Weekly wrap: Govs seek to prop up budget reserve funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Depleted rainy day funds prompt review; Toyota’s temporary sales suspension could impact state revenue; Ohio loses an iconic employer; and new studies released on recession, state stimulus web sites.
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FL: Florida bankers move to dramatically speed up the foreclosure process
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If bankers get their way, Floridians facing foreclosure could be kicked out of their homes in as little as three months. The Florida Bankers Association, the 400-member-strong lenders' lobby, has presented state legislators with a bill to upend decades of Florida law and establish "non-judicial" foreclosures in Florida by July 1.
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AK: 500-mile road to Nome could cost $2.7 billion
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An engineering study found that a 500-mile road to Nome championed by Gov. Sean Parnell could cost as much as $2.7 billion.
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AK: Accounting firm loses public employee data
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A major accounting firm has agreed to provide credit protection for more than 77,000 current and former public employees whose personal information it lost, Alaska Attorney General Dan Sullivan said Thursday.
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AK: Exotic animal fans lobby Game Board
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Somewhere in Anchorage is Earl the cat: Outlaw.
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AL: Alabama gets federal funding for rail study
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Montgomery officials believe it makes sense for passenger trains to return here, and the federal government is investing $200,000 to help them find out.
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AR: Ark. lawmakers delay vote on lottery scholarships
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Lawmakers say they need more time before they recommend the amounts for scholarships that will be funded by Arkansas' lottery.
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AR: Lawmakers -- Lottery should be required to withhold taxes from prizes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The legislative committee that oversees the state lottery voted today to recommend lottery officials be required to deduct state income taxes before awarding any prize of $5,000 or more.
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AZ: Stadium project OK'd by Regents
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The most expensive construction project in Arizona Wildcats athletic department history was approved Thursday by the Arizona Board of Regents.
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AZ: Ariz. fails to get high-speed rail money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Obama administration's $8 billion high-speed rail plan includes nothing for Arizona or other Western mountain states.
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AZ: Bill advances that would OK using tires to fill mines
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Jerry Tyra plants metal fence posts with warning signs - "STAY OUT! STAY ALIVE!" - but that's about all the abandoned-mine specialist for Arizona can do about this hazard for now.
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AZ: State won't help fund low-cost degree program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state will not contribute any money to help Arizona's university system provide lower-priced bachelor's degrees
to students.
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AZ: House OKs bill to spur job creation
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hoping to boost the state's economic recovery by spurring job creation, House Republicans on Thursday rushed through legislation that cuts taxes and creates other incentives to attract employers.
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AZ: Arizona transfers migrant inmates to ICE custody
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An order from Gov. Jan Brewer will tally more than $200,000 in savings after the Department of Corrections on Thursday turned over to federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials 51 illegal immigrants housed in Arizona prisons.
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AZ: Tax cut bill zips through House, heads to Senate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The House of Representatives has approved a bill to stimulate economic development by cutting taxes and creating new incentives for businesses, despite complaints from critics that the measure was rushed through before it could be understood completely.
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AZ: Opposition mounts over Glendale casino
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Opposition continues to grow to plans by the Tohono O'odham Nation to build a casino on the edge of Glendale.
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AZ: State House approves tax cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Without a single Democrat in support, the state House on Thursday approved a package of tax cuts that its proponents say will stimulate the economy.
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AZ: Apache Jct. might try to annex Lost Dutchman
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Apache Junction and state officials are considering annexing Lost Dutchman State Park into the city to save it - and the economic benefit it brings.
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AZ: House committee OKs homemade guns, ammo
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House panel voted Thursday to let Arizonans make their own guns and bullets - and offer them for sale - without having to comply with federal regulations.
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CA: Goal is money shift, no tax hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tempers are short, coffers low and a partisan skirmish Thursday on the Assembly floor made the target clear: Take money from some to help others while avoiding the dreaded two-thirds vote requirement.
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CA: Stimulus money seeds big rail plans in California
From: feeds.stateline.org
"California will receive a $2.34 billion slice of the $8 billion of federal stimulus funds earmarked for high-speed rail projects, more than any other state. But that is only a sliver of the $42 billion it will need to build an 800-mile line to carry the nation's first 220-m.p.h. trains.
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CA: Rains notwithstanding, state drought isn't over
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The question now gurgles up from every storm drain and creek in California: Is the drought over?
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CA: Stimulus money will spur construction on California high-speed rail project, officials say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The $2.25 billion in federal stimulus funds awarded this week to the California high-speed rail project ensures that construction can proceed on a 520-mile route between Anaheim and San Francisco within three years, rail officials said Thursday.
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CA: Teachers pension fund is $43 billion short
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Another pension alarm bell is ringing in Sacramento, this time at the teachers retirement system, where the nation's second-largest public pension fund is reporting a $43-billion shortfall.
"
CO: As Romer bill advances, detractors warn of remaining rights infringements
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Denver Senator Chris Romer's revamped medical marijuana bill has won advocates in the legislature and among people in the industry looking for clear rules that they can depend on as they build their businesses.
"
CO: GOP Senate candidate Norton goes on the record -- 'I've not been a lobbyist'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In an interview with a Colorado Springs radio talk show host Tuesday, Former lieutenant governor and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate Jane Norton said she has never worked as a lobbyist.
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CO: Colo. legislature plunges into bruising budget fight
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Just two weeks after the legislature opened with pledges of bipartisanship, the goodwill already has given way to the kind of partisan strife typically reserved for the end of a four-month session.
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CT: 'Oz' Griebel announces candidacy for Republican gubernatorial nomination
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Republican R. Nelson "Oz" Griebel Thursday announced his candidacy for governor, promising to put everything on the table in order to fix the state's fiscal problems, including looking at state workers' pensions and a possible need for highway tolls.
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CT: Legislators share ideas at Chamber breakfast
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WATERBURY, Conn. -- State Rep. Arthur J. O'Neill, R-Southbury, has an idea for bosses: Consider having a "Take Your Employees to Testify Day" this year.
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CT: Fedele visits area factories
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WINSTED, Conn. -- Lt. Gov. Michael Fedele, who wants the state's top job, came to the Northwest Corner on government business Thursday, though that didn't seem to do any harm to his campaign either.
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CT: State unions to meet with Rell administration
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Leaders of the state employee unions in Connecticut have met representatives of Gov. M. Jodi Rell's administration to discuss ways to address the state's $500 million budget deficit.
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CT: Rail link to western Mass. gets $40M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A proposal to revive commuter rail service between coastal Connecticut and western Massachusetts is getting a $40 million boost, a cash infusion seen by some as a likely turning point in the long-stalled project.
