -- and perhaps other spots in Oregon -- into violations of federal clean air law.
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OR: Container shortage threatens Portland, Northwest export boom
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Recession-weary Northwest farmers are landing big sales in Asia, an encouraging sign of recovery. But a severe shortage of shipping containers, as steamship lines boost rates, downsize vessels and slow ships to save fuel, stifles what could be a U.S. export boom.
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PA: Gerlach gets out of Corbett's way in race for GOP nomination
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach today said he is ending his campaign for governor, acknowledging that "the best ideas alone do not always propel candidates to victory."
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PA: Teachers union urges 'fair' program funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Pennsylvania State Education Association released a report Thursday urging "fair" state funding for proven, research-based strategies for student achievement, as well as initiatives to improve teaching and learning conditions.
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PA: H1N1 shots urged as supplies grow
From: feeds.stateline.org
"All Pennsylvanians are urged to take advantage of the increasing supply of H1N1 vaccine by getting immunized at vaccination clinics being offered by the Department of Health.
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PA: Nemacolin Woodlands Resort plans to bid for casino
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Citing relaxed patron rules for resort casinos and the addition of table games to Pennsylvania's gaming facilities, a Fayette County luxury resort plans to renew its bid for a gaming license.
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PA: Gerlach drops out of GOP governor's race
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rep. Jim Gerlach on Thursday quit the race for governor, citing the high cost of "media-driven" campaigns as an obstacle.
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PA: Gubernatorial candidate criticizes Ravenstahl veto of wage bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montgomery County Commissioner Joe Hoeffel is running for governor, but from across the state, he injected himself into a local municipal controversy this week as he issued a statement sharply criticizing Mayor Luke Ravenstahl's last-minute decision to veto a prevailing wage bill.
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PA: Gerlach withdraws his gubernatorial bid, citing fundraising trouble
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach's decision to withdraw, the Republican primary for governor became a two-man race pitting Tom Corbett, a candidate who demonstrated broad voter appeal in his re-election as attorney general, against a legislative veteran, state Rep. Sam Rohrer, who will portray himself to the GOP base as the more ideologically committed conservative.
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PA: Meadows wastes little time preparing for expansion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arms waving and voice rising, Sean Sullivan could hardly contain his excitement yesterday as he showed off the space that will be dedicated to table games at The Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Washington County.
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PA: Rendell signs gambling bill, wants Pennsylvania table games on the fast track
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With Gov. Ed Rendell pledging to get table games "up and running in as many casino venues as possible by July," Nemacolin Woodlands in Fayette County yesterday entered a four-way competition for the state's last resort casino license.
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PA: Libraries reaping benefits from bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The county's two public library systems were winners yesterday when Gov. Ed Rendell approved table games at the state's casinos, but the predicted revenues might not cover looming deficits, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Director Barbara Mistick said yesterday.
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RI: Local leaders air grievances about proposed loss of millions in state aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Providence Mayor David N. Cicilline said his city stands to lose $17 million — so much that he would be forced to make deep rounds of layoffs and shut down whole departments.
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RI: R.I. EDC nominee plans to focus on existing businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As he enters his final year in office, Governor Carcieri, and his new economic development director, Keith Stokes, say they will take a hyper-local approach to economic development, focusing on helping businesses that are already here, instead of luring new ones.
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SC: Sanford wants to cut health care, pay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mark Sanford said Thursday that he'll balance the state's next budget by cutting spending on health care programs and worker pay, among other things. "It's a severe budget year," Sanford said, noting it only gets worse next year when federal stimulus money disappears.
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SC: Boost or burden?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Comptroller Richard Eckstrom said South Carolina has now received $1 billion in stimulus money, and that most of it has benefitted people "who tend not to be taxpayers."
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SC: Rally to focus on flag, cigarette tax, census
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The NAACP will use the rally to again call for the removal of the Confederate flag from State House grounds.
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SC: Crews work to keep roads safe
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Highway department crews worked into the night Thursday attempting to keep major roads passable for school buses and folks trying to maintain their routines today.
