AZ: Brewer budget has massive cuts, new taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jan Brewer wants to turn juvenile offenders over to counties, repeal requirements to care for the severely mentally ill, kill state funding for full-day kindergarten, eliminate free health care for more than 300,000 low-income people, sell off more state buildings, borrow more money and cut state employee pay by 5 percent to balance the budget for the remainder of this year and the next one.
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MS: Barbour -- Cut or face consequences
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Haley Barbour emphasized Monday the importance of working together, then warned House lawmakers that failure to yield additional budget-cutting authority to him would result in thousands of criminals turned "loose onto civil society."
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AK: High oil prices open funding doors for Alaska Legislature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Alaska lawmakers are going into the 2010 legislative session planning to spend more money on hometown projects, possibly cover the tuition of Alaska college students, and talk about whether to do anything about the high cost of energy in the state.
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AK: Election year likely to affect legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With billions of dollars in reserve, Alaska lawmakers returning to work this week will have more of a financial cushion than many of their colleagues in cash-strapped states.
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AL: Bill could require insurers to disclose premium differences in different regions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Coastal Alabama homeowners who suspect that insurance companies are charging them more than upstate residents for coverage unrelated to hurricanes could find out for sure under a proposal in the Legislature.
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AL: Alabama lawmakers get back to business
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers returned to Montgomery on Tuesday, and the election season session is already interesting with Democrats criticizing Gov. Bob Riley's proposed budgets, Riley pushing for ethics reform and charter schools, and an escalation in the fight over gambling.
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AL: Alabama's broadband initiative remains on course
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The governor's nearly two-year-old broadband initiative is heading into the next phase of unveiling maps and establishing teams of people throughout the state who could help make high-speed Internet access throughout Alabama a reality.
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AL: Birmingham, Fultondale leaders to meet with Gov. Bob Riley in Montgomery
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Several Birmingham area leaders plan to travel to Montgomery Tuesday afternoon for a meeting with Gov. Bob Riley to discuss development plans for the former Carraway hospital building in Norwood and a potential school pedestrian overpass in Collegeville.
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AR: Chairman seeks review of lottery policies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The chairman of the Arkansas Lottery Commission asked the commission's internal auditor in a handwritten letter marked "confidential" to review whether the lottery's human resources policies and practices are consistent with those of other state and federal agencies.
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AZ: Brewer's sweeping budget plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jan Brewer on Friday released a budget proposal that envisions an Arizona government that does less for the state's vulnerable populations, shifts costs onto local governments and cuts state-employee pay to cure the state's massive budget deficits.
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AZ: Ariz. governor's race shaping up with early contrasts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Arizona governor's race is taking shape with vastly different dynamics for the two major parties.
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AZ: Democratic leader won't rule out voting for GOP budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In all probability, Republican legislative leadership and the governor will need Democratic votes in the Senate to pass a referral to increase the state sales tax. If bipartisan talks take place, the job of negotiating the terms will fall on Jorge Luis Garcia, the Democratic minority leader from Tucson.
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AZ: No more 'feeling our way in the dark'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite the challenge of erasing budget deficits estimated at $5 billion for the next two fiscal years, House Speaker Kirk Adams said lawmakers now are more fully equipped to handle the problems.
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AZ: GOP leader hopes to persuade, not 'twist arms'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Bob Burns' first year as Senate president was trouble-ridden, to put it mildly.
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AZ: Speed-camera company behind rule change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The company that runs speed cameras on Arizona's highways is behind a petition designed to change the way violators are served with tickets so more of them get paid, The Associated Press has learned.
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CA: Monday's spinouts and power outages a taste of what's to come
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State agencies are bracing for the worst, with 20 California National Guard aircraft and swift water rescue teams on standby, with special attention to areas that have been denuded by recent wildfires and are now vulnerable to floods and landslides.
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CA: Field Poll -- Voters very downbeat on their financial situations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A majority of Californians saw their financial situations worsen over the past year, and most don't think it'll get much better over the next 12 months, according to the latest results from the Field Poll.
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CA: State ethics agency investigates 38 lawmakers over gift disclosures
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's ethics agency has notified 38 California lawmakers and 15 staffers that it is investigating whether they failed to report thousands of dollars in gifts from lobbying groups including tickets to concerts, sporting events and spas in 2008.
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CA: California limits HMO wait times
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Seeking to reduce the long waits many people endure to see a doctor, California regulators are implementing new rules that specify how quickly patients in health maintenance organizations must be seen.
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CO: Colorado scrambles for dollars with new school reform plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Colorado education officials will unveil a reform proposal today that asks for $380 million in federal Race to the Top funding, but they are missing a key plank regarding teacher evaluations that will likely give other states a leg up in the contest.
