AZ: Brewer calls for unity, smaller government
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer re-emphasized her conservative roots Monday in a State of the State address that took shots at the Obama administration and emphasized steep budget cuts and a rollback of the state Medicaid program. (Also see: AZ: Brewer wants fewer poor families to receive state-paid health care and AZ: Arizona puts state buildings on sale today to plug huge deficit )
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KS: Parkinson proposes sales, cigarette tax increases to start session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Facing a historic budget crisis, Gov. Mark Parkinson on Monday proposed a temporary one-cent increase in the state sales tax and an increase in the state tax on cigarettes of 55 cents per pack.
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AK: Alaska public broadcasters continue consolidation talks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FAIRBANKS, Alaska -- Representatives of Alaska's three largest public broadcasters are continuing to discuss entering into a formal partnership.
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AK: Alaska's minimum wage increases 50 cents to $7.75
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Thousands of Alaska's lowest-paid workers are receiving a boost in their paychecks in the first couple weeks of this year.
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AK: Palin to join Fox News as commentator, occasional host
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin will join Fox News as a contributor, a job that establishes her as an official member of the mainstream media she lambasted in her own bestselling memoir as "worthless as a source of factual information anymore."
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AL: Bill would make good on PACT promises
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill proposed by a local legislator could wipe out one of the biggest issues facing the state's Prepaid Affordable College Tuition program, but what kind of reception it will get this week is a hot topic among lawmakers and contract holders.
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AR: UAMS announces $10.5 million grant for cancer center extension
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Arkansas for Medical Science has been awarded a nearly $10.5 million grant to help complete part of a 12-story cancer research tower, the medical school announced today.
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AZ: Brewer wants fewer poor families to receive state-paid health care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jan Brewer wants to take away state-paid health care for hundreds of thousands of Arizonans as one way of balancing the state budget.
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AZ: Arizona puts state buildings on sale today to plug huge deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Arizona's state buildings -- including the capitol, the governor's office, the state hospital and state prisons -- go on sale today as the financially pressed state tries to raise money to plug a $4.5 billion deficit.
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AZ: Brewer -- Budget crisis requires action, not grandstanding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jan Brewer chided state lawmakers today for talking a lot about balancing the budget but doing very little about it.
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AZ: Governor scolds lawmakers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jan Brewer chided state lawmakers and future political foes Monday for talking a lot about balancing the budget but doing very little about it.
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AZ: Valley bankruptcy filings in 2009 top 25,000
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Metro Phoenix concluded 2009 on a somber note, as the number of bankruptcy filings in December jumped 67 percent compared with a year earlier.
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AZ: Solar-parts plant to open in Arizona
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A producer of structural metal components for the automobile industry plans to invest $50 million in a new Arizona plant that will manufacture mirror assemblies for solar-power systems.
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AZ: New group aims to find ways to halt school cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Coming soon to the state Capitol: Education supporters' ideas on how to spare education from deep budget cuts.
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AZ: Ariz. officials propose closing 13 state parks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ewer than one third of Arizona's state parks and recreation areas will remain open after June 3 under staff recommendations released Monday.
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AZ: Top four lawmakers present budget arguments at Chamber lunch
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Everyone at the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry's annual legislative luncheon agreed: Arizona's budget needs to be the top priority, and the state needs to change its course.
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CA: State officials -- 7 bids for OC Fairgrounds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"COSTA MESA, Calif. — State officials say they have received seven bids for the Orange County Fairgrounds, which is scheduled to be auctioned off to help close the state's budget deficit.
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CA: California ties cash to energy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California might start paying people to cut their energy use. On Monday, a state panel proposed that the lion's share of new fees California plans to impose on greenhouse-gas emissions should be returned to consumers in the form of annual dividend checks that eventually could exceed $1,000 for a family of four.
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CA: Deal struck to tear down 106-foot dam; would be largest dam removal in California
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In what could be the largest dam removal project ever completed in California, government officials and a Monterey water company on Monday agreed to tear down the 106-foot-tall San Clemente Dam.
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CA: Wolk, Wiggins lose big in committee shake-up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Lois Wolk, wasn't shy about her disdain for the water package passed last fall -- or Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg's role in crafting the agreement.
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CA: Yosemite tourism trickled down for year, but it's starting to look up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The economic crash that devastated both Wall Street and Main Street last year might have been a boon to America's national parks – and Yosemite National Park is a case in point.
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CA: California Assembly committee approves oil tax bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Let the war over tax hikes begin. And score the first battle Democrats yes, Republicans no – just like last year.
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CA: Washington fires back at Schwarzenegger
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON and SACRAMENTO -- For Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, blasting the federal government for California's problems has become an oft-used routine since his first days in office. But in a new twist, federal officials are firing back.
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CO: Denver stricter on pot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Denver's City Council approved a broad set of regulations for the city's booming medical-marijuana industry Monday night over the objections of dozens of cannabis advocates who say the rules clamp down too hard on their businesses.
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CO: Tense legislative session ahead with revenues "hitting bottom"
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The angry phone calls and letters have been coming into Capitol offices for months.