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CT: CBT reports profit for 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Connecticut Bank and Trust Co. — a community bank opened in 2004 with a name resurrected from the history books — marked a major milestone last year in spite of the recession. It made money.
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CT: Turnaround? Median home sale prices in Connecticut on the rise
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state's housing market may bounce along at the bottom for months, but at least it might finally be there.
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CT: Putting a positive spin on state's $40 million high-speed rail grant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Even though the Northeast came out as the big loser in the competition for $8 billion in federal high-speed train grants Thursday, state officials said they are satisfied that Connecticut fared reasonably well.
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CT: Nursing homes sue state over Medicaid funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Cash-strapped nursing homes are suing Gov. M. Jodi Rell in federal court in pursuit of more Medicaid dollars, a dramatic step that seeks to significantly change the way the homes are funded.
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CT: To fill a primary need -- Quinnipiac proposes $75 million medical school in North Haven
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With colleges and universities across the country trimming budgets and programs, Quinnipiac University defied the trend Thursday with its bullish announcement of plans to establish and build a $75 million medical school that will admit students within three or four years.
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DE: No new taxes in Markell budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jack Markell unveiled a budget Thursday that included no tax increases, a litany of cuts to state agencies and no restoration of the 2.5 percent pay cut state employees absorbed last year.
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DE: Table games signed into law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Jack Markell signed legislation legalizing table games into law Thursday, setting up an implementation process that should have patrons playing with real cards and dice in as little as four months.
"
FL: Crist -- Economy rebounding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite unemployment nearing 12 percent, Gov. Charlie Crist said Thursday Florida's economy is starting to rebound and needs some incentive funding for space and the film industries.
"
FL: Behind closed doors, sex trade thrives
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rick Rose was suspicious of the constant flow of cars visiting a small frame house next to his well-appointed bed and breakfast in one of West Palm Beach's trendiest urban neighborhoods. ``We thought it was drug-dealing,'' he said. So he called police.
"
FL: Obama addresses raucous Tampa crowd
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TAMPA, Fla. -- Amid declining poll numbers and political fortunes, President Barack Obama on Thursday tried to reconnect with the fickle state that helped put him in the White House and urged voters to keep the faith despite Florida's withering recession.
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FL: State Farm to begin shedding thousands
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Starting Monday, homeowners who hold State Farm Insurance of Florida policies will begin receiving letters from the insurer saying their policies won't be renewed.
"
FL: Crist's university funding plan met with skepticism
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TAMPA, Fla. -- Gov. Charlie Crist on Thursday called for legislators to turbocharge Florida's ability to create high-paying jobs by adding $100 million to the university system's budget. Good idea, said legislators, but where's the money?
"
FL: Rail gets `down payment'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Florida asked the Obama administration last year for money to build a high-speed rail line, it requested $2.5 billion for a Tampa-Orlando stretch and $30 million to advance the Orlando-Miami leg.
"
FL: Crist presenting final Fla. budget recommendations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Charlie Crist has toured the state releasing bits and pieces of his annual budget recommendations over the past week. Crist now will unveil the complete package, including a bottom line, on Friday in Tallahassee.
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FL: A new cure for healthcare
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With healthcare problems continuing to mount in South Florida, regional leaders say the most they can hope for out of Washington is some kind of limited change.
"
GA: Lawmakers hope incentives help businesses, unemployed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House and Senate leaders are renewing a push to give businesses tax incentives to hire and retain out-of-work Georgians.
"
GA: North Carolina invests, wins rail money; Georgia doesn't
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Carolina has spent more than $300 million since 1992 to bolster its passenger rail service. On Thursday, it saw a return on that investment: a $545 million slice of President Barack Obama's $8 billion high-speed rail stimulus.
"
GA: Bill offers tax relief for small businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An eight-step plan for job and business growth in Georgia will return millions of dollars to small businesses, state Rep. Tom Graves said Thursday.
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GA: 4COL, new TXT MSG fine is OTT :(
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Last year, Tennessee legislators passed a law that makes text messaging illegal for all drivers, including truckers. Georgia legislators are considering similar legislation.
"
GA: Senate passes bill to allow use of hands-free devices while driving
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On the eighth legislative day, the Georgia Senate heard their first bill on the floor. And it breezed through.
"
HI: Chance 'em
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Some lawmakers are betting that Hawaii residents heading to Las Vegas or other gambling meccas might be willing to pay $10 now to avoid paying state taxes if they win big later.
"
HI: Governor, mayor at odds over financing for rail
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The city's plans for rail transit are based on financial assumptions that are too shaky to proceed without more study, says Gov. Linda Lingle.
"
IA: Culver to Sioux City -- 'Hang in there'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SIOUX CITY, Iowa -- Maria Diaz of Sioux City has worked for 20 years at the John Morrell & Co. meatpacking plant.
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IA: Culver -- Talk of buying plant premature
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SIOUX CITY, Iowa -- State lawmakers said Thursday the state should consider buying the John Morrell meatpacking plant after it closes in April. But Iowa Gov. Chet Culver and local economic development officials say it is too early to back such a plan.
"
IA: MHI in Clarinda now targeted for closure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A leading Senate Democrat say lawmakers may vote to close the state's Mental Health Institute in Clarinda instead of the one in Mount Pleasant.
"
IA: Review seeks changes in Iowa training program
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An internal review obtained by The Associated Press is calling for changes to Iowa's system of training new workers after finding the program is the most expensive in the nation.
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IA: Proposal nixes federal income tax payment deduction in Iowa
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Democratic plan to end federal deductibility in an attempt to drive down income taxes for most Iowans is back on the table.
"
IA: Iowa legislature ponders shield against insurance price jumps
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa lawmakers are looking at ways to protect families from unreasonable increases in insurance costs when they face extraordinary life events — such as a job loss, family death, identity theft or military service.
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IA: Iowa lawmakers work on corporate election spending law
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal, D-Council Bluffs, said he expects Iowa lawmakers will pass legislation dealing with corporate spending on elections this session that Gov. Chet Culver will sign into law.
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IA: Pair of Iowa senators push to legalize sports betting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowa gamblers would be able to legally wager on sporting events if Congress and the Iowa Legislature play ball.
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IA: Governor meets with Electrolux workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver and economic development officials have been meeting with Electrolux workers and others impacted by the closing of the company's plant in Webster City.
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IA: Lawmakers, governor have far to go on Iowa budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Lawmakers from both political parties said Thursday there will be some huge gaps to fill to reconcile their fiscal 2011 budget with Gov. Chet Culver' blueprint.