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CO: Renfroe bill would suspend governor's right in an emergency to control gun sales
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Senate bill introduced this week and sponsored by Scott Renfroe, R-Greeley, aims to suspend the governor's authority to limit citizens' access to firearms during a state of disaster emergency.
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CO: Ritter Q4 fundraising robust; no reason to withdraw from campaign
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Speculation surrounding Bill Ritter's surprise withdrawal from the governor's race last week included concerns that he was having difficulty raising cash.
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CO: Top pot advocate Corry threatens to draw up rival legislation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Gov. Bill Ritter wrapped up his State of the State address inside the capitol Thursday, Colorado's foremost pot attorney, Rob Corry, spoke to a crowd of medical marijuana patients, caregivers and advocates rallying across the street.
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CT: State has completed evaluation of revaluation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TORRINGTON, Conn. -- The state Office of Policy and Management has completed an investigation into Total Valuation Services, the Waterbury firm that won a $790,000 bid to conduct the city's property revaluation in 2008.
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CT: Lawmakers review budget's effect on crime reforms
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two top Connecticut lawmakers say they worry the state's economic crisis is hurting its efforts to crack down on repeat violent offenders.
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CT: Bernie's and Blumenthal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State GOP Chairman Chris Healy finds much to dislike in Democratic Attorney General and U.S. Senate candidate Richard Blumenthal's reaction to the bankruptcy of Bernie's, the 63-year-old Enfield-based electronics and appliance retailer.
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CT: Pratt closure case in judge's hands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The near-term employment of about 1,000 Connecticut Pratt & Whitney workers now depends on U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall.
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FL: Legoland owner buys Cypress Gardens
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WINTER HAVEN, Fla. -- The owner of Legoland has purchased Cypress Gardens, the venerable Polk County attraction that shut down last fall.
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FL: Hundreds file for Temporary Protected Status at Little Haiti church
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hundreds of undocumented Haitian immigrants crowded inside Notre Dame D'Haiti Catholic Church on Monday seeking help in filing applications for Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, a special federal immigration program that will allow them to remain legally in the United States and obtain work permits.
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GA: Ga. gov. to serve on Appalachian board
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Sonny Perdue will serve as the 2010 states' co-chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission.
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GA: Ga. job summit held in Atlanta
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials are gathering in Atlanta Monday to brainstorm on ways to pull Georgia out of the lingering recession.
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GA: Roy Barnes -- MLK wouldn't like high-living lawmakers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DuBose Porter was in the audience, but Roy Barnes was the Democratic candidate for governor with stage presence this morning at the annual Martin Luther King memorial services at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta.
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HI: 'Pirates' to film on Oahu, Kauai
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Capt. Jack Sparrow and his brood of motley pirates return to cinema action with some of the filming taking place in Hawai'i, bringing an expected $85 million into the state's economy.
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HI: State's labor, fiscal woes cut Lingle's popularity
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Labor tension and more than a year of painful budget cutting has taken a toll on Gov. Linda Lingle's popularity, according to a new poll taken for the Star-Bulletin and KITV.
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HI: Lingle not sold on elevated project
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Linda Lingle said yesterday she is worried whether Honolulu will be able to afford to pay for and operate a proposed elevated rail system and that she has heard similar views expressed by the Federal Transit Administration.
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IA: Iowa Lottery gives raffle game another try
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Iowa Lottery is giving a raffle game another try and hoping for more luck with the weather. Lottery vice president, Mary Neubauer says the first raffle game launched in the spring of 2008 — timing that turned out not to be so lucky.
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IA: Lawmakers focus on budget, streamlining efforts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After rushing to push through bills needed to qualify for up to $175 million in federal education funds in Week 1, the Iowa Legislature is likely to settle into a more familiar early session pace this week with subcommittees and committees doing the grunt work of the lawmaking process.
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IA: Lukewarm response to UIHC's new system
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new electronic record system at University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics is generating backlash from doctors, nurses and staff complaining of increased workloads -- and headaches.
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IA: ISU gets $8 million for biofuels research
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Researchers at Iowa State University have received $8 million in federal grants to develop advanced biofuels. The money is going to two teams of researchers.
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IA: Culver cuts job estimate for I-JOBS program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa Gov. Chet Culver on Friday scaled back expectations for the number of jobs his $830 million public works program enacted last year would create.
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IA: Juvenile homes, AEAs may be spared
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two significant changes to a massive Iowa government reorganization bill are already in the works. The news follows Gov. Chet Culver's call last week for lawmakers to pass a major reorganization of state government.
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ID: Otter aide -- Progress on saving Parks and Rec
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. C.L. ``Butch'' Otter's budget chief says the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation may survive, after all.
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ID: Hundreds rally for charter schools
From: feeds.stateline.org
"About 550 supporters of charter schools from around the state, including the Magic Valley, gathered in front of the Capitol on Monday in a rally for their cause.