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CT: State sues former head of local charity
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The founder of a New Haven charity that collects and distributes medical supplies was dismayed to realize recently that the nonprofit, Remedy Inc., was running seriously short on cash.
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FL: Legislators to public advocate in utility cases -- Your job is not secure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the midst of two votes over the largest rate cases in state history, the lawyer who represents consumers is on the hot seat.
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FL: Crist seeks revival of back-to-school sales tax holiday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Charlie Crist and leading legislators on Monday called for a revival of the annual sales tax holiday for back-to-school items like backpacks and pencils.
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FL: Depending on their trade, businesses love or hate the big chill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"MIAMI -- Florida Power & Light sold more electricity than ever. JCPenney ran out of sweaters. Exterminators chased down a rash of cold rats craving a warm house. And chimney sweeps celebrated their luck.
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FL: Fla. regulators reject Progress Energy rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State regulators on Monday unanimously rejected a $500 million-a-year base rate increase sought by Progress Energy Florida, the state's second-largest power company.
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FL: Utilities' public advocate faces competition for post
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the midst of two votes over the largest rate cases in state history, the lawyer who represents consumers is on the hot seat.
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GA: Secretary of State revamps Web site
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Georgia Secretary of State's Office has redesigned its Corporations Division's Web site to make it easier to register corporations, limited liability companies and limited partnerships in Georgia.
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GA: Litigation wave may hit failed banks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The nation's bank failures could soon lead to a wave of legal action against some officers and directors of some failed lenders. And Georgia, with its nation-leading tally of seized banks, could be ground zero.
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GA: Sonny Perdue to take the lead on transportation?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Sonny Perdue has two important speaking gigs in the next two days – Tuesday morning at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce's "Eggs and Issues Breakfast," and his state-of-the-state address on Wednesday.
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GA: GA lawmakers get early start ahead of budget fight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's top politicos will be up early to address the Georgia Chamber of Commerce at the annual Eggs and Issues Breakfast.
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GA: Cagle creates Senate budget task force
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, in his first press conference of the session, announced the creation of task force comprised of state business leaders that would be charged with advising and making recommendations to the senate regarding, "short and long-term budget solutions."
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HI: Aloun Farms owners to admit to illegally importing farm laborers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The owners of Aloun Farms, one of the largest and best-known agricultural businesses in Hawai'i, are scheduled to plead guilty tomorrow in federal court to illegally importing farm laborers from Thailand and holding them in virtual servitude.
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HI: Hawaii school chief's pay cap scrutinized
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Board of Education's decision yesterday to conduct a national search for the next chief of public schools reignited a long-standing debate over the $150,000 pay cap on the superintendent's salary.
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HI: BOE chooses Matayoshi
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Board of Education voted in executive session yesterday to appoint Kathryn Matayoshi as interim superintendent while searching for a permanent replacement for Superintendent Patricia Hamamoto, who resigned effective Dec. 31.
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IA: Kevin McCarthy's opening day remarks -- All will feel budget pain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"All areas of government will be faced with tough budget decisions this legislative session, said House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy said today during his opening day speech.
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IA: Iowa Legislature opens shortened session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Iowa Legislature convened Monday for a shortened session with legislative leaders promising to make deep cuts needed to balance the budget without raising taxes.
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IA: Iowa legislators seek to mitigate flood damage in state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Always wary of mandates, Iowa legislators are eying measures to encourage property owners to get flood insurance and limit development in flood-prone areas.
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IA: Tough economic decisions top legislative business
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa lawmakers dropped the gavel to begin the 2010 session this morning facing what House Speaker Pat Murphy, D-Dubuque, described as some of the toughest economic decisions in the last 70 or 80 years.
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IA: Legislators open session with school reforms
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa lawmakers hit the ground running Monday, opening their 2010 session and getting quickly to work on school reforms meant to qualify the state for a share of federal dollars.
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IA: Culver promises 'big, bold' budget plans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Streamlined and efficient is better. That's the message Gov. Chet Culver hopes to convey to state lawmakers and Iowans today when he delivers an upbeat view of how Iowa can emerge from a national recession and state budget crisis in a stronger position while avoiding deeper cuts and layoffs.
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IA: Report says Honey Creek Resort has lost over $884,000
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A report by the state auditor shows the Honey Creek Resort lost just over $884,000 in the first 10 months of operations from September of 2008 until June 30th of 2009.
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IA: Governor promises to unveil "big, bold" ideas today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Chet Culver says he'll outline some "big, bold" proposals in the annual "Condition of the State" address he's scheduled to deliver later this morning to legislators.
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IA: Gronstal's opening speech -- 'I'm counting on you to say no'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here's the transcript of Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal's prepared speech, released minutes before he spoke.
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IA: Paulsen's opening day remarks -- Let's stop placing blame
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Republican Leader Kraig Paulsen, R-Hiawatha, delivered opening remarks to the Iowa House of Representatives today.
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IA: McKinley's opening speech -- 'We have a spending problem'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here is a transcript of the speech by Senate Republican Leader Paul McKinley, R-Chariton, to the Iowa Senate this morning.
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IA: Kibbie's opening speech -- 'Better times are in front of us'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here are the opening day remarks by Senate President Jack Kibbie, D-Emmetsburg.