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IA: No future state help for flood plains, lawmaker proposes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowans who redevelop or build in a 500-year flood plain would be prohibited from obtaining state assistance under a contentious bill discussed this morning at the Capitol.
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IA: Govt. officials consider buying Sioux City meat plant
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State and local officials have held early discussions about buying a Sioux City meatpacking plant that is scheduled to close this spring.
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IA: Review -- Job training costs excessive
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Iowans are failing to "get their money's worth" from a state training program that an internal review shows is the most expensive in the nation, a state lawmaker said Thursday.
"
IA: Iowa train supporters will move forward with push for expanded service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Plans to eventually restore passenger train service between Des Moines and Chicago suffered a setback Thursday when President Barack Obama's administration rejected most of Iowa's bid for federal railroad money.
"
IA: Ex-Truro clerk got improper pay, audit finds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A special state audit issued Thursday determined that a former city clerk in the Madison County city of Truro received improper city payments that included $64,496 in pay and $3,058 in reimbursements between 2003 and 2009.
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IA: Film credit rescue plan offered
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Supporters of Iowa's film industry on Thursday rolled out an ambitious plan for salvaging state tax credits for moviemaking, a day after an Ames lawmaker introduced another piece of legislation aimed at killing the incentive program that brought embarrassment and liability to the state.
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IA: We'll pay $70 million if Iowa scraps greyhound racing, Harrah's says
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Harrah's Entertainment, the world's biggest casino chain, is pressuring Iowa lawmakers to end live greyhound racing and is willing to pay the state millions to see it happen.
"
IA: Report questions Culver budget assumptions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver's proposed state budget inaccurately assumes that $341 million in savings - money critical to balancing his budget for fiscal 2011 - would all benefit the state's general fund, a nonpartisan report released Thursday shows.
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IA: Propane users left out in cold
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hundreds of Iowans are being denied service from propane companies because of a loophole in state law - and the situation is life-threatening, state officials told lawmakers Thursday.
"
IA: State patrol funding plan could affect local services
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Chet Culver's plan to fund the Iowa State Patrol with road-use tax revenue could affect road and street services or leave firefighter or police officer positions unfilled, Quad-City administrators say.
"
ID: Idaho Legislature considers limiting sessions
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An Idaho legislator wants colleagues in Boise to finish their business and go home.
"
ID: Idaho Power files plan to meet future power demand
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Idaho Power Co. has filed a plan with the state's energy regulator detailing how it will meet growing customer demand over the next 20 years.
"
ID: ID House panel clears bill to block health reform
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hours after President Barack Obama renewed his call for Congress to overhaul health care in his State of the Union speech, a state House committee passed a bill meant to scuttle that effort in Idaho if it requires residents to buy health insurance.
"
ID: Luna sketches out cuts to public education
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Public schools chief Tom Luna told lawmakers Thursday he wants to siphon more than $52 million from state endowment fund reserves to soften a financial blow to Idaho's K-12 education budget next year.
"
ID: Livestock waste rule clears Senate committee
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A rule proposal that would regulate how close third-party livestock waste can be piled near neighbors passed the House Agricultural Affairs Committee on Thursday.
"
IL: If Quinn loses, Illinois gets lame duck for a year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If Gov. Pat Quinn loses the Democratic primary on Tuesday, it will be more than just a stinging political defeat for him. Illinois would be stuck with a lame duck governor for a year as the state grapples with its worst budget crisis ever.
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IL: Q-C rail project rejection likely means local costs will go up
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The cheapest federal money for a Chicago-to-Quad-Cities rail connection left the station Thursday, and none of it arrived here.
"
IL: Illinois on track for faster trains, new stations
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois' share of an $8 billion national expansion of high-speed train service will mean new or upgraded stations in a number of central Illinois communities, as well as new locomotives, coaches and tracks.
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IL: Funds OK'd for Galesburg overpass
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GALESBURG, Ill. -- The state has put a $14 million funding agreement in place to allow the city to begin work on the West Main Street railroad overpass this year, easing fears that the project could be delayed.
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IL: Local officials hope high-speed rail grant is just first installment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Officials in Springfield scrambled Thursday to figure out what the $1 billion-plus Illinois will receive for high-speed rail will mean to the capital city.
"
IL: Eight candidates for governor seeking unenviable job
From: feeds.stateline.org
"It's fair to wonder why anyone would want to be the next governor of Illinois. Unemployment is soaring, and tax receipts are tanking.
"
IL: GOP candidates debate death penalty stances
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When it comes to creating jobs, ending government corruption and opposing abortion, each of the five candidates seeking the Republican nod in the Feb. 2 primary for the 41st House District march in step.
"
IL: Illinois a big winner under Obama's high-speed rail plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A faster train trip from Chicago to St. Louis through Springfield may not mean that much unless you're a Cardinals fan or state lawmaker - but supporters of high speed rail say an influx of federal funding also means jobs.
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IL: Foe pounds Giannoulias on controversial loans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"s state Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias' family bank, Broadway Bank, just another community bank suffering in a recession as Giannoulias says? David Hoffman, a rival for U.S. Senate, says "No."
"
IL: Attorney general backs bill protecting consumers in debt
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is backing legislation to ban debt-settlement companies from charging upfront or monthly fees and that caps payments to firms promising to reduce credit card debt.
"
IL: Quinn to join other governors at White House 'carp summit'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Gov. Pat Quinn will join the governors of Michigan and Wisconsin at the White House Feb. 8 for what's being called the "carp summit."
"
IL: Chicago business leaders launch 'Illinoisisbroke.com' to highlight state money woes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Chicago business leaders are launching a media blitz Friday to highlight the breadth of the state's dire budget problems under the theme "Illinois Is Broke."
"
IL: Giannoulias defends family bank
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Alexi Giannoulias tried to dampen criticism Thursday of what role he may have played in causing problems at the family bank where he worked before being elected state treasurer.
"
IL: Illinois Tollway fines contractor after $300K in unapproved costs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Illinois toll authority has fined a contractor and a consultant for failing to get permission before performing work that resulted in a $300,000 cost overrun.
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IN: lliana bill not likely to go far
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A public/private partnership to build the Illiana Expressway won overwhelming support Thursday in the state Senate, but that vote belied a storm of political gamesmanship in the House that brings serious doubt to its chances.
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IN: Region nets $71.4M for rail projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Northwest Indiana will receive nearly $71.4 million in stimulus funding to relieve congestion on a railroad stretch between Porter and the Indiana/Illinois state line.