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SD: S.D. stimulus spending reported at $276 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Rounds says South Dakota has spent $276 million of the $655 million in federal stimulus funds allocated to state agencies.
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SD: Water may be in works for remote SD
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Board of Water and Natural Resources has put its formal support behind another big project to deliver drinking water to a remote part of South Dakota.
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TN: Bill Gibbons says Tennessee government not open enough
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tennessee should require more financial disclosures from its top leaders, and it should reduce the cost of obtaining public records, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Gibbons said Thursday.
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TX: Perry releases "Working for Us"
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Rick Perry has a new ad going up on televisions across the state today — the same day his opponent, U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, is airing an ad during the highly anticipated BCS National Championship Game featuring the University of Texas Longhorns (and the University of Alabama Crimson Tide).
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TX: Perry, TCEQ rip proposed smog limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DALLAS — Gov. Rick Perry and state environmental regulators on Thursday ripped a federal proposal to cut down on smog, saying it could kill jobs and force Texans to limit such everyday activities as mowing lawns or using drive-throughs.
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US: Jobs fall 85,000; unemployment rate 10 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The economy lost more jobs in December and the unemployment rate was unchanged, as a sluggish economic recovery has yet to revive hiring among the nation's employers.
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US: Clean energy sources -- sun, wind and subsidies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In frigid water four miles off England's east coast, a floating crane is installing the last of 48 wind turbines. The 40-story-tall pinwheels are driven by two plentiful resources: ocean breezes and public funds.
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US: Abbott, Solvay units to pay $22.5M in TriCor pact
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NEW YORK -- Abbott Laboratories (ABT) and two units of Belgium's Solvay SA (SOLB.BT) agreed to pay $22.5 million as part of a settlement with 23 states and the District of Columbia of antitrust litigation that alleged the drug makers conspired to block generic competition for cholesterol drug TriCor.
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US: Obama to announce new funding for manufacturing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama plans to announce new funding for clean technology manufacturing jobs Friday, part of a White House turn back to domestic economic issues after two weeks spent focused on terrorism.
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US: Pressure builds against mountaintop coal mining
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Mountaintop coal mining, which involves blowing up mountain peaks to get access to coal seams below, should be halted immediately because of growing evidence of its environmental and health threats, scientists urged Thursday in the journal Science.
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US: Rising gas prices could be a drag on economic recovery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Just what Americans need as they try to dig out from the Great Recession: gas prices headed back toward $3 per gallon.
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US: EPA proposes stricter limits on smog pollutants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Environmental Protection Agency proposed stricter limits Thursday on the amount of pollution-forming ozone allowed in the air, significantly tightening rules the Bush administration had set for the nation's most widespread air pollutant.
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US: Half of states see dip in under-18 population
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maine, Michigan, North Dakota and Vermont had net losses of about one in 10 of their young people from 2000 to 2009, as the populations of Northeastern and Midwestern states continued to age faster than those in the Sun Belt, according to new Census Bureau data.
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UT: Groups advocate change in gas tax focus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Utah Constitution reserves gasoline tax revenues for highway construction and related purposes.
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UT: Economists anticipate slow recovery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state and national economies are in recovery mode after one of the most severe recessions in decades.
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UT: UTA looking to pare bus routes to keep budget in the black
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For the budget to be in the black at the end of the year, the Utah Transit Authority is proposing cutting some bus routes.
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VA: At forum, proposed state budget cuts draw fire
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PORTSMOUTH, Va. -- Karen Jackson tried her best to make a panel of state legislators understand the possible human toll if deep cuts are made in state health care programs.
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VA: Chesterfield cuts could force closure of governor's schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Central Virginia's two full-time governor's schools could face severe changes or even closure if Chesterfield County eliminates its participation in them.
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VA: Kaine -- $3.1m for southwest Va. projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Tim Kaine is recommending funding totaling $3.1 million for 16 projects in southwest Virginia, to spur economic development, deliver clean water and encourage cultural heritage tourism.
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VA: EPA smog rules could affect local industries, vehicles
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday that it will set stricter rules against smog, a move intended to protect public health and the environment but one that could mean new controls on industries, fuels and mean new controls on industries, fuels and vehicles across Hampton Roads.