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IA: Pat Murphy's opening speech
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here are the remarks, as transcribed by House Democratic Staff, of House Speaker Pat Murphy's, D-Dubuque, opening day remarks to the 2010 legislative session.
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IA: Legislators say they'll act quickly on budget matters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's legislative leaders focused their opening-day speeches upon fiscal matters and wasted no time indicating who or what they believed was to blame.
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IA: Culver plans schools 'surprise'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver, whose track record in education has been one of big wins and rough patches, said he will announce a "surprise" for cash-strapped schools today.
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IA: Honey Creek ran 9-month deficit of $900,000
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa's $58 million government-owned Honey Creek Resort ran a deficit of almost $900,000 in its first nine months of operation, a state audit released Monday shows.
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ID: State files response in Lowe lawsuit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho's former transportation chief Pam Lowe was fired last summer because she failed to do an adequate job and that her wrongful termination lawsuit lacks merit, state attorneys said.
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ID: 2010 State of the State address -- 'We must live within our means,' Gov. Otter says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho Gov. Butch Otter has outlined a plan to guide the state through another tough economic year with cuts to public education, consolidation of other public agencies and no additional growth in state government.
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ID: Students respond to governor's address
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 20 Twin Falls High School students watched Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter's State of the State address stream live on the Idaho Education Network on Monday.
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ID: Area lawmakers greet speech with budget concerns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It wasn't news that anyone wanted to hear.
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ID: Gov. Otter would phase out funds for some agencies, commissions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Butch Otter would cut all state general fund money over four years to seven agencies: Idaho Public Television, the Human Rights Commission, the Hispanic Commission, the Independent Living Council, the Developmental Disabilities Council, the Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Digital Learning Academy.
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ID: Legislator makes session-limiting proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho stands apart from most states when it comes to regulating the length of its legislative sessions.
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IL: Budget panel advises Rockford to privatize, outsource more tasks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ROCKFORD, Ill. -- An obsolete business model and runaway state-mandated pension costs have created a long-term financial crisis for the city, according to a report released today by a panel of business and civic leaders.
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IL: College leaders get together to discuss state funding issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CARTERVILLE, Ill. -- Eight community colleges from Southern Illinois came together Monday with one common concern: State funding.
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IL: Quinn, Daley unveil legislation to woo shows back
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Pat Quinn and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley have unveiled legislation they say would bring conventions back to the Windy City.
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IL: Illinois GOP continue push for tax amnesty
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republicans continue to push an idea to give people a penalty-free chance to catch up on back taxes in order to generate some quick cash for the struggling Illinois budget.
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IL: Illinois House mulls giving Quinn more time for state budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Although the idea was rejected in October, the Illinois House is again thinking about giving Gov. Pat Quinn extra time to craft a proposed state budget.
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IL: Durbin, Biggert host briefing on Asian carp
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley are scheduled to appear at Tuesday's event at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium.
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IL: Candidates offer different plans to fix UI's financial woes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- Three Republican candidates for governor offered varying approaches on how to deal with the University of Illinois' financial woes at a candidates forum Sunday in Champaign.
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IL: Quinn expected to be in Pekin on Tuesday
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PEKIN, Ill. -- Gov. Pat Quinn is expected to appear Tuesday morning in Pekin as part of a tour of several cities touting the state's capital bill.
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IL: Arguments on proposed Verizon phone lines sale to be heard next week
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State regulators plan to hear three days of arguments next week on the proposed sale by Verizon Communications of nearly 600,000 phone lines in Illinois and whether the sale would benefit consumers, especially in rural areas.
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IL: Area hotels suffering through some of the toughest times in decades
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PEORIA, Ill. -- The recession has hit the lodging industry hard. Just ask Sami Qureshi.
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IL: Local hotels squeezed by state payment limit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Downstate hotel owners, including those in Springfield, will have to wait to see any adjustment in state reimbursement rates.
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IL: Ill. rail tourism corridor proposed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GALESBURG, Ill. -- Local officials are hoping they can combine the marketing power and attractions of the Quad Cities, Peoria and Galesburg to create a tourism corridor called Tractors, Trains and Tracks, that would include the $30 million proposed National Railroad Hall of Fame, creating jobs and investment across the region.
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IL: Lawmakers consider letting Quinn borrow more
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Pat Quinn could get the ability to borrow additional millions to make health care payments under legislation that gained initial support from lawmakers on Monday.
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IL: Factory-job losses among worst in 98 yrs.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A publisher of industrial directories said Monday that losses in factory employment in the Chicago area are among the steepest it has seen in 98 years of compiling data.
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IL: State lawmakers cool to Daley-Quinn plan for McCormick Place
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayor Richard Daley and Gov. Pat Quinn today unveiled a legislative proposal aimed at making Chicago's convention business more attractive by overhauling work rules and costs at McCormick Place.
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IL: Illinois loses 709 manufacturers in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois lost almost 52,000 industrial jobs and 709 manufacturers in the past year, making it one of the worst years for the state's manufacturing sector in the last century, according to a longtime chronicler of the industry.