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ID: Legislators, community colleges discuss budget future
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers and community college administrators broke bread Monday while hoping to repair budget concerns.
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ID: GOP senator challenges Gov. Butch Otter's parks plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A legislator whose district includes scenic Harriman State Park says he disagrees with Gov. Butch Otter's suggestion that Idaho close its Parks and Recreation Department.
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ID: Disparate voices speak up at Idaho's Capitol
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On the steps of the newly refurbished Capitol, two young hipsters wearing tight jeans and carrying pink signs advocating health care for all defended their cause to an older man.
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IL: Illinois Cemetery Oversight Act signed into law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Pat Quinn signed a measure into law Sunday that overhauls the way cemeteries are regulated in Illinois, a move brought about by the scandal at Burr Oak cemetery and one that officials say could ultimately shutter the troubled burial site.
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IL: Illinois' state budget woes second only to California
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois is ranked No. 2 in a report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities for its projected budget gap for fiscal 2011, just behind California, according to a Fortune magazine report.
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IL: GOP hopefuls barnstorm across suburbs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Campaign signs lined the driveway of the Schaumburg Golf Club Saturday morning as Republican candidates in the Feb. 2 primary began a daylong barnstorming tour across suburban Cook County with a breakfast at Chandler's Chophouse.
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IL: 54th House GOP candidates talk budget fixes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Candidates in the 54th District House Republican primary race focused on "disaster cleanup" for the state of Illinois, during a forum in Palatine Saturday.
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IL: Gambling issues divide GOP governor candidates
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The issue of gambling offers clear divisions among the candidates for governor.
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IL: House Dist. 59 candidates address public employee pensions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"deas on how to change public employee pensions were provided by state representative candidates at a forum Sunday afternoon in Vernon Hills.
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IL: House District 50 GOP hopefuls -- Gambling no fix for budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Looking to taxes on video blackjack or expanding casino gambling aren't good solutions to the state of Illinois' spending problems, according to three Republicans who want to be the next 50th House District representative.
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IL: Migration trends show Peoria area fares better than much of Illinois
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PEORIA, Ill. -- It's no surprise that Illinois had more people move out of the state in 2009 than in, considering Illinois has been considered an "out migration" state for several years.
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IL: Get an inside look at how Illinois legalized UFC
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It didn't take any punches or kicks or choke holds for mixed martial arts to be legalized by the Illinois Legislature and signed into law by then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich, just the usual mix of political clout and a little campaign cash, according to a portion of Blagojevich's new book, The Governor.
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IL: Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority -- Clean sweep a positive change, board chairman says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The imminent ouster of the board that runs McCormick Place was greeted with good will by the board's chairman, who said he viewed the legislature's mandate as a sign political leaders are committed to fixing Chicago's convention business.
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IL: Railroad czar praises high-speed rail plan for Midwest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Obama administration's railroad czar on Friday praised a comprehensive Midwest plan for high-speed passenger rail service during a conference in Chicago.
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IL: Dan Hynes campaigns for governor by focusing on deficit
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Dan Hynes has honed an image of a cautious fiscal officer, just the sort of person Illinoisans might trust to lead the state at a time of unprecedented economic peril.
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IL: Gov. Pat Quinn survives rocky journey from outsider to state's CEO
From: feeds.stateline.org
"For Pat Quinn's first year as governor, it was enough for him to simply not be Rod Blagojevich.
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IN: State plugged budget gap with stimulus funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"More than half of the $156.6 million that Northwest Indiana received in stimulus funding through the end of September went to schools.
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IN: Daniels' tone to be 'Thanks'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The annual State of the State address usually is an opportunity for the governor to drum up support for his plans among the public and in the General Assembly.
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IN: Indiana is running out of emergency radio codes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state agency that gives out radio identification codes is running short of IDs, a situation some emergency officials worry could make communication difficult in crisis situations.
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IN: Crucial vote today for property tax caps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Indiana Senate could give final approval today to a proposal that would allow voters to decide whether property tax limits belong in the state constitution.
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KS: Missouri Republicans to debate federal health care overhaul on House floor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri Republicans last week opened a multipronged offensive linking their opposition to federal health care legislation with criticism of state Democrats and state finances.
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KS: Kansas legislators torn between reluctance to raise taxes, need for more revenue
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A tax increase of some kind probably will face a vote in the Kansas Legislature as lawmakers struggle to erase another budget deficit without devastating education and state services.
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KS: City braces for possible state funding cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As city commissioners work on economic development projects to bring new jobs to Lawrence, there's an uneasy fact hanging over their efforts: State budget cuts could undo much of their work.
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KS: Kansas Regents considering banning tobacco sales on campuses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Stopping between classes to pick up a pack of cigarettes at the Kansas University student union could become a thing of the past.