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IN: No high-speed rail funds for northern Indiana
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The federal government is doling out more than $8 billion for states to develop high-speed passenger rail, but none of that money is on the way to northern Indiana.
"
IN: Feds nix Indiana's $2.8B rail request
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Indiana's bid for $2.8 billion to build a Chicago-to-Cleveland high-speed rail route including a major station stop at the Gary airport has failed to win federal stimulus funds.
"
IN: State child services agency cutting 80-85 jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- Indiana's child services agency will cut about 80 jobs as it consolidates financial functions in Indianapolis.
"
KS: Documents disclose federal audit of Kansas GOP
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Federal officials have audited the Kansas Republican Party over record-keeping problems, and the state GOP once fell behind on its rent, internal memos show.
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KS: Kansas GOP criticizes Parkinson over taxes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Citing a new poll, the Kansas Republican Party on Thursday criticized Gov. Mark Parkinson, a Democrat, for proposing a tax increase.
"
KS: Novelty cigarette lighters targeted by bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"When Nancy Niles Lusk of Overland Park showed her teenage sons a "handgun" lighter, they said, "wickedly awesome."
"
KS: KCC's Moffet resigns
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michael Moffet has resigned as a commissioner on the Kansas Corporation Commission, which regulates utilities.
"
KS: Audit says state could save millions by consolidating judicial districts; local judge critical
From: feeds.stateline.org
"An audit estimates the state could save nearly $6.2 million if it consolidated its 31 judicial districts to 13 districts, a move that would lump Douglas County in with six other counties to the south.
"
KY: Governor Steve Beshear, Kentucky lawmakers spar over Northpoint Center riot report
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The controversy over the state's investigation of last year's riot at the Northpoint Training Center intensified Thursday when Gov. Steve Beshear chided lawmakers for "their continuing fixation with the menus for convicted criminals.''
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KY: Luallen will audit company that provides prison food
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State Auditor Crit Luallen said Thursday she would do an audit of the private company that has a nearly $12 million annual contract to serve food at the state's 13 prisons.
"
LA: 4 panels fail to find road funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite months of meetings, four key legislative committees have failed to come up with a plan to pay for improvements to Louisiana's roads and bridges.
"
MA: AG finds clout of hospitals drives cost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Massachusetts insurance companies pay some hospitals and doctors twice as much money as others for essentially the same patient care, according to a preliminary report by Attorney General Martha Coakley. It points to the market clout of the best-paid providers as a main driver of the state's spiraling health care costs.
"
MA: Speaker DeLeo -- No to new taxes, yes to gaming jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"House Speaker Robert DeLeo is vowing to push ahead with gaming legislation while also pledging to steer clear of new taxes in the House version of the state budget for the new fiscal year.
"
MA: Tribe eyes Fall River
From: feeds.stateline.org
"FALL RIVER, Mass. — Representatives of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe are hedging their bets that this financially strapped city will be a more welcoming home for a future casino, a move that may jilt residents of the rural town that the tribe has promised to pay millions.
"
MA: Governor -- Wind farm's in
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The fix is in for Cape Wind, the controversial plan to build 400-foot-tall wind turbines in Nantucket Sound, and you can take Gov. Deval Patrick's word for it.
"
MD: Obama to detail payroll tax credit during city speech this morning
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — - President Barack Obama will announce details of a new $33 billion payroll tax credit for businesses during a visit to Baltimore this morning, White House officials said Thursday.
"
MD: New Penn Station tunnel, BWI rail stop get federal boost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two high-priority Maryland projects, including the replacement of a deteriorating tunnel that carries Amtrak trains through Baltimore, will receive $70 million in funding as part of $8 billion in rail investments announced Thursday by the Obama administration.
"
MD: Controversial 'short sale' tax policy changed
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Anne Arundel County has done an about-face on how it charges taxes on short sales of homes.
"
ME: Dealers not sold on bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Auto dealers expressed strong objection Thursday to a bill that would allow them to open on Sundays, saying it wouldn't increase sales and would hurt employee morale.
"
ME: Panel rejects delaying investigation of repeal gay-marriage funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state ethics commission Thursday denied a request from the National Organization for Marriage to delay an investigation into the group's finances .
"
ME: Rail officials hope to expedite Maine expansion of Amtrak
From: feeds.stateline.org
"PORTLAND, Maine — Amtrak's Downeaster service will be extended another 30 miles north to Brunswick thanks to $35 million in federal stimulus money, while another $50 million grant will be used to reduce travel time by 30 minutes between St. Albans, Vt., and Springfield, Mass.
"
MI: Detroit Area Shriners ask to rent Michigan State Fairgrounds coliseum for circus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Detroit Area Shriners are asking the state to allow it to once again rent the coliseum at the now-mothballed Michigan State Fairgrounds in Detroit.
"
MI: Brookings Institution plans to boost Great Lakes region with new VC fund
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Washington, D.C.-based Brookings Institution released a plan Friday to boost the economy in the Great Lakes region though an increase in venture capital investing.
"
MI: MDOT putting brakes on 243 state road projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Michigan Department of Transportation has cut four St. Clair County road projects planned for 2012. The projects were among 243 pulled off the drawing board Thursday when the state's Transportation Commission scaled back statewide plans for 2010-2014 because of budget concerns.
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MI: Hundreds of Michigan road projects to be cut without gas tax hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Half the federal gas tax Michigan motorists pay at the pump would fund $2 billion in road projects in other states if lawmakers fail to increase road fees required to match federal highway aid.
"
MI: Shoreline Caucus of lawmakers puts pressure on Obama administration to stop Asian carp from reaching Great Lakes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As a charter boat captain and tackle shop owner, Willis Kerridge's livelihood depends on the state's success in stopping ravenous Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes.
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MI: DeWitt lawmaker renews push to cap state furlough days at six
From: feeds.stateline.org
"On the heels of new rounds of furloughs for state employees, a mid-Michigan lawmaker is renewing his call to limit the amount of unpaid leave the state can impose.
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MI: Study -- Global warming means wacky weather near Great Lakes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"In coming years, global warming will have a bizarre, seemingly incongruous impact on winters here in the Great Lakes region: shorter, milder cold seasons coupled with bigger winter storms.
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MI: Michigan seeks more train funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After missing out on a large piece of the $8 billion the White House doled out for high-speed rail Thursday, Michigan officials are hopeful of winning a bigger share of the stimulus cash in future rounds.
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MI: Michigan faces bumpier roads as 243 projects are cut
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan drivers will have to navigate bumpier roads over the next five years after the Michigan State Transportation Commission on Thursday slashed 243 road and bridge repair projects.