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IN: Casino bill comes with $50 million pricetag
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The owner of a riverboat casino would need to pay a $50 million fee to move to a land-based location if a bill authored by state Sen. Earline Rogers of Gary wins passage.
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IN: House OKs bill putting tax caps into constitution
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northwest Indiana's delegation in the House of Representatives mostly sided with the majority Monday as their colleagues voted to make the state's property tax caps constitutional.
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IN: Cummins gets $54M to improve fuel efficiency
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Columbus engine maker Cummins Inc. will receive nearly $54 million in federal funding as part of a program designed to significantly increase fuel efficiency in heavy trucks and passenger vehicles.
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IN: Panel of state lawmakers debates net metering expansion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A panel of state lawmakers began a debate Monday on whether Indiana should expand its net metering policy to give homeowners, businesses and local governments greater financial incentives to produce their own renewable energy.
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IN: Indiana House gives big OK to tax caps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When it comes to constitutional property tax caps, all eyes are now on the November elections.
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IN: Indiana property tax measure clears hurdle in House
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state House of Representatives approved a measure Monday that all but guarantees Indiana voters will be able to decide in November if property tax caps should be added to the state's constitution.
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IN: Indiana plants land green-vehicle grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"COLUMBUS, Ind. -- President Barack Obama's green-vehicle campaign is bringing more money to Indiana, with companies in Columbus and Fort Wayne landing nearly $92 million to create more fuel-efficient trucks and trailers.
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IN: Property tax caps a shoo-in for ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Indiana's property tax caps are a virtual lock to become a permanent part of the state constitution after the Indiana House on Monday overwhelmingly approved the proposal.
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IN: Tax caps clear crucial hurdle
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Indiana House voted overwhelmingly Monday to give Hoosier voters the power to decide if property tax rate caps belong in the state constitution.
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IN: Local lawmakers push for Illiana Expressway revival
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northwest Indiana legislators are preparing to introduce legislation that would authorize developing the Illiana Expressway as a public-private partnership, clearing the way for the state to search for private investors for the long talked about highway.
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KS: Kansas governor calls for higher sales tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Kansans would pay higher sales taxes to balance the state's bleeding budget and prevent deeper cuts to schools and state services under a proposal by Gov. Mark Parkinson.
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KS: Kansas receives failing grades for lack of tobacco control policies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three Fs and a D. Ouch.
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KS: Gov. Parkinson calls for tax increase
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Remember that penny sales tax you used to pay to build the downtown arena in Wichita?
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KS: Legislative leaders agree not to work Fridays to save money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican legislative leaders from the House and Senate announced Monday that neither chamber would work Fridays for the month of January to save the state money.
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KY: Williams proposes amendment to settle a gambling debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senate President David Williams filed a bill Monday that seeks to end the debate over whether a constitutional amendment is needed to expand gambling in Kentucky.
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LA: PSC probes complaints about AT&T
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Louisiana regulators are investigating an increase in complaints about AT&T's service, a probe that could lead to fines for the phone company.
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LA: TOPS program changes rejected by higher-education panel
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Louisiana should continue to pay undergraduate tuition for students who meet certain academic standards, a blue-ribbon education panel decided Monday, rejecting an attempt to cap the popular TOPS program and shift more dollars to students in financial need.
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LA: Louisiana Department of Education cuts to hit adult education hardest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Louisiana Department of Education on Monday announced $16 million in cuts, including trims to school districts' prekindergarten programs, as well as more significant cuts to reading and math programs and adult education.
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LA: Legislators take cut in mileage allowance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Although state lawmakers are drawing higher daily meeting allowances this year, they are taking a 5-cent cut in their mileage allowance for state business, legislative officials said Monday.
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MA: Mass. to get $8m for job centers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Massachusetts will get $8 million in federal stimulus money over the next two years to expand job counseling, search, and placement services at the state's 37 one-stop Career Centers, the Patrick administration said yesterday.
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MA: Holiday sales down in Mass.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Holiday sales at local merchants dropped 2.6 percent compared with the same period in 2008, the third straight year of declines in Massachusetts, according to a survey released yesterday by the Retailers Association of Massachusetts.
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MA: Sound wind farm dispute nears climax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Whatever decision comes out of meetings hosted tomorrow by U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to negotiate a deal on the proposed Nantucket Sound wind farm is bound to leave somebody unhappy.
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MD: Politicians say Maryland is ripe for cybersecurity industry
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On Monday, Democratic members of Maryland's congressional delegation and Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) launched perhaps the most coordinated effort since their party took control of the White House to harness a stream of federal funding and a growing job sector, billing Maryland as the logical destination for thousands of new cybersecurity posts.
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MD: EPA's new rules to limit development, farm runoff into the bay
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Environmental Protection Agency is moving to enact new rules to curb pollution from development and large-scale animal farms to help restore the Chesapeake Bay, the agency's chief announced Monday.
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MD: Goddard in running for Venus, asteroid missions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With a little luck, scientists and engineers at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt will help to send a NASA spacecraft to land on an asteroid or on Venus late in this decade.
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MD: O'Malley to promote Md. as U.S. cyber security hub
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Martin O'Malley plans to promote Maryland as the "national epicenter" for cyber security innovation and to team with the state's Washington delegation to vie for billions in government spending as the global war on terrorism intensifies efforts to protect computer networks.