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KS: Kansas Legislature Legislative panel to review death penalty
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislators are planning to give the Kansas death penalty statute a deeper look this week, focusing on growing concerns about the financial burden for capital punishment litigation.
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KY: Horsemen say exemption crucial for Ky.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Every year, hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of horses go through Kentucky auction rings, most without generating a penny in sales tax for the state.
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KY: Lack of Ohio River bridges funding plan may threaten area projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly six months after a bi-state panel of Kentuckiana residents was delegated the task of deciding how to pay for the massive $4.1 billion Ohio River Bridges Project, the 14-member group has yet to meet — potentially jeopardizing other building projects.
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KY: Key witness testifies in bid-rigging trial
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jim Rummage, the government's key witness in the Transportation Cabinet bid-rigging trial, told jurors Friday that he was following orders when he allegedly leaked confidential bid estimates to road contractor Leonard Lawson.
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KY: Tracks won't budge on slots bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Racetrack leaders said privately this week that they would not support a constitutional amendment to allow slots in the seven counties with racetracks even if many of their major problems with the bill were eliminated.
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LA: Wrangling over damage to Charity wraps up in D.C.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- The weeklong federal arbitration hearing on how much FEMA owes Louisiana for damage done to Charity Hospital by Hurricane Katrina ended at midday Friday.
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LA: State officials defend cuts at group homes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State officials continued Friday to defend their decision to privatize 31 state-run group homes for the developmentally disabled, as some legislators complained that the move was done with little warning or consultation.
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MA: UMass head gets raise during tough year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"University of Massachusetts president Jack Wilson got a 15 percent pay raise in the 2008-2009 academic year even as the five-campus system struggled with deep budget cuts and worker layoffs.
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MD: O'Malley's budget to focus on job creation and budget cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley will outline a spending plan Tuesday that relies heavily on shuffling money between bank accounts and cuts to almost all state programs except K-12 education to close an 18 percent budget gap, according to sources familiar with his plan.
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MD: Layoffs part of O'Malley budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Martin O'Malley's proposed fiscal 2011 budget to be unveiled this week will include layoffs and government restructuring, but how many currently filled positions will be cut remains in question.
Advertisement
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ME: Grid cash creates job clash
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Central Maine Power Co. proposal to install new automated meters that allow remote monitoring of customer electricity usage faces a public hearing Wednesday.
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MI: Economists predict modest Michigan turnaround, recommend businesses nail down long-term leases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Following another year of rising vacancies, falling rents and a continued decline in the number of deals, the commercial real estate market in West Michigan might be at a floor.
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MI: Residents pack Shelby meeting to voice opposition to offshore wind farm proposal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SHELBY, Mich. -- Citizens packed the Shelby High School auditorium Monday night to hear the developers of a proposed Lake Michigan wind farm say their plans are years away from becoming a reality.
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MI: Tourism promotion in need of new funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's popular Pure Michigan national advertising campaign will be significantly scaled back unless state lawmakers quickly find a new way to pay for the TV spots touting the state for vacations and visits.
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MI: Capital Caucus seeks common ground in '10
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Capital Caucus spent last year taking small steps as it left its thumbprint on state budget issues affecting mid-Michigan.
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MI: Movie's maker leaves big debt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan's fledgling film industry is coping with an unexpected and unpleasant problem: what to do when a movie production company leaves town and doesn't pay its bills.
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MO: Mo. legislative panels hearing autism bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri lawmakers are getting an early start on legislation that would require insurance companies to cover autism treatments for children.
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MO: Missouri Transportation Alliance is looking for ways to fund road improvements
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri is fast running out of money for new roads.
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MO: Missouri Republicans to debate federal health care overhaul on House floor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri Republicans last week opened a multipronged offensive linking their opposition to federal health care legislation with criticism of state Democrats and state finances."
MO: Missouri lawmakers ponder their free lunches
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Can a lawmaker be influenced by a piping hot panini sandwich?
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MO: A year later, Proposition A boosts casinos, but new school funding lags predictions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Missouri casinos asked voters to end the state's one-of-a-kind gambling loss limit, they wrapped their appeal in education.
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MS: Sheriffs oppose bill on ATV fees
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Local sheriffs oppose a bill in the Mississippi Legislature that would require all-terrain vehicle owners to pay a registration fee and have information listed on a public log.
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MT: FWP plans road for fishing access
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Construction could start as soon as this spring to create a new road across to the Holmgren Ranch fishing access site about five miles west of Columbus.
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MT: Montana officials want grant to help Smurfit-Stone workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FRENCHTOWN, Mont. - Montana labor officials are applying for a federal emergency grant to help businesses and workers affected by the closure of the Smurfit-Stone Container Corp. linerboard plant in Frenchtown.
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MT: Montana's governor -- Schweitzer does it his own way
From: feeds.stateline.org
"BOZEMAN, Mont. - Few governors with political aspirations would bother to debate a riled-up city commission, on their turf and in front of television cameras, over its "misuse" of federal stimulus money.