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MI: Borders announces layoffs at Ann Arbor, other offices
From: feeds.stateline.org
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MI: Michigan to delay dozens of road, bridge projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Michigan transportation officials have voted to delay more than 200 road and bridge projects previously planned for the next five years because the state is running low on money.
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MI: Feds set date for carp meeting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The White House has set a Feb. 8 date for a meeting with three Great Lakes governors to discuss efforts to control the spread of Asian carp into the Great Lakes.
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MN: Pawlenty -- Streamlining saved MN government $250M
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Tim Pawlenty says a government streamlining effort will save state and local administrations more than $250 million through July 2011.
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MN: Handling of aid effort pits St. Paul against feds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A federal agency is withholding $18 million in foreclosure relief money from the city of St. Paul until the two sides resolve an issue over how the city manages a longtime program intended to help low-income residents and businesses.
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MN: Geithner gives the green light for green jobs
From: feeds.stateline.org
"U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, who received a grilling Wednesday in Congress over his role in the bailout of insurance giant AIG, came to the Twin Cities to talk about how the Obama administration proposes to create jobs in the green-energy sector.
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MN: High-speed Chicago-to-St. Paul rail line gets first federal grant for planning
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A high-speed rail line between the St. Paul and Chicago moved one step closer to reality Thursday when the White House said it would provide seed money for the long-sought line.
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MO: Mo. revenue agency encourages online tax filing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Missouri revenue officials are encouraging taxpayers to file their state income tax returns online.
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MO: Rivals to tax plan coalesce
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A plan to replace the state income tax with a higher sales tax on more goods and services ran into strong opposition today when the idea came up for consideration in a state Senate committee.
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MS: Mississippi House complicates meth recipe
From: feeds.stateline.org
"State House members approved legislation Thursday requiring a doctor's prescription to buy products like Claritin-D and Sudafed, which contain the key ingredient found in the illegal drug methamphetamine.
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MS: Lilly settles with Mississippi -- $18.5 million
From: feeds.stateline.org
"OXFORD, Miss. –- Drug manufacturer Eli Lilly & Co. will pay $18.5 million to shut down Mississippi's case against it for promotional claims related to the anti-psychotic drug, Zyprexa.
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MT: Montana Department of Labor warns businesses not to buy free posters
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Montana Department of Labor is warning Montana businesses not to pay for the employment posters that the agency gives away free.
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MT: New line may foster wind farms
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A biting wind whipped across the snow-covered Montana prairie as Clayton Larsen and John Mattheis took soil samples from 30 feet below the surface north of Conrad earlier this month.
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MT: Agencies to submit spending cuts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A number of state government departments will outline today how they will cut their general-fund budgets for various programs by 5 percent, if necessary.
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MT: Debt settlement industry official endorses Montana's effort to regulate
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The head of a group that represents debt settlement companies - the businesses Montana's attorney general recently warned people to be wary of - said she applauds Montana's "pioneering" efforts to regulate the industry.
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MT: Regents approve $7.65M in cuts to Montana University System
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As part of the state's efforts to reduce spending as revenue projections worsen, the Montana Board of Regents on Thursday unanimously agreed to $7.56 million in proposed spending cuts in the Montana University System if necessary in fiscal year 2011.
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NC: State gets $545 million to beef up rail service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DURHAM, N.C. -- North Carolina will start spending $545 million in federal rail money right away, state officials said Thursday, to create more than 5,000 jobs and get trains running faster and more often between Charlotte and Raleigh.
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NC: Blue Cross fined for health reform robo calls
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina will pay a $95,000 fine for violating the state's robo calls law.
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ND: N.D. oil expo outgrows State Fairgrounds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A North Dakota oil expo has grown too big for the state fairgrounds in Minot, organizers say.
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ND: Funds near for addition to NDSU tech park
From: feeds.stateline.org
"North Dakota State University is in the final stages of obtaining $9 million in state and federal funds for an addition to Research I in the Research and Technology Park that would double the facility's size.
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NH: Multimillion dollar ruling saps budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Supreme Court yesterday rejected the state's claim to $110 million from a medical malpractice fund, leaving a gaping hole in the state budget.
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NJ: N.J. Chamber train less of a schmooze-fest this year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — A lot of the usual schmooze was missing from New Jersey's fabled "schmooze cruise" Thursday.
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NJ: State mediation program aids Bergen, Passaic homeowners facing foreclosure
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A mediation program run by the state judiciary gave relief last year to 131 homeowners in Bergen and Passaic counties who faced foreclosure, but it's just a small bright spot in a bleak economic downturn.
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NJ: N.J. Sen. Lesniak blasts Gov. Christie on sports betting
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state senator who is leading an effort to make sports betting legal in Atlantic City casinos on Thursday blasted Governor Christie's transition report on sports and gaming.
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NJ: N.J. preserved 332 acres of hiking, natural, agricultural lands in past year
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Eight North Jersey preservation projects totaling 332 acres in four counties and costing $7.1 million were completed at the end of 2009, permanently saving natural lands, hiking trails and agricultural land, according to a year-end report of the Land Conservancy of New Jersey.
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NJ: N.J. Chamber of Commerce train arrives in Washington, D.C.
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After making a pit stop to pick up stragglers left behind in Trenton, the Amtrak train chartered to bring New Jersey politicians and business men and women pulled into Union Station here, wrapping up the first and traditionally most eventful leg of the annual event.
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NJ: N.J. Gov. Chris Christie meets with cabinet for first time
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Conspicuously absent from today's "Chamber Train," Gov. Chris Christie instead formally huddled with his cabinet for the first time in his young administration.
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NJ: N.J. may revive proposal to extend life of school buses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to extend the life of school buses in New Jersey, which passed both houses of the state legislature unanimously but was never signed by former Gov. Jon Corzine, may be revived.
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NJ: N.J. libraries, post offices halt state tax-form service
From: feeds.stateline.org
"If you're looking for a last-minute state tax form, don't bother going to your local library or post office. They won't have them.
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NM: Committee snuffs bill to hike tobacco tax
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A bill to raise money for education by boosting state cigarette taxes by $1 a pack went up in smoke Thursday when a legislative committee voted unanimously against the idea.
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NM: http://www.santafenewmexican.com/Local%20News/State-legislature-Bill-seeks-more-scrutiny-over-state-contracts
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Records show that a contract between the State Investment Office and an international law firm has been amended six times since 2005, boosting the original $30,000 cost to $5.8 million.
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NM: Job losses push NM unemployment to 8.3 percent
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The unemployment rate in New Mexico rose to 8.3 percent in December, up from 4.7 percent in December 2008 and 7.8 percent in November. That marks a 22-year high.