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MD: Balto. Co. predicts no service, job cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Baltimore County is facing a $138 million revenue shortfall this year but will implement budget-balancing adjustments without furloughs, layoffs or disruptions in services, officials said.
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ME: Maine looks to expand gambling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's all things gambling at the State House as lawmakers look to ways to raise more state revenue without raising taxes.
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ME: Social services cuts worry Bangor, Portland
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers expressed horror over proposed cuts in the state program that helps some of the most desperate Mainers on Monday as they began reviewing potential social service cuts recommended by Gov. John Baldacci's administration.
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ME: Finance Authority to scale back matching grants for college
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Finance Authority of Maine has suspended its matching grant program for NextGen college savings accounts for a year.
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ME: State warned about cuts to health care
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Doctors, home health care providers and the Maine AIDS Alliance testified Monday in opposition to proposed state budget cuts.
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ME: Mental health agencies to protest budget cut plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BANGOR, Maine — Maine's community mental health service agencies will oppose another round of budget cuts as the state scrambles to reduce spending by $438 million to keep the biennial budget in line with projected revenues.
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ME: Bangor senator challenges city council over budget comments
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BANGOR, Maine — The Senate chairman of the Legislature's Taxation Committee turned up at Monday night's City Council meeting to express frustration over a recent newspaper commentary in which the councilors took the state to task for budget cuts aimed at offsetting a projected $438 million revenue shortfall.
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MI: Economists predict $1.7 billion budget shortfall in state's fiscal 2011
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State revenue is expected to grow marginally in the next fiscal year, but not enough to overtake the loss of federal stimulus money and spending pressures that could contribute to a budget shortfall of more than $1.7 billion, based on state economists' projections Monday.
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MI: DOE gives $56.6 million to 5 Michigan companies to increase fuel economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The U.S. Department of Energy on Monday announced five Michigan companies would receive nearly $56.6 million to develop engine technologies to increase automotive fuel economy.
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MI: Ford gets state tax credits worth $188 million for battery assembly and other projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state board on Monday approved tax credits to bring battery pack assembly for Ford Motor Co.'s next-generation hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles to Michigan.
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MI: Second battery plant proposed for Holland could create 450 jobs, according to environmental report
From: feeds.stateline.org
"HOLLAND, Mich. -- A second battery plant being eyed for Holland eventually could generate 450 new jobs, according to an environmental assessment that is part of an application to the U.S. Department of Energy.
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MI: Budget forecast -- Michigan faces $1.58 billion deficit, $263 per student funding cut in 2011
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan will need another federal bailout or more tax revenue to avoid another round of steep reductions in the 2011 budget, $1.58 billion in the red given current spending and revenue levels, that Gov. Jennifer Granholm will present lawmakers next month.
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MI: Michigan needs complete constitution rewrite to fix tax, budget, other problems, former Grand Rapids mayor says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Michigan's tax system is "as dated as an Oldsmobile with tailfins and a huge eight-cylinder engine," former mayor John Logie said Monday.
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MI: Economist -- Michigan likely saw net job growth in 4Q
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state with the nation's highest unemployment rate likely began adding jobs in the last three months of 2009, a University of Michigan economist said Monday.
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MI: Casino consultant faces prison in bribery case
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DETROIT -- A casino consultant faces up to two years in prison after he admitted Monday to bribing the then-head of the Michigan Council of Carpenters to get access to the union's pension funds.
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MI: Budget outlook means no more cuts, officials say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The historic drop in revenue from Michigan's taxes during the past year finally will level off in 2011, but the state budget still faces $2 billion in red ink because federal stimulus money will dry up, state economists said today.
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MI: Tea Party protesters march outside Cobo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About two dozen Tea Party protesters were demonstrating outside the auto show at Cobo this morning. They showed up to protest the government bailout of General Motors and Chrysler.
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MI: Michigan economists predict $1.6B state budget shortfall
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Schools, colleges, local governments and human services programs likely will make it through the rest of this budget year with no more state funding cuts.
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MI: Michigan faces projected deficit of $1.6B in 2011
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan economists said Monday that the state budget is in good shape for the current year, but they foresee big deficits in the 2011 budget as revenue keeps dropping.
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MN: Pawlenty pitches federal balanced budget amendment, launches petition
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an online column for the new site The Daily Caller, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty Monday wrote about his new push for a federal balanced budget amendment.
"
MN: Arts panel looks after its own for Legacy funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than half of the organizations represented on an arts panel crafting guidelines for who will share in more than $1 billion from the Legacy Amendment sales tax have already received money -- and they hope to get more.
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MN: Wind power takes a blow around Minnesota
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ELKTON, MINN. -- Every sunny morning, shadows from the massive rotating blades swing across their breakfast table. The giant towers dominate the view from their deck. Noise from the turbines fills the silence that Dolores and Rudy Jech once enjoyed on their Minnesota farm.
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MO: Federal millions aimed at lagging area schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Millions of federal dollars are poised to aid the worst-performing schools in Missouri and Kansas — if school communities can sort through several complications.