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MT: Montana park visitation up, but hotel stays and tax collections down
From: feeds.stateline.org
"KALISPELL, Mont. - Montana's state and national parks made strong showings in 2009, with record visitation in some cases - even as local innkeepers reported empty beds and nose-diving revenue.
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NC: Interstate 73 will change area greatly
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GREENSBORO, N.C. — Government officials, real estate brokers and regular folks have known for years that western Guilford County was poised for explosive growth.
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NC: Utility board back in business after hiatus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A legislative panel charged with overseeing the state's utility regulators and power companies is scheduled to meet next week for the first time since 2002.
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NC: Cement plant draws scrutiny
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An international company has plans for a major industrial development that would bring 160 jobs and millions of dollars in tax revenue to an area near the southeastern coast of North Carolina.
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ND: NDSU plans to eliminate $2.5M shortfall by end of January
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FARGO, N.D. -- A budget shortfall at North Dakota State University is now at $2.5 million, but officials say that gap should be closed by the end of January.
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ND: Statewide labor study starts up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A statewide labor study will soon begin that could provide an important tool for businesses and communities around North Dakota.
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ND: NDSU budget deficit reaches $2.5 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FARGO, N.D. -- "The first thing I ask myself almost every day is how did we get here?" North Dakota State University's interim President Dick Hanson said Monday, referring to the $2.5 million budget shortfall that he's trying to find cash to fill.
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NE: NPPD makes progress to recover $159 million it gave U.S. government
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Nebraska Public Power District and other utilities received good news last week in their attempt to recover billions of dollars given to the U.S. Department of Energy over two decades to build a permanent storage site for spent nuclear fuel and other radioactive waste.
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NE: Labor Department trims wait time for jobless callers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Nebraska Department of Labor has trimmed the wait time for people who call the state claim center by hiring more staff and freeing up more incoming phone lines.
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NE: Low temps mean high bills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Unexpectedly high heating bills can be a major crisis for financially strapped homeowners, and officials with government and private energy-assistance programs say they have seen increases in the number of people unable to pay their bills this winter.
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NE: Nebraskans -- Health fix needed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Nearly eight out of 10 Nebraskans surveyed said they were at least mostly satisfied with their own quality of care. But nearly seven out of 10 think the nation's health care system is in crisis or has major problems.
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NH: Hodes swears off earmarks
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes said yesterday he will stop requesting federal earmarks.
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NH: LLC sues state over new tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A lawsuit says New Hampshire's expansion of a 5 percent interest and dividends tax to limited liability companies is unconstitutional.
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NJ: Corzine signs bill requiring calorie counts on menus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Corzine signed a bill Sunday requiring New Jersey chain restaurants to post calorie counts on their menus and at drive-through windows.
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NJ: Newark cathedral, businesses prepare for N.J. Gov.-elect Christie inaugural
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The workers at Hobby's Delicatessen started Monday morning assembling corned beef and pastrami on rolls. By Tuesday night, there will be 600 sandwiches lined up for Gov.-elect Chris Christie's inaugural ball at the Prudential Center in Newark.
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NJ: State demands receipts from officials' AC trips in Ridgefield probe
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RIDGEFIELD, N.J. – A state agency has requested receipts for borough officials' trips to Atlantic City, invoices from lawyers and the agreements with two borough administrators as part of an ongoing probe of the borough.
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NJ: N.J.'s Corzine reflects on his public service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Corzine spent more than $130 million of his own money running for office, donated millions more to others in politics, and now leaves office believing his political investment was a wise one.
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NJ: N.J. chain restaurants are required to add calorie counts to menus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Calorie counts for every item will start appearing next year on the menu at the most popular fast-food and other chain restaurants under a bill Gov. Jon Corzine signed into law today.
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NM: Daniels Fund awards UNM, NMSU $2.5M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University will each get $1.25 million from the Daniels Fund to strengthen ethics education for business students.
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NM: Behavioral health contract to be put out to bid
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an extraordinary move, Gov. Bill Richardson on Monday directed a state agency that oversees behavioral health services to put the state's $1 billion contract out to bid.
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NM: Lawmakers prepare for tough session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Get ready, New Mexico.
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NM: Governor to keep State of the State address short
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bill Richardson delivers his eighth and final State of the State address today, shortly after the second regular session of the 49th Legislature convenes in Santa Fe.
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NV: Democratic legislative leaders raise fortune -- Unions, trial lawyers and liquor, oh my!
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Senate Majority Leader Steven Horsford and Assembly Majority Leader John Oceguera, the presumptive speaker, far outraised anyone else in the Legislature, with Oceguera taking in an astonishing $354,000 -- more than any constitutional officer.