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NM: Hundreds show up to protest bill that pulls money from brick-and-mortar projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Hundreds of people turned a cavernous hearing room into cramped quarters Thursday to hear how more than 1,500 brick-and-mortar projects wound up on a 60-some-odd page list of projects targeted to lose state money.
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NV: State, feds point fingers as Nevada misses rail funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Politicians were quick to take credit or pass blame Thursday when Nevada was left off the list of 31 states that will benefit from federal stimulus funds for high-speed rail, but the Nevada project that sought funds wasn't qualified anyway.
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NV: Recapping a week of state political repeats
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sometimes the d j vu in Nevada politics is striking: The governor and lawmakers pretend they might work together. Dina Titus says something she shouldn't have. Oscar Goodman jilts the ingenuous masses.
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NV: Nevada's suicide crisis -- Mental health services struggle to meet demand
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Much has changed in Nevada since former U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher announced in July 1999 that suicide is a public health crisis.
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NV: Nevada could owe feds $1 billion for jobless loans
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With unemployment again hitting 13 percent in Nevada, the state could owe the federal government up to $1 billion for jobless benefits by the end of 2010.
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NV: Nevada's high-speed rail plan deemed ineligible for stimulus funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON -- Nevada lost out on another multimillion-dollar economic stimulus program when the government doled out $8 billion for high-speed rail projects Thursday because a route planned for a magnetic levitation train between Las Vegas and Southern California was declared ineligible for the funds.
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NY: Real estate interests help Cuomo gain a big edge
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo readies his candidacy for governor, one industry is helping him amass a huge fund-raising advantage: real estate.
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NY: High-speed rail gets green light
From: feeds.stateline.org
"WASHINGTON — New York finished an unimpressive eighth Thursday in the race to share $8 billion in federal money to develop high-speed passenger rail service.
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NY: Local leaders happy with $151 million grant for high-speed rail
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The modest $151 million in federal stimulus funds that New York state received for high-speed rail will pay for preliminary work — in the Rochester area — on the first stretch of a long-sought passenger rail corridor across upstate New York.
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NY: Inmate census rule criticized
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two Democratic state lawmakers joined forces with the Rev. Al Sharpton to support a bill Thursday requiring New York to count its prison inmates in their home communities rather than the districts where they're incarcerated.
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NY: Comptroller rejects bid, slaps DOT
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $27 million state contract that was to use federal economic stimulus money to paint bridges on Long Island has been rejected by state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.
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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: Passenger train stops planned for downtown Dayton, Riverside
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Rail advocates say the 3-C Corridor will put Ohio — and Dayton — on the map as passenger rail service throughout the Midwest is expanded and upgraded into a high-speed network.
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OH: Proposed rail project gets praise from governor, Dayton chamber president
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Construction is expected to start this spring and the first passengers should hear "all aboard" by the fall of 2012 in Dayton and three other Ohio cities as big-city passenger rail service returns to the state.
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OH: Rail station to bring jobs, service by 2012
From: feeds.stateline.org
"DAYTON, Ohio -- City officials say a passenger rail service linking major Ohio cities ties in nicely with Dayton's state designation as an aerospace hub of innovation and provides opportunities for college-bound students.
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OH: New rail -- All aboard for ... Sharonville
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sometime in 2012, train riders in Greater Cincinnati can expect to hear the conductor's call of "All aboard!" for Columbus and Cleveland after Ohio was awarded $400 million in federal stimulus funds Thursday to develop passenger rail service linking the state's major cities.
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OH: Social Security commissioner says Ohio losing federal money by furloughing SSA workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"CLEVELAND -- Commissioner of Social Security Michael Astrue said Ohio is losing millions of dollars and contributing to the backlog of disability cases by furloughing state workers paid with federal funds.
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OH: Gov. Ted Strickland announces $400 million for 3C Corridor to cheering crowd
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A passenger rail pep rally broke out in the Statehouse Rotunda this afternoon as Gov. Ted Strickland officially announced that Ohio has received $400 million in federal stimulus funding for a passenger rail line linking Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati.
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OH: Avon's new Interstate 90 interchange at Lear-Nagle Road will likely open in 2012, a year earlier than expected
From: feeds.stateline.org
"AVON, Ohio -- The long-awaited Interstate 90 interchange at Lear-Nagle Road likely will open sooner than expected, thanks to an assist from the Ohio Department of Transportation.
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OH: Ohio rail fans cheer, but questions remain about $400 million train line
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A $400 million federal stimulus check for a conventional-speed rail corridor linking Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati pulled into Ohio Thursday, causing Gov. Ted Strickland to break into song and rail enthusiasts to cheer wildly.
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OH: Governor's Fast TRAC approved
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ted Strickland's plan to accelerate work on job-creating road projects -- including five already identified -- was approved today by an Ohio Department of Transportation panel.
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OH: Strickland -- GOP plan for Third Frontier 'anemic'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Ted Strickland said today he thinks the $500 million that Senate Republicans want as part of a proposed renewal the Third Frontier program is "anemic," but he isn't questioning their motives the way he did during a budget dispute last year.
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OH: Anti-slots petition falls short
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A petition to force a vote on Gov. Ted Strickland's since-shelved plan for slot machines at racetracks fell short of the required number of valid signatures, the secretary of state's office said today.
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OH: Ohio's rail plans back on track
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sometime in 2012, people should be able to board a train in Columbus and get to either Cincinnati or Cleveland in about three hours for $20, state officials said yesterday after the Obama administration announced that Ohio was getting $400 million to relaunch passenger rail service.
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OH: Columbus State divvies up surplus
From: feeds.stateline.org
"With an $11.6 million surplus from a good year, Columbus State Community College trustees began dividing the money among the school's priorities last night.
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OH: AEP sees rebound under way
From: feeds.stateline.org
"American Electric Power finished 2009 with a surge, though not quite enough to match the revenue or income reported the previous year.
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OH: Prevailing-wage lawsuit tossed out
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Ohio has lost a prevailing-wage lawsuit that the attorney general's office filed against a large developer just before Labor Day.
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OK: Creek Nation files lawsuit over state tax code
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Muscogee (Creek) Nation has filed a federal suit against the governor, attorney general and other state officials claiming they helped violate federal laws by interfering with the tribe's tobacco sales.
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OK: Lawmakers say firm's donations had no sway
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Two state lawmakers and a Chandler insurance company said Thursday that there is no connection between contributions to Rep. Dan Sullivan, R-Tulsa, and Sen. Cliff Aldridge, R-Midwest City, and a presentation by the firm's executives to a task force whose co-chairmen are Sullivan and Aldridge.