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MO: Missouri official approves petition process to repeal earnings tax in St. Louis
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri's secretary of state has given the go-ahead to gather signatures on five petitions that could lead to repeal of the earnings tax — but only in St. Louis.
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MO: Tax-cut bills abound
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri lawmakers are proposing dozens of ways to cut taxes, dipping further into depleted state coffers that already have made setting the state's budget difficult.
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MO: Mo. AG -- Workers' comp fraud cases rose in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Missouri attorney general's office says it has nearly doubled the amount of money collected in penalties for workers' compensation violations.
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MS: Plan to control carp includes stores in Miss., La.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BATON ROUGE, La. — Officials in Louisiana hope to control an exploding Asian carp population by getting the fish out of the water and on to dinner plates.
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MT: U.S. Supreme Court ruling could nix state ban on corporate political donations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly a century ago, Montana voters, frustrated by the corporate domination of state politics, approved an initiative to ban corporate spending on candidates for state office.
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NC: Agents -- ABC board, liquor company broke N.C. law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Alcohol Law Enforcement agents said Tuesday the Mecklenburg County ABC Board and liquor company Diageo broke state laws at a holiday dinner for the board where guests sipped Dom Perignon and the company picked up the officials' $9,334 tab.
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NC: Report -- NC still gets mostly Fs on tobacco control
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Carolina no longer has all failing grades on discouraging tobacco use -- but don't attribute the change to the new ban on smoking in restaurants and bars.
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ND: AP analysis -- ND still least stressed state economy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Once again, North Dakota seems to be one of the best places to live as it has been named the least economically stressed state in the nation.
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ND: N.D. aces economic stress test
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakota is the least economically stressed state in the country, according to The Associated Press' monthly analysis of economic conditions in more than 3,100 U.S. counties.
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NH: Home sales up across state
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Hampshire saw an increase in the number of homes sold last year, the first time that number has risen in five years. But the state's median sales price continued to drop, reaching its lowest point since 2002, according to figures released by the New Hampshire Association of Realtors.
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NJ: Vote on N.J. bill allowing in-state tuition for illegal immigrants called off
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The sponsor of a bill that would have allowed illegal immigrants to pay lower in-state tuition rates at New Jersey's public colleges called off a vote on it Monday because he lacked the support needed to pass.
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NJ: Bill expanding chiropractors' scope passes both N.J. houses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Chiropractors would be legally permitted to prescribe medical tests, provide nutritional counseling, sell vitamins and supplements and call themselves "chiropractic physicians" under a bill that passed both legislative houses Monday.
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NJ: N.J. lawmakers OK measure to require large chains to provide calorie counts on menus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Large chain restaurants would have to make room for the calorie counts on their menus under a bill that won final legislative approval Monday.
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NJ: N.J. Gov.-elect Christie leaves door open on NJ Transit fare hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor-elect Chris Christie, who has railed against New Jersey's mix of high taxes, fees and tolls, Monday would not rule out raising fares on NJ Transit trains and buses as he introduced two of his transportation policymakers.
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NJ: N.J. lawmakers OK bill pushing back start date for water quality rules
From: feeds.stateline.org
"New Jersey legislators in both the Senate and Assembly overwhelmingly passed a land-use bill on Monday that federal environmental officials called "troubling," but supporters say will stimulate the economy.
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NM: Firm -- Ease governor's influence over SIC
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The New Mexico State Investment Council needs to better train its members, decrease the influence of the Governor's Office, provide more documentation, tighten ethical standards and get more engaged in the investment process.
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NM: Economic conference to be held Jan. 13
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The 2010 New Mexico Economic Outlook Conference will take place Jan. 13 from 8 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at Embassy Suites in Albuquerque.
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NM: NMSU bonds get Aa3 rating
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Moody's Investors Service has assigned a Aa3 long-term debt rating to a series of bonds for expansion work at New Mexico State University.
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NY: Bank is in talks to settle state claims over Merrill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A year after its controversial takeover of Merrill Lynch, Bank of America is discussing settling a troublesome state inquiry into the star-crossed deal and the billions of dollars in bonuses that Merrill hurriedly paid its employees.
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NY: Gov's budget plan raises spending by $2B
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Paterson disclosed yesterday that his proposed budget may hike state spending by $2 billion or more, despite New York's fiscal crisis.
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NY: Gov. David Paterson seeks cuts, new revenue in budget proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Gov. David Paterson continued Monday to prepare his 2010-11 budget proposal for release next week, the governor said it would include deep cuts and would raise state spending by less than 2 percent.
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NY: Senecas confront tobacco roadblock
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — Congress may be about to put the Seneca Nation's mail-order cigarette industry out of business.
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NY: Caution offered on pension panel
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said a proposal by Gov. David Paterson to "water down" his control of the state's $126 billion pension fund creates the risk that money could be diverted away from the needs of retirees.
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NY: Honing budget knife for next year's cutting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TROY, N.Y. -- Facing a potential $14 million revenue gap, Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen Jimino is starting work now on next year's spending plan.
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NY: Inaction could put state out of 'race'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Race to the Top has become a race against the clock in the state Legislature.
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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.