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NV: Jon Ralston envisions a snippy special session
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Judging by the events of the past week or so, with Gov. Jim Gibbons' dramatic/radical reform proposals and the ongoing war between the branches, the upcoming special session could look like this in the Assembly:
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NV: Going after mining tax, despite the Harry Reid factor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Maybe all Nevada Democratic politics aren't about Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's re-election after all.
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NY: Gov. David Paterson to announce proposed budget today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. David Paterson will unveil a 2010-11 budget proposal today that will seek cuts in aid to schools and health care as the state grapples with a $7 billion to $8 billion deficit when the fiscal year begins April 1.
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NY: Parents rage at Albany over charter-busting bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Angry parents yesterday ripped Albany for putting the teachers union before kids, as lawmakers moved to block the expansion of charter schools -- jeopardizing New York state's bid to win $700 million in federal education funds.
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NY: Albany seeks a $40 million advance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Mayor Jerry Jennings is asking the state for a nearly $40 million advance over the next five years on money promised in lieu of taxes on Empire State Plaza -- a move Jennings said he hopes will help close a 2011 budget gap that could reach $20 million.
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NY: Jeffrey R. Fenster picked for workers' compensation board post
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ever since a law was passed more than two years ago to overhaul New York's troubled system for administering claims of hurt workers, the state's Workers' Compensation Board has vowed to introduce sweeping improvements.
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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: State's paycheck-deduction error to be corrected in 1 1/2 years
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state forgot to make payroll deductions in the first pay period of this year for health-care coverage, costing the state's health-benefit fund $19 million.
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OH: West Side gets casino nod
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Penn National Gaming Inc. wants to shift its Columbus casino plans from the voter-approved location in the Arena District to the site of a former auto-parts plant on the West Side.
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OH: Lottery, turnpike should be privatized, senator says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio should privatize the Ohio Lottery and the Ohio Turnpike and apply the proceeds toward scholarships totaling $7,000 per eligible student, a state senator proposed last week.
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OH: Lottery gets $900,000 for bet on Keno 'Booster'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite objections from Republicans, the Ohio Lottery Commission got approval from a spending oversight panel last week for a $900,000 contract with a Georgia-based company to add a "Booster" option to the underperforming Keno game.
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OH: Plan would share ER info to save time, money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When you arrive at a hospital emergency room, doctors want to know the medications you take and whether you are allergic to anything; they want to see the MRI you just had at another hospital.
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OH: Court tells Beulah Park to unplug slots-like machines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The court's ruling was in line with an agreement between Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O'Brien and Beulah Park, which shut down the 30 Sweepstakes terminals after O'Brien concluded that they violated Ohio's anti-gambling law.
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OH: Tax receipts dip but still match estimates for year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State tax receipts in December were lower than estimates, but total collections still are on target for the first half of the 2010 fiscal year, preliminary numbers released last week show.
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OH: DuPont growth to create 80 jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A plasticlike film called Tedlar that is used in solar panels will mean jobs for central Ohio.
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OK: Ten Commandments monument to go up in Poteau
From: feeds.stateline.org
"POTEAU, Okla. — A Ten Commandments monument that was planned for the lawn of the LeFlore County Courthouse will be placed outside a bank on a busy city street in Poteau.
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OK: No miracle set to boost low sales tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Diane Pedicord, general counsel for the Oklahoma Municipal League, said there is no pending legislation before the Legislature that would provide alternate funding mechanisms for cash-strapped cities.
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OK: Oklahoma lawmakers face tough budget, adviser says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oklahoma is facing its stiffest budget challenge in modern history, but legislators need to avoid panicking and making permanent cuts that could adversely affect the state's future, the governor's top budget adviser says.
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OK: Bad time to limit taxes, speaker says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Speaker Chris Benge said now is not the time to further limit increases in property valuations.
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OR: Measures 66 and 67 pit business against labor
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Millions of dollars have been raised by public-employee unions and business groups, chiefly for 30-second broadcast ads and direct-mail pieces to persuade Oregon voters one way or the other on the budget-balancing tax increases at stake on Jan. 26.
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OR: Economy on Oregon voters' minds as they decide tax measures
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lathen Gorbett is a senior at Portland State University who pays his bills working as a waiter at a downtown Portland hotel. Free time is a luxury but Gorbett so strongly supports the tax measures on Oregon's Jan. 26 ballot that he spent Wednesday evening on the phone reminding people to vote.
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OR: Oregon hospital costs hit $7.5 billion a year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon hospitals are bracing for a tough year after investment losses, increases in charity care and expansion debts have pushed their costs to an average $2,800 per patient per day.
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OR: Oregon held to account for failing to protect coastal waterways
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon doesn't do enough to protect its coastal waterways from the harmful effects of logging, and that could end up costing the state millions in withheld federal dollars.
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OR: Anti-tax advocates quietly roll out new statewide strategy
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon's leading anti-tax activists are quietly rolling out a new strategy to limit government by partnering with frustrated small-town residents across the state.