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OK: Freezing rain coats roads, causes outages
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The winter storm that moved into the state Thursday brought freezing rain that coated roads, trees and power lines, making travel hazardous and knocking out power to thousands of Oklahomans.
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OR: Telephone town hall draws 1,800 people
From: feeds.stateline.org
"As strong as the message was from the two top Republicans in the Oregon House about taxes and jobs, what was more significant Wednesday night was the medium.
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OR: Wyden, Merkley propose 16,000 acres of eastern Oregon wilderness
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A land swap between private landholders and the federal Bureau of Land Management would create two new wilderness areas near the John Day River, Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said.
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OR: Oregon's free recycling of computers, TVs was a big hit in 2009
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon's free electronics recycling program collected 18.9 million pounds of televisions, computers and monitors in its first year, the state said today, well beyond initial projections.
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OR: Umpqua Bank posts larger loss than expected
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Umpqua Bank, the largest and one of the strongest banks based in Oregon, reported Thursday hefty fourth quarter and annual losses plus some slippage in loan quality.
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OR: Public pension board to vote on employer rate increases
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The board for Oregon's state pension fund will vote today on a policy change that could alleviate some of the budget-sting stemming from the fund's investment losses in 2008.
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OR: Special session short on substance
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Oregon Rep. Mitch Greenlick wants to change the state constitution to ensure that every resident has access to health care.
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PA: Pa. left at the station for high-speed funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Obama yesterday revealed his plans to spend $8 billion on high-speed rail projects heralded as the start of a new era in American transportation, but Pennsylvania's share will be only a tiny fraction of that amount.
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PA: A pleasant lunch in the Capitol Cafe, until . . .
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Certainly, there would be no "mice-and-beans" or "rat-atouille" lunch specials on the menu. But with a track record of dismal health inspections like the one that Philadelphia-based Aramark Corp. has racked up lately at the Capitol Cafe in the state capital, the punch lines were bound to come.
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PA: Region mostly shut out of high-speed rail grants
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The White House today released the list of high-speed rail projects that will share $8 billion in stimulus funds, and, as expected, Western Pennsylvania was largely shut out.
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PA: House begins discussing Pa. 2010-11 budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state House opened discussions today on the state's 2010-11 budget, but whether legislators meet the July 1 deadline for the first time in eight years is anyone's guess.
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PA: State policy for teacher quality gets 'D'
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Pennsylvania earned a "D" for policies to promote teacher quality, according to a report card released by a national advocacy group on Friday.
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PA: DEP plans to hire 68 inspectors
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state Department of Environmental Protection said Thursday it will hire 68 inspectors to make sure drilling companies obey state laws and protect water supplies.
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PA: Rail stimulus paltry for Western Pennsylvania
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Only four passenger trains daily visit Pittsburgh's Amtrak station, taking five hours or longer to trek across mountains to Harrisburg and Washington, or nine hours through the night to Chicago.
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RI: R.I. attorney general, Blue Cross agree to rate hike
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A hearing on raising rates for individuals who purchase health coverage directly from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island ended abruptly when the insurer and the attorney general's office formally agreed to an average 9.5-percent increase.
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RI: Carcieri counting on stimulus money to help small businesses
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Governor Carcieri says he is banking on federal stimulus money to finance the loosely sketched "small business package" he talked about in his eighth and final State of the State address on Tuesday night.
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SC: Realtors say poll supports change
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Real estate professionals lobbying the Legislature for more favorable tax treatment of recently sold properties have released a poll claiming that 70 percent of South Carolinians oppose the practice of reassessing properties when they change ownership.
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SD: SD committee kills bill to close school for deaf
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Senate education committee has killed a bill aimed at changing the South Dakota Constitution to allow the state to close the School for the Deaf.
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SD: Gov. says new firearms businesses could move to SD
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Rounds says his visit to a national shooting and outdoors show a couple of weeks ago could help attract more gun and ammunition businesses to South Dakota.
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SD: SD bill bars state investment in companies in Iran
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Mike Rounds said Thursday he supports the idea of restricting state investment in companies that have significant involvement in Iran.
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SD: Lawmakers examine business, ag project tax refunds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Looking for money to offset state government's deepening deficit, the Legislature opened its examination of South Dakota's tax refund program for large business projects and agricultural processing plants Thursday.
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TN: Regulators reject gas rate redesign
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Tennessee Regulatory Authority directors on Monday unanimously rejected Piedmont Natural Gas Co.'s request to implement a "decoupling" mechanism that critics contend would let the firm hike rates on consumers even as they use less gas.
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TN: Hunting amendment goes on ballot
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Tennessee Senate has voted to place a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to hunt and fish on the ballot in November.
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TN: Senate rejects Bredesen's veto of menu-labeling bill
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Senate on Thursday voted to override Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen's veto of a bill to limit who can establish requirements for calorie counts to be posted on restaurant menus.
"
TX: Paperless medicine -- Training the eworkforce
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Physicians in Texas are just starting to use electronic medical records in their practices. But with the promise of thousands of new jobs in the field, Central Texas colleges are jumping at the chance to train their students in the technology
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TX: Perry deflects criticism of Enterprise Fund management
From: feeds.stateline.org
"After Gov. Rick Perry accepted the endorsement of the Texas Association of Business earlier today, he addressed a criticism by one of his opponents in the gubernatorial primary.
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TX: Heavy snow, freezing rain wreak havoc in W. Texas
From: feeds.stateline.org
"LUBBOCK, Texas — Heavy snow and freezing rain over parts of West Texas downed tree limbs and power lines as driving turned treacherous in the Panhandle and south Plains on Thursday.
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TX: Hutchison attacks Perry over Enterprise Fund
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison took aim Thursday at Gov. Rick Perry's oversight of the Texas Enterprise Fund, saying he has kept the public in the dark about the fund's activities.
"
US: Va., Md. get nearly $140 million for rail projects
From: feeds.stateline.org
"President Obama doled out $8 billion in federal stimulus money Thursday to build and improve rail lines in 31 states, helping fund high-speed service between Richmond and Washington and replacement of a 19th-century tunnel through Baltimore.
"
UT: Utah Republicans to push ethics amendment
From: feeds.stateline.org
"GOP lawmakers said Thursday they're going to campaign for a proposed state constitutional amendment on ethics reform to discourage support for a citizens initiative — even though the amendment may not be needed.
"
UT: Utahns speak with one voice -- No water deal
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Anyway you slice the numbers in a new poll, most Utahns say a proposed Snake Valley water-sharing agreement with Nevada is a bad idea.