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VA: McDonnell -- No link between dispute and Northrop Grumman relocation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northrop Grumman can't use its pricey IT contract dispute with the state as a weapon in negotiations as it looks to relocate its corporate headquarters to the Washington region, Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell says.
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VT: In address, Douglas seeks repeal of taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In his eighth and final State of the State address, Gov. Jim Douglas said he and the Democratic Legislature must cooperate to solve the Vermont's pressing financial and economic problems — as they did when they reformed health care, strengthened sex-abuse statutes, attacked illegal drug use, created partnerships to reduce water pollution and adopted stringent vehicle-emission standards. (Also see: VT: Education ideas familiar but with new twist)
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VT: Education ideas familiar but with new twist
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Devoting one-third of his State of the State speech Thursday to Vermont's public school system, Gov. Jim Douglas tossed out ideas for reining in expenses he said were choking the state.
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VT: Vermont delegation requests heat aid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Vermont's congressional delegation is calling for an emergency infusion of federal funding for home heating assistance, and it's pushing the White House to deliver it.
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WA: Gregoire -- Getting state out of booze biz may not make sense
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As lawmakers search every nook, cranny and bar stool for money to balance the state's budget, the notion of privatizing liquor sales is gaining traction with both Democrats and Republicans.
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WI: Wisconsin DOT declares area roads frozen allowing truckers to haul heavier loads
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's not exactly "Ice Road Truckers," the popular History Channel reality show that promises "adventure, human ingenuity and DANGER" as big rigs rumble across frozen rivers and ocean water.
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WI: Businesses oppose Wisconsin clean energy plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Wisconsin's business community is divided over Gov. Jim Doyle's clean energy plan that calls for increasing the use of renewable fuels and opens the door to nuclear power, with opponents saying the new mandates will weaken Wisconsin's already struggling manufacturing sector.
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WI: Another annuity cut projected for Wis. retirees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even though the stock market rebounded in 2009, the state investment board is projecting a 1 percent cut in benefits for retirees in the Wisconsin Retirement System.
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WI: Energy bill debate centers on nuclear provision, jobs creation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A proposal that would relax Wisconsin's ban on nuclear reactors and mandate increasing use of renewable energy began its journey through the Legislature on Thursday, with Gov. Jim Doyle asserting that it could create more than 15,000 jobs.
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WV: Environmental group outlines legislative agenda
From: feeds.stateline.org
"West Virginia's environmentalist community wants lawmakers to enact energy-efficiency programs, reform siting rules for high-voltage power lines and toughen proposed new regulations governing oil and gas drilling.
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WV: W.Va. bankruptcies rise by 27 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WHEELING, W.Va. -- Bankruptcy filings in West Virginia rose by 27 percent in 2009 and the northern half of the state fared worse than the southern half.
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WY: Belt-tightening in Cheyenne has ripple effect statewide
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LOVELL, Wy. -- There's a lot of belt-tightening going on at the Wyoming center of government in Cheyenne due to the recession that has caught up to the Equality State in recent months, and Sen. Ray Peterson (R-Lovell) is right in the thick of things as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
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WY: Budget committee co-chair suggests local governments may get more funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rep. Rosie Berger, R-Sheridan County, said after budget hearings with representatives of Wyoming's local governments that she thinks "there's an interest to do more" from the legislature than the funding figure recommended by Gov. Dave Freudenthal.
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WY: Applicants available for grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Grant applications for the next round of the Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund are now available on the agency's Web site, Artsparkshistory.com.
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WY: Wyo BLM issues sage grouse guidelines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Bureau of Land Management is directing its Wyoming offices to consider certain restrictions for oil and gas drilling, new wind turbines and other types of development in sage grouse habitat.
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Weekly wrap: Officials hope to dodge pay backlash
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Top officials in several states took steps to show the public that they, too, are making do with less take-home pay. Meanwhile, state revenues decline for a fourth straight quarter, Oklahoma erects wind turbines among the oil derricks on its capitol grounds and Illinois halts all state lobbyist registration.
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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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Proactive tax planning to take advantage of timely tax saving opportunities.
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