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PA: Pa. bids for shale-gas land lower than elsewhere
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On the same day last week that Pennsylvania received bids averaging more than $4,000 an acre to lease state forests for natural-gas drilling, the city council in Fort Worth, Texas, approved two gas leases on municipal land. Fort Worth got $5,233 an acre -- 30 percent more than the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources did.
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PA: Casinos must wait as board learns the games
From: feeds.stateline.org
"So you know that a full house beats two pairs in poker and that jacks and aces add up to 21, a winner in blackjack.
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PA: Fight against state tax on gas extraction gets expensive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In the last two years, energy companies with a stake in Pennsylvania's Marcellus shale have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars lobbying and making campaign contributions to legislators, congressmen and the governor, partly in hopes of postponing a tax on the extraction of natural gas.
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PA: Pa. looking for more ways to pay for wildlife services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some people look out the window and see a natural world that could take care of itself if we would just leave it alone.
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PA: Tax incentives fail state budget, study finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A new study by the Tax Foundation blasting financial incentives that 44 states offer to the movie industry also takes specific aim at Pennsylvania for suggesting its tax credits produce a $4.5 million gain for the state coffers.
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PA: Pennsylvania's new code of conduct reins in political donors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Candidates for political office will have fewer professionals to tap for campaign cash if the Securities and Exchange Commission adopts a controversial pay-to-play rule.
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PA: Gas drilling on state land shapes up as hot debate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Whatever happens in Gov. Ed Rendell's final year in office, developing a state policy on the rapidly growing natural gas drilling industry is shaping up to be a major focus.
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PA: Pennsylvania's wildlife management agencies seek more funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The agencies that manage Pennsylvania's wildlife resources are struggling to maintain services even as their responsibilities expand, and one of them is considering raising fees.
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PA: Gubernatorial candidates pledge funds for education
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Six candidates for governor on Saturday pledged substantial funding for public schools, but offered few specifics of how to pay for it in tough economic times.
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RI: Emerging biotech industry says R.I. lacks job skills
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Faced with a lack of qualified workers, leaders in Rhode Island's emerging biotechnology industry say the most effective way to close the skills gap is by improving education programs.
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RI: R.I. unemployment trust fund in dire straits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rhode Island employers saved more than $500 million in the state unemployment tax over the last decade or so. Those savings, the result of a change in state law, also left Rhode Island's unemployment trust fund vulnerable to a downturn.
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SC: Tax review panel can't touch controversial law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Members of a special commission created by state lawmakers last year to review tax policy were given the authority to recommend any change except one: the property tax relief given to homeowners in 2006 through the controversial Act 388.
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SD: Road money in limbo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Highway funding in South Dakota faces a large shortfall and an uncertain future after the expiration of a federal transportation bill last fall, the secretary of the Department of Transportation told lawmakers last week.
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SD: Dems plan to reduce expenses, FTEs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic leaders in the Legislature plan to pursue significant reforms addressing the budget and state hiring this session.
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SD: GOP calls for cuts to SD budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Legislative Republicans broke with Gov. Mike Rounds Friday and called for significant budget cuts this year to eliminate the state's $32 million structural deficit.
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TN: State's high court rules on marital property
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Supreme Court is using the case of a prominent East Tennessee lawyer to sound this warning: Filing for divorce does not tear asunder the marital paycheck or debt load.
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TN: Lawmakers want research deals for Memphis similar to those of UT
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Memphis may get more encouragement to team up with outside institutions under a compromise proposal being developed to win lawmakers over to Gov. Phil Bredesen's higher education reforms.
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TX: Openly hostile
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission Chair Jose Cuevas made headlines last year by soliciting donations from restaurateurs under his agency's jurisdiction. Under Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison's newly released transparency plan, that would have been illegal.
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TX: Riding into sunset
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Larry Soward regards Gov. Rick Perry as "a dear friend," served as deputy commissioner when Perry headed the Texas Department of Agriculture, and was appointed by Perry to the three-member Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
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TX: Economist says Texas will be 1st state to recover
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DALLAS — Texas will be "last in, first out" among states battling the recession, although a recovery that has already started will require patience, a leading economist says.
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TX: Hutchison proposes new regulations for lobbyists
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DALLAS — U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison on Monday proposed new regulations for lobbyists, curbs on some political contributions and constitutional reforms to limit a governor's power of veto.
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UT: Donor gives the U. $30 million for a dental school
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The University of Utah has received a $30 million gift to build the state's first school of dentistry, but officials are hesitant to try to build a program without a financial commitment from the state.
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UT: Tuition hike or program cuts? Utahns are divided
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Given the choice of raising college tuition or cutting programs to make up for budget shortfalls, Utahns slightly favor placing an increased burden on students.