"
UT: Senator wants fat trimmed for sake of education
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Vowing to fight for education, Sen. Howard Stephenson, R-Draper, is taking other state agencies to task for being wasteful.
"
VA: Va. unemployment likely to stay high as state recovers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Virginia is on a long road to recovery after the recession, but unemployment is likely to remain high this year and next, according to a forecast released yesterday by The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis.
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VA: Teachers association predicts 'disaster' under proposed Va. budget
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Virginia teachers association yesterday likened the state's proposed budget to an "out-of-control freight train" barreling down the tracks.
"
VA: Committee rejects proposal to raise insurance fee
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A House of Delegates committee yesterday blew a new $66 million hole in the proposed budget for 2010-12.
"
VA: Va. falls far short of goal in federal rail funds
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Virginia's $75 million share of the $8 billion federal stimulus package for high-speed rail isn't anywhere near what the state asked for, but officials said they were grateful for it.
"
VA: Supporters of high-speed rail pack Norfolk hearing
From: feeds.stateline.org
"NORFOLK, Va. -- A cheering crowd of nearly 1,000, including hundreds wearing "conductor" hats, jammed into the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center on Thursday night to support bringing high-speed rail service from the Richmond area to South Hampton Roads.
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VA: Most restaurants complying with Va. smoking ban
From: feeds.stateline.org
"VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- State health officials have received at least 70 complaints that businesses in eastern Virginia violated the restaurant smoking ban since it went into effect Dec. 1. That number is low, they said.
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VA: Local lawmakers oppose tolls on two bridge-tunnels
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Most Hampton Roads lawmakers didn't take too kindly to the proposal from a Northern Virginia colleague to put tolls on two Hampton Roads bridge-tunnels.
"
VA: New track funded
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Federal stimulus money will fund a punctual ride home on Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express trains in the Fredericksburg area, and create 281 construction jobs over two years.
"
VT: Vermont House panel OKs limits on truck idling
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A Vermont legislative committee approved a bill that would crack down on the idling of trucks, a measure that proponents say will reduce air pollution and health risks while saving businesses money.
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VT: The Vermonter gets healthy boost, but Burlington rail overlooked
From: feeds.stateline.org
"ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. — Melinda Moulton has been waiting more than a dozen years for Amtrak to pull into Burlington's Union Station.
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WA: Legislation seeks limited ban on chemical used in plastics
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Perhaps as early as Friday, the Washington state Senate is expected to vote on whether to fine manufacturers and retailers that make or sell baby bottles, sippy cups, and cans or jars of infant food that contain the chemical bisphenol A because of health concerns for young children.
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WA: Schools on money quest
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A couple years of miserable state finances have school districts looking for money from other sources, with more of them using grants to bridge their budget gaps.
"
WA: Microsoft fiscal 2Q earns up 60 pct on PC rebound
From: feeds.stateline.org
"SEATTLE -- Microsoft Corp. said Thursday its earnings in the most recent quarter jumped 60 percent, as a rebound in the personal computer industry drove sales of the company's latest Windows operating system.
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WA: Wash. House approves pay freeze for some workers
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The state House has approved a wage freeze for nonunion state workers, part of the Legislature's attempt at quickly cutting some state expenses amid a budget deficit.
"
WA: Sources-- McGinn ready to unveil 520 preferences
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state panel and King County have endorsed a six-lane option for replacing the 520 bridge, but now Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn and others are preparing to announce their own, different preferences for the busy Lake Washington span as early as next week, according to people familiar with the matter.
"
WI: Grant puts Wisconsin on fast track for high-speed rail
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Passenger trains could be shuttling between the state's two largest cities by early 2013 after a massive federal investment that could create 13,000 jobs, state officials said.
"
WI: Where will Madison residents board the train?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Where will Madison residents board the first Amtrak train to Milwaukee in 2013 now that the state has received $810 million for a high-speed rail line?
"
WI: Oshkosh Corp. reports record profits
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Driven by military vehicle sales that more than tripled, Oshkosh Corp. reported record first-quarter profits Thursday.
"
WI: Doyle, mayors laud high-speed rail plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Celebration of the $823 million federal allocation for rail service in Wisconsin reached top speed almost immediately on Thursday, while the actual ramp up of the service will be a bit slower.
"
WI: Day-care provider falsified records to get more state funds, documents say
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Police and FBI agents investigating day-care provider Latasha Jackson have mounting evidence she falsified records to inflate the number of children at her center and collect more in state subsidies, according to documents released Thursday.
"
WV: State-funded MATRIC lost $500,000 with bankrupt former partner
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A South Charleston nonprofit research institute lost $500,000 last year after a major business partner went bankrupt.
"
WV: W.Va. gets $1M for rail plan
From: feeds.stateline.org
"West Virginia is getting $1 million in federal stimulus money to study developing high-speed rail in the state.
"
WV: Manchin -- Police will probe harassment of mine foes
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Gov. Joe Manchin asked State Police and the Raleigh County prosecutor's office Thursday to investigate claims that Massey Energy employees have been endangering the safety of tree-sitting protesters by bombarding them with noise from high-decibel sound machines.
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WV: State officials defend travel policies
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Department of Administration officials Thursday defended state travel policies -- including the operation of state-owned aircraft, as well as the state motor vehicle fleet -- as cost-effective.
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WY: School construction could receive boost
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Legislature's Joint Appropriations Committee voted to spend $113 million on new school construction for the 2011-2012 fiscal years -- with the prospect of unspent money boosting the total investment.
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WY: More local government money?
From: feeds.stateline.org
"A state legislative committee Thursday voted to partially restore proposed major state funding cuts to local governments in the next state budget -- that is, if state revenue projections hold up.
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WY: State board approves over $20 million in grants to Wyoming communities
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) approved over $14.5 million in Business Ready Community (BRC) grant applications and over $5.6 million in Community Facilities (CFP) grant applications at its meeting today in Cheyenne.
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WY: Demand for Wyo water projects outpaces funding
From: feeds.stateline.org
"Despite nearly $40 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), the head of the Wyoming State Lands Office said demand for Wyoming Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) program still out-paces the funds available by nearly $800 million.
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WY: Legislature's budget committee okays new southeast Wyo tourism center money
From: feeds.stateline.org
"The Wyoming legislature's Joint Interim Appropriations Committee voted today to approve $14.8 million to build a new Welcome Center for the division of Travel and Tourism, to be built south of Cheyenne at a new interchange of Interstate 25.
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Visit the Stateline.org Economy & Business Page
From: feeds.stateline.org
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