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OH: 250 jobs may come with aerospace medicine school deal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FAIRBORN, Ohio -- Six new contracts awarded to a Fairborn company and five other contractors will generate jobs for doctors, nurses, molecular biologists, laboratory technicians and other specialists over the next five years in support of the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, which is relocating to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
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OH: $1B issue awaits Ohio lawmakers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The General Assembly returns here Tuesday from their holiday break - and they're already facing a tight deadline.
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OH: American Greetings urged not to leave Ohio by Governor Ted Strickland and others
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BROOKLYN, Ohio -- Gov. Ted Strickland and other state officials visited American Greetings Corp. Chairman Morry Weiss, Chief Executive Zev Weiss and other company executives on Monday morning to urge them to stay in Northeast Ohio.
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OH: Lottery hopes Booster will help lagging Keno sales
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite objections from Republicans, the Ohio Lottery Commission got approval today from a spending oversight panel for a $900,000 contract with a Georgia-based company to add a "Booster" option to the under-performing Keno game.
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OH: Lawmaker urges action on water rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Rep. Marian Harris is encouraging residents to speak out against a proposed water and sewer rate hike that she says is unreasonable.
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OH: Sticking point for township on casino sites is tax money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A vote by Franklin Township trustees against two potential casino sites and a close decision by neighborhood leaders on the Hilltop haven't hurt the West Side area's chances in Columbus City Hall.
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OK: Senator wants state meal off the table
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Brian Crain has filed legislation to rescind a calorie-laden state meal adopted by the Legislature in 1988.
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OK: Oklahoma officials dispute analysis saying stimulus has not created jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Associated Press stirred up a controversy Monday when it released an analysis of stimulus spending on roads and bridges that concluded the spending has had no effect on local unemployment rates and has only barely helped the beleaguered construction industry.
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OK: Fed's $465M funds Oklahoma's road projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials with the state Transportation Department do not know the number of jobs created by federal stimulus dollars. They do know the $465 million the state received for infrastructure is allowing the department to do twice as much roadwork as it would in a normal year.
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OK: Treasurer to release December revenue figures
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oklahoma lawmakers are bracing for more bad financial news.
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OK: Senate Republicans to unveil agenda
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Changing Oklahoma's workers' compensation system will be among Senate Republicans' top goals when they announce their legislative agenda for 2010.
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OR: Employers running into state Work Share limits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A number of employers were able to reduce layoffs — or avoid them altogether — in the past year or two by using a low-profile state program called Work Share.
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PA: Reaction to Parkinson's tax increase proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Here is some of the reaction to Gov. Mark Parkinson's State of the State address, and his call for a temporary one-cent increase in the state sales tax and 55-cent per pack increase in cigarette tax.
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SC: S.C. scores 'F's in smoking prevention
From: feeds.stateline.org
"South Carolina ranks among the worst states in the nation in smoking prevention efforts, according to a new report, just as lawmakers return to Columbia today with raising the state's lowest-in-the-nation cigarette tax a top issue.
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SD: Gov. Rounds sets limits on state budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"South Dakota lawmakers who want to trim state spending must propose specific cuts to programs, Gov. Mike Rounds said Monday.
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SD: Lawmakers expect optimism, reflection from governor's message
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In his last state of the state address to the South Dakota Legislature, Rounds is expected to reflect on key accomplishments –- including the underground science laboratory at the former Homestake Mine –- during his first seven years in office.
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SD: Rounds to give his last State of State
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Rounds will deliver his final State of the State address today, kicking off a legislative session that is expected to be difficult because of revenue shortfalls.
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SD: Rounds holds firm on cutting budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Rounds said Monday he's skeptical about some lawmakers' calls for broader spending cuts this year.
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SD: No surprises today in State of State
From: feeds.stateline.org
"One year after unveiling a pessimistic new budget forecast at his 2009 State of the State address, Gov. Mike Rounds said his address today will have few surprises.
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TX: Farmers Insurance, state agree to cut 'excessive' rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Farmers Insurance agreed Monday to scale back a double-digit rate hike for homeowners coverage in Texas. But the company will get to keep millions of dollars it has collected the past six months, even though the state declared those premiums excessive.
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TX: Religious leaders push immigration reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A coalition of top religious leaders, including Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, on Monday urged the heads of local congregations and synagogues to help persuade their faithful to support a push for comprehensive immigration reform.
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US: Even in a recovery, some jobs won't return
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even when the U.S. labor market finally starts adding more workers than it loses, many of the unemployed will find that the types of jobs they once had simply don't exist anymore.
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UT: Utah House Demos seek feedback on issues
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Utah legislators prepare to perform surgery on the state's laws, House Democrats are looking to take Utah's pulse.
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UT: State aims to protect Utah farmland
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Utah's agricultural land is disappearing at an "alarming" rate, according to state leaders who unveiled a proposal Monday designed to protect the state's food supply.
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UT: Corroon seeks to define himself early
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even before announcing his candidacy for governor, Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon has begun to attempt to brand himself as a better alternative to lead the Beehive State than Gary Herbert.
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UT: Mostly small-dollar donors fuel efforts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Reports filed Monday with the Lieutenant Governor Monday show growing grass-roots support for two citizen-led initiatives that aim to reform how state lawmakers conduct their business.