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VA: Summary of the Virginia state of the commonwealth speech (Gov. Tim Kaine)
From: feeds.stateline.org
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Outgoing Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine (D) offered a mixed assessment of his four years, saying the state has largely endured the recession but still faces huge challenges in transportation and higher education.
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VA: Gov. offers vision for new prosperity in Virginia
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Bob McDonnell sketched out a road map for Virginia's path back to economic vitality in an address Monday night to the General Assembly, but he offered few details on how he'll carve billions of dollars out of the state budget.
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VA: Bills would alter laws on marijuana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gloucester Republican Del. Harvey Morgan thinks some of Virginia's marijuana laws should go up in smoke.
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VA: Va. governor outlines bold economic plan, is vague on funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND, Va. -- Virginia's new governor, Robert F. McDonnell, outlined a series of ambitious and costly proposals Monday night to create jobs and spur economic development, including adding tens of millions to programs that lure businesses to the state, making new investments in the tourism, wine and film industries, and reviving the economically distressed region of Southside.
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VA: Va. Democrats successfully press McDonnell to drop nominee
From: feeds.stateline.org
"RICHMOND, Va. -- Hours after he was sworn in as Virginia's governor, Republican Robert F. McDonnell suffered his first defeat at the hands of the Democratic-controlled state Senate when he quietly dropped his nomination of a Cabinet secretary whose confirmation legislators threatened to block.
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VT: Gov. Douglas to deliver his last budget address today
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In spite of a large looming hole in the state's next budget – or maybe because of it – the themes in Governor James Douglas' final budget address today may not be that much of a surprise.
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VT: Watch live -- Jim Douglas' Vermont budget speech
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jim Douglas announces his 2011 budget today, and he's already warning shortfalls may make the news hard to take.
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VT: Vermont nonprofits count on next generation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"They're slackers. No, they're achievers. They're self-entitled and self-indulgent. No, they're driven and community-minded.
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VT: Vermont business alliance pushes for a clean Lake Champlain
From: feeds.stateline.org
"COLCHESTER, Vt. -- Five business groups announced creation Monday of the Business Alliance for a Clean Lake, saying excellent water quality in Lake Champlain is critical to Vermont's economic health.
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WA: Monthly layoffs bill in the works
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Monthly layoffs bill in the works Senate Democrats proposed a bill Friday to shut down many state agency offices one day each month to save money on salaries, following the lead of other states that have taken similar steps, and Gov. Chris Gregoire said she's interested in the idea.
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WA: Legislation aims to guard property rights
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Attorney General Rob McKenna and a group of Washington lawmakers want to tighten the state's eminent domain laws to prevent private property from being taken for economic development.
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WA: State Library faces cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A big round of spending cuts is coming to the Washington State Library, and agency leaders said it means 31 lost jobs and elimination of work to preserve many of the state's oldest historic documents.
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WI: State's yacht builders see smoother sailing ahead
From: feeds.stateline.org
"There's a glimmer of hope for Wisconsin's yacht building industry, which has lost hundreds of jobs in the recession.
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WI: 'Tea party' crowd wants government's role limited
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FRANKSVILLE, Wisc. -- Elizabeth Henderson has a concise prescription for what ails the nation's health care system: Limit the federal government's role.
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WV: Black lung amendment called 'a job killer'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Changes in the federal black lung benefits program that Sen. Robert Byrd inserted in the Senate version of the health-care bill would cost insurance companies, coal companies and the state's old workers' compensation fund hundreds of millions of dollars, experts say.
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WV: PSC chairman not sure power companies to blame for outages
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The chairman of the state Public Service Commission told legislators Monday he's not convinced the negligence of local power companies led to massive power outages during last month's snowstorm.
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WV: Lawmakers to meet with DHHR on disputed Medicaid figures
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State lawmakers plan to meet today with Department and Health and Human Resources officials, after the DHHR allegedly miscalculated the number of West Virginians who might be covered by Medicaid under health-care reform, greatly inflating the cost figures.
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WY: Stimulus could have greater impact in 2010
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Though it's almost impossible to gauge the effect of $150 million of federal stimulus money Wyoming received in 2009 for transportation projects, economists say the aid likely had less of an impact than in other states.
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WY: Homeowners snap up grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Big developers aren't the only ones pursuing Wyoming's renewable energy resources.
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WY: Block wind development?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A landowners group continues its push for a moratorium on large industrial development "in the mountains" in an effort to block wind energy development in the northern Laramie Range.
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Health care reform's costs rankle states
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Democrats in Congress work feverishly to meld separate House and Senate health care bills into a single blueprint for a historic overhaul of America’s health care system, state leaders are bracing against the potential costs to states that they say could devastate already battered budgets.
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Weekly wrap: States could hand off liquor stores
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Three states weigh privatizing liquor sales; Lawmakers take aim at shorter, fewer sessions.
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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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