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UT: State education office to furlough its employees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Utah Office of Education will furlough its 317 employees for three days this year in response to state budget cuts.
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UT: Politicos drum up $3.9 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A rough economy did not stop candidates for state office from raising more than $1.5 million in the past year to fuel their campaigns, according to annual reports filed Monday.
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VA: Lawmakers propose eliminating corporate income tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislators looking to strengthen the state's competitive edge when vying for new jobs are proposing to scrap the state's corporate income tax.
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WA: Activists file initiative to legalize pot in Washington
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Five activists filed a ballot initiative Monday that would legalize all adult marijuana possession, manufacturing and sales under Washington state law — one of the most sweeping efforts at changing marijuana laws around the country this year.
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WA: Shipments of Hawaiian garbage along Columbia River to Central Washington hit a snag
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A six-month old plan to send garbage from the tropics to Washington through Longview and other lower Columbia River ports has temporarily run aground.
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WA: State tax collections higher than expected
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State tax collections for the months of October and November were higher than expected by $51.8 million, the state's economic and revenue forecaster said Monday.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/story/1024943.html#ixzz0cOzg33Pe
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WA: Budget targets 20 trail systems, campgrounds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than 20 trail systems and campgrounds operated statewide by the state Department of Natural Resources would close in March under Gov. Chris Gregoire's supplemental budget.
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WA: Taxes, spending occupy first day of Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Washington's 147 state lawmakers returned to Olympia today and the Democrat-controlled House and Senate were quickly greeted by conflicting messages about taxation and spending at the Capitol.
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WA: Money may force DNR to close trails, camps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Natural Resources would close more than 20 trails, campgrounds and interpretive centers in March under Gov. Chris Gregoire's cash-strapped supplemental budget.
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WA: Wash. gov won't have full plate of tax hikes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chris Gregoire won't suggest a full roster of tax hikes to pay for the programs she wants rescued from the state's $2.6 billion budget deficit, deferring instead to the Legislature while state officials wait for word of another federal bailout.
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WI: State, Mount Horeb auctioneer debate value of competing auction services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While the state Treasurer's Office wound down its eBay auction of unclaimed baubles and coins Monday afternoon, a veteran Mount Horeb auctioneer claimed his online auction service - which did more than $5 million of business for state and municipal agencies last year - could have saved taxpayers money.
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WI: State center for specialty meat processors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Agriculture is helping Wisconsin meat processors earn higher profits.
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WI: GM may reopen some shuttered factories
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A General Motors Corp. executive's comment that shuttered factories could be reopened to meet demand was met Monday with guarded optimism in Janesville, where the company has an assembly plant on stand-by status.
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WI: Layton State Bank accepts TARP funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Layton State Bank is the latest Wisconsin bank to receive a capital infusion through the federal government's Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP.
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WI: Carp DNA found closer to the lake
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Environmental DNA samples taken in recent weeks reveal that Asian carp apparently have infested another waterway just below the shores of Lake Michigan, this time north of downtown Chicago, the Journal Sentinel has learned.
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WV: Union proposes raises for veteran teachers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"While West Virginia public employees can't expect a cost-of-living raise this year, the state chapter of the American Federation of Teachers is pushing to expand the statutory step increases to include more veteran teachers.
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WV: Lawmakers might propose limits on MIC storage
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some Kanawha County state lawmakers say they might propose limits on the storage of methyl isocyanate, a deadly chemical kept at the Bayer CropScience plant in Institute.
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WV: Welfare-to-work program not working, audit finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The study of West Virginia Works welfare benefits from 2001 to 2006 found that, at the time recipients' cases were closed, an average of only 14 percent had found employment.
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WV: Despite EPA deal, Massey water violations more frequent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Specifically, the notice alleges that, Between April 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, Massey violated its effluent limits at its various operations at least 971 times, and accrued 12,977 days of violation during that 12-month period.
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WY: Federal stimulus grant to bolster UW parking improvement progam
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LARAMIE, Wy. -- A $1.55 million Federal Transit Administration stimulus grant, distributed through the Wyoming Department of Transportation, will fund improvements to the University of Wyoming's TransPark services.
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WY: Wyoming healthcare industry looks to other funds with state cuts on the way
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CASPER, Wy. -- With drastic cuts in funding to local governments likely, the health community of Wyoming is bracing for more patients and the threat of less funding.
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WY: Gov takes protest to D.C.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Dave Freudenthal met with Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and other federal officials in Washington, D.C., on Monday afternoon to protest proposed sweeping changes to federal oil and gas leasing policies.
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WY: DEQ cites refinery for spill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality has cited Sinclair Refinery for a spill that released nearly 3 million gallons of potentially explosive fluid last spring.
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WY: State regulators warn of securities fraud
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CODY, Wy. -- Financial fraud is often exposed during economic downturns because market losses and shifts to conservative investments make it harder for con artists to maintain illusions of profitability in Ponzi schemes and other scams.
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Report: States behind on traffic safety laws
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TODAY'S TAKE: A new report shows a number of states lack even basic traffic safety laws, such as ones requiring seat belt use.
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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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increase wealth accumulation and retention.
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